Raines Realm

Flatware used to be very coveted tools that were considered a luxury. In modern times, it seems that a single fork on the table at each place setting is accepted as adequate. This is an injustice that has led to sloppy eating habits and a loss of etiquette as well as manners. At the absolute minimum, a place setting should have a knife and fork. Preferably a bread knife on a bread plate as well if the meal so dictates. Having a dinner knife allows you a "pusher" for getting smaller bites of food onto your fork. This eliminates the need to shovel bites of food off of your plate and into your mouth. Having a separate bread knife ensures that your butter stays clean and that guests can access the butter as needed. Its terrible to use your dinner knife on your dinner only to find out that you were expected to use it on the butter first. If you will not have bread knives, ensure that your guests have access to the butter before soiling their dinner knives. If you have ...

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-...