Dad’s 80th Birthday

Posted on September 15, 2023 by eclecticlamb

Today is my Dad’s birthday. Over Labor Day weekend we celebrated my Dad’s birthday at my parent’s Lake House. My brother and sister-in-law celebrated with us. Our celebration included the birthday breakfast he requested (part of my traditional Christmas breakfast) and a multi-course Italian dinner. My brother and sister-in-law made the birthday banner at my request since Amazon lost the one I ordered.

Grandma’s Salad – Iceberg, tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt

Garlic Bread – Italian bread with butter and garlic powder, wrapped in foil and baked for 25 minues.

Eggplant and Zucchini Rollatini – We loosely used this recipe but did not use spinach or egg and made a zucchini option. My Mom made the sauce.

4 Cheese Ravioli with Tomato Sauce – I used my favorite pasta dough, filling – Ricotta, Asiago, Parmesan, Mozzarella, salt and pepper, (I made and put them in the freezer), boiled just before serving, served with my Mom’s homemade tomato sauce. Locatelli cheese garnish. I made 4 cheese filling instead of my normal 2 or 3 cheese to make it special. The family requested that I make 4 cheese all the time now.

Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli with Butter Sage Sauce – I used my favorite pasta dough, filling – Ricotta, Asiago, Spinach leaves chopped in a food processor, salt and pepper, (I made and put them in the freezer), boiled just before serving, served with butter melted with fresh sage leaves.

Italian Cheeses, Grapes, Chocolate Covered Figs, Asian Apple-Pear

Mini Cannoli with Chocolate Chips – I bought the mini cannoli shells online, and used this filling but reduced the sugar.

Pignoli Cookies – My Mom made these. I had to tell many people not to eat them before dessert. They kept disappearing.

DINNER

BREAKFAST

When I asked my Dad what food he wanted to celebrate his birthday, he requested my traditional potatoes with dijon dip, and citrus with mint sugar that I make for Christmas. We also served scrambled eggs.

When my paternal Grandma was 94, she said that she wished should could be 80 again. My Dad smiled when I told him what she said. Happy Birthday Dad!

Posted in Food, Party Planning | Comments Off on Dad’s 80th Birthday

Blue and White Home Library

Posted on September 11, 2023 by eclecticlamb

Here is my blue and white themed home library. My parents and I did a lot of work in this room. It took longer to complete than other rooms since I needed to wait for the carpenter to build the shelves (took a year from when I ordered them) and I had to wait for the new French Doors (6 months from when I ordered them). As you can see in the “before” photos, I completed transformed this room. I love it!

Paint: Hinting Blue from Sherwin Williams

Switch Plates and Outlet Covers: Imperial Bead Brushed Nickel Cover Plates, I painted the outlet plates the same color as the walls

Bookshelves: A carpenter built them for me.

Library Ladder: The carpenter built the ladder.

Sofa & Loveseat: I had these in my apartment.

Peacock Pillows: I can’t find them online.

Lake Como Art: This is from my maternal Grandparents. I remember it hanging in their homes. My Grandpa bought it in Italy.

End Tables: My maternal grandparents had these in their first apartment. My Mom painted them to coordinate with my home library. I love that they have blue glass.

Lamps: I had these in my apartment. I bought them at Marshalls.

Blue and White Storage Ottoman

Blue Rug: This.

Desk: This was my childhood desk. It was my Uncle’s before mine. My Mom painted it to coordinate with my home library.

Desk Chair: This chair from Target. My Mom spray painted the legs silver.

Brooklyn Bridge Art: I bought from this Etsy store.

Central Park Art: I bought from this Etsy store.

Fabric Art from Japan: A friend gave this to me. I ordered a custom frame.

Round Marble Table: I bought it from Raymore and Flannigan but it is no longer on their website.

Curtains: I bought these from Ballard Designs but it is no longer on their website.

Console Table: This.

Tray Tables: This.

Rocking Chair: This was my maternal – paternal Great Grandmother’s.

Upholstered Chair: This was my paternal Grandma’s chair. My Dad and I reupholstered it using fabric I bought from Hobby Lobby.

Bench: This was my maternal Grandparents. Sometimes I use it in my Dining Room.

“Before” photo.

“Before” photo.

“Before” photo.

Books Tissue Box: This.

Blue Photo Frames: This.

Tanuki: Clay art made by a friend.

Cherry Blossoms in Blue Vase: I bought the blossoms at Michaels. My Mom gave me the blue vase.

Wild Boar: A friend gave this to me years ago.

Window Cling: Used my Cricut to cut their window cling material.

Blue Mat: This.

Globe: This.

Bird Bookends: This.

Blue Agate Bookend: This.

Lily of the Valley: This.

Celtic Knot Bookends: This.

Blue and White Pottery: The one on the left was from my Mom. The others were from Home Goods.

Whale Bookends: This.

Blue Agate Bookend: This.

Blue Metal Flowers: From Home Goods.

Blue Floral Sheep: I can no longer find it online. Polish painted.

Plant Bookend: From At Home.

Blue Bird on Books Bookend: From Home Goods.

Mountain Bookend: I designed it, my Dad cut the wood, I painted it.

Posted in Home Deco | Comments Off on Blue and White Home Library

Tomato Gratin Lunch

Posted on September 7, 2023 by eclecticlamb

My parents and I had this lunch at their lake house. My Mom made the Tomato Gratin, she based it on this recipe but assembled it on large tomatoes and added mozzarella cheese. They were delicious! We served with mixed nuts and crunchy green grapes.

Posted in Food | Comments Off on Tomato Gratin Lunch

Mushroom Rice

Posted on September 5, 2023 by eclecticlamb

My niece made this while we were at my parents Lake House.

