clampers's Profile

How many people are you inviting? I usually buy 1.5 bottles per person, but that is if no one is bringing their own...

I would definitely advise erring on the side of "too much wine" rather than the alternative.

A piece of unsolicited advice: Keep a close eye on guests' glasses and keep them full of wine...no need to ask for permission when refilling a glass. :) I do this and my parties, I've gotta say, turn out fabulously!

You've probably heard this a million times but it's so true: lifestyle change. I am always flabbergasted that people would even pay one tiny bit of attention to a cabbage soup diet.

This is not what you want to hear, but counting calories and exercise is the only way to lose weight.

There are some great apps/websites out there...My Fitness Pal and Calorie Count are two that I can think of...that will help you figure out how many calories to eat every day and provide a very handy way to log foods.

I have Cooking Light cookbooks and swear by them for weeknight meals. They are delicious, beautiful, fun dishes that always turn out great. Every single one.

What are you planning to reface the fireplace with?

I think it's a pretty room. If it's a temporary deal, I would just live with it for the time being. The crown molding makes the room feel a little formal though, and you say you have sleek modern furniture...maybe you could just remove the molding for now? Although that might create more work than it's worth...

Love it! So magical.

I definitely meal-plan and do one big grocery store trip once a week. It's just me and my spouse in our house, so I plan for three four-serving meals per week. That seems to give us enough leftovers to make a soup one night and typically we get pizza or takeout another night.

I like the tip about trying one new, fun recipe per week!

And I cannot agree more with the bit about going to a grocery store you love. I used to loathe grocery shopping, but now that I shop at a smaller, cheaper store with less selection (Aldi), it has cut way down on my stress and time spent at the store.

I've heard Franzia is excellent quality and won't give you a hangover under any circumstance. So drink up! The entire box. I challenge you. :)

I think the pink and green combo is super awesome! I say just roll with it and play to its details. You can find new vintage towels on Etsy. It looks like a very nice bathroom. Go to this website for inspiration: http://savethepinkbathrooms.com/. Also, RetroRenovation.com has some great ideas for the rest of your '50s house.

I like the idea of a standing mirror to the side of your sink. Angled towards you. If you have room.

Awesome! Zesting is one of my least favorite activities in the kitchen, but I looooove zest and there really is not substitution. Thanks!

After so many years of living without a dishwasher, I now dishwash everything I can possibly get away with! I love my dishwasher.

Am I the only one who is slightly disturbed by the scantily-clad 10-year-old?!