where is k?

Consider K on vacation...

Will catch up with peeps at the end of August.

beach pillows

This terry pillow case is totally my happy today. Well actually its my happy every weekend at the pool...

Inflatable pillows make lounging at the beach even more relaxing, and they're easy to tuck into a tote. Make a terry cloth slipcover, and the plastic pillows will feel soft and dry, not hot and sticky.

It's easy and you don't even need a sewing machine!

To cover a 14-inch square pillow, you'll need a 15-inch square case. Cut a 32 1/2-by-16-inch rectangle from a towel, using a finished edge for one of the short sides. Finish other short side with a 1/2-inch hem. Place fabric wrong side down, with hemmed edge on right. Fold over left edge 7 1/2 inches toward center. Fold over right edge 9 1/2 inches toward center (it should overlap left edge by 2 inches). Pin, and stitch along open sides. Turn the cover right side out, and insert the inflated pillow.

If your not feeling crafty you should check out Bed Bath and Beyond for this great bath and spa pillow.

today's happy...

the jk wedding entrance dance. enjoy!

picnic prep

Everyone knows cooking and eating outside immeasurably enhances the taste of the food. But if you're away from your backyard, a successful cookout requires preparation. When packing your bag or picnic basket for a cookout, be sure to include eating utensils, a corkscrew, and serving utensils such as spoons, spatulas, tongs, a marinade brush, a carving fork, a serving knife, and wooden skewers.

You'll also want to pack a small zipper pouch with small items such as matches, toothpicks, and extra resealable bags; reserve a few bags to transport salt and pepper. It's also important not to be caught without items such as a potholder, a cutting board, enamelware plates and cups, extra bowls for mixing, a serving platter, and cloth napkins, as well as a portable grill and an insulated cooler bag.

Check out these fun finds... The beach bag, blanket, tablecloth, sunbrella, flatware, and grill set.

camp food for the soul (continued)

Grilled Corn on the Cob

10 ears fresh corn with husks
1 cup mayonnaise
2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1. Remove heavy outer husks from corn; pull back (but do not remove) inner husks. Remove and discard silks; rinse corn, and dry with paper towels. Tie inner husks together with string, leaving ears exposed. Set grill to medium/high.

2. Brush a thin layer of mayonnaise on each ear of corn. Sprinkle the corn with the Parmesan cheese, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Wrap each ear with aluminum foil and place on the grill.

3. Grill, turning occasionally, until the kernels begin to brown, about 10 minutes. (Some kernels will begin to char and pop.) Serve immediately.

Turkey Burgers (I don't do the red meat burgers... sorry)

3/4 pound ground turkey
1 medium zucchini, grated
1 medium carrot, grated
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 large egg
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 slices crusty bread
4 small leaves Boston lettuce
4 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional)
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (optional)

1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey, zucchini, carrot, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and egg. Form the mixture into 4 patties.

2. Cook the patties, turning once, until no trace of pink remains, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Meanwhile, place the burger buns on the grill and brush with the remaining oil. Grill until golden brown and crisp, about 1 1/2 minutes.

3. Top burgers with the lettuce leaves and tomato. If using, combine the mayonnaise and lemon juice in a small bowl and serve with the burgers.

How bout an upgrade? For some extra zing, rub the bread with the cut side of a peeled, halved garlic clove immediately after removing the buns from the grill.

camp food for the soul...

Fresh Onion Chip Dip...

The chilling time for this fresh-onion dip is an advantage because it helps the flavors blend-and it means you can make it up to a day ahead and tuck it in the cooler. Serve it with sea-salt-and-vinegar potato chips, root-vegetable chips, and/or veggie dippers.

Prep: 15 minutes Cool: 20 minutes Chill: 1 to 24 hours
1 1/2 cups chopped sweet onion (such as Vidalia)
2 Tbsp. butter1 8-oz. carton dairy sour cream
1/4 tsp. celery salt or garlic salt
1/4 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
4 tsp. snipped fresh chives
Milk (optional)
Snipped fresh chives and coarsely ground black pepper (optional)

1. In a medium skillet cook onion in butter about 5 minutes or until tender. Cool.

2. In a blender or food processor combine cooked onion mixture, sour cream, celery salt, 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cover and blend or process until nearly smooth. Transfer to a small bowl or totable storage container. Stir in 4 teaspoons chives. Cover and chill for 1 to 24 hours.

3. Before serving, stir in milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, as necessary to thin dip to dipping consistency. Sprinkle with additional chives and black pepper, if desired. Makes 1 1/2 cups.

saucepan baked beans...

