Be My Guest: A Warm Welcome For Summer House Guests

(Via Ooh La Frou Frou)

No matter where you call home in the Summer - the big city, on a lake, near the ocean, or in the country - chances are your friends and family will find you. Make your guests feel at home (or even better than at home) with a little bit of simple preparation.  Just think about what makes you comfy in a hotel. Chances are, your guests will like the same.  When it comes to hospitality, it truly is the "little things" that count.

Astor Moss - Designer's Guild

A soft look for a contemporary home.  Shades of citrus mixed with white is refreshing for the warmer months.

Designer's Guild

India Hicks Bedding
You may know the name from reading about royalty.  India was a bridesmaid for Princess Di.  Her Father was one of the world's most renowned designers.  The girl has some style, and it might be called "Island Style." Her bedding is simple but refined. Pictured above is the English Garden pattern.  See the entire collection at 
HSN

Laguna Seagrass Baskets
What to do with bath towels, beach towels or sundries? Display them in the guest room in an organized fashion with a pleasing presentation. There will be no confusion as to which towels to use. This is a set of 3 with a real beachy feel. 
Serena and Lily

Jacaranda Living Waffle Weave Bathrobe
Robes take up sacred space in the suitcase. I always try to have at least one fresh robe in the guest closet.  After all, what's good enough for Ritz Carlton guests is perfect for my own special company. This one is priced very reasonably.
One Kings Lane

Serena And Lily Catalina Bedding
If you live seaside or want to make your guests feel like they do, this is a delightful coordinated set, without being matchy matchy.
Serena and Lily

Super Loft Feather Bed
Have you actually laid on your guest bed? If not, it is time to do so. Would you want to sleep in that bed?  If not, a feather bed may be what you need. They are especially helpful on a sofa bed.  I have trouble sleeping without one. These are fabulous!
Pacific Coast Feather

Aya Blu Soap Set
A fresh bar of soap is not only courteous, it is a necessity.  Stock up on guest soaps when you see them on sale. Tuck them away in your own lingerie drawers, for an instant pick me up. These long-lasting, moisturizing soaps are quad-milled for a supremely rich and creamy lather. They ship for free and are now on sale. for less than $15
Soft Surroundings

Gobi Towels And Sheeting

Not so basic but just simply stylish. These sheets and towels are the perfect pairing for a lovely guest experience.  If the guest room has its' own bath en suite, all the more perfect.  Find them both at 
Serena and Lily

Ellen Luggage Rack
A handy essential that makes life so much easier for your guest.
One Kings Lane

Borasilicate Glass Carafe and Glass
Like a fine hotel, I like to have water ready for my guests at bedtime. It is a thoughtful gesture that is appreciated by all. This set comes with a cup, as well.
Burke Decor

Charlottenberg - Dramatic Bedlinen
I just want to get in this bed. How welcoming! Designer's Guild does it again with fine linen and a pretty palette.
Designer's Guild

Arteriors Gold Snail Container
A flowering plant or fresh flowers will always be welcomed in a guest room. Loving this chic cachepot at
Zhush

Granada Monogram Embossed 
Guest Towel
I love the idea of paper guest towels.  First of all, there is no laundry to do.  The monogram is always classic and classy.  Your guests will appreciate not having to soil your linens, as well. This is a set of 100 which will last at least a season.
Swoozie's

Sparkling Embers Diffuser Set
With the scent of rare botanics, this is one of the most stylish diffuser containers I have ever seen. DL and Co. only creates fabulous fragrances, and they are one of my favorites. The only problem is that with a room that smells this lovely, your guest may never want to leave.
Barneys New York

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Foodie Friday: A Celebration Of French Food

(Via Etsy)

Beginning today , the eyes of the world will be on Normandy, and the 70th Anniversary of D-Day. The Battle at Normandy was the worst of times, But today we celebrate freedom and the lives of those lost, my own uncle included, with some fabulous French food!

Bon Appetit!

