Who Knew: Unclogging your drain

I received a call from a friend this morning and she was wondering if I had any tips on unclogging a bathroom or kitchen drain. Besides dousing toxic chemicals down your drain, there are a few simple remedies you may try to alleviate a clog down your drain. And it's best to try to alleviate a slowly draining pipe before it stops draining completely. At that point, it may require professional plumbing attention.

For basic clogs try pouring 1/2 C baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 C vinegar. Do this with a bit of caution as the two ingredients interact with foaming and fumes, so replace the drain cover loosely, or turn on a fan or crack a window. Let the concoction brew for about three hours before running water.

For a kitchen drain clogged with grease, pour 1/2 C salt and 1/2 C baking soda down the drain, followed by a full teakettle of boiling water. Allow to sit overnight before running water - best to do after dinner and before bedtime.

I've also used just regular boiling water and that seems to work on a minimally clogged/slow-draining drain.

*Photo courtesy of Real Simple.

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Your AC unit is how old?

There have been plenty of news stories on the tax credit for first time home owners. As a veteran first time home owner, I have learned a few lessons about knowing what you're getting yourself into before you buy. One of the few things that I did well (surprisingly!) was find out the age of key appliances, particularly the water heater and HVAC units. For reference, here are a few basic guidelines for the age of household appliances. If yours are in these age ranges, get ready...you may be making a late night trip to Sears!

Central Air Conditioner: 15 years
Room Air Conditioner: 12 years
Clothes Dryer: 18 years
Washing Machine: 13 years
Dishwasher: 12 years
Refrigerator: 20 years
Upright Freezer: 20 years
Kitchen Stove: 18 years
Water Heater: 13 years

*Photo courtesy of Appliancist.

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Pumpkin...it's not just pie filling!

I am a big fan of pumpkin-flavored things...lattes, bread, cupcakes and sauce over pasta. Sounds sort of strange, but it's really rich and delicious. So, I'm sharing one of my favorite recipes for fall. Perfect to accompany a cool night, snuggling on the coach watching an old movie.

Ravioli with Pumpkin Sauce

• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin
• 1 1/2 C chicken broth
• 3 Tbsp brown sugar
• 1 Tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 20 oz package cheese ravioli (or you can use frozen)
• 1/4 C low fat sour cream
• 1/4 C freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1. Bring a large sauce pan of water to boil.
2. In another saucepan, stir together pumpkin, broth, sugar, butter, garlic powder, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium saucepan.
3. Simmer pumpkin mixture over a medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated, about 10 minutes.
4. Add ravioli to boiling water and cook according to package directions. Drain ravioli and set aside.
5. Remove pumpkin mixture from heat and stir in sour cream if desired.
6. Spoon ravioli on plates, top with sauce, and sprinkle with cheese.

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What's in a venue?

I've already mentioned that several of my nearest and dearest have become engaged this summer. And being that I've been through the wonderful (and sometimes stressful!) process of planning a wedding, I decided that I would post some tips and share some lessons learned from my experiences. And I'm lucky enough to be able to accompany my aforementioned friend while she looks at venues for her wedding this weekend - woo! A few key questions and topics of conversation for all of you brides-to-be.

Facility Basics

What are rental hours for evening receptions?

Does the venue have sufficient bathroom and coat check facilities?

Logistics

Where will you take photographs? Are there picturesque locations nearby or at the facility?

Where can your guests park? Are there extra fees for parking? Do they have valet parking?
How and how long will it take your guests to get there? Is the facility easily accessible from the site of the ceremony?
What are various configurations for the room?

Financials

What's the cancellation policy?

Is there a payment schedule? What kind of deposits are required?

Are there any hidden costs? (Before you sign the contract, read it carefully.)

Cost for cake cutting?

Corkage fees?

What are the overtime charges?

Food and Drink

Do they have an in-house caterer, and do you like that food? (While an in-house caterer can be easier and cheaper, sometimes the food is not as beautiful as the room. So make sure you taste it!) Do they have a limitation on which outside caterers you can use?
Do they have a liquor license? What are bar options? Wine? Beer? Liquor? What are costs for each? Are upgrades or substitutions possible? Will they allow you to bring your own liquor? (This is usually cheaper, even with the customary corkage fee.)
What are menu options for buffet and sit down? Can modifications be made to the standard menu?