Container: Wooden box purchased in Kyoto at Bento&co.

Contents: Mushroom rice, broccoli, Bear & Snail – radish cut with a cookie cutter, mushrooms

Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Mushroom Rice

Cute Rice Onigiri Collection

Posted on August 31, 2023 by eclecticlamb

I enjoy making themed rice meals. Here is my collection!

Updated: 8/13/24

BIRDS

Parrot Pesto Rice

Cardinal Salsa Rice

Penguin Rice

Dove Cheese Rice

Hummingbird Pesto Rice

Bird Salsa Rice

Eagle Rice

Owl Rice

Chick Cheese Rice

Swan Brie Rice

Swan Rice

MOLLUSCA

Snail Cheese and Paprika Rice

INSECTS

Butterfly Rice

Butterfly Peas and Corn Rice

Butterfly Sprinkles Pistachio Rice

Ladybug Salsa Rice

Dragonfly Pesto Rice

ANIMALS

Zebra Black Bean Rice

Horse Soy Sauce Rice

Fox Salsa Rice

Fox Mushroom Rice

Moose Cheese Rice

Rice Soy Sauce Moose

Panda Olive Rice

Panda Spinach Rice

Panda Spinach Rice

Sheep Radish over Pesto Rice

Sheep Cheese Rice

Cat Spinach Rice

Cat Spinach Carrot Rice

Cat Spinach Carrot Egg Rice

Squirrel Cheese Rice

Skunk Rice

Cow Spinach and Carrot Rice

Cow Mushroom Rice

Elephant Spinach Rice

Elephant Dried Blueberry Rice

Elephant Black Bean Rice

Alligator Pesto Rice

UNDER THE SEA

Star Fish Salsa Rice

Fish Rice

Cheddar Rice Fish

Lobster Salsa Rice

Jellyfish Rice

EMOJI

Emoji Spinach Rice

Heart Emoji Radish Rice

Sunglasses Emoji Cheese Spinach Rice

Mask Emoji Cheese Rice

Smile Emoji Cheese Rice

JAPANESE CULTURE

Japan Castle Rice

Daruma Salsa Rice

Hinamatsuri (Girls Day) Rice

7 Lucky Gods Rice

Summer Festival Spinach Covered Rice

DAY OF THE DEAD

Day of the Dead Cheddar Rice

HALLOWEEN

Ghost Brie Rice

Ghost Rice

Jack-o-Lantern Pumpkin Rice

Rice and Black Beans Spiderweb

THANKSGIVING

Soy Sauce Rice Turkey

CHRISTMAS

Gingerbread Woman Cheese Rice

Gingerbread Man Soy Sauce Rice

Reindeer Soy Sauce Rice

Candy Canes Salsa Rice

Holly Cheese Broccoli Rice

Wreath Cheese Broccoli Rice

Angel Rice

HANUKKAH

Dreidel Rice

HEARTS / VALENTINE’S DAY

Cupid Cream Cheese Rice

Heart Mustache Lips Rice

Heart Salsa Rice

Heart Cherry Rice

XOXO Bell Pepper Rice

ST PATRICKS DAY

Shamrock Pepper Rice

Shamrocks Pepper Rice

EASTER

Bunny Rice

Easter Egg Rice

Easter Egg Rice

FLAG

Flag Cheese and Red Pepper Rice

FOOD / TABLEWARE

Watermelon Rice

Strawberry Rice

Cake Spinach Rice

Tea Pot Cheese Rice

FLOWERS

Tulips Tomato Corn Rice

Tulip Salsa Rice

Flower Tomato Rice

Flower Salsa and Pesto Rice

Tulip Cinnamon Rice

EXTINCT / IMAGINARY

Mermaid Carrot Almond Rice

Unicorn Pecan Rice

DINOSAURS

Dinosaur Rice

Dinosaur Soy Sauce Rice

TRANSPORTATION

Hot Air Balloon Spinach Carrot Rice

Train Salsa and Black Bean Rice

Cars Spinach Rice

Race Car Rice

Kayak Pesto Rice

TEDDY BEAR

Teddy Bear Carrots Rice

STARS

Star Corn Rice, Star Peas Rice

Star Cheese Rice

GAMES

Chess Board Salsa Rice

Lego Salsa Rice

CHARACTERS

Spider Man Salsa Spinach Cheese Rice

Storm Trooper Paprika Rice, Vader Black Sesame Rice

Pirate Soy Sauce Spinach Rice

Totoro Mushroom Rice

PEANUTS / SNOOPY

Woodstock Turmeric Rice, Snoopy Rice

Charlie Brown Spinach Rice, Lucy Spinach Rice

RICE BALL

Rice Ball Rice

Onigiri Cheese Rice

LEAF

Leaf Carrot Rice

Leaf Cinnamon Rice

BUILDINGS

Gingerbread House Rice

Village Cheese Vegetable Rice

Capitol Brie Rice

WEATHER

Snowflake Mozzarella Rice

Tornado Black Bean Rice

Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Cute Rice Onigiri Collection

Dirty Martini Pasta for Dinner

Posted on August 29, 2023 by eclecticlamb

When my parents were here, one night I made Dirty Martini Pasta. My maternal Grandpa drank martinis so I thought it would be a fun meal to make and explore flavor. I miss him sometimes. I used Lemon Vodka. I added too many green olives but it was nice to make something different. I served it with a simple Caprese Salad of fresh mozzeralla balls, tomato, basil, salt and pepper.