Ratatouille Brunch Bake
 A French peasant dish that is as colorful as the language. A fun company recipe!
The Woks Of Life

How to Make French Crepes
Without a French bone in my body (though my husband and daughter both are of French descent) I grew up on French crepes! Go figure. As a child I was very fond of these wafer thin delights spread with butter and jelly, then sprinkled with powdered sugar.  Here is an authentic but easy recipe to follow.
Spicie Foodie

Petits Croques-Monsieur
The French sure know how to elevate a ham and cheese sandwich! And those cute cornichons!
Taste

Chocolate Soufflé With Hazelnut Ganache
Don't be afraid of a souffle. It's alright to be perfectly imperfect!
SBS Australia

Verrine Fraicheur: Cucumber, Yogurt and Smoked Salmon
The perfect dish to cool off with in the warmer months!
La Tartine Gourmande

Almond Praline Profiterole Stack
And the average delicious profiterole just got kicked up a notch.  These sure look fun.
Taste

Onion Soup With Cabernet Franc
Is there a better soup? Not in my book. Find this beautiful recipe at
Gourmet Traveller

Seared-Tuna Niçoise Salad with 
Sesame-Miso Dressing
One of my favorite salads has been reimagined in the most beautiful fashion.  How impressive!
Food and Wine

Coquilles St-Jacques 
(Gratinéed Scallops)
This was the first meal I prepared for my husband after we were married. It's a rich dish, and probably best served as an appetizer. I happen to love the look of it. The taste is divine!
Saveur

Crème Brulée
I have always wanted to make this but don't have a kitchen torch! I think it is high time I get one.  This recipe is easy yet impressive.
30 Pounds Of Apples

Here is a rather inexpensive torch at Sur La Table

A French Press Cold Brew
After my Meg spent a Summer in Paris, she came back stating that we HAD TO get a French Press Coffee Maker. It was the only way to enjoy a cup of coffee. We tried it, and it is great fun, and I hear, full of flavor. After reading this article, you'll say "oui," too.
The Kitchn

P.S. I love Bodum's Gold EILEEN 8-Cup French Press Coffee Maker at Zappos Ooh La La!

Summer Tomato Bouillabaisse
With Basil Rouille
One of my favorite restaurant meals. And that piece of bread is essential to getting every drop of the wine enhanced sauce.
Bon Appetit

Cherry Blossom Macarons
And though I have never tried to make a French Macaron, I've enjoyed a few in my day. These were just too pretty not to include. Note to my friend, Mollie, you simply must visit Ladurée when visiting Paris!
Anna and Blue

Aran Goyoaga’s Wild Mushroom, 
Taleggio And Fig Tarts (Gluten Free)
A savory, gluten free dish by the creator of Cannelle et Vanille. How lovely to serve with a salad for brunch!
Taste-Williams Sonoma

Tomato Tarte Tatin 
A tarte tatin is so very French! Make it with tomatoes and it becomes a Summer favorite for me. Such a burst of color and sunshine for the plate! Sweet and Savory.
The Boston Globe

Double Chocolate Mousse
One of my very favorite things on earth!  Chocolate is paired with  Crème Chantilly for a very elegant dessert.
Huffington Taste

Parisian Breakfast: Quiche with Brussels Sprouts, Shallots, and Dill
 Flaky buttery crust with a different technique to making the filling. Read about it at
Food 52

You haven't had an eclair until you have tried one of Chef Adam's at L'Eclair De Genie located in Paris' Marais neighborhood.


L'Éclair De Genie
14 Rue Pavée, 75004 Paris, France
+33 1 42 77 85 11





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Favorites For Fathers: A Dad's Day Gift Guide

(Via Izak Zenou)

Dad's come in all shapes and sizes and from all walks of life.  It's hard to pin down the perfect gift, because dads are a bit difficult. I think what they really want the most is our love, respect, and some special time together. After all of that, a present is just icing on the cake.  

Here:  My Fave Finds. I Hope Your Father Fancies Them, Too.

