Tasty Thursday: Pattypan Squash

We were lucky enough to be gifted this beautiful pattypan squash by my daughter's boss. I have to admit it was so pretty I didn't want to eat it so I decorated the table with it for a few days.

But the calling deliciousness got the best of me and I allowed hubby to make this wonderful pattypan squash and red onion dish this evening. I used it to top a baked potato.


My dinner was yummy. Is there anything better than people who gift you things they've grown or made with their own hands?

I don't think so.

Travel Tip Tuesday: We Love Our GPS, But....

We all love our GPS, whether it is part of a phone, computer or stand-alone unit. But we should still keep an atlas or map in the car. Call me a luddite if you like, but machines or satellite can fail, a hard copy will always be there.

Whether it be around town or around the world, enjoy your travels today!

Waste Not Want Not Wednesday: Pink Floral Dress to Pink Floral Skirt

A few days ago my daughter, a size 0, cleaned out her closet and brought me this very pretty size 4 dress from H&M. It was destined for my charity box, knowing it would make some young girl happy to have something so pretty...until I noticed that it had a stain on the front. Also, she had melted the ribbon trim when she'd accidentally touched it with the iron. So now I knew it wasn't suitable for giving...sigh. What to do with it? The fabric was too pretty to let go. My daughter suggested grocery bags, but I hoped to see it have a second life as clothing.

Finally, I decided to remove the ribbon and separate the bodice from the skirt. I thought the skirt wide enough that I could make a summer top from it for myself, a size 16.

Once it was detached I slipped it over my head only to decide it was too snug around the top and made me look squished. But I did discover just how much give the fabric had and decided that with very little effort I could have a bright, new skirt.

All I had to do was iron down along the old fold line and sew a quick stitch all around the top. I can't believe how much stretch it has to it! I saved the usable parts of the ribbon - heaven knows I'm always looking for nice ribbon - in my ribbon stash box. I need to check with my daughter to see if she'd like the bodice as a summer top, otherwise I'm going to scavenge it to make a nice fabric bow to cover the stain. It falls very high on the skirt and I plan to wear a long shirt with this anyway so I will be able to get away with it regardless of whether she wants the bodice or not. If she doesn't, I'll also end up with a very long pink zipper. I'm thinking it might make a fun purse. We'll see.

Travel Tip Tuesday: Courtyard Dunn Loring Fairfax

Should you find yourself needing a place in Vienna, Virginia, we recently stayed at this Marriott property.  The neighborhood seems to be undergoing some gentrifying from what we could tell during our brief visit.  There is adequate parking, both indoor and out.  Front desk staff is top notch.  The lobby/breakfast area is well decorated, comfortable and immaculately kept. 

The room itself was the same, quite attractive and clean, our only complaint being the bed was a little soft.  Linens were crisp and clean, there was a cooler we stashed our beverages and fruit in, bathroom was a comfortable size.  Very nice flat screen TV for watching a movie on the free cable channels.  There are also pay per view selections.  There is really no view to speak of. 

We did take a look at the hot tub/pool area but the smell of chlorine was too strong for me to consider taking a dip.

The hotel offers breakfast for a fee and has a well stocked convenience mart area.  There is lemon/lime water and coffee free in the lobby although I could not find the cups during the paid breakfast hours on Sunday. 

At just $80 for the night I felt this was a great deal and will stay there again if I'm in the area.

Tasty Thursday: Beautiful Organic Farm Food

All washed and cut and ready to cook for tonight's dinner.  Mmmmm....it was sure delicious.

Travel Tip Tuesday: Busch Gardens Play & Eat

I think this is a great deal!  I've never been to Busch Gardens but this offer might change that.  Do note that you must purchase this ticket online and print it out, you cannot buy it at the gate, but what a deal, pay regular admission price and have your food and beverages included!  You can't go wrong.