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Friday, June 10, 2016

Foodie Friday: 23 Picnic Perfect Provisions & Recipes


Even if life isn't a picnic, you can still throw one. It's amazing what a little time outdoors and some fine food can do for one's mood. There's something about eating outdoors on a blanket that makes eating anything just a little bit better. Today we are elevating the pastime of picnicking with fanciful finds like fringed food domes, blooming blankets, the perfect lobster roll and more. 

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Parisian Picnic Basket
The right picnic basket is necessary. Could one be any better looking than this? This wonderful insulated basket includes stainless steel salt and pepper shakers and a wine opener. I think it makes a gorgeous gift.
 Neiman Marcus     

The Perfect Lobster Roll
If you can believe, I had my first Lobster Roll on Mother's Day. Of course, I loved it, but I found that I was looking for more of the little cubes of meat. This recipe with the whole lobster tail visible in the top split bun, leaves no surprises. 
Refinery29      

Paris Market Parisian Dinnerware
Made of melamine, these pretty plates add Parisian flair to your outdoor affair. 
Neiman Marcus  

Rosé Sangria
I was on quite a Sangria kick last Summer. It is the prettiest picnic beverage. Cool, refreshing, and just so fun to drink. 
How Sweet Eats  

Picnic Pie
This magnificent pie, is a brilliant showcase of fresh and seasonal produce. The ingredients had me at fresh basil and goat cheese!
Jamie Oliver   

PieBox
This week I witnessed a fellow passenger boarding a plane with a stylishly wrapped ( in fabric ) pie.  The poor dear needed this box!  If you are serious about the safety of your pies, so do you.
Food52      

The Berry Best Four Berry Pie
With a crust said to be "nearly as soft, sweet and supple as sugar cookie dough," this pie looks like Grandma's.  I just know that "Mr. Shop This," will want it for a Father's Day treat!
Foodie Crush 

Tuscan Tuna Sandwich
This stellar sammi features eight layers of deliciousness. The beautiful color comes from fresh arugula and purple cabbage. Tuna never looked so good.
Half Baked Harvest  

Color Dipped Picnic Cutlery Set and Napkins
Chic and colorful, these pretty pieces truly are picnic perfect! Both can be found at
Shop Terrain   

Layered Chicken Salad with Coriander-Yogurt Dressing
An easy and colorful salad that is layered in advance.  Looks healthy and sounds delish! You can find the serving jars at Amazon.
Food and Wine    

Kate Spade Patio Picnic Blanket
A pretty pick in a fanciful floral print. One side is cotton and the other nylon, making it a chic choice for grass or sand.

Mesh Food Cover Dome
Simply irresistible! Fringed and fabulous, this darling dome keeps the critters at bay in the most stylish way.

Grilled Chicken Panzanella
Grilled bread, marinated chicken with honey, fresh dill, and colorful heirloom tomatoes all add up to a picnic perfect salad!

Wine and Cheese Picnic Basket
Just add wine! One of my favorite finds. It also makes an unexpected and great gift!

Fried Chicken and Cole Slaw Rolls
What a combo, right? The crunch of the fried chicken and coleslaw stuffed into a soft yeast roll is so appealing. The coleslaw is unique as it is mixed with a buttermilk dressing.

Curried Chicken And Lentil Pita Pockets
Aren't pita pockets just great for holding everything? This is a super light recipe made with yogurt. Add grapes, almonds and plenty of herbs, you have a colorful combination that is actually rather healthy.

 Mon Oncle V2 Barbecue
I have long been a fan of this portable grill. It's super stylish in four colors and great for grilling on the go.
A + R Store    

Ham Spinach and Gruyére Quiche
I so love a quiche! It's picnic perfect because it is so easy to transport. Good warm or at room temperature, this is a winner for your next adventure in outdoor dining. 
Cozy Kitchen   

Avalon Bamboo Caddy
Add a dose of color while you stay organized at your next picnic.

German Chocolate Brownies In A Jar
Coconut, chocolate, brownies, espresso. What's not to love?
Foodie Crush   

W & P Design Cocktail Kit
Every picnic needs their own mixologist. 
AHAlife     


Potato Salad with Bacon and Barbecue Sauce
Because bacon makes everything better.....Can you just imagine the smoky sweet flavor?
Food and Wine   

Strawberry and Goat Cheese Hero
This no fuss sandwich combines fresh ingredients that compliment each other. Marc gives you a step to step tutorial from his kitchen to yours.
Marc J. Sievers  

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Wednesday, June 8, 2016

A Thoughtful Father's Day Gift Guide

(Via Etsy)

Dads get a bad rep for being difficult to buy for. They aren't really. If you give it a little thought, you will be inspired by his personality, passions, and pastimes. Today's roundup features unique ideas for the clothes horse, preppy pops, rockers, and more. Stay tuned for last minute ideas coming next week. 




