Kristin van Ogtrop's Blog, page 29
May 19, 2014
How to Clean Artificial Flowers
For those who can't seem to keep flowers alive, high-quality artificial flowers can be a great alternative. Fake flowers need little tending to, but will require cleaning now and then. No matter how real the arrangement looks, once those pretty petals accumulate dust they won't look at-home with your decor. 







Published on May 19, 2014 06:11
Today’s Thought
Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com The Best Facial Cleansing Brushes 5 Things You Should Know About Your Mother 7 Pieces, 7 Work OutfitsFiled under: Daily Thought







Published on May 19, 2014 04:30
May 16, 2014
A Cute DIY Bathroom Decoration
Got an old sugar bowl that’s collecting dust in a cupboard? A simple switch of locations can give the once-unitasker a sweet new beginning. Because they’re nice and deep, a sugar bowl makes for a lovely cotton holder in the bathroom. If you’ve got other small vessels taking up space in your kitchen, use them to corral anything from nail […]







Published on May 16, 2014 13:00
How to Clean Copper Cookware
Copper pots and pans are coveted by home cooks: they conduct heat well, eliminate hot spots and easily adapt to changes in temperature. And let’s not forget the stunning color and shine that make them not only functional but also fashionable. Maintaining that signature shine can be time consuming, but a few items you already have on hand can help […]







Published on May 16, 2014 08:18
How to Pack Moving Boxes
Before you begin packing up the contents of your home, resist the urge to haphazardly stuff your belongings into boxes. To keep your belongings safe en route and make unpacking a bit easier, follow these guidelines, courtesy of FlatRate Moving.







Published on May 16, 2014 06:30
Today’s Thought
Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com 8 Smart Cleaning Techniques The Best Swimsuits for All Body Types 9 Unique Wedding FavorsFiled under: Daily Thought







Published on May 16, 2014 04:30
May 15, 2014
#TopWithAvocado: We Have a Winner
We asked, you slice and diced: Check out the winning Instagram photo (out of over 50 entries!) from our #topwithavocado challenge! The creation? Says @sabrinashimada: “Sautéed Asparagus & Spinach with French Lentils topped with Avocado, Toasted Walnuts, Hummus, & Sriracha – insanely delish, yet unexpected combination.” Sabrina will be receiving a copy of Gaby Dalkin‘s Absolutely Avocados. Thank you to everyone who […]







Published on May 15, 2014 13:00
Easy Ways to Celebrate National Chocolate Chip Day Right Now
Food holidays are a great excuse to revel a singular food’s amazingness. Today is no exception: it’s time to celebrate one of the year’s best days: National Chocolate Chip Day. If you’re like me, and not afraid of eating a handful of semisweet morsels right out of the bag, check out the best chocolates for baking. Then, get to filling […]







Published on May 15, 2014 09:00
16 Artichoke Recipes from Food & Wine
Bring on springtime with warmer temperatures, t-shirts and shorts, and seasonal foods, like delicious artichokes. But, wondering how to prepare this unique and intimidating-looking vegetable? Our colleagues at Food & Wine have put together a list of their favorites. From creamy artichoke dip to Mario Batali’s amazing spaghetti with artichokes, here are delicious recipes to give the veggie a try. […]







Published on May 15, 2014 06:00
Today’s Thought
Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com Plant a Garden by Color What You Can (And Can’t) Wear to Work Make the Most of Small SpacesFiled under: Daily Thought







Published on May 15, 2014 04:30