your way to a better home
I was born to write. I've been decorating since I was a little girl. The DIY spirit runs in the family and I'm a former teacher. Put it altogether and you get Mrs. Hines' Class, where we learn to cook, decorate and d.i.y. our way to a better home.
I was just looking through our photos from summer vacation last year. We had so much fun! We're not likely to travel this year, but my daughter and I are looking forward to lots of time lounging poolside, taking beach trips and whatever else we decide to do. We'll just have to let the days unfold. When my daughter was little we used to go … [Read more...]
Beck's Prime was just around the corner from our last house, and we frequented it so much that as soon as we walked in the door, the manager would call out an order for chips and queso. We would enjoy sipping our sodas and munching on the chips while we waited for our main entree, "The Kitchen Sink." We've since moved from that house, and the … [Read more...]
Remember the SNL sketch, "Daily Affirmations with Stuart Smalley?" No matter how many times Stuart declared, "I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and doggone it, people like me," he couldn't seem to overcome his low self-image. I have several thoughts on why we, especially women, have such a hard time seeing ourselves as beautiful, talented … [Read more...]
A Mother's Day luncheon seemed like the perfect time to make my favorite salad. I first found this recipe in a circular ad for Skinner in the summer of '99, and it's been a family favorite ever since. This flavorful dish is always a hit at luncheons, showers, and potlucks. Be prepared to share the … [Read more...]
No need to break out the china for this casual affair. Decorative ball jar glasses will do just fine. Straws add an extra measure of cuteness to these already whimsical glasses. I felt like a kid showing off my latest drawing as Mom admired my handiwork, saying "These look like something from Southern Living." That is what I call … [Read more...]
I love looking at other people's landscaping. So much so that I have collected inspiration on Houzz, Pinterest and Hometalk. Some of the ideas shared on Hometalk are inspiration for my own backyard designs. Like this backyard shared by HGTV Gardens. I love the secluded, secret garden feel of this tucked away seating area. And this … [Read more...]
Everyone has to start somewhere. I remember the first time that I picked up a paint roller. As I rolled the soft lavender paint over my then two-year-old little girl's new bedroom, I was amazed at how simple it was. My confidence grew with each purple patch of wall that was completed. Since that day, twelve years ago, I've painted lots … [Read more...]
Nonna was babysitting and decided to go out and work in the yard. She called me over, "Will you get me a pair of panties?" "Ma'am?" "I need something to wear on my head to keep the sweat off of my face." My grandmother commanded respect. So, I obediently retrieved a pair of panties from my mom's dresser drawer and brought … [Read more...]
I am so excited to share "Mother's Day Gifts for the Gardening Mom," hosted by the incredibly talented Kari of Thistlewood Farms. It was an absolute thrill to partner with Hometalk and the amazing pool of talent that they brought together. So, grab your gardening hat because you're going to be blown away! First up, Laura from Finding … [Read more...]
How was your weekend, friends? We went to the library for the first time in a long while on Saturday. I checked out two books in the Debbie Macomber Cedar Cove series. I'm looking forward to lazing on my cozy daybed and drifting off to the fictional community of Cedar Cove. But first, I have some gardening to do. I was super thrilled … [Read more...]
Welcome to Mrs. Hines Class where we celebrate life, one lesson at a time. Whether it's creating memories, sharing recipes, or conquering a DIY project, there's a lesson waiting for you. 
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