1 16-oz. can pork and beans in tomato sauce
1 15-oz. can navy or Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup ketchup 2 Tbsp. maple syrup or packed brown sugar
2 tsp. dry mustard
2 slices bacon, crisp-cooked and crumbled
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pork and beans, navy beans, ketchup, maple syrup, and dry mustard. Bring mixture to boiling on grill side burner over medium heat; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, about 10 minutes or until mixture reaches desired consistency, stirring frequently. Top with bacon. Makes about six servings.

A yum start to my outdoor inspired menu!

More tomorrow!!

be one with nature...

I'm dedicating this week to camping and the great outdoors...

I have had this thing with camping lately. Have no idea where it's coming from, especially since I have never been camping. But it sounds like a good time. I just need to convince someone...

So maybe you can't get a away but you have access to a grill! Is it my imagination, or does everything taste better outdoors?!

My outdoor-inspired week is simple but special, and designed to get everyone involved. Whether you're on a weekend retreat or enjoying your own backyard, you'll have time to savor some great food, the great outdoors-and most of all, the moment.

create your own sleeping porch...

Imagine the rustling wind singing you to sleep. Now, imagine your indoor plumbing lies only steps away. What's not to love about a sleeping porch? I'd love to have one...

The sounds of nature, such as rainfall and wind, work like white noise, calming the mind. It's easy and inexpensive to transform a typical porch into a nocturnal nest. Purchase a folding cot from a camping supply store, and dress it with comfortable bed linens. Add a side table and a lamp for reading.

Sleeping porches first gained popularity at the turn of the 20th century. Many people believed that fresh air helped sufferers of tuberculosis, a respiratory system illness that was the leading cause of death at that time in our country's history. Health experts then also touted the benefits of fresh air for avoiding other illnesses.

While sleeping in fresh air may not be the medical cure-all people once believed it to be, it's still a great way to unwind, relieve stress, and improve sleep.

collect thermoses...

We've all used them. The thermos changed the way people transported their hot and cold liquids to work, school, or a picnic. I carried mine to school in a plastic lunch box that sported strawberry shortcake...

Colorful thermoses in whimsical patterns, geometrics, and plaids are the most attractive for collectors. Vintage examples include inserts made of mercury glass, pottery, or metal. In the 1950s, the American Thermos Co. produced a Polly Red Top -- a stopper for its 10-ounce Thermos. The manufacturer's name and date is usually found on the body. Thermos prices have risen to $15 for a 1950s quart-size Thermos and $25 for a gallon-size bottle.

Making S'mores...

Did you know the S'more was introduced by the Girl Scouts in 1927? One is never enough...

If a toasted gooey-on-the-inside, crispy-on-the-outside marshmallow sandwiched between melting milk chocolate and flaky graham crackers gets you reminiscing about your camp days, make s'mores.

Try personalizing your s'more with a banana slice, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, Nutella, or Peppermint Patty in place of the chocolate.

Toasting marshmallows indoors? Set stovetop burner on low heat, place your marshmallow on a metal skewer, and toast to golden brown. Or place the s'mores (without the top cracker) in a 350°F oven for two to three minutes; remove and top with graham cracker.

Not feeling so creative? Check out these cool kits from Laura's Candy, and Cozi.

Glamping, it's all that and s'more...

Camping? Yes. Roughing it? Not Quite...

Forget pitching a tent, and leave that lumpy sleeping bag at home: These glam campsites allow travelers to embrace their inner outdoors man — without actually roughing it.

The Resort at Paws Up - Want to explore the outdoors and sleep under the open skies but covet creature comforts? Welcome to the world of "glamping": for those who only want to sleep under 'five stars'. When was the last time you went "glamping"? Come, experience it at The Last Best Place in Montana.

El Capitan Canyon - Perched on the rocky coast just north of Santa Barbara, this nature resort offers all manner of creature comforts, including 26 spacious safari tents with queen-size willow beds and electric lamps, plus bathhouses with hot showers.

Dunton Hot Springs - Experience the Wild West in your own private tepee at this luxurious resort and spa in a restored ghost town.

Huckleberry Tent & Breakfast - With just three tents on 52 acres, peace, quiet, and some of the starriest skies imaginable are all but guaranteed at this wilderness retreat in the Cabinet Mountains. The tents feature quilt-covered iron beds and wood-burning stoves.

4th of july events...

Find a place to celebrate red, white and blue near you...

WASHINGTON, D.C.
Smithsonian Folklife Festival National Mall, July 1-5 (202) 633-0653.
America’s 2009 Independence Day Parade Constitution Avenue, July 4 (1-800-215-6405).

VIRGINIA
Harborfest and Fourth of July Great American Picnic & Fireworks Norfolk, Town Point Park, July 3-5 (757) 441-2345.
Liberty Celebration Yorktown Victory Center, July 4-5 (1-888-593-4682).

MARYLAND
Fourth of July Celebration Baltimore, Inner Harbor, July 4 (1-877-225-8466).

sweet treats...

Stay cool on the 4th of July with this patriotic ice cream sweet treat.

