big pancake, bigger taste

Sometimes the most impressive foods are the simplest.  With the right tools, an adventurous palette, and trust in the process, you can turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.  This week, I've turned leftover breakfast burritos into both fried rice and quesadillas.  Building upon flavor profiles and incorporating fresh ingredients is the name of the game.

Yesterday's mid-morning snack lead to an updated flavor of one of my favorites: the Dutch Baby Pancake.  I had some fresh figs and a bit of Gorgonzola, so I gave it a shot and made the most delicious fig and Gorgonzola pancake, topped with a fig and balsamic caramel syrup.  Here's the base recipe:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Preheat the oven to 425F/218C.  Place the cold butter in the cold oven safe pie plate or skillet and into the oven.  For this recipe, I use the 10" All-Clad D5 frying pan.  It's layers of stainless steel and aluminum make for consistent, even heating, plus it's oven and dishwasher safe. 
 

While the butter is melting and the oven is warming, this is where you can get creative with your toppings and fillings.  I've made the traditional way and topped the pancake with fresh lemon juice and powdered sugar, as well as more inventive flavors, like diced rhubarb in the batter and covered with fresh strawberries.  The possibilities are endless - fresh lavender topped with honey, brie with fresh cherries or sauteed apples, pistachio topped with pear...you get the point, anything you love can be mixed into the batter or topped onto the finished cake.   

Today I am trying out a Gorgonzola and fig combination.  I diced the figs into eight wedges and broke up probably an ounce or so of cheese.  Side note: make sure your knife is very sharp, so you don't crush the figs.  I used my Shun santoku - it's a combination chefs knife and cleaver, and perfect for slicing, mincing, and chopping.  Plus, the steel is hand-forged and ice-hardened, so you get incredible strength and durability.  I also really like the plastic Dexas cutting mats as shown below - they're dishwasher safe and help keep your butcher block or counter from getting dirty or contaminated.  

When the butter has melted, remove from the oven.  Meanwhile, mix the eggs, flour, milk, sugar, and salt.  Add whichever flavors you prefer and fold gently.  Pour the ingredients into the hot pan/butter.   Don't worry - it'll look like you've messed up.  I know I always second guess myself the instant I pour the batter into the hot, melty butter.  I think there's no possible way that this is going to turn out right, let alone anything I'll want to eat.  But trust the process. 

 
Return to oven.  Bake 18 - 20 minutes, until puffy and golden brown. And do yourself a favor - remember that the pan is going to be HOT from the oven, so I leave my pot holders right on top of the stove as a gentle reminder. 

 

While the pancake is baking, think about your toppings.  Today I added a few small wedges of fresh fig with a tablespoon of sugar and a quarter cup of Lucero's fig infused balsamic vinegar.  I cooked it in this cutest, tiniest little Staub cocotte - the enamel coated cast iron controls temperature over extended periods of time, and makes for the perfect single serving of syrup.  I stirred the sugar into the vinegar and figs, and warmed over medium-low heat for the duration of the baking time.  Ultimately, the liquid reduced by about 2/3 of the original amount and made a very thick, syrupy style caramel glaze.  I've also made a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) and added fresh lemon zest and juice.  Any citrus or mint work well, too. The possibilities are endless.

 

After 18-20 minutes, your pancake will look just like this!  I immediately remove it from the pan and place on a large plate.  There will probably be a bit of melted butter left in the pan, which I always dump right on top of the pancake.  Add your toppings or syrups.

I like showcasing singular ingredients in multiple ways - diced fresh fig baked into the pancake, with fig infused balsamic syrup and topped with raw, fresh figs.  You really get to taste the different layers and levels of flavor this way.  Plus, the Gorgonzola adds a tangy bite and is like the exclamation mark to the figgy flavors!

What flavors will you try?  Let your imagination run wild!

giving good gifts

I love giving gifts.  Whether for an annual celebration, like birthdays or anniversaries, or more singular occasions like weddings or housewarmings, or out of kindness to show welcome or appreciation, giving a little something that reflects your recipient's interests and your tastes is always such a warm feeling for everyone.

