Happy Independence Day!

Happy 4th of July! Fellow Americans, I hope you celebrate our freedom by relaxing and spending time with loved ones. I'll be doing the same, but with some pulled pork, bison burgers, and s'mores added in there. :)

Shoe Love: Glitter and Bold

A few weeks ago I went to a Sequin Happy Hour which consisted of a bunch of friends meeting at a bar and all wearing some sort of sequin, glitter, or sparkle. Even men were forced to participate. It was such a fun idea and I jumped on board immediately, before realizing that I have no sequins in my wardrobe. None. Not even a sparkly rhinestone necklace. I felt like this was some sort of huge womanhood fail. I don't think of myself as a tomboy, but maybe? I re-thought my whole identity.

Then remembered I did had some Miu Miu pumps with glitter on them (phew) but they are a sandal and freezing even if worn with tights.  I ended up wearing holiday colored flannel, denim, and leopard loafers. With red lipstick. And diamond earrings. Those count, right?

I love these Miu Miu glitter pumps! They would make the perfect holiday addition to any closet and they're on sale.

Do you have any sequins in your wardrobe?

Images via Net-a-Porter

Art to Inspiration: Time Out

Painting 192 by Lauren Adams

Sometimes you just need to get away. The stress gets to you. Anything can set you off; that co-worker’s last minute request, your holiday packages getting swiped from your stoop (this happens all too often in DC), a traffic jam when you have a very important happy hour waiting. Or maybe you drop a wine glass, and as it shatters into a million pieces, you feel yourself coming undone.

But it’s the home stretch before Christmas break and there is no time for a vacation. In fact the reason you are so overwhelmed is that you are taking your vacation days (for a change) and everything needs to be taken care of before you step away. So how do you get away for a deep breath and a recharge while stuck in your cubicle?

This is one of the reasons I love art so much – it’s a distraction - and where Lauren Adam’s tiny paintings come in. Her small acrylic paintings on paper (many only 6 x 4 inches, small enough to keep on your desk, no?) explore the scenic landscapes of West Virginia. She boils down the sky, trees, rolling mountains, to fresh blocks of color and shape. The paintings take you anywhere, to a new place, to somewhere far away and stress-free.


Started by the lovely Supal of Chevrons and Eclairs, Art to Inspiration is a once a month blog post inspired by a work of art.If you would like to participate in Art to Inspiration, click here to read more and sign up.  

And in case you missed it here's July's, August's,  September's, and October's Art to Inspiration.

Exploring Wine: A Thanksgiving Pairing

I almost bored myself to tears last week as I wrote about suggested wine pairings for your Thanksgiving feasts. I was going argue why the body, structure, and fruitiness of a Pinot Noir would be perfect with your succulent turkey and cranberry sauce. But then, I thought better of it and instead I’m going to tell you a little story about pairing wine with the holiday meal.


It’s 10am. I’ve just finished serving my family a generous meal of scrambled eggs, biscuits, ambrosia, fresh coffee, orange juice, and applewood smoked bacon. I need the bacon for Brussels sprouts I’m roasting later in the day. So I do a pre-Thanksgiving breakfast feast. I can’t just cook bacon at 9am with a house full of people and not expect them to eat it all before I can say, “that’s for later.” I buy double what I need and accept the fact that I will also be sneaking little bits of it all day.


After cleaning the kitchen, I sit down to finish my second cup of coffee and go over my lists and recipes to make sure I start cooking everything on time, and in the right order. My sous chef/mother notices I have no oranges or sugar. She sends dad out for them while she starts peeling apples for a pie. I ask for Sucanat to try and keep the meal as dairy-free, organic, and non-processed as possible.


He comes back with a pound of refined white sugar, along with Grand Marnier and champagne to use to kill off the orange juice; because we obviously can’t just have orange juice sitting around. My sister decides it’s too much for her and goes for a run. My dad abandons his new mimosa making duties to accompany her. Gman is already out. My coffee is down to the last bitter, cold sip.


