Raines Realm

Going out to dinner can be a wonderful way to celebrate Valentines' day, but it can also be a hassle. Poor food or inattentive waitstaff, even heavy traffic can really put a damper on the mood. Here are some ideas to help you celebrate with your love while staying in. Few things beat the romance of a picnic at home, preferably in front of the fireplace. The coziness and intimacy of it can create the perfect atmosphere. Put on a romantic movie or music in the background, pour some wine, and you've got the right foundation for a special night. Cooking together can be an activity filled with affection and anticipation. Think creativity, such as making a thin crust pizza together. (You don't want anything too heavy.) Keep it simple and buy the crust, sauce, and toppings. That way you can jump right in to assembling it together. If you're looking for something sweeter, you can get a variety of fruit and some chocolate chips. You can cut up the fruit and melt the ...

These chocolate spoons are so festive for this time of the year. They would make great last minute stocking stuffers...or you could keep them all to yourself! I still haven't quite decided what I'm going to do. These are perfect for anyone who loves taking their coffee or hot cocoa to a whole new level. For these, I use the plastic spoons that mimic actual flatware. I normally buy them from Sam's Club, but you can get them from most large stores. I think they really dress them up and  give them an elegant look. And, we all know that I like pretty things! If you're giving these as a gift, I suggest using cellophane bags to wrap them. You should probably add a tag that says what they are and what's in them depending on the toppings and add-ons that you use. I, personally, really like dipping them in crushed candy canes after the Chocolate. I just run them through the food processor for a few seconds. Its so easy and adds a festive touch! Chocolate-...

Chocolate cake? The kid in all of us is doing a happy dance right now and rightfully so. New studies suggest that adding chocolate cake to your breakfast routines can have a plethora of positive results. And, unlike other diet trends out there, you don't have to psych yourself up to indulge in chocolate. Scientists have conducted new studies that show eating cake occassionally for breakfast can have positive effects on your waistline. Groups that had cake as their morning meal were less likely to indulge throughout the day and saw an increase in weight loss. Eating dessert foods in the morning when your metabolism is at its highest is the best way to our those delicious calories to their best use. And chocolate has been proven to increase cognitive brain function and memory. I like to eat it because it tastes good, but hey, you can't argue with science. We should be seeing an increase of dessert menus and options at restaurants for breakfast in the coming ...