stephmodo: May 2011

13

Chance + other Great Stops in SoHo

• 30 May 2011

















































On my last day in New York, I had the rare opportunity to lunch with a friend from college who was kind enough to drive onto Manhattan to play tour guide for a couple of hours. We decided to spend our precious time in New York's SoHo neighborhood. Oh how we packed a lot of fun {and food} into just 2 hours. "Old" friends--the kind you've had for 10+ years--are simply priceless, now aren't they?

If you have an afternoon in SoHo and want to know how to use your time wisely, here are a few suggestions to further enhance your New York shopping experience. As a rule of thumb, I steer clear of any boutiques/shops that are also located in my city of residence...even if it's a cool store (i.e. H&M, All Saints, etc.). When I'm lucky enough to have some time by myself, it's all about bang for my buck.

First up...the Chance pop up on Elizabeth Street. It's a well-designed temporary shop full of my favorite wardrobe staple--the striped shirt. Thick stripes, thin stripes, any kind of stripe really. The pieces are thoughtfully-styled, uber soft, and everything you want in a cotton top. I brought back one "souvenir" from my trip and it was from Chance; because 4 striped tops in my closet wasn't enough (to my credit it was at least a different colorway). Clearly an addiction is forming...

After a little jaunt over at Chance, stop to lunch at Balthazar. Order the moules-frites (mussels and fries) and a salad and you'll be energized to hit the pavement in search of that must-have piece.

A couple of years ago I read about Sienna Miller's shopping excursions to easy-on-the-wallet, UK-based Topshop and my curiosity piqued instantly. While I didn't purchase anything, it was fun to finally see the shop in person. Topshop felt a little young for my taste, but I'm sure that more searching would've resulted in a real gem.

When visiting my mother-in-law in April, we talked about how much we both love Comptoir des Cotonniers (also a must-visit in SoHo). She then said, "Have you ever been to Mango? You can find some great things there too". I was a little surprised at this suggestion as I'd always assumed that Mango, with it's bad 80's style logo, was a bit outdated. Well, I stand to be corrected! Apparently it's a stylish, affordable shop with a bad 80's style logo :)

And last, but not least, we cannot forget the two "pearls" of SoHo...Purl and Pearl River Mart. Hit Purl if you're looking for some pretty fabric or yarn...hit Pearl River Mart if you want to bring back a fun souvenir for the kiddos.

Now that you know my picks, care to add your own tips and advice?

images by Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo

6

Meeting Kelly Ripa + a Good Cause

• 27 May 2011























Last week I had the opportunity to fly to New York for a whirlwind trip with Baby Gray. He loved the constant motion and enjoyed bringing joy to New Yorkers with his constant smiles. The reason for my trip was a kick-off event for the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund that involved a food demonstration by Kelly Ripa (who is just as cute and spunky as you'd imagine her to be) and Tom Colicchio (producer of Top Chef and celebrity restaurateur). The demo took place in a light-filled loft in Chelsea, just off a random side street that initially appeared to only house warehouses. It's interesting how New York is like that...you head down what appears to be an abandoned street, head up an elevator and voila, you're in this amazing space.























Anyway, if you want to participate in a good deed today, go to Kelly Confidential to take the "Party Ready" challenge, which is really just one question that takes 5 seconds to answer; in turn, Electrolux will donate $1 to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund. It's an easy way to do something nice, something charitable. Also, you are invited to enter a giveaway for a $2,500 fancy schmancy fridge and view a few of Tom's simple recipes too.

One additional note about Tom Colicchio...he is quite down-to-earth for a celebrity chef. I was pleasantly surprised and he definitely stepped up a notch in my book! I love how normal and unpretentious he is; I had a good time discussing sleep training woes and sharing stories after the demo concluded. He is basically a nice guy, a dedicated father, and a wicked cook (Jennifer also raves about him too). I cannot wait to try his beet vinaigrette as this root veggie is my latest obsession.

p.s. my participation in the "Are You Party Ready" campaign was sponsored by Electrolux who provided me with transportation arrangements to and from New York City to participate". That being said, I was not contracted by Electrolux to post about the Kelly Confidential campaign--this post was purely my own idea. I genuinely hope you enjoy the report and the chance to help out with a great cause!

p.p.s. according to a previous ob/gyn, the best way to keep tabs on ovarian cancer is to not miss that yearly appt...even when in one's 50's, 60's and 70's. Apparently it's easy to diagnose and treat if we take the time to come in for a checkup. Missing even just one yearly appointment can mean serious consequences, so be sure to head in once a year! Note: this is not official medical advice, but I felt compelled to pass it along anyway. Take it for what it's worth!


images by Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo

166

Koo de Ker {Almost Summertime} GIVEAWAY

• 26 May 2011

Congratulations! According to random.org, the 2 lucky winners of the Koo de Ker giveaway are "SandyPants" and "Britt". Ladies, would you please email me your contact info (mailing address) asap. Thank you!