You don't have to spend a lot of money or stress out to put together a little something.  And if you constantly keep your eyes out for great quality products and ideas, you can build your own small stockpile of options to hand select the perfect gifts on a budget. 

One of my favorite gifts is a tea (kitchen) towel, with a cooks tool and a bit of fresh flowers, all wrapped into one bundle of joy.  If I know the recipient loves to entertain or drink, I'll include a corkscrew, bottle opener, muddler, or something similar.  If they love to cook, a spatula or nice pair of tongs will make a lovely addition.  For bigger occasions (and budgets), I'll add a wine aerator or even a great kitchen knife.  Regardless, I try and select something that reflects the recipient's lifestyle or interests.

For more than a decade now, I've come to know and love my Garnier-Thiebaut linens.  If you don't know the brand, imagine the most vivid and vibrant colors woven with heirloom, quality expertise and the greatest commitment to excellence in all aspects.  With roots back to 1833, Garnier-Thibeaut has pioneered many of the textile industry's design and technology inventions for the production of fine linens. Today, the company's manufacturing facility in Gerardmer, France is Europe's most advanced center for the design, color and production of fashion fabrics — notably, table linens, bed linens, and other textile accessories — for the hospitality industry and the home. Renowned for its luxurious damask designs, Garnier-Thiebaut is the only fine linens company that produces more than two complete collections each year. So you get the quality you would expect with the colors and trends you hope for.

A great tip: if you have the space and a little extra cash, keep your eye out for sales.  Many department and specialty stores are constantly updating their assortment of kitchen tools, accessories, and linens.  I love popping into Williams-Sonoma stores anyway, but I'm constantly checking out their sale areas for brightly colored kitchen towels, napkins, and kitchen gadgets and tools.  I keep a small closet stocked of these items, plus candles and skincare.  I like finding everyday items of the best quality I can afford, keeping them for gift giving occasions.  Then when it's giving time, I can select the perfect pairing for my recipients. 

About the two photographs above - I like to keep things simple and personal.  The two GT tea towels pictured are from the top of my stack in the kitchen.  After more than a decade of very frequent use, they still look brand new - and feel even better.  The colors are beyond vibrant, the fabric super soft and absorbant, and doesn't leave behind pesky lint when drying glassware or glossy surfaces.  As for the spatula - I'm almost exclusively using WS silicon spatulas.  They're won't chip or crack, resist heat up to 600F, have removable handles for easy cleanup (including in the dishwasher), are anti-microbial, and make for the perfect pop of color in the kitchen.  Their available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, but the spoonula is my favorite.  The stainless steel tongs pictured with the thistles and lily are from All-Clad, and a part of a "cook and serve" set.  When it comes to the kitchen, I like form and function.  And All-Clad hits the mark every time.  Whatever gift assortment I select, I always try to include a sprig or two of fresh flowers, herbs, or greenery, and tie them together with some leftover ribbon, string, or even butcher's twine. 

There's something so fun about giving something you'd use yourself, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary.  Do you have any signature gifts?

cooks tools

Continuing with my cooking recommendations theme, we move along cooks' tools. With the right implements, instruction, and inspiration, any recipe is possible. Here are a few I'm loving: 

I can't say enough good things about All-Clad.  I love when tools are functional and beautiful, and the All-Clad Cook and Serve set is exactly that. The heavy-grade 18/10 stainless steel construction makes for durable function and easy cleaning (dishwasher safe, too!) behind the scenes, while the mirrored finish adds a dash of style and class for the table.  Comes as a set of six that includes a fork, ladle, spoon, slotted spoon, tongs and storage caddy.  For an added bonus: the caddy can be monogrammed. 

Silicon spoonulas are the perfect mix of spatulas and spoons. I'm notorious for leaving the spatula in the pan or on hot surfaces, so I'm comforted knowing these brilliant bits are heat-resistant to 600ºF, dishwasher safe, and won't chip or crack. They're super handy and come in a variety of colors and sizes each season. I prefer the wooden handle options, because the silicon portion is removable, but the stainless steel options are nice as well. In my opinion, you can't have enough. 

