We often order Chinese food and don’t eat from the containers of plain, white rice. I stick these boxes in the freezer, so when a recipe calls for a cup, or two, of rice for fried rice, rice pudding or a simple side dish...I have it at the ready.

Since cracking down on the grocery budget this year for our family of 2 adults and 3 children, I, too, decided to shop online for groceries. Although the store does not deliver in my area, the $6.95 fee I pay for pick-up is well-worth not having to troll around the store, saving me from undoubtedly picking up this or that -- splurges that are not on my list. Weekly specials are noted on the page, and the price per ounce or unit easy to figure. When I go pick up my order, already sacked up and ready to go, I smile knowing I saved time and money, all from the comfort of my computer chair.

I’m so excited about this blog. I love to cook and I love the idea of raising my own vegetables -- but I’m not much of a gardener. Despite my great effort and lofty intentions, I only manage to harvest a few tomatoes and a few peppers -- never enough to sustain us. But maybe THIS YEAR will be different!

I’m so glad fondues have made a comeback. They are a much more intimate and classy version of chips and dip. This recipe is super easy and requires few ingredients, which makes it a keeper in my book. I think I’ll try it for Valentine’s Day with strawberries, instead of making chocolate covered strawberries as I originally intended.