W + P Homemade Gin Kit
For DIY Dads. He'll make bright, herbaceous gin that’s perfect for Negronis, Martinis, Gin and Tonics, and more, right in his own kitchen.  Cheers, Pops!
Sur La Table

Travel Chef BBQ Set
Most Dad's think they are King of the grill, this gift will confirm it. Any grill master will proudly carry these tools of the trade from family picnic to the block party.
Uncommon Goods

Ultimate Pantry Basket
A great gift to send to Foodie Father's across the miles! Delivered from Salumeria, Chef McNaughton’s artisan deli and larder. All the items—from house-made salumis to artfully-crafted olive oils, vinegars, salts, and more—will come with a note from Thomas explaining why he uses them in his own award-winning restaurants.
If Only

We Wood Watches
Even if Dad has a collection of watches, he probably doesn't have one of these.  WEWOOD fashions wooden timepieces from mostly scrap-wood and uses state-of-the-art Miyota movements. The result is an unique watch that's both handsome and earth friendly.  Best yet, You buy a watch and they plant a tree!
We - Wood

BT Eco-Friendly Paper Bag
If Dad takes his environment seriously, he will appreciate this utility tote by Monocle this Summer.  An architect might tote his rolled blueprints, a businessman will use it as extra space for file folders that don't fit in the briefcase. The boater will tote his belongings to and from the boat. A gardener will carry his tools. Well, you get the idea.
Need Supply

Crosley Radio Executive USB Turntable
Old School cool with a twist! If Dad has a record collection, it probably is a little dusty now. A portable, vintage-style turntable easily converts your old records from vinyl to digital files. Stereo speakers play his favorite tunes at full volume.
Nordstrom's

Hamilton Beach Drink Master 
The key to most men is thru their stomachs. Which dad wouldn't love a milkshake? This retro machine turns his counter into a soda fountain. A yummy idea now on sale.
JC Penney

Bogner Polo Golf Shirt
Even duffer Dads will look like pros in this color blocked Fire + Ice shirt with exclusive Heritage embroidery. Sold only at
Bogner

Flight 001 F1 Spacepak Set

Here's a fab find for the frequent flyer or road warrior. This four piece set will keep him organized wherever in the world he lands.

Shop Bop

Overlap Tray By Offi 

Work at home Dads will appreciate the portability a tray offers. This hybrid table allows him to bring his office with him, check email on the deck, sit in front of a fire, or enjoy breakfast in bed.
2Modern

GIORGIO FEDON 1919
MW Canvas and Leather Duffle Bag
From the Michael Wong collection, this luxe looking carryall will make Dad feel first class anytime he uses it.
Forizeri

Fragrance For Fathers
If Dad has been splashing Old Spice and English Leather for years, it's time to step up his game. Give him something as unique as he is. Think palm leaves and sea salt from Heeley Paris, notes of cedar wood and vetiver of Ulrich Lang New York, and the Spicy amber fragrance called Boise 1920. He'll love your originality.
Barney's New York

Apple iPad Air
Is Dad a gadget guru? If he loves anything "Apple," the new iPad Air is the best gift for any Dad OR Grad! It's lighter than air, which makes it fantastic for flying Fathers.  My own cyber challenged husband, Mr. Shop This, really enjoys his - much more than he thought he would. Dad will read the paper, get MLB scores, and read e-mail on the fly. Find his best choice now on sale at
Best Buy

Boatman Geller Monogram 
Phone Case
Get personal with Dad and dial up some style. This perfectly preppy cover can be designed with his favorite fonts for almost any phone he might be carrying. 
Zhush

Royal Highnies Boxer Set
When nothing comes between he and his Calvin's except for these 100% 400-thread count cotton boxers. Fun!
Stanley Korshak

Enamel Block Initial Cuff Links
Spell it out with his initials, Let Dad know that you care and you mean business with these classic and chic cuff links. Under $50
C. Wonder

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