Favored by bartenders and restaurateurs since 1882, Bar Keepers Friend is a premium cleanser and polish makes household surfaces shine like new. They’re the ideal kitchen cleaners-- for countertops, sinks, cooktops, appliances, cookware and more. Working without harmful chlorine bleach, this magical mix removes rust, lime, and hard water stains, as well as tarnish from copper and brass. With a little BKF and a lot of elbow-grease, everything will be sparkling clean. (Side note: BKF works great cleaning the bathtub and shower, too!)

I've sung the praises of the garlic peeler on multiple occasions, and must recommend again. Don't underestimate this peculiar piece - one use and you'll see how easily this floppy tube peels a clove of garlic. Simply insert whole unpeeled cloves, press down firmly, and briskly roll back and forth for a few seconds, until you hear the peel snap. Each week I'll peel and mince 3-4 heads in less than 5 minutes. 

This is a definite luxury, and I absolutely love it. Beautiful and practical, this box keeps up to 8 oz. of cooking salt within close reach. Handcrafted by Bérard of richly grained olive wood with an oil finish, it has a swiveling magnetic lid for easy one-handed access. Makes an incredible gift for house warnings, hostesses and thank yous, and anyone who loves to cook or appreciates great spices. 

I absolutely love cooking, and might have an arsenal full of goodies. These are just a few of the many I love. What tools do you use in your kitchen? 

comfort food

If you haven't yet noticed - I'm super nostalgic. I'm not one of those people who hoards every single item and refuses to throw anything away.  I'm more of a selective hoarder, instead keeping "edited collections" instead of "piles of junk."  I may happen to have boxes of kitchen tools, an overabundance of clothing options, and enough greeting cards and skincare to start my own Hallmark and Sephora.  What can I say?  I like options and to be prepared.

I don't know if "obsessive" is the right term to describing my cooking, but it's much more than a love affair.  Food was always been much more than sustenance - it's been a centerpiece of my life.  From cooking with family and friends, to food shopping, farming and gardening, and managing upscale cooking stores, food is always the focus.

Close your eyes for a moment and think about your favorite holiday.  You may recall a general feeling, a few special memories.  If you were to cook something from that holiday, you'd instantly be transported back in time to the exact places and feelings you experienced.  This is one of the many joys I get from cooking every day - the opportunity to relive great memories and create new ones, as well! 

Here are a few kitchen goodies I'm loving:

I absolutely love garlic.  There aren't many recipes I make that don't have at least a clove or two (or ten!).  Speed up your prep time with this handy plastic tube.  Break apart the head of garlic, place a clove inside the tube, firmly pressing and rolling.  The skin instantly falls off, revealing the "naked" clove.  I can peel a few heads of garlic in just a couple minutes. And to save even more time when cooking, each week I'll prepare both minced and sliced garlic and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.  The garlic peeler rinses very easily and is also dishwasher safe.  US$9 at Williams-Sonoma.

This All-Clad splatter screen is a constant in my kitchen.  In short, it's super durable, dishwasher safe, and makes cooking both safer and much cleaner.  It's available in two different sizes, and I chose the larger version, which fits on almost all of my pans and ovens.  Anytime I'm searing, sauteing, braising, or cooking something on higher heats, I use the splatter screen.  From bacon to beef roast and sauces to soups, this kitchen essential prevents painful splatters and pesky messes.  (Side note: a few months ago I was trying out a new recipe for bourbon cheesecake ice cream and needed a fine sieve - a tool I surprisingly don't have.   But with a large mixing bowl, a silicon spatula, and my trusty splatter screen, all was well!)  About US$60 at Williams-Sonoma.

I absolutely love cooking in fabulous French cookware.  In my opinion, Staub's range is the best.  Their enamel-coated cast iron handles heat to 500ºF and is the high-tech version of traditional cast iron.  The interior of all Staub pots are enameled with a matte black finish, which allows for improved resistence to thermal shocks and scratching, making care easier and keeping maximum beauty.  The enamel also has anti-adhesive properties and requires no seasoning before first use, and is incredibly safe - made free of Cadmium, lead, PFOA, and PTFE. Best of all Staub makes for juicier, more succulent food - their lids are covered with little nubs, literally self-braising while cooking.  Staub is made in France, has a lifetime warranty, and compatible with gas, electric, and induction cooking devices.  (Side note: Staub is technically dishwasher safe, but I've always hand washed with Barkeeper's friend and a scrub brush.)  US$319,95 at Sur La Table.  

