Kristin van Ogtrop's Blog, page 78

Make Ice Now for the Thanksgiving

With Turkey Day just three days away, take a few minutes now to start making ice for your big feast. That way, when guests start arriving, you’ll have one less thing to stress about. To store the ice, simply store cubes in plastic baggies in the freezer. For big ice cubes (which are perfect for cocktails), consider using your muffin […]

How to Keep Your Pets Safe During the Holidays

The holidays should be a merry time for all--including the four-legged member of your family. Unfortunately, certain foods--like bones, alcohol, baked goods, and chocolate--can spoil the fun for all if your pet gets ahold of them.

Exquisite Reception Table Idea from Loverly

[Photo by Jorem and Sheila Catilo Photography on Bride and Breakfast] Reception tables come in so many different shapes, sizes, colors, and styles. If you’re looking for a more natural and seasonally-inspired approach for your reception, then you’ll fall head over heels for this gorgeous tablescape. A more subdued palette (green and white) comes to life with the rich and organic textures […]

Today’s Thought

Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com 5 Everyday Dangers Not to Worry About 10 DIY Holiday Decorations 3 Great Garage MakeoversFiled under: Daily Thought

How to Keep Side Dishes Warm

When hosting a big dinner, it's nearly impossible to have everything come out of the oven at just the right time. If you're preparing a large meal, use this tip to keep side dishes--like mashed potatoes--warm while the rest of the food finishes cooking.

How To Wear Flared Jeans

Flared jeans are perennially in style, and it’s a good thing—the cut fits and flatters every body type by balancing out proportions. Wondering how to pull off the silhouette? Here are three simple tips: • The hem should just touch the floor. Too long and the flares will “break” at your ankles. Too short, and silhouette will have the effect of […]

A Gift Idea for Groups

Have several members a family on your holiday shopping list? Instead of buying individual presents for each person, consider getting the group one shareable gift. Says New York City event planer David Tutera, “A Blu-ray player or an ice cream maker is a gift that everyone can enjoy together.” Likewise, you can pack up one big basket filled with accessories […]

Today’s Thought

Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com 10 Easy Pie Recipes Design Your Dream Closet Before-You-Sell ChecklistFiled under: Daily Thought

A Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Treat

For the gluten-intolerant or gluten-adverse, all those wheat-filled Thanksgiving items—dinner rolls, pies, pumpkin bread, stuffing—can be a drag to pass up. Thankfully, Udi’s—one of the top gluten-free brands in the country—has just come out with a delicious addition for your holiday table: pumpkin muffins. They’re made with brown rice flour, pumpkin, molasses, eggs, and loads of spices—cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and […]

Meet Two Furry Real Simple Fans

Last month, we learned that cats (especially the black variety) couldn’t get enough of the October 2013 issue of Real Simple. In November, two readers caught my eye on Instagram—and something tells me they preferred the feline-free cover! Have furry friends of your own? Make sure you know everything about keeping them safe during the holidays.Filed under: Conversation Starters