Entertaining Your Guests With Wine

Entertaining Your Guests With Wine

By Nathaniel Gustafson


If you're having a party or just some friends over for some wine and appetizers, you may want to make it a bit fancier by having a wine tasting, or investing in some new wine glasses and accessories. To really make your entertaining incredible, try to incorporate the following tips into your party planning.
A Variety of Wine Glasses
Did you know that you can purchase stemless wine glasses? They are great to have on hand when you just want to throw wine glasses in the dishwasher and not have to worry about the stems being broken off. The goblets are also a great conversation piece if your guests have never seen them before since they are so unique.
You can also invest in some wine glasses that have painted designs on them. If you purchase many different designs, your guests will have a wonderful time commenting on them and deciding which one they would like to use.
Of course, the classic wine glasses are always great to have on hand. These can be mixed with the other varieties for the guests who don't enjoy deviating from the norm.
Wine Accessories
Just as you can buy different types of wine glasses, you can also buy wine accessories. You can buy stem rings to place on them so that everyone knows which glass is theirs. These come with beads on them and some even come with crystals. You can also purchase ones made entirely of wire but are bent in great designs.
Don't forget the different wine coasters you can purchase so that your furniture doesn't get marked. You can find coasters of all kinds and picking a variety of them can really give people something to laugh or talk about.
Corks with funny heads on them are always great to use. You can find some with grapes on the top of the cork, faces, or just about any type of hobby you enjoy
such as golf club or high heeled shoes. Find some that fit your personality and show them off as people grab some mine and then cork the bottle.
A Wine Tasting in Your Home
To complete your event, purchase many different kinds of wine. Since not everyone likes the same wine, this will please your guests the most. Make sure to get as many bottles of red wine as you do white wine. Try different levels of sweetness, dry and change things up with some champagne too for those guests that don't favor wine.
Don't forget the food. People want to munch on something while they sip their wine. Cheese and crackers are always a popular choice, but you can serve just about anything you'd like. It's best to have finger foods so that people can pick up and go with. Mingling, eating and sipping on wine with fun people are the best ways to have an entertaining night at your home so your guests will have a wonderful time.
Mr Gustafson publishes informational articles to help people learn. Other helpful articles include those on Stemless Wine Glasses and Information on Adding Flavor to Your Bar with Unique Wine Glasses.

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Valentines Day - The Important Tradition of Chocolate, Roses, And Romance

Valentines Day - The Important Tradition Of Chocolate, Roses, And Romance
By Kay Coolidge

"Don't get me candy," she may say, but being obedient to this request has occasionally sentenced some logical and straight-forward thinking men to a few days in the dog house. "Okay," he thinks; "no chocolates, she's on a diet - she made a special point of letting me know that, message received." Valentines Day preparations become a little simpler, since red roses are the traditional symbol of love - there'll be no consternation over which color to choose.
But a lovely luxuriously decorated valentine shaped box of chocolates, if not equal to roses, ranks high as a symbol of love on this all-important day for romantic relationships. It brings with it a message of unconditional love (i.e. "ok, you may need to lose a little weight, but I love you just for being YOU!"), passion, and never-ending love and devotion. Not to mention the long considered, and now scientifically explained, aphrodisiac properties of the chocolate.
According to Mark Twain, "love is the irresistible desire to be irresistibly desired," and this quote is likely more fitting on Valentines Day than any other day of the year. Traditional Valentines Day gifts, such as chocolates and flowers tend to provide reassurance that the relationship is on an even keel; that despite the changes brought on by time - the original magic of the early years still remains. Of course, Valentines Day, as a romantic holiday along with the chocolates and other gifts currently associated with it, didn't really flourish in the United States until the mid 20th Century.
In fact, the legend that goes all the way back to the Roman era paints quite a different picture of this holiday and the impetus for it. There are actually three different versions of who the original Saint Valentine was, and the behavior he was noted for, except that in each one he was hailed as a martyr. It is generally reported, though, that Saint Valentine
1. Either performed marriages in secret after the Emperor outlawed it for members of his army