I start on the Brussels sprouts, rinsing, chopping, and roasting them with apples and bacon (which barely made it into the dish). My sous chef and I decide there is no time like the present to sample the good wine I carefully choose to compliment our dinner. My, my do I love Pinot Noir. It’s the Goldilocks of wine - not as heavy as a Cab or Malbec, not as light as a Nebbiolo or Chianti - and it goes down so easily too, especially while one is cooking. As soon as the Brussels sprouts are in the oven, we start the cranberry sauce. The Grand Marnier doesn’t go to waste, and we pour a little into the cranberries and orange zest. Man, the wine is so good. It makes everything fragrant and I pat myself on the back for such a fine selection.


More biscuits, and some cornbread go into the oven as the Brussels sprouts finish up. I start boiling the potatoes and cook the sausage for the dressing. Everyone returns. We open a second bottle then nearly burn our fingers sampling the Brussels sprouts straight off the pan. “Yes,” I say, complimenting myself out loud, “the Pinot Noir picks up the bits of bacon nicely without over-powering the apples”. My sister rolls her eyes.


Then I realize that the turkey roast is still chilling in the fridge. It’s now 2pm and the side dishes are near completion. I ignore everything that Giada and Ina have taught me and rub a bunch of butter all over the cold roast, and then dump some salt and pepper on it. It’s thrown into the oven about 50 degrees hotter than noted on the packaging. We consider cutting up and grilling it instead, then realize the grill is out of gas and its also 40 degrees outside.


Slowly the day slips through my fingers. Once everything is finished in the kitchen, we are forced to drink cheap Chardonnay with the turkey (which wasn’t a total loss) instead of the hand-selected Pinot since my sous chef and I finished that off, oops. But no one seems to notice or mind. We end the night with a rousing game of Apples to Apples. Then devour some apple pie and vanilla ice cream.


Nothing was exactly as I prepared for in my head the weeks leading up. In the moment, I was stressed more than I was calm. I was even resentful that I couldn’t go for a run too, but really, I was relieved to get some quiet time to do one of my favorite things: sit in the kitchen with my mom, drink the finest wine we can afford while pretending to be focused on the food, but really we’re just gossiping until everyone returns and the moment is gone.

Weekend Recap: Memorial Day

This weekend we celebrated Memorial Day with some friends and cook-out in the garden. We bought bison burgers at the farmer's market just for the occasion. I would like to say I'm an adventurous food eater, as I'm constantly inspired by Anthony Bourdain and his culinary travels, and I am with some things - sweets, cheese, fruits, and vegetables - just not really with meat. I'm not a huge meat eater. I don't even really like hamburgers. For years I didn't even cook meat at home, poor Gman.

However, there has been some buzz over bison and its leaner, healthier qualities and we like the bison (and pork) guy at the farmer's market. So I decided to give Gman the green light for a taste test. As soon as we mentioned to our guests that a) we were having bison burgers and b) where we got them, they were giddy with excitement. The same guy goes to their market! I wish I could remember his name now, though I'm sure if you live in DC and are a meat eater, you know who I'm talking about.

I'm happy to report that I really liked it! The meat was tender, slightly marbled with fat, just enough to give it a juicy texture. It was light and slightly sweet. I liked it much better than beef. Like a lot more. I'm so glad I pushed myself to try something new!

What about you? Are you adventurous with food or do you stick to just a few favorites?

PS - I totally destroyed that Strawberry Rhubarb pie. It's basically the only thing I ate all weekend. That and a vanilla ice cream accompaniment.

Weekend Recap: New Year's Resolutions

So it’s a new year. How did you celebrate? I sung along to dueling pianos at Savannah Smiles with some close friends in Savannah, Georgia.

Did you make any resolutions? Some people think they are silly. Some people like to take them seriously. I like to set one or two resolutions but I pick something outside of my usual set of goals. For example, I had two last year: to accessorize more regularly and to change my signature cocktail from Jameson on the Rocks to something less potent. I never did find an alternative libation but am happy to report that I now have a suitable selection of lipstick, jewelry, and scarves to decorate myself with.

