September 19th, 2012
The beginning of fall is just days away, but in L.A. it doesn’t even feel remotely close. It’s my favorite season of the year, but when the weather is hot and sticky, it’s hard to get excited about cozy sweaters and home-cooked comfort food. In an attempt to see past the triple digit temperatures, here are a few of the things I’m determined to do this upcoming season.
1. Host a pumpkin carving party.
2. Go to a football game (mainly for the stadium food, since I’m not exactly a fan of the sport).
3. Visit a lighthouse – with a picnic in tow. It’s something I’ve never done and sounds fun and romantic.
4. Spend a day in my college town of Claremont – it’s so charming in the fall.
5. Redesign my site – quite a few areas could benefit from a little facelift.
6. Visit an apple orchard. A wonderful excuse to escape from L.A. for a day.
7. Have an early Thanksgiving celebration with friends. Once a year just isn’t enough.
8. Start a movie club (it would have that same feeling as a book club, but without the deadlines).
9. Check out open houses in L.A. An exciting/overwhelming new Sunday activity.
10. Can some of the last of summer’s produce – strawberry jam and homemade tomato sauce.
What are some of the things you’re most excited to do this fall?
September 18th, 2012
Growing up, our family had a yellow labrador retriever that would consume just about anything (including a plethora of inedible objects), but she was particularly infatuated with cherry tomatoes. We’d give her one and she’d run around the house, tearing around corners, all while cradling it gently in her mouth. She’d then drop it on the floor (with it still remarkably intact), circle it a few times, then would pick it back up and repeat. This would go on for hours, so even though she’s been gone for years, it’s still one of my most cherished memories.
Last weekend at the Larchmont farmers’ market, cherry tomatoes were bursting out of nearly every stall, their bright colors glittering like little jewels. I came home with a few pints, popping them into my mouth the whole ride home. I didn’t have a real plan for them at first, but I’m so glad I decided on this Mario Batali spaghetti, which was just as vibrant and flavorful as I had hoped. It’s been decided that it will remain a staple in our home, as long as cherry tomatoes are in season and has since been renamed, “Remy’s pasta.”
September 17th, 2012
Ray-Ban Sunglasses, Club Monaco Blouse, MIH Jeans, Tod’s Purse c/o, J.Crew Necklace and Bracelet, Nixon Watch, Elizabeth and James Wedges
After a week of wearing heels pretty much nonstop in New York, I welcomed the idea of simple sundresses and flats once I returned home. But after a day of hanging out in lounge clothes, I found myself propped up once again – in wedges, a patterned tie-neck blouse, and my favorite high-wasited jeans.
September 14th, 2012
{Unabashedly bright colors at the J.Crew presentation}
This week has been such a blast. We had a couple of days of amazing weather, I took in some great shows, hung out with family and friends, and managed to make time for some special meals (including Babbo). Things have finally started to wind down – my bags are packed up and I’m counting down the minutes until my first book signing party tonight (details here). Have a wonderful weekend!
{The quirky wallpaper in the Soho Grand bathrooms}
{Birthday black and white cookies from Zabar’s for my husband }
{A cool, crisp walk through my favorite neighborhood}
{I loved the architectural flats at the Elizabeth and James presentation}
