Savoring Summer

Amidst all the swim lessons, holiday party planning, and camps, try to take a moment to relax in your yard/balcony/roof deck, etc. It's summer after all, and you certainly deserve to chillax for a minute. Hopefully these images from the pretty French blog, Mr & Mrs Clynk will inspire some reading, sipping lemonade, or just listening to the bird calls. Occasional decompressing and disconnecting from life as we know it truly helps our souls stay balanced.

p.s. you'll want to hightail it to Nantes as soon as you see images from their boutique there...I know I do!

image via Mr and Mrs Clynk

More Liberty of London for Target

I don't know about you, but there were a lot of pretty li'l things from the Liberty of London for Target line that I just couldn't get my hands on. Well, it turns out a good portion of these quickly-picked-up items are now on Ebay...all 1,734 of 'em.

If there is something you loved that's now "out-of-stock", which pretty much means it isn't coming back, then try your hand here. Bonne chance!

p.s. this gal is a huge fan of the gardening gloves. I'm not sure if they'll make me a better gardener (slim chance), but they're cute on my hands anyway!

image via Liberty of London

Modern First Aid Kit

This would be perfect in our household...it's simple, colorful, easy-to-spot and brings back memories for my husband who lived in Switzerland for stint. I need some extra encouragement to organize my first-aid supplies, which are truly all over the cupboard and house. Little red box, I'll be thinkin' about you.

You can find store locations here or find it online here.

p.s. although not listed as a shop that carries its products, I did notice 2 of these boxes at Zinc on Fillmore in San Francisco a couple of weeks ago.

How to Preserve Fresh Baguettes

Today, over at the Zupas food blog, I am sharing a simple method for preserving those fresh baguettes you don't have time to eat right away! Also, I'm including some bread storage tips from the famous Parisian bakery, Poilane, and my favorite artisan bread sources to date. You can read about all that good stuff here.

image by Stephanie Brubaker - taken at a market in Sarlat, France

Authenticity in Blogging

Last weekend I had the pleasure of attending Evo 10--a fantastic blogging conference for women--thanks to a generous sponsor (Avery). During the closing keynote address, two fantastic women shared their thoughts on authenticity and I have to say they hit the nail right on the head. As a result, I found myself madly trying to write down every word that escaped their lips. Karen from Chookooloonks made me laugh and Brené Brown, made me think. Together, they articulated so well, many of my own thoughts on the subject of blogging. Brené said:

"Authenticity is the courage to be imperfect, set boundaries, and be vulnerable".

"Practicing authenticity when we are struggling is how we invite grace, joy and gratitude into our lives".

When Karen began blogging, she decided up front what her boundaries would be. She decided she wasn't going to blog about tantrums or fights with her husband, but rather the positive elements in her life. It didn't mean she was leading a more charmed life than others, just that she kept certain things private. She learned she could still be authentic without exposing all of her dirty laundry. And since I feel the same way about my own blog, these words resonated with me instantly. If you have any thoughts of your own on the matter, I'd love to hear them...:)

One last quote from Brené:

"We are not our best selves when we are afraid we are not enough".

Such a lovely reminder, isn't it? To focus on what you are, and not what you aren't? Anyway, I hope you all have a great start to your week and thank you, as always, for all of your support. Happy Monday to you!

image via Marie Claire Ideés (I had to use a "tea cup" image as Karen loves, loves, loves a good cup o' tea)

Zara Summer 2010

I popped into Zara a few weeks ago (for the first time in quite awhile) and found myself loving so much of what I saw. Usually I pop in and am drawn to only a couple of pieces, but this time around there was a lot to love. Like a lot. If you live near a Zara, you should pop by for a look-see!

Menu of the Week

Before planning the week's meals, I always cruise my fridge, freezer and pantry looking for ingredients I need to use up. When I planned this particular menu, I found some frozen mahi-mahi, some colorful bell peppers, and some pita bread in the freezer. I always save money when I practice this method and am less wasteful.

Almond Crusted Mahi Mahi + Watercress Salad, Dijon Vinaigrette + Ina's Fresh Corn Salad - loved this meal. You can make the recipe with any white fish really. And Ina's corn salad adds color, texture, and Summertime flavor to any grilled meal.