INGREDIENTS

6 waffle-cone bowls, such as Keebler Waffle Bowls
1 pint(s) raspberry sorbet
1 pint(s) blueberry sorbet
1 pint(s) vanilla ice cream
Whipped cream or whipped topping, to taste
Maraschino cherries and star-shaped sprinkles (optional), for garnish

DIRECTIONS

In each waffle bowl, place one scoop of raspberry sorbet, one scoop blueberry sorbet, and one scoop of vanilla ice cream. Top with whipped cream, a maraschino cherry, and star-shaped sprinkles, if desired.

stars and strips...

Dress up your house for the 4th of July with American flags of different sizes and red, white, and blue banners!

american flags...

Collectors hold a very special place in their hearts — and homes — for antique American flags.

Small parade flags, or hand-wavers, have been a part of American life since the 1840s.

Examples from the 19th century start at $200. The 48-star variety, made between 1912 and 1959, can be found for about $5 to $25 each.

This cheerful cluster dates from the 1940s. Be on the lookout for other flags including:

The 13-STAR flags that have been made throughout our nation's history. This mid-19th-century piece is extremely rare; medallion patterns that feature one or no stars in the center are more common.

The CIVIL WAR flags are a popular category with collectors. Most from this period were made for military use. A red-and-white fringe distinguishes this c. 1865 36-star artillery battery flag.

Red, White and Blue...

Missed you all yesterday!

Any big plans this week? Ignite your Fourth of July festivities with a fresh stars and stripes theme. Play up your patriotic style by updating traditional bunting with shabby chic polka-dot and stripe fabrics, then covered cushions in more stripes and checks to amplify the fun. Here’s how you can make your own bunting.

What you'll need:

1. Fabrics in red, white, and blue. (For a bunting to fit a 72-inch wide window opening, you'll need 3-1/3 yards of fabric in each color.)

2. Spring-loaded tension rod

To make the bunting:

1. Measure the width of the window or other opening where you plan to hang your bunting. This will be the total width for your bunting, and the drop will be half the width measurement. (Example: 72 inches wide divided by 2 = 36 inch drop.) To determine yardage, multiply the drop measurement by 3-1/4 + 2 extra inches to finish ends. Example: 36 x 3-1/4 = 117 + 2 = 119. So for this width, you will need 3-1/3 yards of fabric (119 divided by 36 = 3-1/3 yards).

2. You will cut a total of 5 strips of fabric for bunting: two red, two white, and one blue. To determine the width of each strip of fabric, divide 5 into the drop measurement, add 1 inch to each white and blue strip of fabric for seam allowances, and add 1-1/2 inch to each of the two red outside strips for seam allowances and hem/finishing. (Example: 36-inch drop divided by 5 = 7-1/4 + 1 = 8-1/4 inch width strips for both white and blue fabrics. 36-inch drop divided by 5 = 7-1/4 + 1-1/2 = 8-3/4 inch width strips for red fabrics.) Cut out strips.

3. Sew strips together in color sequence as per photo using 1/2-inch seam allowances. Clean finish or serge the seams. Narrow hem the bottom edge of one of the red strips.

4. Mark the center of the top red strip of fabric and box-pleat toward center about 5 times to take up the fullness. Gather the pleated fabric at center, if needed, to take up more fullness, keeping piece smooth.

5. Rod Pocket: Cut a strip of red fabric to encase the spring tension rod, adding 1 inch for seam allowances. Encase raw ends of top of bunting/pleating into the rod pocket.

6. Insert pressure rod into casing for hanging.

Option: Add grommets along casing for hanging.

Now how festive is that?! (lol)

michael jackson

the world mourns the loss of a legend...

the daily candy...

My friend Chrys introduced me to this fab Web site yesterday. After she was like, "YOU DON'T KNOW ABOUT THE DAILY CANDY?!". It was love at first click. Hence, today's happy :)

What is the Daily Candy?

DailyCandy is a lifestyle media brand that reaches young, influential women. Known for its quirky, irreverent voice and eclectic taste, DailyCandy has developed a loyal and passionate audience.

Since 2000, DailyCandy has connected readers by providing an intimate, immediate way of staying fashionably informed. DailyCandy acts as a filter, giving readers the best of emerging fashion, boutiques, restaurants, and local finds in key markets across the U.S. and London.

As useful as it is entertaining, DailyCandy is like getting an e-mail from your clever, unpredictable, and totally in-the-know best friend.

Check out the Daily Candy EVERYWHERE, or in ATLANTA, BOSTON, CHICAGO, DALLAS, LONDON, LOS ANGELES, MIAMI, NEW YORK, PHILADELPHIA, SAN FRANCISCO, SEATTLE, and WASHINGTON, D.C.

summer scarfs

For the boy who just doesn't get it... ;)

Yes, scarves are traditionally used to keep warm during the cold winter months. Despite rising temperatures, long, lightweight scarves are a must-have item this summer!