My favorite knife is all is the Santoku, Japanese for three virtues" or "three uses".  Its blade is typically between 13 and 20 centimetres (5.1 and 7.9 in) long, and has a flat edge and a sheepsfoot blade that curves in an angle approaching 60 degrees at the point. The top of the Santoku's handle is in line with the top of the blade. The word refers to the three cutting tasks which the knife performs well: slicing, chopping, and mincing. The Santoku's blade and handle are designed to work in harmony by matching the blade's width and weight to the those of the tang and handle. 

In short: other than peeling produce or slicing breads, I'm constantly using a Santoku.  My favorite is from a brand called Shun.  Knives must be comfortable in your hand, fitting and weighing perfectly.  When shopping for a new knife, be sure to hold as many as possible to the best fit.  US$225 at Bloomingdale's. 

 These are just a few of my everyday essentials.  What are some of your go-to goodies that you can't cook without? 

a few faves

All of my favorite things in life start with the same letter: faith, family, fashion, food, friends, fun.  Everything revolves around these categories, and are always a priority in life.  They fuel me, bring encouragement and entertainment, keep me grounded and guided, and supported and safe. 

A few things I'm loving lately:

I absolutely love cooking.  Whether I'm in the kitchen, shopping for food, eating at a restaurant, gardening, or simply exploring new places, I can't stop thinking about cooking.  I love everything about cooking - especially the conversations in kitchens, the memories made, and the entire experience.  I've had the true pleasure of cooking with a myriad of fabulous people, and in a simple way, cook to honor those I love.

I'm really loving this new white collection from Staub.  It's made from enamel coated cast iron with layers of quartz, so you get incredible heat conductivity, durability, and super easy cleanup.  Not to mention, it's beyond beautiful, made in France, has a self-braising lid, is dishwasher safe, and can stand heat up to 500°F/260°C.  

For a limited time, save 20% on your Staub cookwear from Williams-Sonoma with promo code "COOK" - or for more detail, phone Summer at +1 (615) 292.5066.

You don't have to spend a lot of money to look good.  But if you are able to spend a little more - get the most out of your suiting by mixing it up a bit.  I love this casually chic look from Lanvin.  Mixing a cool t-shirt and designer kicks adds character and confidence to any suit, especially this incredible tuxedo.

Lustrous, pickstitched peak lapels front an elegant wool-and-mohair tuxedo jacket paired with crisply creased flat-front trousers to form a timeless, dashing look.

• Jacket has single-button closure; front flap pockets; besom chest pocket; side vents.
• Trousers have zip fly with button-tab closure; slant pockets; back welt pockets.
• Unhemmed. (And don't forget - when you buy any full-price suit at Nordstrom, basic alterations are always complimentary.)  
  
• Jacket is lined; trousers are partially lined.
• 90% wool, 10% mohair.
• Dry clean.
• Made in Italy

There's "little girl glitter" and then there's "big girl glam"...it's time to up your game for summer and try this incredible shimmering body oil from Tom Ford Beauty.  Soleil Blanc is the perfect blend of summer white florals with spicy, aromatic sandalwood and amber.  It's lightweight, provides a sultry, sun-kissed glow, and feels amazing.  Phone Tonya at Nashville Norstrom's Tom Ford shop for more details: +1 (615) 850.6700.

Spring has finally spring!  Thank the Lord!  And summer is soon on its way!  Nourish and protect your lips with this awesome lip balm from Farmacy.

What it is formulated to do:
This soothing herb-infused balm forms a protective barrier on the lips, leaving them smoother, softer, and fuller. The formula contains Echinacea GreenEnvy™, a unique, patent-protected variant of echinacea purpurea that contains the highest known concentration of cichoric acid, which helps protect the skin. Castor seed oil provides a plant-based protective film that helps preserve natural hydration levels. Sunflower seed oil helps maintain the skin’s barrier function with high levels of emollients derived from natural essential fatty acids. Super shout out to Nashville Sephora's Jessica who introduced me to this must-have summer secret.  