Pork Souvlaki Kebabs + Greek Salad (no feta for me) + Warm Pita Crisps - always a favorite around here. I added some whole crimini mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions to the skewers.

Slow Cooker Fajitas with Avocado, Cilantro, Sour Cream + Fresh Pineapple Wedges - an easy meal on a day when you have a little time to prep in the morning, but a very busy afternoon ahead. I love to serve these with Tortillaland fresh tortillas (best price seems to be at Costco).

Rigatoni with Sausage and Tomatoes + Red Leaf Lettuce Salad with Yellow Peppers - loved this new family favorite. It's so nice to hear zero complaints at the table...:) An added bonus to this recipe is that it makes a good amount so we can also eat it the next day for lunch.

This is usually the part where I share the desserts/treats I'm making during the week. Well, you'll notice it's empty...a first, right?! Just lots of fresh fruit from the farm stands that just barely popped up (thanks to snow in May, there's been a bit of a delay in the delivery of fresh farm goods). What are you enjoying at your own local farmer's markets and what are some fun recipes you are making with your yummy produce?

image 1 - James Baigrie + Randy Mon for Sunset / image 2 - Stephanie Brubaker / image 3 - William Meppem for the Carefree Cook

Best Picnic Basket

With picnic season in full swing, I can't help but share with you one of my seasonal favorites--this picnic basket by Longaberger. My parents gave one to us during our engagement and we've enjoyed many-a-picnic over the years with this basket. In fact, our basket has withstood 9 moves...two of them cross-country. Very few things made it across the country with us, but this timeless, durable classic was not to be left behind! Amazingly enough it still looks new, almost 11 years later. Our version has a wood top on it with a few toggles (which I highly recommend)...sans fabric liner.

If a picnic basket is not in your near future, throw a large blanket in the trunk of your car for impromptu picnics over the next few months. I am always surprised how often we use ours and the kids really enjoy the spontaneity of a last-minute picnic.

p.s. you can find good deals on these high-quality picnic baskets on Ebay too.

image used with permission from honey & jam (a lovely food blog most assuredly worthy of a peek)

Paul Ferney Paintings

I recently popped by Paul Ferney's San Francisco studio to check out his latest and greatest. I've long since admired his painting style and thought it a real treat to see the art in person. I left with a pretty, little painting from his recent series of cypress trees and am completely in love with it. In fact, when I dropped it off at the framer, all of the associates instantly gushed over the painting and asked me to write down Paul's name so they could look him up. If you've never taken a minute to peruse his site and blog, you really should--he's quite talented (as is his wife Jordan, but this you likely know already!).

Favorite Onesies

While I definitely consider a $38 onesie a splurge, one of these would make such a special baby gift. They are pretty much the cutest onesies I've ever seen. I would be the mom that would put my child in the same outfit every.single.day if it was this soft and this adorable.

Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes + Basil

We are huge fans of pasta in this household...huge. Paired with a simple green salad and a crusty bread, it's the perfect meal. I've made this recipe twice in the past couple of weeks--that's how much we love it! In fact, my husband declared it the best pasta with red sauce I've ever made.

Today I'm sharing my recipe here...enjoy!

image by Stephanie Brubaker

Lemonade Stand

On one recent afternoon, my oldest daughter asked if she could put together a lemonade stand. I We couldn't think of anything in the home suitable for a little table, so we made our own using one of our bar stools and a heavy, cardboard tray from Costco. With some kitchen twine and kid-size scissors as aids, I secured the tray to the stool before throwing a tablecloth over it to hide our primitive {but seemingly functional} handy work. It worked like a charm and served as a reminder that it isn't necessary to have the "perfect" this or "perfect" that to create a positive experience.

As she went to grab the powdered stuff, I explained to her that she could charge more per cup if she made homemade lemonade instead. The thought of being able to charge 75 cents per cup made her eyes widen and her jaw drop--that's big money for an 8-year-old! We then discussed the simple business idea of needing to purchase your supplies first, and how a profit is your revenue minus expenses. In this case she bought lemons from me (one lemon for garnish and required sugar was on-the-house) and then juiced the lemons herself, which she said was "fun, but a lot of work". We made a simple syrup to mix with the fresh-squeezed juice before cooling and adding crushed ice. I threw in cute paper party straws from France and a bonified lemonade stand it was indeed.

