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In the past several months I have become a bit of a domestic goddess.  Yes, I do believe I have earned that title.  I have baked chocolate chip-banana bread, from-scratch cheesecake, pumpkin bread, and peanut butter cookies.  I have made apple cider, quesadillas, mashed sweet potatoes, and more.  I have thought up centerpieces and turned a patio into a quiet sanctuary.

I actually enjoy baking and cooking for the first time in my life.  I still don’t bake if it will be only me to enjoy the results; but it feels really good to share what I bake with others.  I cook for my beloved and me and have had no complaints and many compliments.

Becoming so domestic is very different from who I’ve been so far in my life.  I do understand anyone’s incredulity at this change.  I am simply evolving through positive & negative experiences, healthy & unhealthy friendships, and lessons learned.  I am really enjoying this calmer life and look forward to continuing along this path.

Incidentally:  A calmer life does not always mean a boring life.  *smile*

Real Simple is one of my absolute favorite magazines.  Every issue has amazing tips.  Here are just some of those I have found valuable:

• Use Downy Wrinkle Releaser and continue to avoid the iron, get rid of the steamer you bought and and make sure to pack it for travels.
• Did someone spill red wine on your rug, or on you? Wine Away is a stain remover that can make that party foul disappear.
• Put product manuals in a three-ring binder and you’ll never dig for them again.
• Put “expiration dates” on labels for files containing credit card and bank statements so you’ll know when you can shred them (after one year).
• Sturdy red vinyl-coated bicycle hooks can be used in the garage or basement to store extension cords, garden hoses, and more.