Divatosity

Are you looking for inexpensive ways to hang out with family and friends without breaking the bank?  Sure, it is fun to gather the gang together for a huge night on the town.  Perhaps, you dream of cooking up an elaborate gourmet dinner for 15 of your closest friends and family. Both activities sound like a lot of fun but, they can also wreak havoc on a carefully crafted budget. Luckily, there are ways in which you can spend time with loved ones without killing your budget. Consider hosting/organizing an out of the ordinary themed potluck party. I know that in the past potlucks have garnered a bad reputation for being low on delicious or even appetizing food options. Below are 4 themed potluck parties which will take your entertaining to the next level without killing your budget. 1. Host a morning coffee/breakfast hour. You provide the coffee and pastry. Your guest can provide a simple breakfast item such as chopped fruit, bacon, eggs, and/or toast. This even...

 I baked these cupcakes to cheer up a family member. Admittedly, I am more of a savory cook and not a baker. However, I am working to change this sad fact. The cake portion of the dessert tasted wonderful yet, my frosting skills are still a little on the weak side.

Campfires are the perfect catalyst for soulful confessions of secret hopes and fears.

Memphis Redbirds playing in June 2013 It's not too late to catch your favorite Minor League Baseball team this summer. The best part is that they are probably in a town near you and tickets are pretty reasonably priced. Another low cost summer outing is the pilgrimage to the local food truck . Listen to the Divatosity podcast entitled:  Divatosity- Minor League Baseball Outings and Food Trucks

  Last week, I caught the tail end of a neighborhood art fair. Artists were hawking their wares and the once might crowd was beginning to wander back to their cars. The lines at the concession stands were just a few people deep. I took in the scene with a feeling of wonder. 20 years ago, I longed to live in a neighborhood which hosted art fairs on a semi-regular basis. I guess dreams really do come true.

Late last week, I spent a leisurely day at a lakehouse in North Dakota. It was amazing. There was no Internet access in the lakehouse and the closest town was 15 miles away. This gave me the opportunity to stroll around the lake and snap random photos.

Last week, I was hanging out in Bellingham, WA. I had planned to hop over to Vancouver, BC but, I misplaced my passport and was unable to make the trip. However, all was not lost. I ended up exploring the avenues of Bellingham, WA.  I came across this sign and had to snap a photo.

  Last month, I was burnt out on eating cookies and cakes. I craved sweetness but, didn't want to deal with crumbs. My solution was to add some whipped cream to the pudding cup. The result was a cool and refreshing dessert which only took a few minutes to prepare.

A couple of weeks ago, I was out on my daily walk when I happened upon a local park. I must have driven past it at least a hundred times and yet, I never even noticed it. As I strolled through it, a sense of peace settled over me. Now, I have added it to my walking route. The bridge pictured in this park overlooks a pond filled with ducks. I wanted to take a couple of photos of the ducks below but, they looked so peaceful that I did not wish to disturb them.

This all weather pin works on the lapel of a winter coat or a summer shawl.

It is sitting in my jewelry box, waiting for the right moment to make its grand entrance. I have worn it only once before and it is begging to be taken out again.

It's a day or two before pay day and you are down to the last few dollars. Perhaps, you have money in savings but, you want to use it as a last resort. You discover that you have a can of chili and some frozen mac and cheese. Well, you could eat these items as separate meals or you could join them together for the ultimate in comfort food deliciousness. Cook the chili on the stove per the directions on the can. Next, throw the frozen mac and cheese in the microwave per the instructions on the package. Add in cracked black pepper and you have some yummy comfort food. If you want to get super fancy, add in some  chopped sauteed onions and mushrooms. A cold blustery day is no match for this super cheap comfort food.

This necklace has been on loan from my mother's jewelry box since 1992. This necklace has seen me through me 4 colleges, 5 states, a few boyfriends, and countless events. Originally, I promised to return this necklace to my mother after college graduation. Yet for some reason, I cannot bear to part with this necklace. The vibrant colors of this necklace glam up even the most conservative attire.

This photo was snapped last month during the midst of the chaotic Christmas season. I hosted my first Christmas in my apartment. I purchased my first Christmas tree and cooked the holiday meal. Strangely, I did not feel an ounce of stress. In fact, I was excited and honored to host the festivities at my place. There a couple of mishaps but, overall it was a great day.