Entertainment
Is there room in the wedding venue for a band and/or dancing?
Does the wedding venue already own a sound system with adequate speakers or will that need to be rented?

Decorations
What's the decor like? Does it fit your style and wedding colors? Will you have to spend a lot of money on flowers and decorations to make it beautiful?
Are candles or other open flames allowed?
Especially in museums or private clubs, are there limitations on decorations? Do they limit food and drinks to only certain areas of the wedding venue?
What linens are included in the basic rental fee? Are there additional colors?
What chairs are included in the basic rental fee? Are there additional options?

*Photo courtesy of Cavalier Hotel.

Related Posts: Going to the Chapel, Be our (wedding) guest, Best wishes to my best buddy.

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Doggie-sitters 101

Unfortunately (for our dog), we've had several out of town commitments this fall that have relegated our pooch, Paddy into someone else's care. Luckily for September vacation, our in-laws (with two crazy black labs) were kind enough to take her in for a few days. She was definitely treated well and enjoyed her companions. For those of you without dog-loving in-laws or a friend or family member for care for your canine (or feline for that matter), here are a few tips for being a choosy pet mama as you select a pet sitter or kennel.

• Check out the kennel in advance and request an appointment mid-week, when kennels are usually least busy.
• When visiting the kennel, make sure the crates and runs are clean and well-maintained.
• What is the general impression of the cleanliness and upkeep of the facility? It should be relatively clean, free of foul odors and have good ventilation.
• Ask lots of questions!
• Were will the pet be kept?
• How much time per day will he be crated?
• How much time per day will the dog receive one-on-one playtime and attention?
• Will the dog be walked or given opportunities for exercise?
• What are the costs?
• Are you comfortable with the staff? This may just be a gut instinct here. If you have a good first impression about leaving Rover or Fluffy at the kennel, go with it.

And for your peace of mind, you should provide the following while you're out of the area:

• Veterinarian contact information
• Medical history (just in case)
• Dietary patterns, habits and special needs...as well as food (duh). Bonus points for providing individual servings in Tupperware or baggies.
• Food and water dishes
• Collar and leash
• Toys, bones, chew toys
• List of habits and behaviors of your pet. For example, Paddy loves ice cubes and these will keep her occupied for a few minutes. She also has a habit of bolting, if not kept on a leash. This information would be helpful to her interim care taker.

And remember, your pup or kitty won't forget about you if you're on vacation for a week. Do your homework and they will have a pleasant experience and you'll have peace of mind while trying to relax in the islands.

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Best wishes to my best buddy!

You know how some people are just meant to be together? Doesn't it make you feel warm inside when things work out for them...like when of your bestest friends calls you all giddy like and you know it can only mean one thing? Like, the BF proposed and she said yes!!! I received a call...ok a phone call and then a text message... from one of my bestest friends from high school while my hubs and I were on vacation with wonderful news that her boyfriend had proposed. I couldn't be happier for her and her dear fiancee; they are wonderful people and even more wonderful together! And I was even more thrilled that she asked me to be a bridesmaid on the spot - nothing like a gal who knows what she wants! :)

I can't wait to celebrate their upcoming nuptials (hopefully soon!). And to give you an idea of what this girl means to me, check out this stream of priceless photos from the day of my own nuptials, where she gladly stood at the alter with me as one of my MOH's.

I've known this gal since I was 14 years old (seventh grade) and she was just one of those awesome people who made me feel welcome at a new middle school in Virginia. Remember those days? Kids were pretty brutal to each other! But Rach was one of those who stood out - asking me to have lunch with her and her gal pals on my 2nd day of school, inviting me to sit with her in French class where we would later become separated because we talked too much in class, inviting me over to her house on a Friday night (I even remember what she was wearing - Hard Rock Cafe t-shirt). I wouldn't have survived middle school, high school, college or post-college days without her. Best wishes and congrats, Rach and Sammy! :) We love you guys so much!!

Related Posts: Going to the Chapel, Congratulations are in order, Be our (wedding) guest.

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Gosh, that's some good squash!

One of my fall and winter staple side dishes is baked acorn squash. It's simple, tasty and packed with nutrients! It's also a great side dish for Thanksgiving if you scoop out the sweet, tasty flesh and serve in a bowl.