1.






and 2.




























We are on the cusp of Summer, you can just feel it in the air. So let's celebrate with a GIVEAWAY sponsored by Koo de Ker--a stylish and affordable boutique in Salt Lake City. If you are heading there for vacation, business, to visit friends or family, or you happen to be lucky enough to live there, then you must enter this fantastic giveaway. Kyong, the always fashionable boutique owner, would like to offer two readers a $50 gift certificate to Koo de Ker. There you go, the odds of winning just went up!

Take a peek at these pretty images, the giveaway guidelines below and then enter this fun, almost-Summertime giveaway.

































































Smitten yet?

Giveaway Guidelines

- You have 5 days to enter this giveaway (closes Monday, May 30th--Memorial Day--at midnight).
- Make 1 comment on this post to enter.
- Anonymous comments will be ignored so make sure we know who you are!
- The winner will be chosen via random.org and announced sometime on Tuesday, May 31st at the top of this post.
- If you win, please respond within one week of the winner announcement to secure prize. Thank you!

images by photographer Steven Wood

22

Peonies + a Little Surgery

• 25 May 2011























Right now I am in the waiting room of a Seattle hospital while my little Baby Gray undergoes a little surgery. It's nothing major, but still a mother worries. Perhaps some of you have felt the same way...

Also, when you drop by your local grocery store or Costco in the next week or so, make sure you check for bouquets of cheerful, pink peonies in the floral section. I was thrilled to spot some just yesterday and I've already divided up the bouquet throughout my little house. A stem on my desk, a stem in my bedroom, and a few stems in the kitchen. I was inspired to do so by the comments left in the three dollar makeover post. Thank you for the inspiration!

image by Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo

3

Handmade Shoes for Little Girls





































Are these little shoes from Joyfolie adorable or what? My girly girl would love one of each and I'm guessing yours will too! :) Typically I don't spend more than $15 or $20 on kid's shoes, but for special occasions I would seriously consider making an exception.

images via Joyfolie

3

Le Jardin de La Maisonnette du Côteau

• 24 May 2011
























Arriving to La Maisonnette in the Springtime is a beautiful sight--the lily of the valley is popping up everywhere, roses are beginning to bloom, and the recently-added mini herb garden is thriving. What a sight to behold after traveling for almost 24 hours! While there we experienced unusually-warm weather, thus forcing the blossoms to burst early and fast. I'm not sure our Seattle-based family has ever appreciated sunshine more!

Anyway, I thought you might enjoy a peek at the garden behind our little cottage. We feel lucky to have these amazing terraces and are so grateful they were already in place when we purchased the home. I'm not sure we could've handled one more major project! Not a day goes by without lunching, breakfasting, or "desserting" in the garden and it's a perk we appreciate immensely. Being out there also allows us to admire the unique variety of foliage of the Dordogne. It's pretty amazing what grows in this region--everything from evergreens to fruit trees to banana plants...and on the same property nonetheless. I'm telling you, this region is magical for more than one reason.

p.s. Summertime pics here.

















































images by Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo

0

{Easy Dessert} Stewed Fruit



























Right now my fridge is bursting with berries thanks to a Costco run last Saturday (I guess that's what happens when you send your husband out grocery shopping on an empty stomach!). Now all I can think about is what I want to make with them and how I'm going to enjoy them. These are happy, happy thoughts--thoughts that will only increase when our local farmer's market begins in just under two weeks. I can't wait to pick up my berries there instead!

Anyhow, first up on the list is Stewed Fruit, which is about the easiest dessert EVER. I'm sharing a simple recipe over at Zupas today. You can read the post here.

images by Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo

3

Good to Know

• 23 May 2011


























Good morning Friends! Here are a few things you may be happy to know about as you begin your week--some are practical, some pretty, and all are just good to know:

Heading to Portland for Summer School? If so, I highly suggest booking a session with acclaimed photographer Bonnie Tsang--her work is amazing and she'll be in Portland to join in the fun. Find out more here.

Did you know Banana Republic has an online presence in the European Union/UK and offers 2-3 day delivery? Interestingly enough, some of the items offered are different too. I for one, am eyeing this scarf but it appears it's only available in Europe. Bummer.