Since we live on a quiet cul-de-sac, a bit of marketing was needed to drive traffic; I decided to text my neighbors to let them know refreshment awaited them outside. It was so sweet to see a few friends pop out of their homes for a glass of lemonade--talk about good neighbors! Lemonade stands are truly one of Summer's greatest simple pleasures, don't you think? I have a feeling we'll be hosting another one soon...this time with little brother :)

Welcome Vandalia Letterpress

Today I want to extend a warm welcome to one of my new sponsors--Vandalia Press from Minneapolis--the star of the "Affordable Letterpress" post last month. Ever since discovering this witty little shop, I haven't been able to get those delightful oranges out of my mind. Talk about happy mail!

Besides the oranges, I am also a huge fan of Vandalia's 5-for-15 promotion--friends, this is an outstanding bargain. Five letterpress cards {of your choice} for just $15! For the price of a plain paper card from the grocery store you could send a luxurious, well-designed card instead. I sure love a good deal, don't you? Particularly when the good deal is on items I consider luxuries.

A couple other clever favorites I haven't seen the likeness of anywhere else:

Bun in the oven (a humorous, but classy way to express your heartfelt congratulations)

I'm So Sorry (a thoughtful away to start making amends--if we were all a bit wiser, we'd have a few of these on hand--or maybe I'm just speaking for myself!)

Hip Hop Birthday (a really fun card for the break dancer or the hip teen)

Woodland Sugar Cookies

The perfect addition to your Woodland Fairy Party--sweet little cookie cutters from IKEA. As a simple, inexpensive party favor you could make iced sugar cookies in the shape of a fox, squirrel or hedgehog and then place them in a clear, cellophane bag adorned with ribbon. Precious! I wish I'd spotted these for my daughter's Woodland Fairy Party earlier this year.

And while we are the subject of sugar cookies, let's open a little discussion shall we? For whatever reason, I haven't been able to find a sugar cookie recipe that I love. They always seem to be too crunchy, too thin, unmanageable or whatever. I'm looking for a recipe that makes a sugar cookie with substance, and perhaps a bit of almond. Do you have one to share? I love a little link love :) Merci!

6th Street Design School

Kirsten over at the pretty blog, 6th Street Design School, is featuring some of my current "likes" today--take a peek here.

Also, this is one of my favorite, recent posts. Love that green!

Country Home Renovation

Oh how I love this home-talk about excellent execution of sophisticated country living. And now that we've completed our own renovation of a very old home, I can relate to the agony this family experienced as they found out all sorts of "surprises" in their new, but old home (1680!) in upstate New York.

If these gorgeous images have you hungry for more, click here to view the entire article.

images by William Waldron for Elle Decor

What to Prepare for Father's Day Dinner

I had to post this image from Steamy Kitchen (a delicious blog if you haven't met its acquaintance yet) again to remind you what your husband/father/etc. really wants for Father's Day--a nicely marinated and grilled steak :)

Last year I shared our favorite method of preparation for steak and it won over many hearts...and stomachs too :) If you're in a bit of a conundrum as to what to prepare on Sunday, go this direction. It's not complicated, it tastes delicious and you'll receive rave reviews about this simple method. Find it here.

image via Steamy Kitchen

French Party Supplies + Vintage French Goodies

Wow. Shopping for and filling up an etsy shop is quite the labor of love, no? But, I have to admit it's very satisfying to share all of these wonderful goodies from France with you. I know you're going to find my new shop items quite special and just what you need for that next party, your living space, and for gift wrapping. I've shared all that I have, so what you see is what is available--there will be no relisting :(

A sampling of the lovelies {I think} you will find swoon worthy...almost all from France:

















mini wooden clothespins / vintage animal stamp set / chalkboard clips / checkered papers

vintage french floral painting / french party kits / french party balloons (see both images above)































french labels / vintage german pencil box / vintage french tea towels / french cupcake toppers

italian pinocchio themed party sets / striped party straws from merci / french wooden utensils

See everything listed above {and more} right here in the shop.