Why you’ll want one...

Versatile and vibrant, an oversize scarf is virtually weightless, and will take up very little room in your purse. Although part of the allure is the chic, airy feel, a feather-light scarf can ward off the chill of air-conditioning, and even act as an extra layer of sunscreen. Beyond its functionality, this fashionable accent is available on any budget, and in every style imaginable. This summer, you can leave the jewels behind, knowing that a pop of color or pretty pattern around your neck will draw attention to your face just like a necklace would for an easy, breezy summer look.

How to wear it...

There are countless ways to wear a summer scarf. Try wrapping it multiple times around your neck and tucking the edges under, folding it in half behind your head and looping the open ends through the hole near your collarbone, or simply swooping it around your neck and tossing one end over your shoulder.

Check out South Moon Under, Target, and The Limited for fun options.

margarita...

Yesterday's happy... the margarita.

One word: delightful.

Looking for your after work happy? Try this recipe:

Ingredients

2 limes
4 tablespoons tequila
2 tablespoons vodka
1 tablespoon Triple Sec
2 cups watermelon, seeds removed
1/4 cup sugar
3 cups crushed ice

Directions

1. Rub the rims of two glasses with a slice of lime each, and dip the rims in salt.

2. Process the juice of 1 1/2 limes with the other ingredients in a blender until smooth. Add more crushed ice, and blend until slushy.

Makes 2 cocktails.

Maybe your in the mood for a no-fuss mix? Check out the all natural mixes from William Sonoma.

Cheers!

lets dish...

Souvenir plates date back to the 1870s... But, when travel became more accessible, they became increasingly popular with jet-setting travelers.

Keep an eye out! There are tons of unsigned, flea-market-type plates out there, but keep your eyes open for some big-name manufacturers, including Vernon Kilns, Homer Laughlin, Salem China Company, and even Wedgwood.

Love the look? Then steel this idea!!

Spruce up any wall with a mix of old and new plates in different sizes and colors. There are many types of hangers to choose from. Look for ones that are sturdy but discreet, letting the plate itself do the showing off. For delicate antiques, use a V-shaped hanger instead of a spring-operating one, which can put too much pressure on the rim.

Tip: try mapping out your arrangement with craft paper templates , a sure way to help keep holes in the walls to a minimum.

destination u street...

Take a U-turn in our nation’s capital and visit the historical, artsy, and reenergized U Street District.

The Greater U Street Historical District in Washington, D.C., has long been the haunt of the jazz musician, including greats Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington. Today, the Victorian-style architecture and theaters still offer up jazz, along with hip restaurants, shops, and art galleries.

Goodwood - This affordable antiques store features furnishings, rugs, accessories, and decorative arts—with new pieces unveiled each week. 1428 U St., NW, 202/986-3640; goodwooddc.com

Dragonfly Design Decor - Asian antiques, art, furniture, and textiles, plus some contemporary pieces, are showcased against brightly lacquered walls in a large, industrial space. 1457 Church St., NW, 202/265-3359; dragonflydd.com

Ben’s Chili Bowl - Since 1958, this D.C. institution has served the locals and the who’s who, including Bill Cosby and Nat King Cole. The counter, booths, and stools are all original, and the chili recipes have never changed. 1213 U St., NW, 202/667-0909; benschilibowl.com

Home Rule - Great for kitchen, bath, home, office, and other contemporary and quirky gifts. 1807 14th St., NW, 202/797-5544; homerule.com

Simply Home - Eat, drink, and shop at this one-stop spot. First, check out Thai-imported clothing, accessories, and home-furnishings side. Then, peek in at the tree-trunk seats and Cyprus-tree wall art in the Thai-inspired restaurant that makes up the building’s other half. 1410 U St., NW, 202/232-8424; simplyhomedc.com

More Must-Stops...

Nana - This cute and colorful spot stocks brand-name and locally designed clothes, bags, and accessories. Don’t miss their vintage selection in back. 1528 U St., NW, 202/667-6955; nanadc.com

Meeps - one of DC's longest-running and best-loved vintage shops, offers men’s and women’s funky 1940s–1980s vintage-clothing. 2104 18th St., NW, 202/265-6546; meepsdc.com

Eco-Green Living (formerly Future Green) - Home and living store that stocks organic bedding and clothing, green building supplies, and more. 1469 Church St., NW, 202/234-7110; eco-greenliving.com

make this...

Best Apple Pie Ever !!

You can't go wrong here. We're talking Perfect Picnic Pie. Come to think of it... you might as well make 2.

