Fireplace Ambiance in Summer

I love sitting by the fire with a good book, but always associated that favorite activity with winter. Then I came up with a summer use for my fireplace that creates a very pleasant atmosphere ...

I scoop out the ashes (I hate that job, but at least this forces me to get it done once a year!). Then I  put in candles. It is actually quite beautiful ... the picture doesn't do it justice.

Here is what it looks like up close, so you can get some ideas to create your own. (Again, I'm not a photographer and I couldn't get the lighting right; it's much prettier "in person" -- or should I say "in candle" :)

All the holders are from the Dollar Tree except the tallest ones which were a wedding gift. The trick is to get lots of different sizes, shapes and textures and put them at different levels. I think there are 14 here.

The best way I can explain the way to arrange them is that you know it's working if it's easy on your eyes. In other words your eyes feel rested and drawn to the gentle flow of the arrangement.

If it's not arranged well, your eyes feel kind of like they are pulled this way and that, not knowing what to focus on -- as if competing candles are demanding your attention. Sorry that's not very objective and step-by-step, but it's the only way I know how to explain it.

You can use votive or tea-light candles. I think the tea lights are lower maintenance and if you buy the bag 50 or 100 they are dirt cheap.

Oh, one more thing ... those lighters that look kind of like a gun (not sure the official name) -- the ones with the flexible "spout" -- are a lifesaver. Also treat yourself to a snuffer with a bell that dangles -- also available at the Dollar Store.

Hope this gives you a place to recharge from time to time, even in the heat!

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A Salty Fix for Your Drink

Know how the napkin under your beverage always gets wet and sticks to the glass when you pick it up? Try putting a little table salt on the napkin and it will no longer stick.

Thanks to Karen L. for this idea!!




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Anti-Aging Makeup Tips

If you're over 45 and you want a fresher look, this post may be for you! From time to time I get a compliment on looking younger than my almost 52 years, and I think makeup is part of that. I only spend 5-10 minutes on makeup, but a little know-how can go a long way.

BTW, I really put myself out there on this one, so go easy on me. :) lol










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Double Veggie Life With Do-It-Yourself Vegetable Bags

Do you buy fresh vegetables with good intentions only to find them rotting in your fridge a few days later? I sure have. But I figured out that the number one thing to remember when keeping vegetables fresh is that they are just living plants that need to breathe. Watch this 3-minute video for details and more tips!

Keep Fresh Strawberries and Other Veggies Fresh!

The secret is to soak them in a diluted vinegar solution for 2-5 minutes. I use about a tablespoon of distilled white vinegar in a bowl (about a quart) of water. (You don't have to be exact.) This reduces the growth of mold and other microorganisms, and also helps rinse off pesticides!!

NOTE: Don't wash off the vinegar solution. Depending on the veggie, let them air dry on a towel or put them away slightly damp.

The result with fresh strawberries is particularly amazing. After their soak, don't put them back in the original packaging. Store them in the refrigerator in an uncovered colander. Mine last for at least a week when I do this.

ALSO NOTE: Fruits and vegetables are alive and need to breathe. Coming soon is a solution for super-cheap and easy veggie storage bags.




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