Posted in Food | Comments Off on Dirty Martini Pasta for Dinner

Coconut Lettuce Tomato Sandwich Lunch

Posted on August 25, 2023 by eclecticlamb

As part of my yearly goal to explore flavor, I made the vegan version of BLT’s. In 2019, I ate coconut, tomato, and lettuce sandwiches at a restaurant. I loved it, especially the coconut bacon. The restaurant where I had the sandwich is no longer open so I finally decided to make my own coconut bacon and serve the sandwiches to my parents when they visited. We all enjoyed!

I have been a vegetarian since I was 2, I don’t know if I ever ate bacon but I have always enjoyed smoky food. As a child my Grandpa let my sister and I pick out candy at the store after church when he bought a newspaper. I always got smoked nuts instead of candy. I often put smoked paprika in recipes. I used Hickory smoke with this coconut bacon but I wonder if I will like any of the other liquid smoke flavors. It is an interesting flavor to explore.

Coconut Bacon (I used Hickory liquid smoke – it is wonderful to keep the coconut bacon in the freezer and use as desired)

Iceberg Lettuce

Wegmans Multi-Grain bread toasted

Tomato Slices

Mayonnaise (I was going to make vegan garlic aioli but I got lazy and knew that my parents like mayonnaise)

Cantaloupe fresh from a farmers market

Crinkle cut zucchini and carrots

Posted in Food | Comments Off on Coconut Lettuce Tomato Sandwich Lunch

Flower Rice Lunch

Posted on August 23, 2023 by eclecticlamb

I made this meal for myself on a day that I made similar meals for friends and family.

Container: EasyLunchBoxes

Left Side: Flowers – Nishiki rice shaped in a rice mold, tomato sauce, homemade pesto, cherry tomatoes, lettuce

Top Right: Peanuts

Bottom Right: Raspberries and blueberries

Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Flower Rice Lunch

Birthday Dessert Party

Posted on August 21, 2023 by eclecticlamb

This year for my birthday I decided to host a dessert party with my parents and friends. 6 of us were available to gather for the occasion. I enjoyed making 4 different individual desserts. I expect that there will be more dessert parties in my future. They are easier to host than a tea or dinner party. The food was mostly make ahead. We all enjoyed this fun, attractive, and delicious party!

Table:

  • Tablecloth – Pink tablecloth

  • Napkins – Spring Green cloth

  • Flowers – Rose a Sharon blossoms

  • Plates – From my maternal Grandma

Menu

    • Orange Water / Coffee
    • Individual Baklava – from Muffin Tin Chef by Matt Kadey but I used Maple instead of honey

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food, Party Planning | Comments Off on Birthday Dessert Party

    Hummingbird Rice

    Posted on August 18, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this lunch for my Mom when at my parents Lake House. We enjoy watching the many hummingbirds that use the feeders and flowers on the front deck.

    Container: U Konserve

    Contents: Hummingbird – Nishiki rice shaped in a cookie cutter with plastic wrap, homemade pesto, Eye – blueberry, Beak – Cheddar cheese, romaine, cherry tomatoes, Tulips – radish cut with a cookie cutter, food coloring marker, Almond stuffed green olives, blueberries, raspberry

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Hummingbird Rice

    Fish Snack Lunch

    Posted on August 17, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this lunch for Takeshi to have in my car when I drove with Yuko and Takeshi to my parents Lake House for the weekend.

    Container: ELB Snack Boxes

    Contents: 

    • CrunchMaster Multi-Grain Rice Crackers with Sea Salt
    • Fish – apple cut with a cookie cutter, blueberries
    • Mixed Nuts
    • Fish – carrot cut with a cookie cutter, cucumber, Cheddar cheese

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Fish Snack Lunch

    Tornado Rice Lunch

    Posted on August 14, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this simple Tornado themed lunch for my Dad. Nobody knew it was supposed to be a tornado. My Mom thought it was an upside down sail boat.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side: Tornado – Nishiki rice shaped in a cookie cutter with plastic wrap, Black beans and salsa mixed in a food processor and then piped with a zip lock bag, green peas

    Top Right: Blueberries

    Bottom Right: Bugles

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Tornado Rice Lunch

    Japan Summer Festival Bento

    Posted on August 11, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    When I asked my friend Yuko what theme lunch she wanted she said, “Summer Festival“. I represented goldfish, fireworks, and the characters for “Summer Festival”.

    Container: Cloud box from Japan (set of 3)

    Top Box: NatsuMatsuri – Summer Festival – carrots cut with a Hiragana cookie cutter, peanut butter, celery, peanuts, Goldfish – grape tomatoes, cheese cut with a straw, food coloring marker detail

    Bottom Box: Fireworks – Nishiki rice pressed in a round rice mold, soy sauce, spinach slightly wilted a few seconds in the microwave, cheese and food coloring marker details, blueberries, romaine

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Japan Summer Festival Bento

    Butterfly Lunch for the Car

    Posted on August 10, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this simple Butterfly themed snack lunch for my friend Yuko on a day we drove from Rochester to my parents Lake House.

    Container: ELB Snack Boxes

    Contents: 

    • Buttterfly Apple cut with a cookie cutter, raspberries
    • Cashews
    • Butterfly Cheddar and Swiss cut with a cookie cutter
    • Butterfly Crackers – Pepperidge Farms
    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Butterfly Lunch for the Car

    Dog Ravioli Dinner

    Posted on August 8, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    After spending the weekend at the Lake House with Yuko and Takeshi, I was happy to host them overnight at my house. I made us a simple make ahead ravioli dinner. Of course I wanted to make it cute. Yuko likes dogs, so I made a dog themed meal.

    Dog Ravioli: I used my favorite pasta dough, filling – Ricotta, Asiago, salt and pepper, (I made and put them in my freezer 2 weeks ahead), boiled just before serving, served with homemade tomato sauce I made and put in my freezer.