Baked Acorn Squash

• 1 acorn squash, per 2 people
• 1 Tbsp butter, per squash
• 2 Tbsp maple syrup, per squash

1. Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees (I use my toaster oven for this).
2. Using a chefs knife, cut squash in half, from stem to end, and scoop out seeds and stringy flesh.
3. Place squash on baking sheet, covered in foil, and make deep cuts in the flesh, being careful not to cut through the skin.
4. Add 1/2 Tbsp butter and 1 Tbsp maple syrup to each half.
5. Bake for 45-60 minutes or until the squash is golden brown and soft, when pierced with a fork.

This recipe is wonderful with baked chicken with rosemary and garlic and green beans. Yummmm!!

*Photo courtesy of Simply Recipes.

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Don't grapple with my apple!

As I've previously mentioned, I'm sort of a brunch fanatic. I also strive to make our meals healthful and tasty...which, as any gal knows can be a challenge at times. I think I hit a home run over the weekend with a new twist on traditional pancakes - apple cinnamon pancakes. Totally delicious and with the added health benefit of fruit and cinnamon (which is surprisingly good for you!).

The 'recipe' is quite simple - use your normal method of making pancakes whether it's from scratch or using Bisquick. Add about 1/8 tsp cinnamon to the batter. While you're heating the skillet or griddle, slice an apple into quarters and cut each quarter into paper-thin slices, until you have 3-4 slices for each pancake. Pour batter onto hot skillet or griddle and immediately top with apple slices. Cook about 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Serve with maple sugar and any leftover apple slices.

*Photo courtesy of ABC News.

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Forgot to pack your shaving cream?

Worry not, ladies. In a pinch, grab the mini bottle of hair conditioner from the hotel when you hop in the shower. Slather the conditioner on your legs, the same way you would shaving cream and the conditioner will help protect your legs from icky razor burn. Pretty cool, huh? I don't even bother to pack shaving cream now...plus it takes about half the space in a quart sized Ziploc bag!

Now, if only I could find a substitute when I forget my toothbrush...

*Photo courtesy of Hotel Chatter.

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Farm Stand Pizza

Okay, so the name is a little weird, but it's exactly what it implies - pizza topped with fresh farm stand veggies. Yum yum in my tum tum! Grilling them before putting them on the pie also adds a little sumthin sumthin, if you ask me. I used our Griddler to avoid firing up the real deal outside...somehow it seemed simpler. Enjoy!

Farm Stand Pizza

• 1 package pre-made pizza dough, rolled thin onto a baking sheet or pizza pan
• 2-3 Cups assorted vegetables, chopped into 1-inch pieces - onion, zucchini, squash, green pepper, red pepper, banana pepper
• 1 large tomato, chopped roughly
• 1 12 oz buffalo mozzarella, sliced
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Seasoning - oregano, basil, pepper, or any others that you like on pizza

1. Brush vegetables lightly with olive oil and grill about 5-7 minutes, over med heat grill.
2. Roll pizza crust onto a baking sheet or pizza pan. Top with vegetables, cheese and seasonings, according to taste.
3. Cook according to pizza dough package directions.

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P.S. Can you sense a trend? We LOVE pizza! :)

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Fall-tastic Table Decor

I got a little over-zealous with fall decorations around the house over the weekend. Now that the temperatures have been in the 60s in the evenings, it seemed appropriate...and I love fall.

Our table is pretty straightforward and quite inexpensive as well! A quick breakdown of my decorations:

Burnt orange round braided place mats - about $3 each at Marshall's
Cream napkins - $1 each at Marshall's
Centerpiece with fruit, gourds and leaves - courtesy of my Mom-in-law, aka free, woo!
Pumpkin Salt and Pepper shakers - $3 at Garden Ridge Pottery
Wooden candlesticks - $3 each after Halloween at Target
Parchment-colored candles - $1 each at Michael's

Not bad, eh?

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A movie "review," for a change

Unfortunately labor day in Virginia turned out to be rainy and gray and icky. Fortunately, I wasn't really in the mood to hit the beach. So instead, the hubs, my parents and I trekked to the mall for some indoor fun - a touch of fall shopping and a movie - woo! We saw Julie and Julia, the story of Julia Childs (famous chef - duh) and Julie Powell, who cooked and blogged her way through Childs's famous cookbook. All 4 of us really enjoyed it, which is a testament to the quality of the film. There were funny moments, charming moments, some semi-sad moments and many humanizing moments. It inspired me to be a more adventurous cook and to take the blog lightly. Specifically, I identified with several aspects of the Julie, aka the blogger, story. The first comment...the narcissistic tendencies...a borderline obsession at times. It all resonated at one moment or another in my blogging adventures.
In any case, it's a fun flick and I recommend it...even if you don't make it to theaters, add it to your Netflix list.
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How 'bout this for some news?