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This product is formulated with naturally derived ingredients and is free of formaldehyde, and artificial coloring. It is not tested on animals.


No matter what your agenda or budget - find things you love.  Make the most of each day, find the beauty in each moment and person you interact with, and remember we're all in this together.

mission based retail

You don't really need a reason to shop.  It's instant gratification, and can be an addiction for some.  Whether it's things you need, things you think you need to have, or a splurge of any size, shopping brings a bit of excitement and fulfillment.  When brands partner with a worthy cause or community, everyone wins.  When done well, the company makes even more money than they would have without that mission based hook, and the organization / cause / philanthropy / community gains much needed support and awareness.

Take Starbucks for example.  Beginning in 2013, the coffee giant pledged to hire 10,000 military veterans and spouses by 2018, and have already surpassed their halfway mark.  They also have more than a dozen "military family" stores, in markets with large military communities, that're run primarily by military veterans and spouses.  In addition to having special recognition on each apron (with an American flag and "military veteran" or "military spouse" under their name), these locations also have a local charity or organization they support that in turn supports local veterans and military families. 



Soma Intimates raises money and awareness for a myriad of women's and children's health organizations, including Children's Miracle Network hospitals, breast cancer awareness, the American Heart Association, and the National Network to End Domestic Violence. 

Cook's heaven Williams-Sonoma supports No Kid Hungry, sharing their strength and the strength of their generous clientele to end childhood hunger in America, by donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of special merchandise and raising cash donations. For the past few years, celebrities and chefs have designed wonderfully whimsical spatulas specifically for the campaign.  A very worth cause - as one in ten children statistically go to school hungry in America. 

Some organizations exist solely to support their own community - like the Navy, Army, and Air Force Exchanges.  Not only do the semi-governmental agencies bring quality goods and services at competitive prices, they also donate a large portion of their profits to the moral, welfare, and recreation of their constituents. 




My favorite mission based retail of all is (RED).  (RED) was founded in 2006 by U2's rockin' front man Bono and the charitable and brilliant Bobby Shriver to get businesses and people involved in the fight against AIDS, particularly in places where the people have no access, education, or resources to fight for their lives. 

The difference between (RED) and other charities, is that it's not a charity - it's a choice.  As a consumer, there are things you already know you're going to buy.  When you choose (RED) products and companies, they're often the same price as non-(RED) items, but profits and donations are made to the organization. 

Today, of the nearly 37 million people in the world living with HIV, nearly 15 million have access to life-saving treatment that costs as little as 30 cents a day. While this is incredible progress, we've still got a lot of work to do to ensure that all those who need medication have access to it.

(RED) was created to help provide a sustainable flow of money from the private sector to fight AIDS. Together, they've raised over $324 million to date through the sale of (RED) products from iconic companies - like Apple and Starbucks – and from (RED) events. And 100% of that money goes to work on the ground.  Because of the progress made in the fight against AIDS, the world is now on the cusp of an incredible possibility – we can deliver the first AIDS FREE GENERATION in over 30 years. Every day 600 babies are born with HIV. Yet with access to antiretroviral treatment, we can prevent the transmission of the virus from moms to babies. Without it, 50% of babies will die before their second birthday.  Only urgency and action will help us achieve the goal. If we act now, an AIDS FREE GENERATION can become a reality. The question is not ‘Can we do it?... It’s ‘Will we do it?’

Use your buying power for good.  Turn your dollars into sense.

a toast to you

Don't get me wrong - I love those long, lazy brunches that seem to have a never-ending bottle of champagne and menus so extensive they should require a table of contents to guide you through the plethora of plates and options.  But sometimes, I just like a wonderful piece of toasted bread, with butter or jam, and an espresso to drink.