    Roasted Broccoli: Broccoli florets with a little salt and olive oil, roasted at 400 for 25 minutes.

    Chocolate Dog Cookie: I used this recipe and baked the cookies 2 weeks ahead and put in my freezer.

    Vanilla Ice Cream

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Dog Ravioli Dinner

    Rice Train Lunch

    Posted on August 7, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this lunch for my friend’s husband Takeshi. They visited me and my parents and we all had themed lunches at my parents Lake House.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Top: Train – Nishiki rice shaped in a cookie cutter with plastic wrap, salsa, black beans and salsa (blended in a food processor), Cheddar cheese, Easy Edamame Salad (I didn’t use the snap peas, scallion, or sesame seeds)

    Left Side: Train Track – melted chocolate piped from a zip lock bag over apple, blackberries

    Right Side: Rail Road Crossing Sign – Cheese with food marker details, peanuts

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Rice Train Lunch

    Elephant Vegetable Potato Salad

    Posted on August 3, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this meal for myself on a night when I made a similar meal for Carol. It was a refreshing meal on a warm summer evening.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side: Elephants – Havarti Dill with smoked paprika details, bell pepper, blue potato cut with a cookie cutter, roasted, zucchini cut with a cookie cutter, hummus

    Top Right: Macadamia nuts

    Bottom Right: Elephant – Apple cut with a cookie cutter, cinnamon details, blackberries

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Tagged | Comments Off on Elephant Vegetable Potato Salad

    Parrot Rice

    Posted on August 1, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this meal for myself. I am surprised that this is only my second parrot lunch. When I was a child, my imaginary friend was a parrot.

    Container: Book Bento Box

    Contents: Parrot – Niishiki rice shaped with plastic wrap and a cookie cutter, Eye – dried cherry, Beak – carrot, homemade pesto, black beans and salsa, carrot

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Parrot Rice

    Planet Peanut Noodles

    Posted on July 28, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this simple but fun meal for myself to add to my Space collection.

    Container: Prep Natural Glass Meal Containers

    Left Side: Planet – Sweet Potato cut with a cookie cutter, roasted, peanut noodles

    Right Side: Stars – Carrots and cucumbers cut with a cookie cutter

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Planet Peanut Noodles

    Frog Vegetable Potato Salad

    Posted on July 26, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this themed vegetable potato salad meal for Carol. She enjoyed it! I think this is my first time to make flies out of food. The idea to make flies to accompany the frogs came from my 21 year old niece.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side: Frogs – Havarti Dill with smoked paprika details, bell pepper, white potato cut with a cookie cutter, sprinkle with basil and roasted, zucchini cut with a cookie cutter, hummus

    Top Right: Flies – raisins with sliced almonds, one is on a strand of spaghetti to make it fly, Macadamia nuts

    Bottom Right: Frog – Apple cut with a cookie cutter, cinnamon details, blackberries

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Frog Vegetable Potato Salad

    Kayak Rice

    Posted on July 24, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this meal for my Mom. She kayaks at her lake house. My niece suggested that I add ducks.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side:  Kayak – Niishiki rice shaped with plastic wrap, homemade pesto, Ducks – cheese cut with a cookie cutter, Paddle, carrot, blueberries

    Top Right: Marcona almonds

    Bottom Right: Bell pepper

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Kayak Rice

    Weather Themed Food Collection

    Posted on July 20, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    Here is my weather themed food collection. My seasonal collections have aspects of weather: Winter – Snowmen, Spring – April Showers, Summer – Sun.

    Updated 4/6/25.

    CLOUDS / LIGHTNING / RAIN

    Vegetable Potato Salad Clouds and Lightning

    Cheese Clouds Carrot Lightning over Butterfly Pea Powder Mashed Potatoes

    Cheese Cloud and Lightning over Tortellini

    Apple Lighting, Black Radish Clouds

    Umbrella Vegetable Potato Salad, Cloud Cheese

    Cheese Clouds over Tortellini

    RAINBOW

    Bell Pepper Rainbow

    Cheddar Rainbow, Apple Rainbow

    Bell Pepper, Carrot, Broccoli, Black Olive, Corn Rainbow

    Quesadilla Rainbow

    Bell Pepper Rainbow

    HURRICANE

    Peanut Noodle Hurricane

    Pizza Hurricane

    Pizza Hurricane

    Peanut Noodle Hurricane

    Mashed Potato Hurricane

    TORNADO

    Tornado Mashed Potato

    Peanut Noodle Tornado

    Tornado Rice

    Peanut Noodle Tornado

    SNOWFLAKE

    Crouton Snowflake

    Bread and Crackers Snowflakes

    Rice and Fresh Mozzarella Snowflake

    Waffle Snowflake

    Blue Mashed Potato and Cream Cheese Snowflakes

    Tortilla Chips, Apple, Zucchini, and Chocolate Snowflakes

    Mashed Potato, Apple, Radish Snowflakes

    Fougasse Snowflake

    Zucchini Snowflakes over Cauliflower Gratin

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Weather Themed Food Collection

    Bear Waffles

    Posted on July 19, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    Keeping with tradition, my niece and my Mom made this breakfast when at the Lake House. This is the first time to use waffles instead of pancakes.

    Bears – Chocolate chip waffles cut with cookie cutter

    Droppings – Chocolate chips

    Snow Covered Ground – Whipped cream

    Others in this series:

    Bunny, Groundhog, Camel, Cows, Dinosaurs, Ghosts, Moose, Raccoon, Sloth, Squirrels

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Bear Waffles

    12 Year Blogiversary

    Posted on July 18, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    Today is my 12th anniversary of having this blog. I made this meal for myself. In my yearly goals for 2023, I have two blog related items: explore flavor and create more themed sides. This meal does not explore flavor but it has 3 themed items!

