Traveling for Food :: First Stop – Marrakech, Morocco

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A trip this summer took me to Morocco, Spain and a quick jaunt to Bordeaux, France. The trip was nothing short of amazing. The food, wine, culture, markets, shopping, sun, sand, hikes, train-rides – all an adventure. What at home could be classified as mundane morning coffee is a cultural experience in another country. Marrakech, Morocco is a magical place. … Continue reading »

Acapulco Chairs

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I feel in love with acapulco chairs during my wedding weekend in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.  I’ve only found one in Austin that I saw out front of a random furniture store while driving. Like any normal person, I pulled an erratic u-turn and bought it! I need about 5 more, and realize I might just have to drive down … Continue reading »

Marfa, Marfa, Marfa

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There aren’t many words to describe Marfa, Texas. This way west Texas town is sorta like western Kansas but with a chic edge.  We biked down the middle of highways, enjoyed warm, dry pool weather and cool, dry nights, a welcome break from the Austin 100+ humid heat. There’s not much to see, not much to do, but for some … Continue reading »

Love and Breast Cancer

This blog is typically dedicated to food and random stuff I find at antique malls and flea markets (or Target:), but I went to post some food and all I can think about is mom, so here goes, short and sweet personal post… It’s been almost a year since my mom’s breast cancer diagnosis. This tiny yet incredibly strong woman … Continue reading »

Pretty in Pink Peonies

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I love pink peonies, especially in my “new to me” vintage fish vase/pitcher. Not much else to say about that, they’re just great. Perfect in every room.

Make These NOW: Herb and Cheese Biscuits

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Over the weekend I made these little gems.  Buttery and bursting with herbs and cheese, they were a hit with the neighbors, so much so that leftovers were divided among each dinner guest. Since I don’t love parsley, I omitted,  and amped up the other herbs. These first ran the November 2009 issue of Bon Appetit as part of a … Continue reading »

Designer Vintage

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St. Louis (my hometown) has in my opinion, some of the best antique, vintage and consignment shops.  I love a mix of antique furniture from shabby to mid-century, blended into a room with new, modern pieces (I also use the same aesthetic for food styling).  Sometimes while browsing for these “treasures” I’ll spot a fabulous fur, bag or piece of … Continue reading »

Chef’s Table Suckling Pig at The Breslin NYC

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Outside it’s hot, humid, loud and sunny. Inside The Breslin is cool and dark. An oasis, with my very own suckling pig (well, to share). The meal, in celebration of a dear friend’s 30th birthday was decadent and memorable. Perfect. THE MENU 5.28.11 WHOLE ROASTED SUCKLING PIG accompanied by… Herbed Caesar salad with anchovy croutons Duck Fat Potatoes (best I’ve … Continue reading »

Fata Lou’s Banana Nut Cake

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Sometimes I lack patience when it comes to the precision needed in baking. That said, I’ve been known to push my fears aside for a simple, delicious cake. My grandmother’s Banana Nut Cake is my kind of baking: unfussy, comforting, yet special. Typically this cake is baked in a 9×13-inch pan and is essentially a “snack cake”. Knowing that if … Continue reading »