Christmas Eve Cocktail

I never celebrate the holidays without a bit of cheer. While we're waiting to eat dinner before mass with hubs, mom, and dad, I thought I'd whip up a little fancy for me to enjoy...AZ style. I'm so glad I'm here and not here.Christmas Eve Cocktail

• 1 part ice
• 1 part Trader Joe's Cherry Cider
• 2 parts Prosecco

Mix and enjoy!!

3 Days and Counting!!

Only three more days until I'm on a flight to visit my family and friends in the beautiful state of ...

Yes. ARIZONA!! I can't wait to not have to salt my driveway just to get up inside the garage or bring my snow boots to work-ugh! Why do I live in the Midwest? I have no idea...

I couldn't get up my ice rink driveway last night so I decided to get a little sun the good ole fashioned way...

well it's not like I'm getting any outside?

When I was done, Hubs came home and skated my car into the driveway after a rigorous salting. I don't help with any of that. I don't want to deprive him of the joys of why we live at the North Pole...not one single moment. ;-) Hey I gotta hold to my Diva in the Midwest title right?

I didn't fall off the face of the earth. I was out in Colorado for turkey day. I'm a firm believer in quality posts. Hopefully I'll be back with something entertaining!

Sent from Risa's iPod

Favorite Things: Rowenta Iron

This isn't the most luxurious gift but I'm a practical person and I'm sharing with you things I've tried, don't break in a few months, and waste my money. While I hate to iron, this beauty is a valueable item. I've never know what the phrase "scorch" means when using a Rowenta. Never once have I ruined a pair of pants or a nice dress because of this iron...never. I don't know what it is with their technology but it's great. It's not that it doesn't get very hot, because it can, it's something more--beyond my explanation. The iron heats up in less than a minute, and irons beautifully without the drippy steam most make. Rowenta irons are the only irons I use and last forever.
This Would Be an Idea Gift For: Anyone but a college boy (they don't iron their clothes). Anyone and everyone who owns nice clothes, and would like to keep them looking nice.

Cost: $89.99 don't forget to look for your 20% off coupon in the mail and use it on this for a steal!

Vacuum Dilemma

I'm getting antsy to buy a new vacuum. Ours is still sucking but I'm not sure it's really keeping the house clean. Plus I have allergies and a dog, so I need something that works.

What vacuum do you have? Do you love it? Recommendations are greatly appreciated.

Product Review: Aveeno Haircare

For years, I've been an Aveda haircare fan until Aveeno offered a campaign to try their new line. I'm normally a shampoo snob and don't buy shampoo from the big box stores but when I was offered to try it, I couldn't resist. Although it took forever to actually ship to me, I am really impressed with how well it works.

After using the pair for a few weeks, I've come to the conclusion the Aveeno haircare is my favorite shampoo and conditioner in my shower. It smells good, lathers well, and really makes my hair soft without it feeling coated like some others do. I gave samples to all of the ladies at work to try out. They didn't even know Aveeno had haircare so they were excited to give it a whirl. I hope you all give this a try and see if you like it. It's not that expensive and it's more natural than others on the market.

Favorite Things: Cuisinart Immersion Blender

Since B and I are the only ones in our house, this Cuisinart Smart Stick seems to do the job. Its not nearly as loud as the last immersion blender I had that lasted a whole 2 years (designed by a chef and the thing still didn't have quality)! I don't own a blender because this is all I need. I make salsa, shred chicken for quesadillas and tacos, and chop veggies in the chopper bowl and I make smoothies, blend dressings, and smooth out creamy soups with the stick attachment. Don't worry about ice either...this thing will not leave a bunch of ice in the bottom. I did a lot of homework before buying this appliance and I hope you all will like it too!
This would be an ideal gift for: Newlyweds, any family member who likes to make things at home vs. crappy canned stuff. Attachments are easy to use but it's not dishwasher safe (I stick the 'beaker' in the dishwasher only.)

Cost: $49.99 (Retail, but I'd suggest looking around online for deals or coupons).