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side: Candle – Zucchini cut with a cookie cutter, removed the skin from the flame portion, peanut noodles

    Top Right: 12 – Zucchini cut with cookie cutters, cherry tomatoes

    Bottom Right: 12 – Dried blueberries, plain Green Yogurt

    Thank you for joining me on this long journey.

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Blog, Food | Comments Off on 12 Year Blogiversary

    Sun Vegetable Potato Salad

    Posted on July 14, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this festive sun themed meal for myself.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side: Suns – Cheddar cheese, bell pepper, sweet potato (roasted) cut with a cookie cutter, hummus

    Top Right: Crunchy Chickpeas

    Bottom Right: Sun – Cantaloupe cut with a cookie cutter, plain Greek yogurt

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Tagged | Comments Off on Sun Vegetable Potato Salad

    Dragonfly Rice

    Posted on July 12, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this lunch for my Dad.

    Container: U Konserve

    Contents: Dragonfly – Nishiki rice shaped in a cookie cutter with plastic wrap, homemade pesto, blueberries, black beans with salsa, Flowers – carrot cut with a cookie cutter

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Dragonfly Rice

    Floral Guest Room

    Posted on July 10, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    Here is my Floral Themed Guest Room (2nd Floor). The main projects were hanging floral wall paper stickers and wooden tissue boxes. This is one of the few rooms in the house where I did not paint the walls or change the flooring.

    Switch Plates and Outlet Covers: Delicate Yellow Flowers

    Bed: I had this in the apartment I lived in before this house.

    Bedding: Laura Ashley Nora Collection

    Night Stands: I had these in the apartment I lived in before this house.

    Tissue Box Holders: I bought these, painted them, and added daisy stickers from Michaels.

    Lamps on Night Stands: I had these in the apartment I lived in before this house.

    Full Length Mirror: I bought this.

    Small Table: This was in my Mom’s childhood bedroom. She remembers it was old when she got it. It had a skirt around it when she was a kid. My Mom painted it for my guest room.

    Chair: The former owners left it with the house.

    Folding Tray Table: I had this for a long time.

    Floral Wall Paper Stickers: No longer available where I bought it but this is similar. Elizabeth helped me install them. They were relatively easy to attach.

    “Before” photo.

    “Before” photo.

    Posted in Home Deco | Comments Off on Floral Guest Room

    Niece 21st Birthday Party

    Posted on July 7, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    My parents and I celebrated my niece’s 21st birthday a little late with her this year. It was special to be able to celebrate her birthday at the Lake House.

    Decorations: My mom and I had various decorations. We had fun assembling them.

    Flower Napkin Rings

    Tablecloth and Napkins: Floral

    Paper Centerpiece: I found a unicorn centerpiece at the Dollar Tree. I removed the unicorn and made my own round out of cardboard, paper, and stickers. I attached my round to the honeycomb paper round.

    Menu:

    • Garlic Bread – Wegmans Pane Italian with Irish butter, garlic powder, and parsley
    • Mushroom Bourguignon (see recipe below)
    • Broccoli and Rainbow Carrots Bourguignon (for me since I don’t eat mushrooms)
    • Funfetti and Chocolate Ice Cream Cake with Whipped Cream and Thin Oreo Cookies

    Mushroom Bourguignon

    • 1 1/2 cups dry red wine
    • 1 1/2 cups vegetable stock
    • 2 pounds mushrooms
    • 1 1/2 cups rainbow carrot chunks
    • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
    • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
    • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 3 tablespoons flour
    • 3 tablespoons butter

    Brown mushrooms in olive oil in 2-3 batches, remove from pot.

    Add butter to pot and melt, once melted add the flour and whisk.

    Add wine, stock, tomato paste, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Simmer until sauce thickens a little.

    Add mushrooms and rainbow carrots back into the sauce. Simmer for 30 minutes.

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food, Party Planning | Comments Off on Niece 21st Birthday Party

    4th of July 2023

    Posted on July 5, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    My parents, 21 year old niece, and I celebrated the 4th of July at the Lake House.

    Drinks: Assorted drinks with maraschino cherries

    Red, White and Blue Salad: Romaine, Cherries, Blueberries, Cheddar stars cut with a cookie cutter, assorted dressings

    Fireworks Pizza: Homemade pizza dough cut with a Firework cookie cutter that Renae made on her 3D printer, tomato sauce, mozzarella, tomato sauce drops after baking to represent fireworks. I planned to also make pesto drops but I forgot my homemade pesto at my house.

    Star Pizza: Homemade pizza dough cut with a star cookie cutter, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese

    Flag Pizza: Homemade pizza dough cut with a flag cookie cutter, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce stripes after baking

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food, Party Planning | Comments Off on 4th of July 2023

    Flag Tortilla Snack Lunch

    Posted on July 3, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this patriotic meal for my Dad.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side: Flags – Tortilla chips cut with a cookie cutter, brushed with olive oil, brushed with Butterfly Pea Powder, Paprika – bake in 375 over for about 10 minutes, hummus, cherry tomatoes, radish, cauliflower

    Top Right: Cashews

    Bottom Right: Stars – Strawberries cut with a cookie cutter, blueberries

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Flag Tortilla Snack Lunch

    Picnic at Griffis Sculpture Park

    Posted on June 29, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    Deborah and I went on an adventure to Griffis Sculpture Park in East Otto, NY (it is about 2 hours away). It was a beautiful day to walk around and explore. This was my second time to the park, I went with my oldest niece in 2008.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side:  Black Bean and Corn Salad (I used salsa and diced red bell pepper), blueberries, lettuce