 Do-It-For-You Photo Album Service
One of the best gifts always, is a memory. Preserve Dad's with this very personal gift. Tweed Wolf will create a hard cover album from as many digital photos you wish to provide. This is certainly one gift that is as unique as Dad is! 
IfOnly     

Rock Covers
A book for guys of all ages who love their music, from Elvis to Nirvana. Rock on, Dad!
Amazon 

My Life Story - So Far
This is a gift that will keep on giving for years and generations to come.  This journal prompts Dad to record his life experiences, loves and losses, and hard-won wisdom.
Uncommon Goods  

Coach Daddy & Me Series
Let's play two. For the baseball lover and his son, daughter or grandchildren. Made entirely by hand with glove tanned leather. These gorgeous gloves come in adult or child sizes in three rich hues. The gift of memorable moments together.
Coach  

Tripolina Chair
He cheered you on from the sidelines, all of your life. Now it is time to give him a stylish seat of his own. Designed by Segno Italiano in Milan, Italy, it's a classic chair with a minimalist vibe. He'll use it at soccer games, fishing, tailgaiting and more!
AHAlife   

Luxe Leather Gifts
You will find beautiful limited edition leather bound books, leather wrapped pens. fabulous frames, and terrific tech cases at Graphic Image. Personalize any gift to make it even extra special!
Graphic Image    

The Harrison Collection
Dad works hard to bring home the bacon. This luxe leather collection gets down to business with architecturally driven silhouettes. Whether he is a classic CEO or a modern mogul, these leather bags will make Dad at least look like he loves his job!
Tumi  

Daniel Boulud Smoked Salmon In Wooden Box
They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. It's also been said that Salmon is very heart healthy. So this delicious gift is a double winner! I have had the pleasure of tasting this delicacy at Daniel Boulud's NYC restaurant. Dad will love it!
Dean & Deluca   

Rolling Cooler
The coolest Dad on earth deserves the coolest thing on wheels. I've featured this hardworking icebox before. I'm bringing it back just in time for Father's Day fun. P.S. It's on sale!
CB2     

Sole Bicycles
The perfect bike for guys who love the great outdoors. These high performance bicycles are stylish and affordable. Made with passion in Venice, California.
AHAlife    



Ferragamo Father & Son Silk Tie Set
Some Dads wouldn't get too excited for a tie. But any Father of a boy would love to show off his good taste on his most precious possession. Hearts will melt over this gift.
Nordstrom's 

Ray-Ban Sunglasses with Madras
For the preppy pop! You can't get any more  classic than these. Dads who are mad for plaid are often overlooked. Yours will love you for this subtle nod to his old school style.

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Leather Photo Albums


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Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Suit Up: One Piece Wonders

(Via Megan Hess)

I have been in the Sunshine State for ten days, and wore a swimsuit every day. I soon discovered that I didn't pack enough. Shopping for suits is such a trying task, isn't it? I would much prefer to do it in the privacy of my own home. My bikini days are behind me. The only suit I dare to wear is a one piece, and that's okay.  The one piece is always classic, and seems to really be making a splash this season. Here are my top twelve stylish suits.



Greek Tiles Goddess One-Piece
Nanette Lepore has designed a suit that is both sexy and sophisticated. Love the fabulous back!

Lisa Marie Fernandez Swimwear
One of the most feminine, but still sexy, swimwear collections this year. Think ruffles, off the shoulder, one shoulder and more.

Mara Hoffman Peacocks Green Bustier

Roidal Brasil Megan
This lovely line of swimwear is new to me, but I found the collection quite chic. Isn't this one a beauty? You will also love the matching pareos and coverups.

Riviera Print Rash Guard
Love this beachy chic look for fun in the sun! It's sporty with a colorful vibe.

Suboo Cutout Halter
For those who have nothing to hide!
Neiman Marcus and Amazon   


Into The Wild
A terrific tropical Italian print. 
J. Crew    


 Peixoto Flamingo Swimsuit
Dare to be bold at the beach. What a great color. Just add your faux tan!
Shopbop  

Lenny Niemeyer Knotted One-Piece
This is one of my faves and perhaps one of the sexiest of the edit. Do click thru to see the fabulous front of this suit.
Anthropologie  

Zoey Swimsuit
Of course AP, designers of super sexy lingerie. would create equally alluring swimwear. The Zoey is pretty in black or white. To really get noticed, unzip the working zippers and play peekaboo at the pool!

L Space Bonita
I love everything about this suit....from the ruched sweetheart neckline to the lacy cutouts. This style is almost sold out, but I found assorted sizes at the following stores.

Gottex Costa Brava
Bravo for the Brava! The standout stripes create a stunning suit.

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P.S. I am really glad to be back!