1 recipe Pastry for Double-Crust Pie*
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup maple sugar or packed brown sugar
2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
3 lb. tart cooking apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (8 cups)
2 Tbsp. butter, cut up
1/4 cup whipping cream
1–2 tbsp. milk 1 Tbsp. raw sugar

1. Prepare pastry. On a lightly floured surface, roll 1 pastry ball to a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a 9-inch pie plate; set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl combine granulated sugar, maple sugar, flour, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Add apples; toss to coat. Transfer to pastry-lined pie plate. Dot with butter and pour whipping cream over filling. Trim edge of crust even with edge of pie plate.

3. On the lightly floured surface, roll out remaining pastry to a 12-inch circle. Cut an “x” or a design in the center of the pastry. Place pastry over filling in pie plate. Seal and crimp edges. Cut small slits in top of crust, if desired. Brush with milk and sprinkle with raw sugar. Place pie on a foil-lined baking sheet. To prevent overbrowning, cover pie edges with foil.

4. Bake in a 375° oven for 40 minutes. Remove foil from edges. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes more or until fruit is tender and filling is bubbly. Cool on a wire rack. Makes 8 servings.

*Pastry for Double-Crust Pie: Place steel blade in food processor. Add 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup butter, cut up; 2 teaspoons granulated sugar; and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cover; process with on/off turns until most of mixture resembles cornmeal but a few larger pieces remain. With processor running, quickly add 1/3 cup cold water through feed tube. Stop processor when all water is added; scrape sides. Process with 2 on/off turns. Remove from bowl; shape into a ball. Divide in half. If needed, wrap and chill until easy to handle. (Or, in a large bowl stir together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Using a pastry blender, cut in 1 cup butter until pieces are pea-size. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon cold water over part of the flour mixture; gently toss with a fork. Push moistened dough to side of bowl. Repeat, using 1 tablespoon water at a time, using a total of 5 to 6 tablespoons water, until all the flour mixture is moistened. Shape into a ball.)

bouquets...

The season is coming to an end but that doesn't mean you can't bring Spring indoors with a dramatic centerpiece.

Here are some common herbs and their symbolic meanings, which can be found in The Language of Flowers, originally published in 1968. Keep these meanings in mind when creating your whimsy arrangements.

BALM sympathy
BASIL love, blessings, best wishes
BAY glory
CALENDULA joy, remembrance
CATNIP intoxification with love
CHAMOMILE comfort
CILANTRO hidden worth
COWSLIP happiness
DAISY innocence, loyalty
DILL good spirits
ELDER zealousness
FENNEL worthy of praise
GERANIUM comfort, consolation
IVY friendship, matrimony
LAVENDER devotion, loyalty
MARIGOLD grief, honesty
MINT wisdom, grief
NASTURTIUM optimism
OREGANO happiness
PANSY merriment, remembrance
PEPPERMINT cordiality
ROSEMARY remembrance
SAGE wisdom
SORREL affection
SPEARMINT warmth of sentiment
THYME happiness, courage

Tips: The key to long life for cut flowers is to change the water daily. Some people add a drop of bleach, an aspirin, or a shiny penny, but I prefer plain, room-temperature tap water.

arlington rap...

Need a mental health break?

Have you seen the Arlington Rap on You Tube?

It's hilarious... and, it's today's happy.

love it...

Old Shutters

I love the look of old shutters... they are a great embellishment to any room and can be used in many wonderful ways.

Three old shutters hinged together make a rustic room screen. Simply replace the original hardware with new hinges. Casters can be added to the bottom for easy mobility. For a sleek look, buy new shutters, and hinge them together. Paint them or leave the wood natural.

...antique shutters also make a great headboard!

another year...

That's all I have to say about that :P''

destination... frederick maryland

Looking to get out of the city this weekend? Take a short drive to Frederick, Maryland and check out Great Stuff By Paul...

Need inexpensive school chairs from the 1950s to go around your new dining-room table? Want a stack of vintage suitcases for your guest room? How about a dozen sap buckets for centerpieces at your next party?

Great Stuff By Paul Antiques in Frederick, Md., has them all--and more. Owners Paul and Joan Berkowitz scour North America, Europe, England, and Asia in search of reasonably priced treasures.

Can't make it to Maryland? No problem. They ship worldwide; greatstuffbypaul.com.

back to the basics, with a twist...

Grilled Cheese

Update this old-time sandwich with a variety of breads, cheeses, and new flavors..

Cuban Sandwiches: Start with a loaf of Cuban bread, ciabatta, or narrow French bread. For each sandwich, use a 4- to 6-inch piece of bread cut in half horizontally. Butter outsides of each half. Spread insides of bread with yellow mustard. Layer bottom half with thinly sliced ham and pork, sliced Swiss cheese, and sliced dill pickle. Add top half of bread.

Butter the outsides of bread slices and cook on a medium-hot panini grill or griddle pan until golden and cheese is melted (flip halfway through if not using a press that heats on both sides).

