Make Time For Fun

Dear Diary,
Sure, life is busy!  I run around with my kids... dropping off, picking up, helping with homework, making meals, housework and day to day stuff.  Jeff is constantly busy running his numerous jobs, keeping his guys busy and trying to stay on top of his business.  We're always there for our kids but definitely need a little time away as well.  We're good about scheduling date nights.  Every couple weeks we try to go to dinner or get tickets to a concert and pretend like we're dating again.  Getting dressed up, being together and having a good time is great for our relationship and helps us to reconnect.  Tonight we had sushi in Hollywood, then listened to Steely Dan at the Hollywood Bowl.  Times like these make me happy and more in love with Jeff everyday!

What I'm Reading...

In Memory Of...

All those who lost their lives on 9/11.  May their souls rest in peace.

Double Date Night

Dear Diary,
This summer we celebrated sweet Susie's birthday with a date night at the Hudson House.  We're so grateful to have The Brusseau's in our lives.  It's been nice these past 2 years getting to know them better and doing things together with our families.  Friendships nourish the soul and it's great to know wonderful people you trust and feel comfortable opening up with.  Susie and Jed are good like that!

Fabulous Grownup Cupcakes

Makes 36 cupcakes      Time 30 min.   

Ingredients
1 box white or yellow cake mix
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated white sugar
¾ tsp salt
1⅓ cups water
2 Tbsp vegetable or canola oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream
4 large egg whites

Directions
Preheat oven to 325°F.  Place cupcake liners in cupcake pans (you'll need approx. 36). 

In a large bowl, whisk together the cake mix, flour, sugar and salt.  Add the remaining ingredients and beat with hand mixer or whisk for 2 minutes, or until well-blended.

Use ice cream scoop to fill prepared cupcake tins; fill no more than ¾ full.  Bake about 18 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.