I’ve always admired those people who send thoughtful cards, gifts, and emails to friends and family. I get too caught up in my daily life and often forget my loved ones’ birthdays, even with the helpful reminders on facebook. So this year my New Year’s Resolution is to reach out to my friends and family on their birthday.

Shoe Love: Structured sandals

Burak Uyan sandals

I know. I know. It's the middle of winter. But I snuck in a few minutes on the web to browse the Net-a-Porter sale and got all lusty over these. After being in Florida for two weeks I'm fantasizing about wearing a sandal for New Year's. I love the architectural design of these and can imagine wearing them in any season - especially if I can get away with pairing them with black tights for the colder days. What do you think?

Inspired, I decided to wear a sandal with tights and in real life I'm going to wear these for my New Year's festivities, which are surprisingly comfortable. No joke!

Weekend Recap: I wore a hat and other winter activities

Last week it finally started to feel like winter around here. The air is crisp and the smell of burning fireplaces lingers everywhere we go. Gman and I took advantage of the beautiful weather, however chilly, and finished up our Christmas shopping. Then went to my company's holiday party, which I helped plan. It was a huge success and I couldn't help but celebrate late into the night. Champagne and dancing were involved.

As per usual, we went to the farmer's market on Sunday and again, beautiful weather. I can't get over it! I just want to stand around in the sun with my coat on soaking it in. Later, while listening to Christmas songs, I printed out our holiday cards which we send to all of our friends and family. Each year I design the cards, write the story of our yearly adventures through the perspective of our suitcase, then print them out, mail them, etc. I love reflecting on a year's worth of activity and boiling it down to the most memorable experiences. Do you send out holiday cards? I've heard a lot of amazing things about Pinhole Press.

And the hat you ask? I don't normally consider myself a hat person. I never know what I'm supposed to wear with a hat or if my hair should be clean or dirty or if I take it off indoors. Winter weather is a great excuse to experiment. So I eagerly dusted off my cashmere beret and Gman quickly reminded me that it would not keep me warm if I were lost in the wilderness or if it was 19 degrees outside...

High Heeled Traveler's Holiday Gift Guide

Pendleton bag, ipad, leopard flats, globe, scarf, cutting board, bangle, The Art Book, blouse, cork screw

I spent the weekend shopping for Christmas presents - for myself and others. I have this horrible habit of buying one thing for a friend and one thing for myself. By actually taking the time to shop I discover so many little treasures - it's so hard to resist! Shopping for the holidays is one of my favorite traditions. I love picking out gifts for my loved ones and I love making a list of things I need, want, or dream about. And as much as I information gather throughout the year I don't compile a list of desirable goodies until Thanksgiving.

This year we are traveling for much of December (surprise!) so I've got my eye on a few items that would make my holiday voyage more pleasurable as well as gift ideas for the home and for all those holiday parties. So here are my top gift pics for the High Heeled Traveler (mom and dad I hope you're reading).

We'll start with my fantasy presents...

A frequent traveler is always in need of a weekend bag. I love the stolen-from-the-boys plaid on this Pendleton one.

If you are in a super generous mood this holiday season, an ipad is great for filling with magazines, books, and browsing blogs online, plus, you can download your favorite travel apps, games, manage your itinerary, and take pictures all with one lightweight tablet. Hooray for lighter luggage (or room for more shoes?)!

I've had my eye on these leopard ballet flats for a while now. As much as I like to wear heels for everything, flats are great for quickly navigating the airport, a new city, or driving an unfamiliar rental car (does anyone else I know like to drive barefoot?).

I know, I know. A globe seems like such a typical gift for a traveler. How passe. BUT I don't have one and I would love to decorate our apartment with antique maps and globes. I always thought it would be fun to have a map/globe with pins marking where you've been and where you want to go.

Gifts for the traveling hostess...