Cherries

I'm so excited to see (and consume) this delightful fruit in our local grocery stores finally. Yay! Summer must've arrived sometime last week.

Over at Zupas today I've shared the five most tantalizing cherry recipes on my mind right now. I plan on going through them one-by-one while I have the opportunity to enjoy this delicious, seasonal fruit!

Read 'em and eat here :)

image by Stephanie Brubaker

MYDrap Linens

I'm so happy Martha found a US source for these fantastic linens from Spain. I first spotted them at Merci (which I'm discovering is a mecca for all things uber-fabulous), but couldn't find a way to purchase additional sets and colors here in the US. I can't express enough how wonderful they are for entertaining!

This is how MYDrap works...the linens come on a roll, and have perforated edges for easy tearing. They are hemstitched and look really fancy, but the price tag isn't. The linens can be washed and reused as well; and they don't wrinkle up like crazy either. Oh, and the colors are amazing. See them for yourself here.

Martha says to call 1-877-625-2539 to order.

p.s. for another closeup on those pretty blue napkins, click here.

Modern Gardening

I love this pretty backyard space featured in the most recent issue of Sunset. It's not a large backyard per se, but it is well-utilized and thoughtfully planned. The chocolate brown/red theme is surprisingly pleasing and I find myself rethinking outdoor furniture in general as a result.

Not a week later I stumbled upon these colorful tomato cages at a local nursery (Millcreek Gardens if you're local). I immediately thought of the backyard space from Sunset and thought a raised garden box would be a perfect addition. To bring out the red trim of the cushions, choose a red cage and to bring out the chocolate brown (also in the cushions), paint the wood around the raised bed a deep espresso. Adding some bright color would certainly freshen things up a bit and add a modern spin. Throw in a chicken coop of the same color and you've got yourself one killer backyard!

p.s. it never occurred to me that tomato cages came in such fun colors. I wonder if your local nursery carries these too?

































image 1 - Sunset / image 2 - my iPhone :)

Menu of the Week

I've decided to switch things up a bit when it comes to these "menu of the week" posts. Instead of posting the menu before I make it, I'll post it afterwards. That way I can share recipe notes and such with you. Let's see how this rolls...

Black Bean Tacos (see recipe below) with Avocado Wedges and Toasted Cumin Creme Fraiche, Fresh Pineapple Salad- this is an excellent hearty, vegetarian meal. I use Tortillaland fresh tortillas for this recipe. The avocado is a tasty addition and also adds nice texture and color.

Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Mustard with Fresh Cherries & Green Salad - this is an excellent recipe. I even feature it in my "recipes to love" section. Keep in mind you can substitute good ciabatta bread for the baguette and also go without the sour pickles. If you'd like to make your own creme fraiche for this recipe, click here (for dessert you can use up some more of the creme fraiche batch with this simple, summer berry dish).

Crockpot Pot Roast, Steamed Broccoli - I know it seems late in the year for such a heavy, cold-weather dish, but believe me, it was cold on the day we prepared this :(

Roasted Halibut with Walnut Crust, Red Leaf Lettuce Salad with Sweet Peppers, Avocado - a generous sprinkle of lemon is a vital part of this fish recipe. I really love fish recipes with nut crusts; another favorite is a Hazelnut Crust. If you don't love cooking fish in the house, do what I do: heat up your grill to medium heat. Then, place a cast iron pan on the grill. Once heated, cook the fish in the pan. Cooking fish in cast iron creates a nice, seared crust and best of all the smell stays outdoors!

Brupper (''breakfast" for "supper", i.e. eggs, toast, fruit)

To view previous "menu of the week" posts, click here. You may find some additional fresh ideas!

