Spring Is In The Air

Spring is certainly in the air, in fact it’s official arrival is only a couple of weeks away now. I love this time of the year,  the air is still crisp, but the first warm, skin tingling rays of the sun, start emerging… a sign telling us it’s time to start fresh, or  embark on something new, everything smells clean & fresh and there’s a renewal in all of nature taking place. With Spring on my mind, and the sweetest grandmother a person could hope for about to turn 92, I’m feeling motivated to have a Spring themed tea party in her honor, full of fresh flowers, beautiful finger foods, from lovely and light cucumber sandwiches, and flavorful teas to bite sized sweets. These images via Pinterest are a little “Springy” eye candy for motivation.

Ronda

July 19, 2009

Source 4 Interiors Some Great Reading Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics Fabulous Simple Ingredients

I love everything about Ina Garten, she is smart and witty and she is a fabulous entertainer and I have all of her books.  I really recommend you read her newest books Back to Basics Fabulous Simple Ingredients is a great read… She is my designer and chef of the week.  We love you Ina….

Ina Garten, Back to Basics

Here Ina covers the essentials, from ten ways to boost the flavors of your ingredients to ten things not to serve at a party, as well as professional tips that make successful baking, cooking, and entertaining a breeze. The recipes–crowd-pleasers like Lobster Corn Chowder, Tuscan Lemon Chicken, and Easy Sticky Buns–demonstrate Ina’s talent for transforming fresh, easy-to-find ingredients into elegant meals you can make without stress.

For longtime fans, Ina delivers new insights into her simple techniques; for newcomers she provides a thorough master class on the basics of Barefoot Contessa cooking plus a Q&A section with answers to the questions people ask her all the time. With full-color photographs and invaluable cooking tips, Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics is an essential addition to the cherished library of Barefoot Contessa cookbooks.

Ina Garten, Barefoot in Paris

What Ina Garten is known for—on her Food Network show and in her three previous bestselling books—is adding a special twist to familiar dishes, while also streamlining the recipes so you spend less time in the kitchen but still emerge with perfection. And that’s exactly what she offers in Barefoot in Paris. Ina’s kir royale includes the unique addition of raspberry liqueur—a refreshing alternative to the traditional crème de cassis. Her vichyssoise is brightened with the addition of zucchini, and her chocolate mousse is deeply flavored with the essence of orange. All of these dishes are true to their Parisian roots, but all offer something special—and are thoroughly delicious, completely accessible, and the perfect fare for friends and family.

Joni

July 19, 2009

Source 4 Interiors Pick of the Week Preston Bailey Inspirations

INSPIRATIONS is a lush sourcebook of ideas for creating the perfect ambiance for any major party or event. INSPIRATIONS is packed with gorgeous photographs of 10 such parties. Ranging from modern to romantic, and the majority of arrangements pictured have never before been seen. The chapters will focus on Bailey’s inspirational elements derived from art, travel, nature, and more.   This is a great read the pictures are beautiful and some wonderful design ideas. 

Preston Bailey, Inspirations

Joni