Cutest Gift Ever!

OK, at least for someone 21 or older. This was a birthday gift to me from my dear friend, Holly. It's the perfect sized little flask for a dirty martini on the go. It even came with a little funnel so not a drop gets wasted. Don't we all deserve a little cocktail after slaving away so hard in the kitchen? (The flask came from a gift shop called "Y-Not" in Carlise, PA) Maybe something to keep in mind for the friend who has everything. Make mine with Belvedere please.

What I'm into this week...

SUZANIS!

These gorgeous textiles are made in Uzbekistan. Vintage ones can be found quite reasonably. They look gorgeous at the foot of a bed with with white matelasse or tossed over the back of a sofa. Find one with a little damage? Make it into pillows. It's a great opportunity to bring something handmade into your home.

Let's Talk Chocolate

It has come to my attention that I love South American chocolate. This is one of my favorites; I get it at Trader Joes. This bitter dark chocolate goes great with a glass of syrah or even a cab... it can handle it. Comment to me and let me know your favorite chocolates, we'll have a taste test.

Miles Redd's Kitchen

Is this possibly the gutsiest kitchen ever? Black walls, ceiling AND cabinetry; mirrored countertops and backsplashes! This is the kitchen of designer Miles Redd, one of my faves. Could I see it in my own house? Naaa (but I do have black walls) Do I admire it for it's fabulousity? You betcha! It just inspires me to take a risk. Why don't you too?

Outdoor living at it's finest

Can you believe this is an outdoor piece of furniture? This hot little number is from LaneVenture and it is made of weatherable wood. Upholster it in any weatherproof fabric and you have an outdoor living room that will be the envy of all your friends! Imagine two of them flanking a fire pit and you and several chums enjoying a fabulous glass of wine, chatting about the latest and greatest episode of Desperate Housewives. Don't have a fire pit? Well, order the ottoman that matches, pop a fabulous tray on it and you've got a place to set the cheese and crackers to go with your cabernet. You know you want it!

You know where I'll be Wednesday night

I am tres excited to see who wins this season's Project Runway! This was a talented bunch of designers. I have liked Korto all along, but I must agree with the judges; she was weak for this final elimination challenge. Leanne's concept and dress were GORGEOUS! And, OMG, I am agreeing again with Nina; Kenley's collection would make for an interesting show. So, the judges got it right eliminating Jerrell. Well then I watched the runway shows on the Bravo website. It's between Leanne and Kenley. And so the winner is....

Makes ya wanna do dishes

This is the faucet I will put in my kitchen if I ever get to redo it. GORGEOUS! The lines, the scale... it would go with anything. Such a classic! I think it is so smart to put in items that are classics, never out of style. Save the trendy things for accessories or even paint colors. Imagine this in a traditional or modern kitchen; any countertops, stainless or cast iron sink... it works!