Black Beans with Garlic, Cumin and Cilantro

16 oz can black beans, rinsed, drained
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
2 TB olive oil
1/3 cup tomato juice or water
1/4 tsp sea salt
2 TB chopped fresh cilantro

In a nonstick or cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cumin, stirring for 30 seconds to 1 minute (you don't want to burn the garlic). Add the black beans, juice/water, and salt. Cook until beans are heated through. Stir in fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes: I typically double, or even triple the amount of beans for my family of 5 when I serve the beans as a main dish. I also go much easier on the cumin--it's really a matter of preference though.

image 1 - Martha Stewart / image 2 - Getty Images for WebMD / image 3 - Kana Okada

Playroom Teepees

Darling playroom teepees from Holland-based etsy shop, Moozelhome. These made-to-order beauties are a true one-of-a-kind. Take 'em super simple (plain canvas) or dressed up with vintage fabric. Those litttle flags at the top really take the cake.

Wearing a Scarf Like a Frenchwoman

It's never out-of-season to wear a little scarf...even in the Spring and Summer. They are not only wonderful accessories, but very functional as well. You never know when you'll be stuck in an over-air conditioned building for an extended period of time (this happened to me last night--I was so grateful to have a scarf in my purse) or when you'll need a little something to ward off a slight chill in the evening.

My friend Ellie, who owns an adorable boutique in Beynac, showed me a new way of wearing my scarves last year. I tried to figure out how to share the method with you for the past several months, but didn't think straight images would do it justice. So last month when we there with our friends, I borrowed Paula's Flip camera and videoed how it's done...for the sole purpose of sharing it with you today. Enjoy!

French Flower Styling

Sometimes it's just fun to enjoy a little eye candy as we begin our day. These gorgeous ensembles of flowers mixed and matched with Farrow & Ball wallpaper and paint (amongst other French labels) seem the perfect thing for a mid-week pick-me-up. Here are some more:

* flowers from the botanical gardens in Vauville, France












































images from Cote Maison Ouest

How to Create a Stellar Cheese Plate

Sometimes late in the evening (after the kiddos are asleep), we get together with our neighbors for cheese tastings. We typically take turns choosing the cheeses for the evening, which always keeps things interesting and ecclectic. But, whether you're enjoying cheese with a couple of friends, making it into a light, summer lunch, or bringing a cheese plate to a party, it's always good to know in advance what to bring. It can be very overwhelming to stare at 50-100 different cheeses and figure out those that are outstanding and worth the price tag!

Today over at Zupas I am sharing my favorite cheeses, and all the yummy sides that are delicious with them. You can read my recommendations here.

image by Lucas Allen

Sonoma County

This weekend I am heading to Northern California for a little reunion with my mom and sisters. We are flying in from across the country to enjoy a few days together and since I cannot remember the last time the four of us have been together, I'm definitely looking forward to it!

One day we are heading over to Healdsburg in Sonoma (with a stop at Woodhouse Chocolates in St. Helena on the way), and I'm curious if you have any recommendations as to what we should do/eat/visit, etc. We are not wine drinkers so our emphasis will be mainly on food, shopping and a pretty walk or two. The only thing on my agenda at this point is a treat at the Downtown Bakery :)

Any advice?

image via Sonoma County Tourism Bureau

Lela Rose Flats

Not normally a "bow" fan, this one from the Lela Rose for Payless line has me swooning (the $30 price tag is enviable as well). Simply gorgeous.

Stephmodo Guide to Paris

It's high time I assemble all the information I've shared on this blog about Paris in one tidy post. It's lengthy, but it's chock full of excellent, useful, budget-friendly information. Enjoy!

























Poilane: You'll find the best apple tart (tarte au pomme) in Paris right here on Rue Cherche-Midi. Poilane is a must-visit if you love pastry. They don't offer a bajillion choices, but rest assured that what they do make is perfection. Every time I'm in there I eye their linen market bag--one of these days I'll actually pick it up :) After munching on a few treats, start walking towards Mamie Gateaux.




Mamie Gateaux: A lovely mix of Japanese and French design thanks to the cute couple who owns this shop, the brocante next door, and the yummy cafe two doors down as well. I hear her cakes are delicious! You can read more about my experience there here.



































L'Ebouillante: my favorite place to lunch in Paris. L'Ebouillante is located on a quiet pieton, next to a church and offers outdoor seating. I love their big salads and non-alcoholic drinks--two things that are hard to find in Paris and well-done in this establishment. Try their "bricks" too--amazing, giant, omelets. After eating here, walk one street over to Papier+.