Grilled Cheese with Seeds and Veggies: Fill a split bagel, pita bread half (totally go with the pita), or 2 bread slices (buttered on outsides) with sliced Havarti with dill, Colby Jack, or smoked Gouda cheese; thin slices avocado; thin strips sweet red pepper (fresh or roasted); sprouts or broccoli slaw; and sunflower seeds (love the crunch!!) in thin layers. Cook as directed for Cuban Sandwich. Hey, why not serve up with a side of ranch dressing for dipping?

Okay, so I'm reluctant to post this one (not a tuna salad fan - AT ALL), but a friend swears by it. So, have at it...

Tuna Melt: Make a batch of tuna salad with mayonnaise, chopped onion, and celery. Season with curry powder (careful here), salt, and pepper to taste. Spread a layer (not too thick) of tuna salad onto a piece of whole-grain or seed bread. Top with a piece of cheddar or Colby cheese and another slice of bread. Cook as directed for Cuban Sandwich.

Tips... A cast-iron skillet works fine, especially when bread is weighted down with a grill press. If you have it, try it... grill these sandwiches is with an electric sandwich press, or a panini grill.

My personal hometown fav... Grilled Cheese w/ Swiss on Rye and a side of diner fries!

sippin' on summer...

Fresh-squeezed lemonade and sun-tea are excellent, thirst-quenching choices for an outdoor summer ....

Your favorite summer drinks will look as good as they taste this summer in these fun glass jars by Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel, Viva Terra, Uncommongoods.com, and Infused-Vodka.com

A family affair... try whipping up an Arnold Palmer. This refreshing beverage consists of half iced tea (either sweetened or unsweetened) and half lemonade named for golfer Arnold Palmer.

After hours... This melon ball lemonade won't disappoint and looks great with lemon wheels and balled melon. Sure to impress.

2 quarts lemonade
1 honeydew or cantaloupe (deseeded and balled)
4 -5 lemons (cut into wheels)
3 cups of Bacardi Gran Melon

Combine all ingredients in a large container and stir well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Serve over ice. Serves about 10.

Cheers everyone!

try this...

Pressed for time?

Very Victorian and a nice embellishment to an empty wall. Select a variety of different fronds, or sample from just one plant, and press them between heavy books for a few weeks. Mount them in collectible coin or shadow boxes - the kind found at crafts stores and flea markets - that have been spruced up with paint and canvas lining. Use dots of hot glue to secure the dry fronds.

This look would also be purty with dried wild flowers...


Want the botanical look but don't want to do it yourself?

Check out prints from Panteek.

be outside this weekend...

Grab a blanket and get going!

Did you know the know that these fully loaded carryalls were once a built in feature in the Rolls - Royce? They are no longer an upper crust affair! So, why not go barefoot and picnic this weekend?

These baskets range in price and are available in service for two and four. Check out Picnic & Beyond, Inc, Picnic Fun and Cath Kidston for some for classic and bargain options.

Also fun... antique lithographed tins.

Made from the late 1930s through the ’50s these tins were originally cookie containers... most are rectangular and boxy with movable wood or metal handles, but you can also find oval, oblong, and octagonal pieces. Designs are as varied as the shapes; the most common patterns include basket and blanket motifs, plaids, and florals.

Looking for something more elaborate (and more collectible)? Tins falso feature seaside scenes, playing children, nursery-rhyme characters, and kitchen utensils.

tut-tut, looks like rain...

Vintage Umbrellas

Umbrellas are making a storm as a must have fashion accessory. You're wearing great clothes, fabulous shoes, a gorgeous handbag - and carrying a dumpy old umbrella. What's wrong with this picture??

The umbrella comes from the Parasol which was created as protection against the sun and has been used for centuries as a religious symbol, status symbol and erotic symbol as well as to keep the rain and sun away. Origins of the umbrella can be traced back as far as 3000 years. Many improvements have been made in material and design throughout its history. Originally English umbrellas consisted of oiled silk and heavy wood with poor and clumsy mechanical operation.

These days you can find one as cheap as a few dollars or of higher quality and cost, from a big umbrella to a small umbrella in a multitude of colors from a green umbrella to a black umbrella, all of which offer you protection from the rain and if you choose your rain umbrella right, fashionable rain accessory.

Here is my happy!! This new Pagoda umbrella was designed in Seattle where umbrellas are an essential outdoor accessory. These umbrellas are fun, flirty and customizable.

be there...

Spring is in full swing and summer is just around the corner. That means the time has come to get out!

The 2009 Rosslyn Outdoor Film Festival rewinds to relive the 80s! A great summer picnic and a movie event.

In other news...