It sounds crazy but I carry a bottle opener when I travel (in my checked luggage) (... who am I kidding, I have one in my purse now too). You never know when you might partake in an impromptu picnic and I've been a helpful guest at many a party.

I found these fabulous state shaped cutting boards on Etsy by A.Heirloom. Most are priced under $45 and would be a more thoughtful gift than a bottle of wine.

A cozy scarf or brightly colored bangle will certainly keep you warm and stylish at any destination. And a silk blouse is a must. You can wear it in any city, countryside, in any temperature, day or night.

Last but not least, The Art Book. Gman bought this for me for our first Christmas and I have found it to be quite handy ever since. It lists artists and art movements alphabetically for quick and easy reference. I like to refresh my memory before heading out to an art museum or gallery. It also looks nice on the coffee table and guests often check it out at parties.

I hope this is helpful to you for your holiday shopping! I know my cart is already full...

Weekend Recap: Thanksgiving

This weekend was nice and long - two days off for the Thanksgiving holiday. My parents and sister came to town (as they often do) so that I can host and cook for them. I managed to spend 5 hours cooking up a storm and doing it all dairy-free. Dinner started with butternut squash soup, followed by the traditional meal: turkey, cranberry sauce with orange zest and a touch of Grand Marnier, brussel sprouts with bacon and apples, corn bread, and sausage brioche dressing. We barely saved room for apple pie and vanilla ice cream!

Friday and Sunday we explored the Capitol Building, Library of Congress, and the Air and Space Museum. I'll share those with you in the following posts.

Did you enjoy your time off? Did you spend it with family and friends? Did you travel or stay home?

Weekend Recap

Vietnam Memorial

 

Friday night we decided to BBQ some burgers in honor of arguably the most popular barbequing weekend of the year. We took our deliciously seasoned patties, creamy avacado, juicy tomatoes, and sweet onions to the grilling area of our apartment complex. There are about 10 grills there and all were going full blast. Families, friends, and strangers were gathered around to cook their wide selection of meats. No two people were cooking the same thing! There were hot dogs, ribs, marinated chicken breasts, chicken wings, smoked pork (which I almost stole, almost), hamburgers, and veggies. The smells coming off the grills were intoxicating.

Here's one of my favorite burger recipies:

You'll need:

Hamburger meat (beef, turkey or black bean)

avacado slices

tomatoe slices

grilled sweet vidalia onions

mayo

english muffin

olive oil

salt and pepper

First season the meat with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let it rest while you cut up the avacado, onions, and tomatoes. Grill the hamburgers and onions. When they are halfway done throw the english muffins on to toast. Once cooked to your preferred doneness assemble the sandwich, adding more salt and pepper and a bit of mayo. Enjoy!

World War II Memorial

 

Saturday we went memorial hopping to honor those who faught for us. We were not the only ones, the crouds of tourists were thick. Rolling Thunder was also in full swing. Veterans and active duty soliders have such a special place in my heart so it was touching to see so many paying their respects.

Sunday we had my favorite meal of the week: brunch. Monday we also had brunch, why not?

How was your weekend? Any stories to tell?

Lincoln Memorial



Can you see the swarms of people?

Happy Memorial Day Weekend!

Ahh, a holiday weekend! Don't you love having an extra day off of work? One of the most lovely ladies I know is on her way to visit me! We have a full weekend planned of laying by the pool, having cold beers, BBQing - wait that doesn't sound too busy that sounds relaxing! ;)

What are you doing? Any Memorial Day traditions?

 

For those of you needing a little reading this afternoon: I don't know much about children but I'm loving Cup of Jo's tips for traveling with a baby. Thanks Joanna for your ever insightful advice and discussions.

Have a great weekend all!

Wardrobe: Key West Express



Roxy swim suit, Victoria's Secret cover up, Essie nail polish, JCrew sandals, JCrew hat, Foley + Corinna bag, Fijifilm Instax instant film camera

If you are going to be bar hopping, swimming, boating, touring, and shopping then you need to go prepared: sandals that strap to your feet, a bag that you don't have to carry, a hat so you don't worry about your hair, and an instant film camera to capture those ridiculous moments.

