Sunday, November 4, 2012

Lani Rhea

Check out a smexy interview with romance writer Lani Rhea
over on
 
 
 Lani is always up for a challenge and enjoys mixing romance with all genres that spark her interests. You can find her either reading or writing. She would love to hear from you, visit her website at lanirhea.webs.com. To catch up with her crazy blogging visit her at For Your Eyes Only.
 
 

Friday, November 2, 2012

Happy 21st Anniversary

Today is my 21st Wedding Anniversary.

While looking for gift ideas, I found this article written by Carol S. Rothchild.

Personal Touch to Brass or Nickel for a Traditional 21st Anniversary Gift
line art gift
It can be difficult to determine the best 21st anniversary gift idea for a couple celebrating their 21st year of marriage. With a lifetime of shared experiences and adventures, a couple married for 21 years has stood the test of time. Gifts of brass and nickel are the suggested tokens of this milestone. But, though the lists of symbolic and recommended gifts can be convenient, they are only suggestions. The best 21st anniversary gifts, of course, are those that come with a personal touch and heartfelt enthusiasm.

Brass is seen in posh decorating arenas everywhere. From wind chimes to fireplace accessories to furniture, the choices and selections are abundant. If you are looking for a more romantic gift, consider a brass corkscrew given in conjunction with a nice bottle of champagne. Perhaps a brass picture frame holding a photograph taken of the bride and groom at their wedding would be the perfect way to personalize the brass theme. Or a brass-plated photo album, filled with pictures of their adventures throughout the years.

Brass jewelry is a chic and attractive gift for men and women. Brass charms, especially, are a popular choice among brass lovers. Produced in both modern and vintage styles, they are a nice and affordable alternative to gold or silver. Or consider matching brass key-chains or rings for the anniversary couple.

Nickel, too, is a gift suggestion for a 21st anniversary gift. Brushed nickel items are especially popular today. From new drawer pulls to lamps to nickel- plated keepsake boxes, there are many choices.

The traditional wedding Quaich, available in both brass and nickel, is a lovely and unique wedding anniversary gift. The wedding Quaich, historically known as a loving cup, is an ornate cup designed for two. Couples used to share a drink from this cup, thus symbolizing their union and promise to each other. The recipients may choose to celebrate with a drink from their cup, or simply place it on the coffee table to become a conversation piece for years to come. Its rare presentation will be appreciated and admired for a long time.

The gemstone recommended as a gift for the 21st anniversary is the elegant iolite. This sparkling violet stone is also referred to as the water sapphire. It's interesting to note that the Vikings used the iolite as a secret navigation tool. By experimenting with thin slices of this gemstone, the Vikings actually discovered that the iolite possessed polarizing properties. They were then able to determine their exact position in the sea and safely navigate!

Surprisingly, these eye-catching gemstones are not rare and are therefore quite affordable. They are a dramatic contribution to the world of jewelry, as they make a breathtaking statement and very special gift.

The 21st wedding anniversary is a special time for celebrating. Whether you choose to present the couple with a gift containing brass, nickel or the ever-dramatic iolite, they are sure to appreciate your sentiment and support as they move forward to the next adventure-filled year of marriage.
 
 
Unfortunately, dearest hubby is out of town due to work.  So I slipped a card and a coupon for a massage into his luggage.  I'm looking forward to redeeming it when he comes home.
 
 

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Tasty Tuesday - Banana Bread

When you are cleaning the kitchen don't throw those brown bananas away!
I found a super easy banana bread recipe.

Heat oven to 350'. Grease 9"x5" loaf pan.
1/4 cup shortening
3/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
2 cups Jiffy or any baking mix
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (2-3 medium)
1/3 cup chopped nuts - optional

Cream shortening and sugar. Combine remaining ingredients and mix until well blended. Pour into prepared pan. Bake about 55 minutes. Cool on a rack before slicing.

While cleaning the kitchen this morning, I found several bananas left over from last weekend's camping trip. Ewe! I don't like throwing food away and this is a great recipe to use. It's simple and my family loves it. For fun I add a little nutmeg and brown sugar on the top before placing it into the oven.

I like to use farm fresh eggs. Visit your local Farmers' Market or watch for signs along country roads. They run about $2 a dozen.

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Thursday Thirteen - Find Time for Love


In a recent weekly poll, statistics showed that most people believed a typical couple should have sex three times a week if not every day.   How does this compare to you and your significant other?

If you feel you'd like to improve the amount of sensual time you spend with your partner here are a few ideas to help you!

  1. Make it a point to go to bed at least an hour to a half-hour before you normally do.
  2. If you're a morning person, try getting up an hour to half-hour earlier.
  3. On days you have an hour or so lunch or mid-day break, meet each other at home or at a hotel for a fun quickie!
  4. When you or your partner comes home, don't speak to them. Just grab their hand, drag them to the bedroom (or stay where you are) and make love.
  5. Take your showers together.
  6. Order out for dinner and make love before your food arrives.
  7. While your children are taking a nap or engrossed watching a movie, steal your partner away and make love.
  8. Hire a housekeeper to free up "needless" time.
  9. Take a "sick" day from work and spend the day recovering together!  (My personal fav!)
  10. Clean the house together while sipping wine, and then relax.
  11. Go for a drive and park.  Just be careful not to get caught.
  12. Send your kids off to a sports event with an older child, friend or relative.  That will give you at least 2-3 hours alone.
  13. Whenever you're alone together... make love!