Month: August 2018

Fashion: Ted Baker Hints of Fall

I walked into a Ted Baker store in London in May and immediately fell impressed with the clothing line and since then, I’ve ordered this and that from their U.S. online shop. But now, I am considering a few of their Fall/Winter fashion.  I get it, you might be thinking it’s too soon to think about anything past back to school and the Long (Labor Day) Weekend (US) – but planning ahead is always a good idea and sometimes even fun when shopping is involved:

Would You Do The Color Pink?

Millennial and the color pink go hand in hand according to everyone –  but I have to admit that I have always appreciated the color in the classic, pastel shade or those bearing a rosy hue, or a soft peach blend. Pink is classic, timeless, and women of all ages should own at least one thing pink-ish.  If not in decor, or fashion (clothing) then for sure lipstick. