mbm77's Profile

If, like my Keurig has for regular ground coffee, it came with a adapter so that I can use my own formula I would consider it. But formula is already so expensive yet relatively easy to use that I'm not sure I see the value -- especially if you live somewhere with good water.

My father in law keeps bees and it is a fascinating hobby with many personal and community wide benefits. And he delights in getting calls to come "rescue" a feral bee hive. It can be time consuming to get the hives going and there are still various health issues that have to be closely monitored given recent events, but once they get going the hives really thrive.

If you are interested in keeping bees, there are a number of great beginner books. There aren't many safety rules, but they are very, very important so definitely do your research before embarking. Bee JOurnal is also a great resource, though more for advanced beekeepers. Lastly, check out your local beekeepers club/association. They will have lots of wizened bee keepers anxious to help out a newby and answer any questions. They can also help you find borrowed equipment for the honey harvest as it can be expensive and you don't want to invest until you are sure you will stick with this.

But the honey--best I've ever had. And now our extended group of family and friends starts asking when honey day is months in advance. Good luck!

We have a butter crock that generally stays in the fridge chock full of salted butter. Doesn't get much use during the week, but first thing Saturday morning (could even be Friday night) I put it out on the counter for breakfast. While it means I may not have perfectly spreadable butter for my toast, it is softened enough to melt with the residual heat. With almost no maintenance or risk of mold its a compromise that works well for us.

As for the usefulness of the dishwasher with a kid, I really can't imagine life without one.

That said -- we do live in an urban flat and have significant size issues so I totally relate to having to deal with generous people who do not get that [fill in item bigger than bread box] WILL NOT FIT. Lots of good ideas up above, but if you really do not want a dishwasher and have clearly explained why give it back or give it away to prove the point. Otherwise, I anticipate your mom will be buying your future child every over sized toy, doll house, chair, bike etc. you can imagine. This is now our world and we simply hand everything back to our parents with a simple "I guess this is for your house cuz it won't fit in ours." They still haven't learned.

Back to the dishwasher bit for a moment, I know they make some tiny counter top models. Could those work for you? Good luck!

I go nuts baking christmas cookies every year and by far these hold up the best over several days, travel well and are simply delicious:

Brown Butter Spoon Cookies -- They actually are better to eat on the 2nd and 3rd day as the texture improves and the butter somehow gets even dreamier. There shape makes them travel friendly. http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Spoon-Cookies-233297

Chocolate Coconut Pinwheels -- Beautiful, chewy cookies. The coconut helps them retain moisture and they stack nice and neatly for travel. Definitely splurge on some really nice chocolate for these. http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/chewy-coconut-chocolate-pinwheels

The Little Princess -- imagination can take you anywhere and being kind to others is what truly makes a "princess."

I too love the entire series of Little House books, and while they speak to many wonderful life lessons, they are very racist at times. Offers a good opportunity to discuss some American history though.

I too had to track it down, and found it on Ebay in a buy it now for about $35 less than what they wanted at home decorators. Still a good amount for a hamper but a lot closer to the land of reasonable.