Sadly, HBO will not be sponsoring Screen on the Green on the National Mall this summer. Screen on the Green has been a Washington, DC favorite for many years. Hopefully a new sponsor will step in to run the popular event (fingers crossed).

collect this... vintage matchbooks

Have a collection of matchbooks that are collecting dust in random junk drawers? This colorful creation can be striking piece of art when framed.

I know what your thinking... all the restaurants are non-smoking and matchbooks are harder to come by. You can buy old matchbooks in bulk online to start your collection. To create your own display arrange them by color, size, or design. They're also fun to display in glass containers.

make this... coconut cupcakes

Yes, I'm cupcake crazy... but this recipe (courtesy of Martha Stewart) is too good to not share. Mom and I used it as one of our Memorial Day cupcakes. So yum!

3 cups cake flour (not self-rising)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
3 sticks (1 1/2 cups) unsalted butter, room temperature
2 1/4 cups sugar
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup coconut milk
8 large egg whites
1 1/4 cups shredded sweetened coconut
seven-minute frosting
coconut for garnish

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two standard 12-cup muffin pans with paper liners; set aside.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat butter and 2 cups sugar until light and fluffy, 3 to 4 minutes, scraping down sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in vanilla. With mixer on low speed, add flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk and beginning and ending with the flour; beat until just combined. Transfer mixture to a large bowl; set aside.

3. In the clean bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat egg whites on low speed until foamy. With mixer running, gradually add remaining 1/4 cup sugar; beat on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form, about 4 minutes. Do not over beat. Gently fold a third of the egg-white mixture into the butter-flour mixture until combined. Gently fold in remaining egg-white mixture; stir in shredded coconut.

4. Divide batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each with a heaping 1/4 cup batter. Bake, rotating pans halfway through, until the cupcakes are golden brown and a cake tester inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes. Transfer pans to a wire rack. Invert cupcakes onto rack; then reinvert and let cool completely, top sides up. Frost cupcakes with seven minute frosting, swirling to cover. Cupcakes may be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Garnish with fresh coconut just before serving.

Seven-Minute Frosting (and don't let the candy thermometer scare you, it's worth it!)

3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon light corn syrup
3 large egg whites, room temperature

1. In a small, heavy saucepan, combine 3/4 cup sugar, corn syrup, and 2 tablespoons water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved. Rub a bit between your fingers to make sure there is no graininess. Raise heat to bring to a boil. Do not stir anymore. Boil, washing down sides of pan with a pastry brush dipped in cold water from time to time to prevent the sugar from crystallizing, until a candy thermometer registers 230 degrees about 5 minutes. (Depending on the humidity, this can take anywhere from 4 to 10 minutes.)

2. Meanwhile, in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whisk egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form, about 2 1/2 minutes. Gradually add remaining 2 tablespoons sugar. Remove the syrup from the heat when the temperature reaches 230 degrees (it will keep rising as pan is removed from heat). Pour the syrup in a steady stream down the side of the bowl (to avoid splattering) containing the egg-white mixture, with the mixer on medium-low speed.

3. Beat frosting on medium speed until cool, 5 to 10 minutes. The frosting should be thick and shiny. Use immediately.

today's happy... cupcakes

Let your inner artist shine. Cupcakes are a fun way to experiment with piping frosting and trying out new decorating ideas.

For Memorial Day, my Mom and I decided to whip-up chocolate, strawberry and coconut cupcakes; we displayed them using this great three-tier cupcake stand.

A yummy addition to any summer picnic or get-together!

Cupcake tips...

• If the frosting is too soft, a bit of powdered sugar will improve the consistency. Too stiff? Thin with milk. Too soft while piping? Chill in the pastry bag until it firms up.

• Disposable piping bags work well and save cleanup time. In a pinch, you can use a plastic storage bag instead of a piping bag and tip. Snip off the corner to make a small hole.

• Before piping, squeeze the air out of the bag and twist the top of the bag shut (or use a twist tie to keep it closed). Practice designs on a piece of parchment or waxed paper to get a feel for the flow.

PS. If you mess up, just eat it!

create your own secret garden...

Need a place to unwind?

Turn your patio, porch, or deck into a comfortable outdoor room with all-weather furnishings, low-maintenance materials, and your favorite garden collectibles.

Great chairs with comfy outdoor pillows are my favorite addition to a country patio or secret retreat. Add bright bunches of flowers to complement this cozy seating area... If you are lacking green space, pot flowers in galvanized pots and pails to bring this cozy look to your patio.

No tree canopy? Think about the alternatives... how about adding an arbor to your area. A wisteria-covered arbor will offer the perfect setting for outdoor dining with a shady backdrop and a bit of whimsy.

A bistro table set is the perfect complement to your Sunday New York Times and the "keep it coming" cup of Illy coffee. Also, a perfect place to put your feet up with some cheese ,wine, and a close group of girlfriends. I can almost hear Carla Brunini...