Destination: Spring Break in Key West

 

The hot sun warms your skin and melts your half-drunk Strawberry Daiquiri. You don’t mind as you are bellied up to the bar busy chatting with the middle aged biker, who is here with his Harley Davidson biker group, on one side and 21 19 year old spring breaker from Michigan on the other. Behind you a group of mature ladies play cards and laugh loudly as the pitchers of Sangria are passed around. Cheese Burgers in Paradise is being played by a cover band that had a little too much fun back in the 60’s but is still going strong. Hours go by but it feels like just minutes and the crowd around you becomes thicker, drunker, and more convivial. It’s time for you to order a drink for the road and see what other bars have to offer.

It’s only 2pm. And you are just getting started. Welcome to Spring Break in Key West.

 

Key West is a funny little island when in the wee months of spring, snow bird tourists, spring breakers, and a kinky local culture come together in an anything goes party-‘til-the-sun-comes-up atmosphere.

 

We could only stay for a day, as with many of our quick weekend trips. We were coming from Ft. Myer’s, Florida and took the Key West Express  down that morning. As we walked off the gangplank and onto dry land, a breeze of fresh salty air rushed by. After taking a deep breath, we decided to immediately get sustenance. I don’t do well when I’m hungry. Or tired (I slept on the boat on the way down). After a little exploring, we ended up choosing a classy establishment over the grab-n-go conch fritter and hot dog stands.

 

Although if you have not had conch fritters before you must try them! They are a local specialty. Conch is a mollusk that is abundant around the islands. In the Florida Keys’ early history the residents were known as Conchs. And on April 23, 1982 the Conch Republic was formed through a mock secession in response to a traffic check point on US 1. The check point was established to search vehicles for drugs and illegal refugees (Key West is only 90 miles from Cuba). The check point severely hurt tourism, the island’s main industry. After the secession, the road block was removed. Since then the Conch Republic has used similar tactics to protest other political and social issues.

 

The restaurantwe chose, Bagatelle, was situated in a traditional Key West style architectural home. We sat on the expansive second level porch which was not only breezy but fantastic for people watching on Duval Street. As usual I had difficulty deciding between the entrées but one thing was for certain, an ice cold beer needed to be in my hand. A.S.A.P. The pork tacos seemed intriguing and I'm glad I went with them as I still think about their slightly smoky, ripped texture, tangy pickled onions and soft corn tortillas. Nom Nom!

We then strolled down Duval Street watching the revelers and locals mix almost seamlessly. The culture of the locals maintains a free-spirited Caribbean island vibe and a wicked sense of humor. The island has been used for many different industries since its “discovery” by Christopher Columbus who was looking for the Fountain of Youth. In the 20th century, Key West was used to smuggle rum into Florida during Prohibition. Its economy was badly hurt by the Great Depression. And around 1950 shrimp fishing became a huge industry. In fact, that is how G-man’s grandfather made a living.

 

There is a lot to do in Key West and the Florida Keys in general. It merits a longer stay if you have the time. The fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, boating, kayaking, golfing, beaches, shopping, and art galleries will no doubt keep you entertained without keeping you too busy. Check out The Florida Keys tourism website for details.

 

As the sun started setting, our time in Key West ended; we boarded the Key West Express and gazed at sail boats lazily float through the island communities. Then we watched the sun set completely un-obscured over the bright blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. What a treat coming from Manhattan where you rarely see the horizon! I passed out again on the boat ride back to Ft. Myers like a baby in a car seat after a long day at the zoo.

St. Patrick's Day



St Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, Ireland. photo my own

Happy St. Patrick's Day! Did you travel to celebrate? Any favorite destinations? Ireland is a given, but where else? I've heard the celebrations in Chicago, IL and Savannah, GA are great fun and the cities dye their rivers green (!). The parade here in NYC is a must too. Any great destinations outside the U.S.?

I'll be celebrating by having my favorite: Jameson on the rocks.