Ok, so I realize this was announced yesterday and I'm a little behind. So?

I'm pretty excited about the newest member at the judge's table! I'm definitely not a loyal Idol follower, but maybe I will be now. I've always been an Ellen fan and Idol could most definitely use some comic relief. I'll definitely be watching early on and will see if her addition carries me through the season. What was your reaction?
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Desk Drawer Essentials

I'm a working woman. No, not that kind of working woman. As such, I spend a good deal of time each week in an icky gray cubicle. I have tried to dress up the walls with photos and a calendar from my alma mater, but it's still not that fab. However, inside my metal, tan-ish colored drawers and cabinets houses an array of items that leave me feeling like I'm more at home than at work. To ensure I'm prepared for anything, I stock the following in my desk:

• Snacks: almonds, dried fruit, granola bars, dried edamame
• Meal helpers: plastic cutlery, Napkins or paper towels
• Tissues
• Antibacterial gel or wet wipes
• Cleaning supplies: Lysol/Clorox wipes, Tide to Go pen
• Tylenol/Advil/Excedrin
• Mints and Gum
• Beauty: Dental floss and/or Toothbrush and toothpaste, hand lotion, lip gloss, contact solution

A few things to make your office a little more comfortable. I call these happy to glad additions.

• A plant
• Favorite pictures
• Cute pencil container, like a fun mug or cup
• Pretty folders, pens, notepads...anything to make you more interested in your job!

Related Posts: Beauty Bag Essentials, Cleaning your Caffeinator, A sloppy gal's best friend.

*Photo courtesy of Real Simple.
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Who Knew: Sunscreen stains on clothing

My lovely mother submitted this question via phone or email (can't remember...yes, it was that long ago).

I have a few white tank tops and shirts that are stained from sunscreen. How do I make them look fresh and new again?

Dear Mom,

I too, have had this problem and I would guess that many other gals who have worn a white (or other light colored) tank top, dress or t-shirt to the beach or pool have experienced this annoying phenomenon. I did a fair bit of research and unfortunately, could not find a true consensus on the best way to remove the stain. I did, however, determine a consensus on a possible ingredient in the sunscreen that causes this problem - avobenzone. Many suggested methods for cleaning included using bleach, an oxy-type product, vinegar, Kaboom...the list goes on. After reading several forums, I have come to my final recommendation, with many praising success - The Works Tub and Shower Cleaner. Not only is it readily accessible at many major retailers (Kmart, Target, Walmart, etc), but it's pretty reasonable (under $5).

Spray the stain directly with The Works and let sit for about 5 minutes. Upon your return, the stain should have magically disappeared before your eyes! Make sure to launder appropriately when you have an opportunity. Let me know how it goes!!

Love,

Christine

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*Photos courtesy of Old Navy and Amazon.

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Be still my heart....fall is almost here

This summer has felt non-existent in our house. It's has been a blur from steamy weekends where it was beyond uncomfortable to be outside, many weekends away filled with out-of-town weddings and other commitments. In a word, I don't really know what we did this summer. That being said, I've been longing for fall for weeks. And like many other bloggers, I thought I would post a few things that make me excited for autumn.

Pumpkin Flavors: I love a pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks. I also really like pumpkin cupcakes.

Birthdays: My hubs and I were lucky to be born 13 days apart in September and October. We make a pretty big deal out of our birthdays - basically a 3-4 week celebration.

Pumpkins: I may be the world's worst/most uncreative pumpkin-carver, but I really really love pumpkins. We have a fabulous farm near our home and each year, I'm tempted to fill a shopping cart with pumpkins. I really love the trendy new 'Cinderella' pumpkins and think I may pick out a few to adorn our steps.

Fall cooking: I'm a seasonal creature. I don't really believe in roasting or squash or big poultry out of season, so I'm pretty excited to reinvigorate our kitchen with acorn squash, butternut squash soup and baked turkey.

Sweaters, Jeans and Flats: Self-explanatory, but this is definitely my favorite outfit combination.

Crisp mornings: Again, self-explanatory, but I'm looking forward to wearing my pale pink lightweight trench coat.

