“Over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house we go…” is the popular carol we would sing on the long snowy car trip to my Mother’s parents' house every December 24th as a child. It was a 4-hour journey that began very
“Over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house we go…” is the popular carol we would sing on the long snowy car trip to my Mother’s parents' house every December 24th as a child. It was a 4-hour journey that began very
1. Alphabet Animals Flashcards ($14.95) Illustrated flashcards will equally enhance the creativity and intellect of the little ones you read these to. 2. TOMS Red Youth Glitters ($42) To give a gift twice over, buy a pair of these shoes and know that another child will be
This is part of our 2012 Darling Gift Guide series. To view previous gift ideas, including For Her gifts by persona, please click here. 1. Timex Weekender Watch ($36.22) Classic and definitely a value buy—these watches have changeable bands so it can be continually updated and maintained
1. Wild Harvested Incense Sticks ($12) These sticks pleasantly surprise as they add a fragrance to the home that creates an atmosphere through scent not smoky haze that you want to escape. 2. Brass Bottle Opener ($40) Holiday parties provide opportunities to to have a sleek bottle opener
Today we're thrilled to share with you part one of our first-ever gift guide. We've picked our favorite gift items for each persona to help you find a gift that's just right for every different kind of friend (or sister or mother) in your life.
During December of 1994 our kitchen in North Chattanooga experienced an unparalleled disaster: my Mom and I made our first ever attempt at assembling and decorating a gingerbread house. We were unprepared, disorganized, and downright stupid. The gingerbread house collapsed halfway through decorating and
If you are one of our American readers, you're likely celebrating Thanksgiving along with the rest of the Darling Core Team today. Regardless of where you live or your country of origin, though, we simply wish that today will be a day full of thankful
Food can say many things—it can be the cause of celebration, it can reflect the changing seasons, it can signify tradition and it can hold memories. But one substantial role of food is to bring nourishment, comfort. When the loves in our lives are undergoing
Just as the leaves have turned and the air has the beginnings of a winter chill, our hearts have begun to shift into the holiday season with a longing for time spent with loved ones over apple pie, honey baked ham, twinkly lights, warm knits,
As the holiday season approaches, there is a palpable sense of panic that arises when grocery stores stock the shelves with Christmas and Hanukkah décor the day after Halloween. Stocking your wine cellar for entertaining at this time of year can be an intimidating task,
Hello fellow inquiring and interested ones, The Why Kid here again. Is it safe to say that on this February 13th that good ol’ L.O.V.E. is already wafting through the air? Literally, I feel as if I can smell the chocolate coated candy bliss even as
Most swear Nutella should have its own food group, but this recipe definitely earns its own day of the month
Say a prayer. Wherever you are at on your spiritual journey, God wants you to talk to Him. This Christmas Eve night, pray for direction in 2012, for your family or friends, and give thanks for all you have. From the series: 25 Days of Darling http://unwastedyouth.tumblr.com/
I have been sitting in the coffee shop for several hours, a chai latte on my left and a stack of books on my right. This is a charming little shop, with wrought-iron chairs and big windows welcoming the sunlight. The room is full and
You may be overwhelmed by the amount of holiday party tips you are receiving in every magazine you pick up, but remember, being a Hostess is an honor. Darling believes in all of you, that you can create an unforgettable night for your guests in
Talk to the person next to you on the airplane. As many of us will probably be on planes this season, let's take this challenge and actually engage someone new. Asking "tell me about yourself" is a great question. Instead of discussing the typical background
Put away your cell phone while conversing with someone. It's harder than it sounds, but it also will make a bigger difference than you would think! Give the person you are with your full attention. It sends a message of "you are not as important as
Talk to someone at a party that is an "outsider." Some people are very shy and uncomfortable in social situations. Go out of your way to approach them and introduce yourself. Ask them questions about themselves and make them feel comfortable. Invite them into a
Are you taking the challenge to host a holiday get-together this year
Give a compliment. Many times we think something nice about a friend, or even a stranger, but don't tell them. Instead of letting that thought pass, say it out loud. For example, if a sales associate has great hair, a bright smile, or stylish shoes,
I lied to my mother. Yes, the woman to whom I owe my life. And it wasn't a white lie, a "harmless" lie. No, this lie was more like a platinum lie. It was to her benefit. Not to spare her feelings or anything, but
Put others first. There are only a few shopping days until Christmas, and parking lots and malls are a scene of mayhem; people are on edge--honking at one another and fighting for their place in long lines. Until Christmas, be conscientious while driving, even give someone
Send a Christmas card to your kindergarten or first grade teacher. Yes it was ages ago, but with the amount of social networking sites we now have, you might be able to find him/her easier. If you can't send a physical card, Darling recommends Paperless Post for cute
During the holiday season, it's a challenge to keep things simple and focus on what's important; to resist the commercial propaganda surrounding you, while still being generous and giving to those you love. This year, tradition, or guilt, or (hopefully!) a generous spirit will compel many
As I sit in my cozy living room this Sunday evening, I am looking at my beautiful Christmas tree and reflecting on the holiday season. If you’re anything like me, you love the traditions, the lights, the color, and the joyous anticipation that the season
We all have them: difficult members of our family, or awkward friends. When we see them crossing the room to possibly engage us in conversation, we wish we were suddenly invisible. Or, they are the type who will not speak to you until you speak