Another fun accessory to illuminate your secret garden would be a re purposed (candle-powered) chandelier.

Enjoy your secret retreat!

today's happy... seasonal coffee

Coconut Island Coffee... Who knew?

It smells like I'm drinking suntan lotion. The result is as refreshing as it is unexpected.

M says it's like sippin' on summer.

Be transported to your own private island!

Delightful...

be there... antique show

Mark your calendars... 29th Annual Baltimore Summer Antiques Show

Who... dealers from the United States, Canada, England, Japan, Italy and South America, the Baltimore Summer Antiques Show is the largest summer indoor antiques event in the nation. Each year thousands of knowledgeable collectors, dealers, decorators, and shoppers from the Mid-Atlantic and beyond attend the show.

What... 29th annual Baltimore Summer Antiques Show

When... Thursday, September 3 -- Sunday, September 6, 2009

Where... Baltimore Convention CenterOne West Pratt Street, downtown at the Baltimore Inner Harbor Two Main Entrances: West Pratt Street Lobby, Charles Street

Why... Who can pass up an opportunity to haggle?

For more info, check out http://www.baltimoresummerantiques.com/Default_main.asp

try this... makeover

Cheap Makeover!!

Old dressers, with their great lines and roomy storage are perfect for a paint-and-hardware makeover. And it's cheap! This project would typically total about 50 bucks.

If you don’t have a great old dresser, here’s your excuse to hit the flea markets or go antiquing. Look for a piece with great scroll work and carved spindles. Make sure that your pick features solid construction and all the (trust me on this) drawers slide easily.

This project is easy - promise! You just need to take care of some groundwork first. Remove the old hardware, then fill holes with wood filler and let dry. Next, sand the dresser and remove dust using a tack cloth. Now you can apply the primer.

Okay, here is the fun part - pick your paint color! Try two shades of the same color. The picture features a sunny yellow dresser. Using two yellows makes the dresser’s details pop: Use the brighter of your two hues to accent the dividers between the drawers, the top’s narrow edge, and the carved spindles. Finish with detailed knobs (try anthropologie), an easy way to display your personal style. Drill holes to install your new knobs, and you’re done!

Materials Needed -- 1. wood filler 2. sandpaper and sanding block 3. tack cloth 4. latex primer 5. two shades of yellow semigloss latex paint 6. drill 7. detailed knobs

make this... bourbon slushies

Two words... SO GOOD! But watch out, they pack a punch.

1 cup of boiling water
5 tea bags

Combine and let steep a bit, then take out tea bags and add

24 oz of water
12 oz of frozen OJ
6 oz of frozen lemonade
10 oz of bourbon

Put in a large plastic container and freeze overnight. Should be slushy consistency. Serve in glass with Diet Sprite or Sprite One (regular sprite is too sweet).

Tips from the trade: I prefer making the slushies with Makers Mark and also suggest doubling the recipe (might as well right?!). Cheers everyone!!

PS. Props to L for the bad ass pic... she has an eye for these things.

today's happy... flashdance

So last week on Grey's Anatomy Mer and Der were adorably married by Post-it note (smile)... did you hear the music in the background?? Rewind the tivo and listen closely (i think... i hear... flashdance?!). Note to self: I have got to google this!

Hence, today's happy... Hollywood, Mon Amour

Click and listen to: Flashdance feat Yael Naim

Think first dance at wedding. Ahh....

(and as for the rest of the episode - I've got one word for you - SERIOUSLY?!)

destination... cleveland

So... Cleveland will always be "home". People ask, 'where are you from' - I always say Cleveland. Never DC. Why? Because "home" is where your story begins...

Once dubbed the "mistake on the lake"... here are seven reasons why Cleveland Rocks!

Props to number five: the food! Check out the Cleveland Foodie Blog and you'll get an idea of what I'm talking about. Cleveland might lack in quantity but it makes up in quality. Support your local restaurants people! Hey, I can't forget to mention Cleveland has it's very own iron chief?! I'm going "home" this weekend for a visit. Michael Symon here I come...

PS. It doesn't hurt that the Cavs are on their way to the championship! Something that no one in Ohio is taking lightly...

fun stuff...

I'm a mozzarella! Don't know why the photo is not coming up, but the link still works. What kind of cheese are you?

collect this... political buttons

What are they?

The first political buttons were made for the 1896 presidential race between William McKinley, who became the 25th president, and William Jennings Bryan.

How much will I pay? (well, i wouldn't but some people would...)

The more common buttons, such as the 1972 “Nixon Now” button, can be found for under a dollar, while a 1920 James Cox–Franklin D. Roosevelt button is worth $25,000.

Tip: You can’t collect everything... Focusing on a state, candidate, political party, or specific campaign.

PS. Don't throw away your Obama memorabilia - it may be worth something someday...