    Top Right: Spiced Peanuts

    Bottom Right: Corn tortilla chips – cut into triangles, brush with olive oil, bake at 350 for about 10 minutes until light brown

    Not Pictured: Deborah made Hibiscus iced tea

    Posted in Adventures, Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Picnic at Griffis Sculpture Park

    Switch Plate Cover Bento

    Posted on June 27, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    My quest is over! I updated all of the switch and outlet covers in my house. I am not accustomed to living in a house with plain outlet plate covers. I am used to decorative ones that serve as art. My childhood bedroom had a ceramic light switch cover with pink roses. The last house I lived in had special covers probably installed by the previous owners. When I bought this house all were plain almond color. It took me over a year but I changed all of them! Some I bought and some I made. To celebrate I made myself a light switch cover themed meal.

    Container: Book Bento Box

    Contents: Chipotle Lime Edamame with Sunflower Seeds, Naan with strawberry cream cheese, and food coloring cream cheese details

    Below is a collage of many of my fancy outlet and switch plate covers. Some of the rooms are not on my blog yet because I am waiting for something to be finished. I probably have to wait months until the French Doors for my library arrive. Go here to see my home decoration posts.

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Home Deco | Comments Off on Switch Plate Cover Bento

    Graduation Themed Bread Meal

    Posted on June 23, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this for Renae’s oldest who is graduating from High School. This is only my 3rd time to make a Graduation themed bento. I previously made this and this. It was requested that I make this for Natalie and I was happy to do it.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side: Diploma bread, Cheddar cheese, blueberries

    Top Right: 2023 – Carrot cut with a cookie cutter, cucumber

    Bottom Right: Graduation Hat – Caramel milk chocolate square and mini peanut butter cup, attached with some chocolate and chocolate detail on top, almonds

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Graduation Themed Bread Meal

    Summer Themed Food

    Posted on June 21, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    Happy Summer! This is my collection of Summer themed food.

    Updated: 5/1/25

    SUN

    Pizza Sun

    Mango Muffin Suns

    Pizza Sun

    Vegetable Potato Salad Sun

    SUNFLOWER

    Bread Sunflower

    Turmeric and Hot Paprika Sunflower

    Cupcake Sunflower

    WATERLILY

    Tomato and Pesto Pizza Waterlily

    Radish and Broccoli Pizza Waterlily

    Cheddar Cheese and Bell Pepper Waterlily

    BEACH

    Vegetable and Cheese Tart Beach

    Meal on the Beach

    Cheese Sand Dollar

    CRAB

    Cantaloupe and Chocolate Crabs

    Vegetable Potato Salad Crabs

    Red Pepper Crab

    Crab Sandwich

    SUMMER SPORTS

    Teddy Grahams Swimming in Blueberries

    Pasta Tennis

    Bread Tennis Balls

    ICE CREAM

    Hand Pie Ice Cream Cones

    Waffle Ice Cream Cones

    BOATS / ANCHOR

    Stuffed Jalapeno Boats

    Pizza Boats

    Mini Potato with Green Pepper Anchors

    3D Cracker Boat

    Quesadilla Boat

    Stuffed Potato Boat

    Titanic

    Kayak Rice

    SUMMER CLOTHING / ACCESSORIES

    Cheese and Apple Summer Dresses

    Dresses – Vegetable Potato Salad

    Spice Rubbed Cheese Dresses over Pesto Tortellini

    Sunglasses Emoji Rice

    WATERMELON

    Pizza Watermelon

    Salsa Rice Watermelon

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Summer Themed Food

    Ocean Themed Bathroom

    Posted on June 16, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    Here is my Ocean Themed Bathroom (2nd Floor). The main projects were assembling the bench and finding and hanging art.

    Shower Curtain and Hooks: This and this.

    Bath Mat: This

    Trash Can: This

    Toilet Paper Holder: This

    Tissue Box: This

    Switch and Outlet Cover Plates: This

    Bench: This

    Whale Art and Frame: This and this

    Seahorse Art and Frame: This and this

    Mermaid Tail and Frame: This and this

    “Before” photo.

    “Before” photo.

    Posted in Home Deco | Comments Off on Ocean Themed Bathroom

    Fox Snack Meal

    Posted on June 14, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this snack meal for Elizabeth on a day that she helped me install a lot of home decor decals. Recently she crocheted this cute fox for me so I made a fox themed meal.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side:  Fox and Kits – tortilla chips cut with a cookie cutter, brushed with olive oil, sprinkled with salt – bake in 375 over for about 10 minutes, Cheddar cheese, cherry tomatoes

    Top Right: Peanuts

    Bottom Right: Strawberries

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Fox Snack Meal

    Basement Media Room

    Posted on June 12, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I never had a dedicated movie room before but it was on my wish list when I looked for this house. I don’t like having a television in my main living area. I did not have one at all in my last apartment. I used my laptop to watch programming. Some visitors and an ex-boyfriend sometimes complained that I did not have one. Now I have a dedicated room for viewing. I don’t consider the white folding table and wooden activity table part of the room since they don’t coordinate well. I could remove them if I wanted but it is how I am living with the room now so I kept in the photo. The decor in this room is simple since the main focus is the tv.

    Flooring: Contractors removed the carpet and installed vinyl plank flooring.

    Walls: I did not paint the walls and kept what was there when I purchased the house.

    Art: I bought this frame and assorted movie posters. It was difficult to find the size I wanted in a movie I was okay with and liked the image. These are not necessarily my top 4 movies but I like all of them.

