Around Christmas time in Sweden, and other Scandinavian countries, one of the biggest celebrations occurs on December 13th, Saint Lucia’s Day. Lucia is an ancient mythical figure with an abiding role as a bearer of light during the dark Swedish winters. A popular food eaten on Saint Lucia’s Day are mildly sweet saffron-flavored buns, lussekatter (Lucia cats), shaped… Read More
To realize one’s destiny is a person’s only obligation. ~ from The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho Paulo Coelho’s remarkable and charming tale, The Alchemist, is about the most magical of all journeys—the quest to fulfill one’s destiny. Evocative and deeply humane, the novel has inspired millions of its readers around the world with its lush, timeless and… Read More
I wish we could put up some of the Christmas spirit in jars and open a jar of it every month. ~ Harlan Miller Hors d’oeuvres, starters, amuses-bouche, bites, finger food—no matter what you call them, these savory fleurettes—perfect for holiday parties or any gathering—lend opulence to your holiday table. Buckwheat, with its bold characteristics, adds flavor and texture to… Read More
A significant amount of clutter in our homes could be eliminated simply by being more mindful in the present. ~ Erin Dolan, of the blog Unclutterer I hate clutter. It wears me down and makes me feel like I need fresh air, or a long nap. I’m not meticulously neat, but I love clutter-free spaces—organized… Read More
Take your pleasure seriously. ~ Charles Eames In French, à table literally means “at the table”. Equivalent to “lunch (or dinner) is ready,” the phrase, à table!, is used in many French homes to let people know when the meal is ready to be eaten. The first time I heard of this phrase, I knew I wanted… Read More
What wisdom can you find that is greater than kindness? ~ Jean-Jacques Rousseau As a result of years of study, psychologist Dr. John Gottman can watch a married couple interacting (like at a party) and within three hours predict with 94 percent certainty whether that couple will stay married or divorce. Sound unbelievable? Well, in an Atlantic article, Gottman revealed the… Read More
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