2. Was executed after attempting to help Christians escape from horrific prison conditions, or

3. Sent the very first valentine message to the daughter of his jailor who he had fallen in love with her after she visited him in prison.
Interestingly, there is no mention of either chocolates or flowers being included in any of those versions of that early history.
Clearly, Valentines Day has evolved considerably. It is the second most commercial holiday next to Christmas, and some complain that it has become far too commercialized. Yet, about a billion Valentines cards are sent out each year, even in this digital age. Obviously green and sustainable thinking goes out the window for at least this one day. This is understandable.
After all, something as meaningful as a beautiful and touching card from the most important person in your life needs to be cherished, and an email just doesn't measure up as a potential family heirloom. Between florist orders, massive sales of all varieties of chocolates, teddy bears, and jewelry, February retail sales often reflect that this one day remains an important not-to-be-missed (if not avoid (or forget) at your own peril) opportunity for couples to set aside the time to demonstrate their love and commitment to each other.
This celebration is not just limited to the United States, either. Valentines Day is celebrated in many cultures. Chocolate often plays a role, though sometimes in a different context, likely due to its reputation for causing people to react as though they're falling in love. There is, of course, the irresistible luxurious smoothness and taste that always makes a Valentines Day gift of chocolates welcome and highly anticipated. And, fortunately, since they come in a variety of quantities, those who aren't quite certain what the reaction of the recipient will be can play it safe with a small diet-friendly assortment of Valentines candy.
Kay Coolidge is the founder and proprietor of Popsies Gourmet Popcorn and Sweets Shoppe in Oak Harbor, WA. Popsies online home is http://www.popsiespugetsoundpopcorn.com where you can order the same fresh made-with-love-by-Grandma-Kay popcorn tins filled with your favorite flavors (up to three per tin) that locals clamor for.
Call Kay at 360-240-8937 for unmatched customer service, whether it's popcorn you'd like or any assortment of candy (see the huge variety on the website-from vintage to the very latest) you'd like included in your 'care package' from Whidbey Island's best kept secret. Need unique party favors or custom gift baskets? Popsies offers free consultation on either, and will prepare and ship your order for timely delivery.
For those who live in the Whidbey Island area or are visiting, stop by 851 SE Pioneer in Oak Harbor to sample the legendary friendly service and witness the amazing jaw-dropping variety of treats available at Popsies for each holiday and in between. You'll see why locals refer to Popsies as the "Gem" of Historic Downtown Oak Harbor.

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Don't Stir the Pot

Don't Stir the Pot!

By Cathy Benton


Don't stir my pot!
Ok I'm really talking about my pot of chili but this could also apply to people who stir up other things.
I recently was working from home writing blog posts. It was going to be a productive day because no one was home and I would not have any distractions or interruptions.
It is hard to write blog posts at work because I apparently have a swinging door that everyone feels compelled to come through every 10 minutes with problems. Writing is something I love to do but find difficult with too many distractions.
It was a rainy, cold day so I decided to start dinner while home i got out my big ole' pot and started my grandmothers famous chili. All ingredients in the pot, heat on low and let it simmer for hours. When my grandmother made chili like this and she'd usually bake a cake at the same time. I always remember her saying "don't stir my pot and don't open my oven -in fact just stay out of my kitchen". It was always accompanied with her lovely smile - however she was dead serious!
I guess I took after her. Whenever I'm cooking I hate for someone to come in and mess with what I'm doing. It just gets under my skin and interrupts my thought process - just like when I'm writing. This same day a friend dropped by to bring me something I had left at work. He went immediately into my kitchen and took the lid off my chili and stirred the pot.
NO!
I almost took his head off. Lol. Sounded just like my grandmother - but without the smile. I only have a few little quirks - well maybe more than my share - but just a few that really get under my skin. Empty ice trays, clothes laying on the floor, unmade beds, people starting trouble, and STIRRING MY POT!
Oh BTW - here is my chili recipe
1 c. chopped onions

1 lb ground beef

1 lb. pork sausage

1 c. water

28 oz can whole tomatoes

1 can kidney beans

15 oz can tomato sauce

12oz can tomato paste

2 tbsp. chili powder

1 tbsp. basil leaves

1 tsp. oregano leaves

1 tsp. pepper

1/2 tsp. salt

3 tbls Dijon mustard

1 tsp. curry powder

1/2 cup chicken stock
In 10" skillet cook onions, beef and sausage over med. heat until meat is browned. Pour off fat. Meanwhile, in Dutch oven combine remaining ingredients. Cook over med. heat stirring occasionally for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to low; add browned meat. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 20 - 30 minutes. Sometimes we add a cup of rice or server it over pasta. But this is a chili recipe that has been in my family for over 80 years. Enjoy!
Cathy Benton