Papier +: my favorite paperie in Paris. It's not cheap, and I usually don't buy much, but I love walking away with a few labels, a pad of paper, and pencils. It's such a cheerful place due to all the intense color and they package your goods up so very nicely.


Berthillon: After lunch at L'Ebouillante and a quick trip to Papier +, walk over the Seine to the lovely Ille de Saint Louis and grab a cornet double (2-scoop cone) at Berthillon. I recommend the Peche au Menthe (Peach Mint) and the Fraises de Bois (Wild Strawberries--like the kind that grow in the Dordogne). Closed on Sundays, Mondays and during the entire month August.



Merci: If I hit one store in Paris, it's this one. I can't tell you how much I love it! Located in the Marais.



Museums: While studying art in Paris for an entire month during college, I came to know the Parisian museums quite well. Here are a few museums I favored the most: Museé d'Orsay (a must-see for any tourist), Museé Rodin (perfect for a quiet garden walk and stunning sculpture), Museé Jacquemart-André (excellent Dutch art--think Rembrandt--in a cozy setting) and the Museé Marmottan Monet (go only if you are a Monet fan).


Restaurants that are Affordable:

Le Pré Verre - I've never not enjoyed their delightful, easy-on-the-wallet 3 course meal. For less than 30€ one can consume 3 inventive, nouveau French courses. Tucked behind the Sorbonne, it's usually locals only. Make reservations ahead of time or show up the minute they open and promise to eat quickly :)

Les Cocottes - Located down the street from one of our favorite boulangerie/sandwicheries and conveniently located near the Tour Eiffel. Everything here is baked in a little dutch oven (Le Creuset of course!) and is delicious and affordable. It's a fun spin on typical French food and I'm dying to get my hands on their cookbook for sale in the restaurant as well.

La Régalade - 7 years ago we ate there and each enjoyed a 4-course meal for 65€...for 2 people! I've read the prices have gone up a bit since then, and that the well-known chef has moved on (wasn't thrilled with his new restaurant Le Comptoir), but is still affordable for what you receive. It's a bit of a schlep from the nearest metro station (Alésia) , but it's worth it. You'll need to make reservations a week in advance at least. The best terrine and cornichons I've ever consumed came out of this kitchen.

Bistro Poulbot - a recent discovery near Montmartre. Truly locals only, which is where I prefer to dine in Paris. Very traditional French fare (escargot, terrine, foie gras) and all of it oh so good! Head up to Sacre Coeur afterwards for a crepe and excellent views of the city.



































Flea Markets: Hit a flea market {or two} during your stay in Paris...just make sure you know your numbers in French first :) In Paris try Porte de Vanves, Clignancourt or St. Ouen (this is supposed to be the largest). If you speak enough French to navigate a French website, check out the local vide-greniers instead. It's pretty much all locals. However, you will likely need a car to visit these locations.

Other notes that are trés important:

Helpful information as to what to pack for your trip to Paris can be found here.

I found a handful of these recommendations via Blueprint magazine--what an excellent guide. Oh I miss that magazine.

If you are traveling to Paris with kids, read this post. We spent some time in Paris with our 3 little ones a couple of years ago and learned a few things :)

Looking for an affordable hotel right in Paris? Read this post as well as the helpful comments shared for some valuable information.

I've shared some of my favorite chain stores in Paris (and a couple of boutiques) in this post. Keep in mind that chain stores are closed on Sundays and the boutiques on both Sundays and Mondays (and during August).

Ina Garten's Insider Guide to Paris can be found here. I love that woman!

Also, David Leibovitz's blog stores some excellent information about Paris. You'd be wise to spend some time there.

images 1-13 by Stephanie Brubaker / images 14-15 - the Kok's Nikon + iPhone :)

Peonies at Costco

My friend Susan brought home the most gorgeous bunch of pink peonies from Costco this week. All this gorgeousness cost only $8.99. Seriously, is there a more cheerful, colorful, lovely flower?

Get 'em while they're hot :)

p.s. Whole Foods carries them too, in 2 additional colors, but you'll pay a few bucks more per bunch.

image by Stephanie Brubaker