    TV: Samsung 75 inch

    Reclining Soda and Individual Recliners: These have power recline and I love them! I ended up getting them from Raymore and Flanigan.

    White Folding TV Table: From Walmart. The exact model is no longer available.

    Small Wooden Table and Chair: I had this for a long time in many apartments and in my last house.

    Switch and Outlet Cover Plates: I bought these from Etsy.

    Storage Bench: I had this in my apartment

    “Before” photo.

    “Before” photo.

    “Before” photo.

    “Before” photo.

    Posted in Home Deco | Comments Off on Basement Media Room

    Picnic at Chimney Bluffs

    Posted on June 5, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    Deborah and I went to Chimney Bluffs State Park along Lake Ontario near Sodus, NY (about an hour from my home). We parked in the alternate parking lot near the steps to the top and a path to the beach. It was my first time there. I was in awe at the beauty! I made a picnic dinner and Deborah brought chairs and delicious homemade iced tea made with lemon balm, spearmint, and some raspberry juice. It was a delightful adventure!

    I made two of these, one for Deborah and one for me. The Thai Peanut Potato salad was okay but not good enough to make again.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side: Spicy Thai Potato Salad over Romaine

    Top Right: Peanuts

    Bottom Right: Fresh Pineapple

    Posted in Adventures, Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Picnic at Chimney Bluffs

    Flowers and Butterflies Basement Bathroom

    Posted on June 3, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    This is my first time to live in a house with a basement bathroom. One of my Grandparent’s houses had a basement bathroom when I was a kid. It was next to the bar. My basement bathroom is adjacent to my movie room. I did not do much to decorate this room. My Dad installed a new toilet paper holder since the previous was broken and he changed the ceiling light bulbs. Other than buying a few things, the biggest project in this room was to decoupage the switch and outlet plates.

    Shower Curtain with Rose Hooks: Bed Bath and Beyond (no longer available)

    Bath Mat: From my last apartment

    Trash Can: From my last apartment bought at Home Goods

    Tissue Box: I bought this.

    Hand Towel: I bought this.

    Cup Holder: I bought this.

    Paper Cups

    Switch and Outlet Cover Plates: I decoupaged scrapbook paper onto the covers.

    “Before” photo.

    Posted in Home Deco | Comments Off on Flowers and Butterflies Basement Bathroom

    Camel Vegetable Potato Salad

    Posted on May 30, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this lunch for my friend Arna. When I was a child, I learned the saying, “Make new friends but keep the old. One is silver and the other is gold.” A life theme for me is it is important to keep old friends. I value the shared history. Arna and I first became friends years ago when I was married and had a house in a town about an hour away. Her visit last weekend was special. We had lunch, toured my house and gardens. It was a wonderful day!

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side: Camels – Cheddar cheese, bell pepper, sweet potato (roasted) cut with a cookie cutter, Eye – paprika, Palm Tree – zucchini cut with a cookie cutter, dried blueberries, hummus

    Top Right: Hazelnuts

    Bottom Right: Camels – Cantaloupe cut with a cookie cutter, Eye – cinnamon, Pineapple Greek yogurt

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Tagged | Comments Off on Camel Vegetable Potato Salad

    Turtle Cheese over Blueberry Salad

    Posted on May 24, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this turtle themed meal for my Mom at her Lake House. She enjoyed it especially the little turtle tortilla chips. We decided that we would not make the Blueberry salad again. It was not special enough.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side: Turtle – Cheddar cheese cut with a cookie cutter, food coloring marker details, Spinach Blueberry Salad with Feta

    Top Right: Mixed Nuts

    Bottom Right: Turtles – cut flour tortilla with a cookie cutter, place on cookie sheet with parchment, spray with cooking spray and bake in a 350 degree oven for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned and crisp. 

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Turtle Cheese over Blueberry Salad

    Daffodil Dinner 2023

    Posted on May 21, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I asked my Mom what theme or food she wanted for Mother’s Day. She said Daffodil dinner. It made sense since we celebrated at the mountain Lake House and the daffodils were about to bloom. They were in full bloom for our dinner.

    Drinks: Pina Colada with Orange Juice or Seltzer with a ground up pineapple

    Daffodil Main: Orange Cheddar mashed potato daffodil with roasted asparagus and sugar snap epas

    Daffodil Parfait: Daffodil – cream cheese with food coloring, Dirt – crushed Oreo thins cookies, Whipped Cream

    My critique of the meal: 

    When my Mom asked for “Daffodil”, I was lacking inspiration since I have done it many times before. The drinks were a late idea inspired by my niece who likes serving themed drinks. I wanted daffodil colored drinks. The dessert was a last minute idea. We went shopping right before the meal to get the whipped cream and cookies. The store was out of heavy cream so we used whipped cream from a can. The meal was enjoyed by all!

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food, Party Planning | Comments Off on Daffodil Dinner 2023

    Polenta Shapes Collection

    Posted on May 17, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    This is my collection of cute shaped polenta. As with my other collections, I will update when I create something new.

    Updated 3/2/25.

