Alex Shorter

We are all so plugged into technology and our favorite Netflix show that sometimes we forget what's important. Spending time with family. The shows and technology will always be there. What matters is making memories and connecting with loved ones. So why not do this by having a picnic? Not just a...
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Many people HATE to entertain or have given up having friends over all together because they really don't have time. At our house we seem to end up having a planned or impromptu party at least once a week - the key is to make it as stress free as possible - like it should be. Here are some tips ...
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The little gal from Montana, Sylvie Coston, that lived with us this winter makes about every potato dish possible.  She stayed with our family while skiing for Mission Ridge Ski Team to pursue her dreams.  Sylvie makes a mean Au Gratin Potato dish passed down from the ladies in her family that I...
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I had the worst time finding actually helpful information on teaching our son to potty train.  I read books, had a full on potty party - that I prepped for days on, consistently tried to re-approach the topic by having potties all over our house as well as the grandparents houses and reading him ...
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Do you ever have those days (or weeks) when you feel overwhelmed by being a mom and having to juggle it all? Sometimes I feel that way.  Right now for me the big stress is toilet training.  My son, Carl, is 3 years and 9 months.  We have been hitting toilet training hard since he turned 3 years ...
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"Dress shabbily and they remember the dress; dress impeccably and they remember the woman." - Coco Chanel Having basic items that pair well with your outfits make it a lot easier and stress free to get ready in the morning.  It is important to have items that coordinate - that way you can use pi...
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Spring is here and summer is on the horizon. Many people start taking trips and visiting family during these months. There are baby showers, weddings and everyone is making the most of the beautiful weekends. I think it is really important to make guests feel welcome and comfortable in your ...
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For me spring is all about regrouping, reorganizing, purging and bringing in new fresh ideas.  It makes me happy and sane to have my spaces usable again. As my mother-in-law, Mari, always says spring cleaning is taking inventory of what you have and what you need.  For me it always seems that...
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My mom always made this cucumber salad growing up.  It is a really yummy, a healthy side on hot summer nights that pairs well with any grilled meat.  My dad would make BBQ chicken with so much sauce on it the sugars would caramelize - he would brush layers and layers on while grilling.  So for ...
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I love to make a naked potato salad to pair with salmon, venison or flank steak for summer dinners. My mom, Cecelia Otto, taught me this recipe - it is easy and fast.  I love how light it is unlike a traditional potato salad it is made with olive oil instead of mayonnaise. Ingredients: - green...
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