I can't stop thinking about these salted peanut butter brownies local food blogger Ashley Rodriguez made recently. I'm still bummed she didn't save me one...although I don't blame her one bit :)

My friend Kelsey has her own show on the new Cooking Channel and it's just been renewed for a second season...I'm so happy for her! She is an unpretentious, down-to-earth cook offering up Americana recipes that are very doable. You can watch the episodes and view the recipes here.

Speaking of food, I'm delighted to report that the Food Photography + Styling Workshop with Aran Goyoaga filled up in just one minute. Apparently I'm not the only one in complete awe of her work :) We are scheming up plans to host more at some point...we'll keep you posted!

And last, I've been thinking about this admonition from Camilla Kimball to "never suppress a generous thought". One of the most admirable qualities in the world is generosity and I think this little phrase sums it up so nicely. The best part is that everyone can be generous, regardless of their financial situation. Generosity with one's time, talents, listening ear and uplifting words are just as appreciated!

Have a lovely start to your week and I'll see you here tomorrow! xo

Update: the winner of the Tiny Prints $100 gift card has been announced...did you win? Find out here.

15

French Baby Food

• 20 May 2011


























I've never had to shop for baby food in France before, so this last trip marked a first. Here in the US, it seems the yummiest looking + tastiest baby food (i.e. the kind I wouldn't mind eating myself...:)) falls into the "organic" category (my favorite here); it appeared the same in France. Just look how cute these jar tops are!

And the flavors {translated into English here}...Vegetables Provençal, Red Fruits (Raspberries, Strawberries, etc.) and William Pear. Yes, the baby food doesn't just read "pears" as it does here in the US--they actually specify the variety of pear used in that little jar of baby food. Those lucky French babies! Gray had all sorts of fun with the baby food there, but not so much with the parsnips :) (see above).

images by Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo

9

Party Idea: Geronimo Balloon Troopers

• 19 May 2011




















I wish it were my birthday sometime soon because these exquisite, jubilant, giant globes are at the top of my list. Can you imagine how incredible an event would be if it incorporated these special, artisan balloons? Also, if I were planning a wedding right now, I think it would be pretty to line the aisle with Geronimo's Ambassador Balloon Troopers. Now that's an idea we haven't seen yet on the pages of Martha Stewart Weddings! But to be perfectly honest, I think the gift of just one balloon and an edible treat would make me feel like a million bucks too.

My friend Jihan is the master behind the Geronimo Balloon Trooper concept and works so hard to create these one-of-a-kind works of art. Today she is sharing exclusive images from her LA studio with us--I love little peeks into people's lives, don't you? And speaking of little peeks, this video about her business is pure magic. Now, instead of just wanting to run through fields of flowers in my bare feet, I want to run through fields of flowers with bare feet AND giant Geronimo balloons in hand :)

Without further ado, a look inside the Geronimo Balloon Troopers LA Studio, starting with an image of Jihan's great-grandmother, who inspired this grand idea of making people happy with handcrafted balloons:















































































































































252

Tiny Prints Grand GIVEAWAY

• 18 May 2011
































This week's giveaway is my favorite kind of giveaway because it's wonderfully useful and very generous. And while only a small percentage of you choose to enter giveaways, I can't imagine anyone not being able to put $100 to great use over at Tiny Prints. We all need father's day cards and thank you notes (what isn't noble about having a stash of thank you notes? as long as they are used of course!). Some are even lucky enough to need custom letterpress wedding invitations, birth announcements or graduation announcements too (my brother-in-law Jon definitely needs the latter). Really, there is so much to love at Tiny Prints right now.

Personally, if I won a giveaway like this, I'd pick up cute stickers for decorating party favors and birthday invitations (these are great for upgrading basic party supplies); or perhaps attractive address labels or a self-inking address stamp (I've been meaning to get one of these for sometime now). I mean, we all have an address, right?

So hop to it and start planning what you'll do with $100 to spend at Tiny Prints. Happy Wednesday! Also, please take a peek at the guidelines indicated below. I've made a small change as to how winners are announced and I don't want anyone to miss out!

Giveaway Guidelines

- You have 5 days to enter this giveaway (closes Sunday, May 22nd at midnight).
- Make 1 comment on this post to enter.
- Anonymous comments will be ignored so make sure we know who you are!
- The winner will be chosen via random.org and announced sometime on Monday, May 23rd at the top of this post.
- If you win, please respond within one week of the winner announcement to secure prize. Thank you!

10

Les Macarons 101: Technique Tips + Recipes

• 17 May 2011
























I stumbled upon some almond flour the other day in my pantry--the very almond flour I purchased for the sole purpose of making macarons over a year ago. Oops! Apparently I need to get over my macarons issues--I'm just so darn intimidated by the pretty li'l things! Thankfully I found this highly instructive post written by a home baker just like myself and all of a sudden I feel like I can conquer these special cookies. I think I can, I think I can...