A few years ago I was the sales and clientele manager for Williams-Sonoma.   While there, we had the opportunity to participate in various contests. And if you know me, you know I'm incredibly competitive, especially for my teams.  We must win.  One of the prizes I was gifted was a beautiful see-through toaster from Magimix. And of course, the first thing I wanted to do was celebrate and have a "toast party" with The Nana and The Grandfather.  So with a little coordination, we somehow ended up with nothing short of a feast - beautiful breads, fresh fruits, jams and spreads, juice and various vini, and even a super special 20 year aged balsamic vinegar with white truffles. 

I'm sure the last words you'd associate together are "toaster" and "party" - but it was a celebration indeed, and had really nothing to do with the toast.  

This was a party for life.  For spending time with those you love, doing things you love.  Abbondanza in Italian means more than just abundance - it implies a richness, an overwhelming sense of love and comfort.

This festa con brindisi fuels part of my passion and thoughts for retail.  If we minimize the options, but maximize the quality, integrity, and emotional connection of whatever goods and services we're selling, we've guaranteed clients for life.

At first glance, a trip to Billy Reid  might give the impression of a very limited selection.  If you're looking for an orange polo shirt, you may scan the store quickly, not seeing what you had hoped for, and quickly exit.  But if you're looking for the most incredible quality, where no detail is too great, and everything has, not just a purpose, but a story -- you've found the right place.  Each Billy Reid store oozes authenticity, from vintage books and artwork as props, to fresh flowers and candles for ambiance.  There's nothing manufactured or sterile feeling.  A polo style shirt from Billy Reid might cost around US$125, but the quality, durability, and attention to fit and feel far outweigh the competition.  And over time, that more expensive shirt will last much longer than their cheaper, mass produced cousins, realizing a beautiful return on investment.

I'm not a minimalist when it comes to fashion.  While I appreciate the clean lines and aesthetic of Jil Sander and Theory, sometimes you need the opulence and over-the-top ornate detail peppered in your life.  While not a minimalist, I am definitely in favor of minimizing distractions, wasted resources, and meaningless action.  And this is exactly my approach to building a strong clientele.  Your relationships should always be genuine, coming from a place of love, quality, and inspiration.  I know this sounds counterproductive to business, but I'd much rather a client come visit the boutique 20 times and buy one small leather good they're in love with, than amassing a wardrobe of products they'll never wear or use, purchased out of obligation and not because they loved them.  These purchases on a whim aren't purchases at all, but soon-to-be returns.  Part of building a strong clientele is establishing trust, leaving your clients with an air of elegance and education for the brand. 

Every time I eat toast, I think of that incredible moment I shared a few years ago.  There's so much meaning, so much inspiration, so many overwhelmingly positive emotions kneaded into every piece of toasted bread.  In a business setting, especially within the luxury industry, the exchange of time is the ultimate luxury.  It's my hope to encourage other business leaders to define their expectations, establish a corporate culture that creates a dynamic environment to clientele, holding their associates accountable by constant feedback and coaching-in-the-moment, celebrating successes, overcoming opportunities creatively, and ultimately realizing better-than-expected results while using less resources.  Together, we can break bread.  Find your own toast. Make your own party.  And always remember that moment. 

Happy New Year

part of me hope you're all resolving to live more fashionable, more meaningful, and more glamourous lives. but part of me hope you're already living the most fashionable, most meaningful, and most glamourous life as you can.

it's nice to have something to hope for, a time in our lives that reminds us to get back to basics, fine tuning your focus onto what and who is important. but at the same time, shouldn't we all inherently want to de-clutter our lives and concentrate our existence, maximizing meaning and minimizing expenditure of resources?

i've got a myriad of thoughts streaming through my mind. there's so much i want to say. and nothing at all.

it's cold outside, so i'm happy to wear some of my favourite warm weather gear. right now, i'm loving my double-faced wool peacoat from Ralph Lauren's Rugby it's got military style buttons, is very streamlined, a little extra tailoring than normal, and comes right to the bottom of my hips. perfect length for "not so cold" cold weather. easy to get in and out of the car with. and has the warmest, softest pockets. the little details are fabulous too - visible darting, tone-on-tone top stitching, backer buttons, and silk lining. loads of interior, hidden pockets. and a reinforced loop to hang on coat hooks and such.

