How to Make an Abundant Floral Centerpiece
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How to Make an Abundant Floral Centerpiece

On rare occasions, I make an abundant fresh flower centerpiece (for my Valentine dinner party, for example). I am always looking for new and better ways to do this so my flower investment will last as long as possible. Has anyone else noticed the price of flowers increasing? Maybe all prices are going up but…

Valentine’s Day Dinner Party 2023
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Valentine’s Day Dinner Party 2023

Happy Sweet Valentine’s Day to you and yours! As you may recall, we host an intimate dinner party for 10 to celebrate Valentine’s Day. I wish we could invite many more people, but since it is more formal and a sit down dinner event, the maximum number we can accommodate comfortably is 10. This tradition…

Valentine’s Day Ideas from Centerpieces to Food
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Valentine’s Day Ideas from Centerpieces to Food

Happy February! After writing 18 blog posts over the last few years about Valentine’s Day, I am putting what I consider the best of the best together. Whether you spend Valentine’s Day with girlfriends, family or that special someone in your life, there is something for everyone here. From elaborate centerpieces to a simple dinner…

Twas the Week AFTER Christmas
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Twas the Week AFTER Christmas

As I write this, today is Christmas Day Observed on the calendar (Monday, Dec. 26) and I can tell you I am taking this day to relax and do nothing. The refrigerator is filled with leftovers and we continue to enjoy our children collectively as our son is in town until Thursday. Here at Bella…

Setting the Christmas Dinner Table
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Setting the Christmas Dinner Table

For some reason it never occurred to me to set a dinner table days before an event. While visiting my friend, I noticed her Thanksgiving table all set a week before turkey day. It was a light bulb moment for me. I typically (and with stress) set the table on the same day. Ever since…