All this macaron goodness can be found over at Zupas today!

image by Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo

13

Vintage French Amusement Park

• 16 May 2011


























When in France, we spent our last day hanging out with Gabrielle's family at a place called Le Bournat (take note: the site has music), which, is best described as part vintage amusement park and part historic village--kind of a French version of Sturbridge Village, but with rides. If you ever visit the Dordogne with your family, it's a great place to spend an afternoon with children. During the touristy months of July and August, they even offer live music, which was excellent on a prior visit. Also, you can watch fresh walnut oil being made and organic flour being ground at any time of year.

A couple of years ago we visited Le Bournat on our first visit to this part of France--it was a rainy day and we ended up having the place to ourselves (see images here). It was during this trip that we put in an offer on La Maisonnette. Who knew what would all turn into? Point proven: life is totally and completely unpredictable!

p.s. I apologize for including so many photos--I couldn't stop at just a few--it's such a cool place!






















































































































































































all images by Stephanie Brubaker for stephmodo

8

Vintage Industrial Boys Bedroom

































While I've never been a fan of Restoration Hardware's Baby & Child concept, I was recently taken back by one particular layout with a vintage, industrial theme. There are so many details to love--from the wall art, to the lighting, to the sweet globe on the shelf. It's such a fabulous look and let's be honest, attractive, well-designed boy's rooms are hard to find! (check out a couple more fabulous boy's bedrooms here if you'd like).

You can view the entire RH bedroom here (that bedding!).

2

Registration {Now Closed}

• 14 May 2011































Update: Thank you so much for your interest! The workshop (and the next 6!) filled up in 12 minutes. We are in the process of emailing out forms and getting this party started! Aran and I appreciate your patience! Again, you'll hear back from us within 12 hours as to the status of your placement. In the meantime, we are scheming as to how to possibly host another workshop (or two) based on the overwhelming interest! Merci beaucoup!

Ready to whisk yourself (and your camera) away to the French countryside for an amazing rendezvous with Aran Goyoaga of the award-winning blog, Cannelle et Vanille? Oui? C'est magnifique! Now, prepare to take your food photography skills to a whole new level and have a whole lot of fun doing it!

The workshop includes 4 days of cooking, styling and photographing food in a stunning manoir nestled against a stone cliff overlooking the beautiful Dordogne river. The workshop will run from Sunday evening, October 2 through Thursday, October 6. We are intentionally keeping this workshop small and intimate, therefore providing the optimum experience possible for our guests.

Aran will share with you her process of procuring, styling and photographing food--all in a picturesque setting. Topics will include selecting and prepping ingredients, cooking and styling food for the camera, how to compose a shot, and how to communicate a story through props. Also on the docket is her philosophy on food photography, understanding your camera's manual settings and how to use your best source of natural light to create a mood.

The workshop fee of $1950/person covers 4 nights accommodations in a luxurious bed and breakfast, 4 gourmet breakfasts, 4 lunches, 1 dinner, transportation during the workshop*, 3 days of hands-on instruction with Aran and 1 day of sightseeing in the area. There is a supplemental charge of $400 if a single occupancy room is requested; keep in mind these are extremely limited.

* guests are required to transport themselves to and from the Dordogne; however, once you are at the workshop, you are welcome to utilize the transportation provided to and from markets, etc. if you wish.

HOW TO REGISTER:

1. Send an email to: stephmodogetaways@gmail.com indicating your intent to register for the workshop. Please include the following contact information: name, mailing address, email address, blog/professional website, and your preference for either double or single occupancy.

2. If/when we are able to place you, you'll receive an email from us with a little paperwork for you to sign and return. After paperwork is completed, you'll receive an email from us confirming the good news (!!!). If you are not able to secure your spot at this time, we will be sure to add your contact information to a waiting list.

3. If you are able to secure a spot in this workshop, and receive an email from us indicating so, then we will pass along a PayPal address for sending payment. A full payment, at this time, is required to secure your placement.

4. A detailed itinerary will be issued to the 6 participants via email within 48 hours of registration.

Looking forward to meeting you!

image via Tripadvisor--this is the manoir where guests will be staying

5

Registration Update - Food Styling + Photography Workshop

• 13 May 2011








Friends, it's 11 o'clock and you're probably waiting for the registration information we promised you. I apologize for the inconvenience, but we are forced to postpone registration until tomorrow morning, Saturday the 14th, at 11 o'clock in the morning because of issues with our Blogger platforms. Not only have many of our posts from the week been deleted, but up until about 17 minutes ago, we've been prohibited from posting new posts too. Since we weren't sure if all would be well by 11 o'clock, Aran and I were forced to make a decision that would be fair to all of you hoping to obtain a spot in this workshop. The entire situation is most frustrating and we do appreciate your patience! (I feel like a flight attendant on the loudspeaker during turbulence...)