i love cooking. for myself, for my friends and family, for other people. my family has always loved cooking and entertaining, but it took on an entirely new meaning when my Mom died. cooking = memories. cooking = a gift. cooking = sustenance for the body, nourishment for the soul.

i love traveling. new food, new fashion, new friends, new finds, new cultures and experiences.

as much as i love being around people, i also like eating by myself. at the bar of fabulous restaurants. you get better service. and the people watching is much better than in the restaurant. and if you're lucky, order what the bar tender orders or recommends, and the kitchen staff will go out of their way to prepare in the most perfect way your food. because when you eat the bar tender's recommendation at the tender's bar, it's not just the reputation of the restaurant, but the reputation of the bar tender as well, that's on the line. and everyone benefits.

i love when people pay attention to the simple details done well. the perfect crema on espresso. taking the time to arrange a proper bouquet of flowers. holding the door for others. wrapping a present with the most beautiful papers, ribbons, and decor. remembering people's preferences. in essence, surrounding yourself with beauty, thought, class, and comfort.

i can't wait for my new iPhone to arrive. i've had the same iPhone for nearly 5 years, and it's time to upgrade. part of me is a little disappointed - i've kept the device in mint condition - but all of the software updates and such are a little too complex for the now out-of-date hardware. but the other part of me is overjoyed. you see, my trusty iPhone has lasted much longer than most mobilephones on the market today, so i'm thankful. and hope i get as much use, enjoyment, and entertainment from the new one as i have from my current device.


i'm kind of obsessed with food halls. you know, grocers and grocery departments of upscale stores. like Harvey Nichols. Harrods. Williams-Sonoma. Fortnum & Mason. Dean & DeLuca. David Jones.

i love beautiful things with function. like fabulous cookware. or incredible shoes/outerware. or a beautiful tote bag. everyday elegance and comfortable luxury.

that's my goal for this year. to maximize my everyday elegance and comfortable luxury, and help you learn how to incorporate this into your every day.

Holiday Suggestions 2011

there are several things this year that I'm really loving, so over the next month, I'm devoting my blog posts to highlighting some fabulous finds. in no particular order:

-- Latissima Plus, by DeLonghi + Nespresso: Nespresso is owned corporately by Nestle, the world's largest food distributor. Collectively, they buy one third of the world's coffee, and reserve the top 1% of that for their own Nespresso pods - so the quality of the coffee is beyond incredible, and only $,57 per shot. Each machine has 19 bars of pressure and a flash heating system, so in less than 30 seconds, they instantly create the best espresso, with the perfect crema and are always between 186 and 195 degrees. Each pod is hermetically sealed, so they stay fresh for a year. And with a flat shipping rate of less than $7, you can order as little as 10 pods or 10,000 pods, and when you place your order by noon, you get them the next business day. What's not to love?! Plus this little gizmo froths the milk, so you get the perfect cappuccino or latte.
-- Garden in a Bag, Christmas Tree! Made by Potting Shed Creations, in Troy, ID, and sold through Branch Home, this plastic-lined kraft-paper bag contains soil, seeds, and the perfect amount of eco-friendly holiday cheer! This great gift allows the giver to color and sign the "tag" on the front of the bag, making it a work of art that also grows. When the plant has outgrown the bag, simply re-pot the plant by removing it from the bag. US$9.00.



-- take the guesswork out of giving with these "get the hint" gift tags from CB2! Ask and you shall receive (or at least be heard). Five not so subtle message pads peel, stick and flag your faves. Set of five pads includes: I Want This, Love These, Buy This, And This, Yes Please. Five assorted mini pads, 20 sticky notes per pad. US$5,95. -- fresh flowers from bbrooks. Why wait for an anniversary, a birthday, or Valentine's Day to send the most incredible bouquet? Sprinkle a bit of holiday cheer with an unexpected, unbelievable arrangement.

- it's not snooty to wear a snood! fur + snood = MUST. HAVE. NOW! I can't get enough - this might be the hottest (and warmest!) accessory ever. Available only for the coolest modelcitizen you know.


