Archive

It’s no secret Portland’s food scene is off the charts. Seriously. Off. The. Charts. I’ve been wanting to write a “New in Town” series for a while and share what I’ve discovered – or have been introduced to – since moving to Portland. I’ll do my best to note where I’ve been, but bear with me as I go through this in a […]

Brace yourself: we’re on the last all-team Cricut Design Space Star challenge. I feel really fortunate to have been a part of it and challenge myself creatively over the last four months (it sounds kooky, but working within Design Space requires a different way of thinking, but in a really good way – and makes crafts and various […]

Once there was a Miss who was fairly good about weekly menu planning, finding recipes in magazines and cookbooks, making grocery lists, and efficiently visiting grocery stores and markets with said list in hand. She loved to cook and enjoyed all the creativity it allowed her. Lately though, she’s had a tough time sticking with the habit (errr…more like the past two years). She flips through Bon […]

Have you ever been completely overjoyed about a Friday? I had that sort of week that by Wednesday I was in disbelief it was *only* Wednesday. When the Mister confirmed it, I really wanted to say, “Wait. What? It can’t be!” but quickly realized arguing about what day it was wouldn’t help matters. It’s like when someone argues with you […]

Father’s Day Weekend is upon us. And I’m a big fan. The Misters in our lives deserve a huge round of applause. Whether married or partnered, as a single-parent, sibling, or friend, they are always there for us whether we realize it or not. More and more, we see Dads being there for each other, which is awesome […]

Last week I posted a picture of the picnic basket I prepped for last Saturday’s Summer Supper for Chicken Soup Brigade, Lifelong AIDS Alliance’s food program. Speaking from experience (I use to work at Lifelong), CSB’s healthy, “home” cooked meals truly help others get better. The CSB team’s expertise and passion for their clients means they go beyond the normal standards […]

It was a short week filled with a lot of goodness. That’s the kind of week I like. I’m also in denial May is over. Our Older is about to take up skateboarding lessons (he’s always been fascinated by skateboarders) and this past week, he graduated from preschool. I’m preparing myself mentally for the Younger to head off […]

If you follow Sparrow Soirées on Facebook or Instagram, you might have seen pictures of a party-in-a-box I put together for Domino Beauty Boutique’s recent giveaway. It was incredibly easy to do and well under a $75, including the bin, to put together. I’ve found over time it’s nice to have a bin stocked with basics so I’m always […]

When Michele contacted me about planning her 40th birthday party, her excitement was clearly coming through the phone. It was great to hear her genuinely excited about turning 40. During our first meeting, I nearly fell over (in the best way possible) when she shared her inspiration for the party: the handbag and headphones from the DVF – DJ Harley Viera-Newton collaboration. I mean, […]

Hopefully Memorial Day and June allowed you some time to practice grilling because this upcoming holiday weekend is all about being the BBQ Master and picnicking in style. As I mentioned last week, we’re heading to friend’s farm for the celebrations and I hope to bring these cherry hand pies. It’s a nice update to an […]