It’s Super Bowl weekend again. I’m not the most devoted NFL fan but I do love a good game, let’s bring it Raven and 49ers. I’ve always liked the 49ers but now that I live in the DC area, I kind of have to go for the Ravens so… Go Ravens! Even more fun than the game (for me at least) is the food, drinks and sometimes the halftime show. Beyoncé will be bringing it as she always does- lip-syncing or not (she is one of the few living performers who can totally pull off shades in rehearsal- see above)[…]

  

Ahh January. As we head into February and burrow in for the chill of winter, I am loving the neutral palette with a hint of sparkle and a waft of chimney smoke (in a pre-packaged candle- if only I had my own chimney). Cocktailian Eric Alperin’s Southside Royale is a refreshing champagne cocktail that’s just the ticket for the winter doldrums. If you have read this blog, you know I am always in the mood for anything bubbly and especially in January. Gin, simple syrup, a splash of fresh lime juice, champagne and a sprig of mint make this cocktail[…]

  

My friends and I recently got into a discussion about our photos being held hostage on our iPhones, to print or not to print and in general, just what to do with all of them. One friend keeps a family blog where she uploads favorite moments for posterity, others print and make photo books and some (me) just keep their photos forever locked away on their phones and in iPhoto. Here a couple of unique ideas. Some of you may have seen A Beautiful Mess’ DIY Instax Wallpaper post last week. The image of the gorgeous wallpaper has been pinned[…]

  

Our first snow fell yesterday in VA.,the kiddos played for a few minutes outside. Another fun milestone moment. Have a wonderful weekend. XO and Cin Cin! Related posts:The Mom Stays in the PictureHappy Weekend!Happy Monday!

  

My friend Teri posted this photo of the rosé aisle at her local wine shop in St. Barts. She and her hubby spend 4 months a year in paradise, lucky girl. On this bitter cold and snow-covered January morning, I’m taking a lovely little couch trip to this magical place where there lives an overabundance of rosé and a seemingly endless amount of joie de vivre. Nothing cheers up the winter blues like a splash of the pretty pink juice and visions of white sand, stylish people and a clear blue sky and sea. A girl can dream. My pretend[…]

  

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My talented friend Claudine Hellmuth is on HSN today with her beautiful designs. She makes darling card kits, scrapbooking kits, stickers- you name it. She is a terrific artist and craft queen extraordinaire. Check her out tonight around 7:35pm EST. Below, a screen shot from her earlier appearance on HSN this morning. Love the dress and baubles, Claudine! Check out her blog and etsy shop too for some great finds. My family and I have commissioned many a family portrait from Claudine, she is brilliant. Related posts:7 Simple Things to Brighten Your DayPresent-ing: Last Minute Stocking StuffersTortoise Shell- My New[…]

  

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Ina Garten’s white wine, lemon and butter sauce is unbelievably good, always a winner, and one I use on so many dishes. I discovered it when making her Chicken Piccata recipe, which is a serious crowd pleaser. I now use the sauce on any and everything I think it will go well with- roasted red potatoes, asparagus, haricots verts, grilled salmon, trout or chicken- you name it, this stuff is indispensable. A simple, basic and delicious French sauce, put in in your recipe book. Thanks Ina!     Related posts:Meals a la Mom (me): Numero DueThe Hit List: Sir and[…]

  

My friend Amy- we’ll hear more from her later- just turned me on to whatshouldireadnext.com, the Pandora for books. Just plug in a book you liked and up pops a list of kindred spirits. I know it gets me because also on the list were Olive Kitteridge, Tina Fey’s Bossypants and Gone Girl, all 3 of which I recently read and loved, although I did think Gone Girl- while a page-turner- was a bit icky and mean spirited. Where’d You Go, Bernadette was one of the most original and inspired novels I’ve read in a while- I highly recommend. A Visit from[…]