    ANIMALS

    Hippo Polenta

    Bird Polenta

    Buffalo Polenta

    Kangaroo Polenta

    Elephant Polenta

    Owl Cream Cheese Polenta

    Squirrel Polenta

    Fox Polenta

    Giraffe Polenta

    Black Bean Dog in Polenta

    Fawn Polenta

    Camel Polenta

    INSECTS

    Butterfly Polenta

    Beehive Polenta

    FALL

    Maple Leaf Polenta

    HALLOWEEN

    Jack-O-Lantern Polenta

    THANKSGIVING

    Turkey Polenta

    CHRISTMAS

    Candy Cane Polenta

    Angel Polenta

    Gingerbread Man Polenta

    Holly Pesto Polenta

    NEW YEAR

    Happy New Year 2022 Polenta

    WINTER

    Snowman Polenta with Cream Cheese

    GROUNDHOG DAY

    Groundhog Polenta

    VALENTINE’S DAY

    Heart Polenta with Tomato Sauce

    SAINT PATRICKS DAY

    Broccoli Shamrock in Polenta

    Shamrock Polenta Flag with Cream Cheese and Spinach

    Shamrock Pesto Polenta

    EASTER

    Chick Peep Polenta

    JAPANESE CULTURE

    Tanuki Polenta

    SPACE

    Earth Polenta

    Moon Polenta

    Stars Polenta

    BODY PARTS

    Hand and Foot Polenta

    World in Hands Polenta

    BUILDING

    Skyscraper Polenta

    EXTINCT / IMAGINARY

    Dinosaur Polenta

    Fairy Polenta

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Polenta Shapes Collection

    Frog Snack Meal

    Posted on May 10, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this snack meal for Elizabeth. I enjoy making cute food for her. It is usually the same food but I find different ways to present it. Today we have frogs.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side:  Frogs – tortilla chips cut with a cookie cutter, brushed with olive oil, sprinkled with salt – bake in 375 over for about 10 minutes, Frogs – cheddar cheese cut with a cookie cutter, cherry tomatoes

    Top Right: Sunflower seeds

    Bottom Right: Strawberries

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Frog Snack Meal

    Homemade Ravioli Meal

    Posted on May 8, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    Over the weekend, Renae and family came over for dinner. Jeff hung poster frames in my movie room. Maybe sometime soon I will reveal that room. I made ordinary shaped ravioli which is rare for me, usually I make fun shapes. You can see a glimpse of this years glorious daffodils in the above photo. I brought some blossoms inside when I deadheaded the patch this week.

    Ravioli – I used my favorite pasta dough, filling – Ricotta, Asiago, Parmesan, salt and pepper, (I made and put in freezer), boiled just before serving, served with homemade tomato sauce

    Roasted Green Beans

    Chocolate Mousse with Raspberries

    My critique of the meal: I especially liked the flavor of adding a third cheese to the ravioli filling. While I normally make fun shaped ravioli, using something like this which I had a long time is fun to use. This chocolate mousse recipe is delicious and easy to make. My guests liked that I gave them small spoons to eat the mousse.

    Posted in Food, Party Planning | Comments Off on Homemade Ravioli Meal

    Coronation Meal

    Posted on May 5, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    Tomorrow is the coronation of King Charles III. I like to celebrate moments in time with cute food, so I decided to create this coronation themed meal. I had many crowns in my collection but not the right shape for the St Edward’s crown. Renae was very kind to print a cookie cutter with her 3D printer.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side: St Edward’s Crown – Cheddar cheese cut with a cookie cutter, details cut with knife, jewels cut with oval cookie cutter, painted with food coloring, Purple – mashed potato with butterfly pea powder, peas

    Top Right: Pistachios

    Bottom Right: Union Jack – Apple, painted with food coloring 

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Coronation Meal

    Polenta Bird for Lunch

    Posted on May 3, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this bento lunch for my Mom. Over the years I have made a lot of cute food for her but she was especially delighted with this one. Maybe it will make one of my top 10 bento for 2023.

    Container: Wooden box purchased in Kyoto at Bento&co.

    Bird: Homemade polenta cut with cookie cutter, Eye – dried blueberry

    Flowers: Radish cut with a cookie cutter, butterfly pea power for color

    Pistachios: Musical notes drawn with food coloring marker

    Other: Carrot noodles, lettuce mix, snow peas

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Polenta Bird for Lunch

    Butterfly Ravioli Dinner

    Posted on April 28, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made a mostly make ahead meal for my Mom, Dad, brother, sister-in-law and myself. It was a fun way to enjoy a meal with family and welcome spring.

    Butterfly Ravioli –  I used my favorite pasta dough, filling – Ricotta, Asiago, salt and pepper, (I made and put in freezer a week ahead), boiled just before serving, dried parsley garnish

    Pesto Cream – homemade pesto thawed from my freezer mixed with sour cream

    Salad – Romaine with zucchini, bell pepper, carrots, and kohlrabi cut with a cookie cutter

    Vinaigrette – a basic no recipe with olive oil, vinegar, orange juice, and honey

    No Bake Lemon Tarts

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Butterfly Ravioli Dinner

    Caprese Zucchini Noodles Lunch

    Posted on April 26, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this for lunch when my parents were visiting. We all ate it but I put this portion in the cloud boxes. If you make if for a packed lunch, I recommend packing the pesto dressing for the zucchini noodles separate and mix before serving. It was a fun way to eat zucchini noodles!

    Container: Cloud box from Japan (set of 3)

    Top Box: Garlic and Herb Popcorn

    Bottom Box: Zucchini Noodle Caprese

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Caprese Zucchini Noodles Lunch

    Watering Can Lunch

    Posted on April 24, 2023 by eclecticlamb

    I made this simple lunch for myself. The watering can is yellow to represent my favorite Copper color watering can.

    Container: EasyLunchBoxes

    Left Side: Watering Can – Nishiki rice shaped in a cookie cutter with plastic wrap, yellow food coloring, roasted asparagus

    Top Right: Macedonia Almonds

    Bottom Right: Flowers – Strawberries with blueberries attached with spaghetti

    Posted in Bento / Cute Food, Food | Comments Off on Watering Can Lunch