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The Perfect Baby Crib

The Perfect Baby Crib

By Jeanette Souter


We are so ready for that special person. A lot of preparations have been made. In just a few days the long wait will be over. The question is, are we prepared for the arrival of that little one that will complete our existence?
It's still best for us to make a checklist of all the things our precious baby will need so we won't end up buying the not so important stuffs. There are a lot of baby things when we go shopping. They are so attractive that we might be tempted to buy things that are not really necessary.
Baby clothes, feeding bottles, blankets, toys and of course, a baby crib! A baby crib is very important for the baby. It's going to be his/her personal space so we call it. He/She will sleep and play here so it needs to be durable, comfortable and safe.
There are a lot of baby cribs in the market today. There are a lot of varieties to choose from. Think what you want, what your baby needs. Think about the amount of money you are prepared to spend for it. Here are some of baby crib types you may want for your little angel.
Combo baby cribs are perfect for those who are practical. Having a crib and changing table in one sounds great right? It saves space. They are available in different styles to compliment or to match our nursery design. Some changers can even be detached from the crib and can be use as standing storage once the diaper and crib stage is over. Some of these types can be converted to a bed that your baby can use when he became a toddler.
Portable cribs are perfect for small nursery. They offer the same comfort and safety just like the standard cribs but they are excellent space savers because they are smaller and lighter. This type of crib is perfect for travel since it can be folded for easy transport. Some of this crib can also be converted to bigger beds in the future.
On the other hand, Modern baby cribs are perfect for those who want to have a modern styled nursery. This type of crib is available in hip colors and some with two-tones finishes. They also come with modern conveniences such as convertibility, storage spaces, adjustable mattress supports and many more. Modern baby cribs are combination of modern styles, comfort and practicality!
What are you waiting for? Haven't made up your mind yet? Well, I suggest you think what you want for your baby first. I'm pretty sure you want the best for him/her but you also need to be practical. The most important thing of all is that you get your money's worth!
Jeanette loves to write and what makes her more inspired now is to know that lots of mothers need best baby cribs reviews which can help them decide on choosing the crib for their babies. Check out the site for more information and details about the Eden baby moderno.

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Twelve Fun Things To Do With Your Antique Glass Jars

Twelve Fun Things To Do With Your Antique Glass Jars

By Tommy O Coffler


If you have those vintage glass bottles, antique canning jars, milk glass bottles, or colorful antique cookie jars lying around the house, then you might want to clean them and turn them into stunning additions to brighten your living space.
Here are twelve fun things to do with your antique glass jars aside from using them for food storage:
1. Turn them into lanterns. The colored ones are especially attractive when you light small candles inside them. The nostalgic vibe of candles inside antique glass jars can transform your living area from drab to fabulous.
2. For clear antique glass jars, put colorful shells inside them. Secure the lid and display them on the mantel to conjure that refreshing seaside feel.
3. Colored rocks, pebbles, or colored beads can be showcased inside clear antique mason jars.
4. You can also store colored ribbons inside clear antique glass canning jars. They will look pleasing when capped and arranged on the shelves.
5. Re-purpose them as organizers. You can use them to hold small toiletries and cosmetic items like cotton buds, cotton balls, lipsticks, etc. They will take care of the clutter, and they will look perfect on your dresser, too.
6. In your home office or study, you can use them to store paper clips and other small items.
7. Colored vintage glass bottles make striking table centerpieces. Large ones with embossed designs can be surrounded by smaller ones. You can arrange them together in the middle of the table or you can use them as vases. Collectively, they add a homely oomph if you are hosting a dinner for your friends or relatives.
8. You can also place small fruits (like tomatoes) inside antique glass jars and use them as table centerpieces.
9. Vintage perfume bottles can be displayed on shadowboxes or small knickknack shelves. When grouped together, their lovely colors and delicate designs can serve as wholesome conversation pieces.
10. Use antique glass jars as liquid soap dispensers. Bore a hole on the tin lid and stick the plastic soap dispenser nozzle there, and voila, you now have an elegant soap dispenser instead of a frumpy cheap-looking plastic one.
11. Use large antique canning jars, especially the square-shaped ones, as terrariums. Place these near the windowsills.
12. Put homemade cookies or other small goodies inside antique canning jars, cap, tie a colorful ribbon, and give them away as gifts.
To learn everything about antique jars and bottles, visit AntiqueJars.net. This is the web's repository of the most updated and well-researched articles related to antique jars.

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How Do You Make Jewelry?

How Do You Make Jewelry?

