This past Christmas, the family bought and received appliances as gifts that offer new or different ways to prepare and enhance foods. These cooking appliances and methods included a smoker grill, air fryer, pasta maker, and sous vide precision cooker.
Apparently, hubby and I were on the same wave length as our two grown sons — give gifts that could be enjoyed while still being mostly homebound during the then peak of the pandemic. Those gifts extended to indoor entertainment too, including; board and card games, books, puzzles, craft supplies, and subscriptions for coffee, the NY Times, and streaming services.
One of those gift subscriptions was the ability to take MasterClass courses on our big screen TV, computer or mobile phone. There is a wide variety of topics. While Preparing for a Puppy, and before bringing Whiskey home, I took a great course on dog training. Hubby particularly enjoyed a series on what it was like to be an astronaut.
Since we are all foodies, ways to either prepare new dishes, or make foods faster, healthier and tastier, are particularly appealing. And no one was traveling or eating out then. Living in center city Philly and Manhattan, both our sons really missed dining at restaurants. Take out just wasn’t the same.
So, we all were experimenting either in the kitchen, or outside barbequing on the new smoker grill. With Labor Day Weekend barbecues around the corner, I thought it was time to share our experiences with a smoker.
We are on the verge of bringing home a Scottie puppy! I couldn’t be more excited! In preparation for the big day, I first made a list of all the basic dog supplies we already have.
When we lost Fibber MacGee 14 months ago, we donated pet food, medications, bedding, and numerous toys to a local shelter.
But, anticipating we’d someday be ready for another Scottie to join our family, I did pack away many basic dog supplies. That included things like the dog crate, exercise pen, baby gates, car seat, bowls, grooming tools, collars, and leashes. Additionally, I laundered and stored Fibber’s sweaters and coats, fleece blankets, and some gently used toys.
Since I haven’t had a puppy for 12 years, I went to the computer and researched numerous “best” lists for toys and other pet supplies. It was like a puppy baby shower, when four big boxes arrived from Chewy and Amazon!
I also dusted off my Scottie, puppy and dog training books to refresh my memory. And, I watched a great dog training class on TV.
Hello all, I sure hope you are doing okay during these trying times. Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite skin, hair and other beauty basics that I use regularly, if not daily.
Many of these hygiene care items have broad appeal, and are used by men and women of all ages. In fact, several are also used by my hubby and adult sons. I like not having to clutter a bathroom vanity or shower with different personal care products for every member of the family.
Since age factors into skin care, many of the beauty basics I use may appeal more to women 40 or 50 and over. Of course, everyone is different in terms of their skin tone, so I’m avoiding most cosmetics.
I’ve also excluded products that should be first discussed with your physician; like prescription drugs, over the counter medications and even vitamins.
Sure would appreciate feedback and input on your favorite beauty basics in the comment section. Why are they your favs?
Right before heading out-of-town for an extended St. Patrick’s Day weekend, I visited a couple favorite local places to see what’s new in spring decor.
If you are a regular reader of Debbee’s Buzz, you know I already have a ton of holiday and seasonal decor and tableware.
Not only is storage space in critical supply, but so is display space. I’m nearly at the point that if I buy or make something, well then something else really needs to bee parted with. Easier than it sounds!
I came home from the stores empty handed; deciding to weigh on a few items while on the car ride to and from NYC and Philadelphia.
But, I thought you might like to do a little virtual shopping with me; for your own Easter and spring decor ideas and inspiration.
I’m back from a two-week vacation in Greece and it’s time to update the house for fall with favorite Halloween decorations. Before I left, I visited two of my go-to places to shop for seasonal and holiday decor.
If you’re thinking, “wasn’t she just on vacation in July?” — you’re right! Incredible Iceland Trip Ten Day Adventurewas a surprise arranged by our sons. My husband and I had already planned Athens and a Greek island cruise over a year ago. It was a present to ourselves to celebrate a milestone wedding anniversary. A fabulous, dream trip.
Although I’m still regrouping, unpacking, and doing laundry (while adjusting to a seven-hour time difference and jet-lag), it’s time to decorate for fall.
Thanks for buzzing by! I'd love to hear from you, please leave a comment.
Hi! I'm Debbee, a maker of all manner of things, who likes to incorporate themes into craft projects, holiday and seasonal decor, table settings, and parties. My friends call me, the Queen of Theme lol!
Home is the suburbs of Pittsburgh, but I also enjoy exploring the world with my husband. We raised two wonderful sons and are now early retirees.
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Meet Whiskey
Meet Glenfiddich "Whiskey," a brindle coat Scottie and full of vim and vigor!
Always open to making a spontaneous purchase, I actually went with a list in my mind of a few things I’ve been hunting for:
