Do you have an e-reader yet? A Kindle, Nook, or some other device that lets you read electronic books? I got a Nook Color several months ago, after much wringing of hands and swearing I would never, ever, ever give up my real, paper-and-ink books. And the truth is, I kind of love it. I [...]

Bedbugs used to live in trashy havens of squalor. Then they figured out they could travel, and they took up residence in upscale New York City hotels. Now they’ve really got the travel bug (get it? huh? huh?) and they’re bringing their rashy, itchy fun on the road. Wherever you stay this summer, chances are you [...]

It amazes me how much spam I get on this blog. Fortunately, WordPress comes with a great spam-blocker. But still, I scan through the blocked comments to make sure nothing legit got misplaced, and it appears that the world is composed of two types of people: addicts and the people who supply them. Name your [...]

I just discovered this site, and I wanted to share it. I love the owners’ story, I love the family-centered business, and I love the whole philosophy of the site. Plus, take a look at some of their cute stuff. Eat your heart out, Donna Reed. I bet you didn’t have a round chopping block [...]

My sassy neighborhood has been seeing some impressive thunderstorms in the last few weeks.  When it’s summer, and the kids are home, and you’re all crammed under one soggy roof, it’s a perfect time to raid the game cupboard.  Especially if the storm has taken out your favorite babysitter, the tv/computer/game system.  Here are my tried [...]

Looking for a gift for the neighbors?  A rainy-day activity for the kids?  A cure for your sweet tooth?   How about some caramel corn?   Start by popping some popcorn.  I use an air popper, so I feel less guilty about all the goop I’m adding to it later.  This recipe is enough for one average [...]

The 4th of July means food, fun, fireworks, friends, family, and fattening festivities.  If you want to make a patriotic splash at the party this year, try these star-spangled ideas:   When it comes to kids (including this particularly adorable one, who happens to be mine), a little red, white and blue can go a [...]

The Bosch Universal Kitchen Machine ticks me off.  It sits there in my kitchen, taunting me, making me feel guilty.  I mean, if it didn’t work very well, that would be one thing.  I’d just taunt it right back.  But the thing is, it’s really, really good.  It makes everything easy.  It’s powerful and efficient, kneading [...]

Father’s Day is coming up, and it’s hard to find a gift that isn’t a) a tie, b) a shirt, or c) uh…a tie. Why is it so hard to buy for men? But not this year. Check out these groovy gifts: If your guy is going green, check out this great sale on solar [...]

(to the tune of “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad”) I’ve been driving on the freeway All the live-long night. I’ve been driving on the freeway But the end’s still not in sight. Can’t you hear the baby cryin’ Risin’ up so early in the morn. Can’t you hear the kiddos shouting, “Trucker, blow your [...]