there's no place like home (and a giveaway)

I'm so proud of my Southern heritage, and a lot of that has to do with food.

sugar and spice...

...and a few more things that are nice*.

*But not all things nice. Come on--let's be realistic here.

a little grace in the mixing bowl

You GUYS. Taste of Home has a feature called the Mixing Bowl in which they share information about bloggers they love. This month, they love me! Check it out on newstands starting either today or tomorrow!

If you're interested, here's the link to the pie included in the write-up.

crinkle lines

I'm halfway into my 30th year now. I need to be coming to terms with the fact that there are several things that I used to be able to do that aren't so easy now. Plus, my bumps and bruises hurt more and don't heal as quickly. I also have to accept that I can't pull out every gray hair I spot and that those little wrinkles around my eyes won't be going away. Like, ever.

speaking of nostalgia

I rarely eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches anymore, but when I do, I most definitely feel like a kid again.

hurra! (chinet giveaway nummer vier)

Did I ever mention that I'm trying to teach myself German? It's true. I mean...es ist wahr.

tea ain't always sweet, ya'll

Another pie so soon? Well, folks, pie season is nearly upon us. Best to gird your loins now and get prepared.

It's a custard curtsy.

urra! (chinet giveaway numero tre)

Nostalgia is a powerful thing, and this dish is delicious proof of that.

terms of endearment

How do you feel about pet names? They can be really silly, of course, and I know more than a few people who think of them that way, but I happen to believe that they can be a sweet and simple way to let a person know you care.