-- three things I love: GQ Magazine, Maison Martin Margiela, and my iPhone. Put them all together and you get the GQ recommended MMM iPhone case. Yes please! Here's what GQ had to say: "To paraphrase our pal Yeezy, "What's that phone case, Margiela?" Yes, yes it is. So does your iPhone really need a leather sheath and shearling interior? Probably not. Will it thank you every time you drop it behind the bar at 3a.m. after one too many whiskeys? Count on it." US$410 at porvocacao.com.

luxe loves, sounds, and tastes

(in no particular order of importance)

-- basketweave - from those fabulously fierce peep toe stiletto boots from Gucci, to the lambskin woven jacket for men from Dolce & Gabbana, I'm loving basketweave. And speaking of baskets - Longaberger baskets bring an old world Americana vibe to any room, any time.

-- Chanel's J-12 marine watch, featuring black sand blasted ceramic, matte rubber sport strap, self winding Swiss mechanical movement, and 42-hour power reserve. Resists water to 300 feet, and attracts women up to 300 miles.

-- floral everything - much like basketweave, I'm loving the mix of florals and patterns. Liberty of London packs a powerful punch.

-- I can't get enough of Ministry of Sound - their beats are the soundtrack to my mind right now.

-- my new favourite snack is toast. with proper jams and jellies. Like Orange and Fortnum's Champagne marmalade from Fortnum & Mason and the Sicilian red orange marmalade from Colle Vicario.

-- I love the renewed excitement and discovery that Verizon users have for their new iPhones. Now they understand my technological dependence. my iPhone revolutionized my life a few years ago. Welcome to the party.

powerful pennies

I don't know why, but I've been glued to the latest news regarding the protests and uprising in Tunisia, Egypt, and on smaller scales in Yemen, Jordan, and Algeria. I can't imagine how the young people must feel, having worked so hard to attend and graduate college, only to find a jobless reality and incredibly corrupt governments with exorbitantly priced daily necessities. Frustrating to say the least.

It's understandable for those of us out of the region to feel helpless. But our pennies are powerful. Here are some fabulous finds. Let our pocketbooks send a message - we support those who want to support themselves through education, hard work, and peace.

Azza Fahmy - Known to be the leading jewelery designer in the Arab World, Ms. Fahmy has more than 40 years experience leading her company with the most amazing Egyptian design influence. Her pieces can be found from London to Cairo and are simply stunning.

Williams-Sonoma - The purveyor of all things cooking, the kitchen giant currently features a Tunisian tagine, hand-painted by a single artist. This earthenware dish can be used for traditional North African dishes, as well as couscous and rice dishes. If you've never cooked with a tagine - the cone shape makes for incredibly moist foods. This version features food-safe paints and glazes, is made of hand-thrown clay to retain heat, is perfect for cooking and serving, and is oven and microwave safe.

Eau de Sisley 2, one of my favourite fragrances, features Jasmine from Egypt. The sultry mix of delicate florals and strong organic notes is incredibly intoxicating.

Sometimes when our voices can't be heard, our dollars can make sense.

I just can't get enough

(in no particular order)

-- Slingbox

-- the unending pleasure and satisfaction of cooking a simple, delicious meal for friends and/or family. Maybe it's fueled by my secret obsession with kitchen gadgets, electrics, and tools. I might possibly be able to spend hours and hours inside stores like Williams-Sonoma, Crate & Barrel, Sur le Table, and the food halls of Marks & Spencer, Harrods, or David Jones.

-- Bleu de Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana's The One Gentleman fragrances

-- The Louis Vuitton/Edun collaboration for the Conservation Cotton Initiative Uganda.

-- It seems like the two most colored words and textured nouns in fashion are "Marc Jacobs" - from high fashion to awesome accessories to brilliant books to fabulous fragrance, with new store openings and globe trotting like no other, from facebook to twitter to live streaming shows online, Marc Jacobs is bangin'.

-- Christopher Bailey is also rocking my world. A magical mix of military inspired versions of traditional English tailoring thrust forward into the 21st century - his anglomania is going to dominate the world. And your closet, if you're lucky.

-- I live for Olive. This fall, it's great to be green, and I don't just mean for the environment. Olive green, military green, army green, British racing green - I just can't get enough.