By Kirsten Taylor


Everyone has a crafty friend who makes homemade gifts deceptively easy. From paper bag scrapbooks to one-of-a-kind lamps any project can be broken down into simple steps. All you need is some direction and you can create masterpieces that are all your own.
Think of using a recipe to make your favorite dish. The first thing you do is ensure that you have all of the ingredients and supplies that you need. So, when someone asks, how do you make jewelry or simply how did you do that, you know where to begin.
The next thing on your recipe card is usually a list of steps or directions to make your creation. Of course one thing never listed is inspiration. Without that idea or spark all you have is a pile of stuff. Whether you need something to go with that new sweater or a gift for a special friend, it is not hard to find a starting point when creating. So, one answer to the question, how do you make jewelry is with some inspiration.
With your inspiration in tow you can begin to follow the steps in your book, magazine, or online tutorial. In a short time you will hopefully have your project completed. It is important to remember that these steps are basically guidelines, and when you add your own personal touches you truly make a one-of-a-kind work of art.
Does this sound too good to be true? Crafty people may be born with a knack for creating, but everyone needs a few practice runs before they can truly create with ease. Greatness comes from a lot of trial and error. It is through this process that you discover what works and what doesn't as well as what materials you like to use and those you do not. So the next time you are asked, how do you make jewelry? You can retort, with a lot of practice.
After practicing with all of the techniques and materials that intrigue you; it is possible to choose your favorite ones as part of your signature designs. Perhaps your go-to gift will be wire-wrapped leather bracelets or necklaces with gemstone pendants. No matter what you choose the lucky recipients of your wares will be grateful.
Yes, no matter what hobby you choose it can be mastered with a little inspiration and a lot of practice. You can become the crafty friend, that fabulous gift giver, that artiste. Sure you may need a little direction when you begin and some time before you become a true talent, but who wouldn't? Once you develop your artist's eye creating jaw-dropping designs will be almost second nature to you. You could even find yourself with a new career. Designs for weddings, new mothers and more will be on your agenda. Using a grandmother's beloved pearls to create keepsakes for her three granddaughters or a few of your friend's favorite things as inspiration for a special birthday gift; you will find yourself with one more answer for that all too common question, how do you make jewelry? And that answer is with love.
Author Kirsten Taylor is a passionate, beading enthusiast and owner of Best Beading Secrets a home-crafting online store that offers customers not only easy to follow tutorials, but insider tips and hints that you won't find anywhere else. Whether you want to learn how to bead and create fabulous jewelry yourself or discover the secrets of experts in the field, there is a lot of helpful advice and information to take advantage of and make designer accessories. Click today and indulge your creative side.

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A Great Lawn And Garden Invention - The Weed Eater

A Great Lawn And Garden Invention - The Weed Eater

By Tony Hanes


I was born in 1966, and lived in Atlanta Georgia. If you know anything about the greater Atlanta area, then you knew we are known for our spring time emergence of flowers, flowering trees and lush green lawns.
Each weekend, I would go visit on of my pairs of grandparents and help them tend to their lawn duties. I vividly remember raking the leaves in the fall, and spring time was full of pruning and trimming of the bushes and lawns. One of the primary tasks that was entrusted to me; or perhaps delegated to me for the horrendous labor involved, was the trimming of the edges of the lawn.
In those days of course, there were no fancy string trimmers; only a pair of modified scissors that required the operator to be on hands and knees. Crawling and inching one painful inch at a time, with repetitive snipping of the scissors, hours would pass before I had made one complete revolution around the perimeter of the lawn. As I remember, the most painful part of this process was the burning and cramping my little hands felt after approximately one million snips of the scissors. I vividly remember thinking, 'surely there must be a better way'?
Around this time, some great person was toying around that the very solution that I was looking for. His name was George C. Ballas, Sr. The inventor of the first string trimmer, which at the time was known by brand name of the 'weed eater'.
It was at a trip to a car wash that George noticed the bristles of an automatic car wash. Through a bit of trial and error, he eventually had his first prototype developed and was well on his way of transforming the way the world trims the edges of their lawns. Eventually his company was bought by Emerson Electric and merged with Poulan to create a new improved model, which was later purchased by Electrolux.
Of course the first versions were significantly heaver and were somewhat smoky; even so, they were well embraced by the general public. Newer versions became lighter, and ran better. Over the course of the evolution, weed eaters are now manufactured in gas, electric, and battery operated models. The original brand name of weed eater, has now more effectively become known as lawn trimmer.
Heavier models with more horsepower were soon created for tougher areas that required more than the weed eater could provide. These newer models became known as the brush cutter; and this model is sold with handle bars for greater control, and the cutting device is that of a cutter blade, rather than monofilament line as the conventions weed eater required. This model is far tougher, yet is also far heavier.
Personally I am very thankful to George Ballas for his incredible contribution to my own life by inventing the first generation weed eater.

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