We are feeling optimistic that Blogger will continue to address this important issue today and therefore we are going to begin registration here tomorrow--same time, same place.

Until tomorrow (Saturday, the 14th) at 11 a.m. PST (2 p.m. EST)...we are incredibly excited!

3

Stylish Summer Essentials for Your Family
















While I'm not writing daily posts for Babble's Family Style blog anymore, I am still writing an occasional piece for the website as my schedule permits. I recently put together a family summer guide for Babble and it's chock full of fabulous finds for you, your man and your kiddies too. Most of my picks are budget-friendly, but there are a couple of splurge items mixed in there too. If you haven't picked up swimsuits, beach towels and a cute tote for the pool, take a peek at these ideas!

You can view the Summer Essentials Guide here.

3

Summer School Portland: Creative Workshops for You

• 11 May 2011








































If you live in Portland, have a friend to visit in Portland, or simply want an excuse to visit a beautiful city that everyone loves, then you must attend a workshop at Summer School Portland on Saturday, June 18th. Classes are filling fast, so don't wait to reserve your spot! There will be workshops focusing on blogging, arranging flowers, special packaging, wielding photoshop, and photography. Attend one or attend 'em all! Based on the caliber of hostesses (Sally, Chelsea, to name a few), they are all bound to be absolutely amazing.

Hope to see you there!

images by Sally Shim

10

Registration Update - Food Styling + Photography Workshop


























So many of you have responded positively to the announcement of the food styling and photography workshop in France and this warms my heart! Aran and I appreciate your patience as we sort through details and logistics. We are happy to announce that registration will be open tomorrow morning (that's Friday, May 13) at 11:00 a.m. PST (2 p.m. EST).

This is how registration will take place:

1. At 11 o'clock sharp a post will go live indicating an email address where you'll need to send your intent to register. Please make sure you are online at this time if you are interested in attending this workshop as we will accept participants based on the order in which emails are received.

2. Once you hear back from us via email (within 24 hours), you will be required to complete some paperwork and then return it to us via fax, email, etc.

3. When payment is made and requested forms are signed, your spot will be secure. At this time you'll receive an email from us confirming the good news. If you are not able to secure your spot at this time, we will be sure to add your contact information to a waiting list.

4. A detailed itinerary will be issued to the 6 participants via email within 48 hours of registration.

As a reminder, this is going to be a unique workshop, not only for it's picturesque and inspiring location in France, but for its size as well. Limited to just 6 people, you will be given the opportunity to spend a significant amount of time with Aran each day as she guides you through the thoughtful process of procuring, styling, creating and photographing food. We like to think of it as a 4-day party with amazing food, accommodations and experiences. The workshop will begin the evening of the 2nd of October and run through the evening of the 6th.

The workshop includes 4 days of cooking, styling and photographing food in a beautiful manoir nestled up against a stone cliff overlooking a lazy river. The cost is $1950/person (based on double occupancy) and covers 4 nights accommodations in a luxurious bed and breakfast, 4 gourmet breakfasts, 4 lunches, 1 dinner, transportation during workshop hours, 3 days of full instruction with Aran Goyoaga, and 1 day of sightseeing in the area...just to start.

If only we could accurately express, within a blog post, how much you'll love this tour! We can't wait...can you?!

images by Aran Goyoaga for Cannelle et Vanille

6

Planning the Perfect Picnic

• 10 May 2011
















































One of my favorite people to visit in France is Daniele Mazet-Delpeuch. She is one of the most interesting, energetic women I've ever met--in fact, a film company is in the process of creating a film about her. So yes, I'm not the only one who is fascinated. Anyway, over the past few years I've taken a handful of her cooking classes, but I've learned so much more than how to make the perfect filet of duck. Without even knowing it, I'm sure, she's taught me life lessons too. It's been fun to introduce my sister and our friends to her along the way and allow her to touch their lives as well.

On our way up to Paris we stopped by her country home and enjoyed an afternoon snack together...simple picnic fare really. Quite honestly we ate a similar lunch almost every day while in France. It's kid-friendly, the ingredients are readily available and often locally-made, and the experience requires little effort. The perfect combination, don't you think?

Today, over at Zupas I am sharing my favorite picnic components as well as the season's best picnic baskets. You can read the post here.

images taken at Daniele's home by me

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