Williamsburg in the fall: We really like heading up to the colonial community for a stroll and maybe a picnic. The grounds are beautiful and absolutely stunning when the leaves begin to change.

*Photos courtesy of Sugar Pie Farmhouse, Potter Lane.
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The end of summer

Happy Labor Day, folks, the day that unofficially marks the end of summer. We're planning to enjoy the day with my folks who are in from out of town - perhaps a hike, maybe hitting the end of summer Lily Pulitzer sales at my Mom and I's favorite shop, a BBQ, a lazy afternoon filled with reading...the possibilities are endless. My motto is: even though it's labor day, my day will be labor free!
*Photo courtesy of Clay Bennet.
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Be our (wedding) guest

In honor of my friend Jamie's wedding this weekend (yay!), I thought I would post a few of my favorite tips regarding wedding guest etiquette. Note that in my world, these are not just tips, but rules to live by!

1. Don't ever even think about being late for the ceremony. This is one of those rare occasions where no one (really no one!) will approve of you spending an extra 5 minutes curling your hair, making you late. However, if you do spend those extra 5 minutes on your hair, please wait until after the processional has entered the church or ceremony area and slip in a side door and grab a seat at the back - don't make a scene and draw attention away from the bride.
2. What are the bride and groom supposed to do with 30 huge boxes of glassware and china and linens after their wedding? Yes, I know it may be the custom in some parts of the country to bring gifts to the wedding, but spend $10 to mail it to them. Trust me, they'll appreciate it (and so will their parents, aunts, or uncles who will have to otherwise tote all of these gifts on their behalf)!
3. Make sure you sign the guestbook. The bride and groom will be so pleased to have well wishes from all in attendance. I was pretty bummed that only about 20% of our guests signed our book.
4. This is not like 50 cent beer night in college - more beers are not necessarily better at a wedding. Yes there may be an open bar, but enjoy with some moderation and respect for the occasion. In other words, don't be the guy everyone is talking about the next morning. And you'll thank me when you have a 4 hour layover on your way home - no one wants to hang out in an airport while hungover.
5. Always compliment the bride and groom on their beauty, grace and blissful newlywed happiness. Trust me, it doesn't get old.

Related Posts: Wedding Etiquette for Bride and Groom, A gift for the hostess with the mostess, Sunday afternoon with Emily Post.

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1 ingredient, 3 ways

I purchased a large loaf of crusty Tuscan bread for an artichoke dip that I made for our happy hour last Friday night. I didn't realize at the time that I would have a LOT of Tuscan bread for other meals. Here are a few ways to do crusty bread.

Parmesan and Artichoke Dip

• 1 14z can artichokes, drained and coarsely chopped
• 1 C mayo (light will work)
• 1 C grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Crusty bread, chopped into 1-2 inch cubes

1. Mix all ingredients well in 9-inch pie dish.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly in 350 degree oven.
3. Serve with crusty bread for dipping - yum!

Turkey and Spinach Sandwich

• 2 slices crusty bread, about 1/2-1 inch thickness
• 3-5 slices roasted turkey breast
• 1/4 C spinach leaves
• Tomato slices
• Fresh Parmesan cheese
• A schmear of mayo or ranch or whatever you prefer

1. Spread schmear on bread.
2. Layer ingredients and cut in half. (this is not rocket science here and I realize that, folks!)

French Toast - posted here

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I heart...Sunday Brunch

I love brunch. I especially love putting together a delicious meal on a Sunday morning; somehow it always feels special. This weekend, I felt motivated and got my brunch on! Recipes for a deliciously happy home below.

Christine's French Toast

• 4-6 slices fresh bread (most any bread will work - Italian, French, multi grain, cinnamon swirl, etc)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 C-ish skim milk
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• 1 pinch Nutmeg
• Powdered sugar, for garnish
• Maple Syrup

1. Beat egg in shallow baking dish. Add milk, cinnamon and nutmeg.
2. Heat skillet or griddle over med-high heat.
3. Soak each piece of bread in liquid mixture, making sure to cover completely.
4. Add each piece of bread to skillet and cook 3-4 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned.
5. Serve with powdered sugar and maple syrup.

Brunch Cocktails

• Mimosa: Orange Juice and champagne
• Cham-pom Cocktail: Pomegranate-Cranberry Juice with champagne

*Photos courtesy of Martha Stewart.

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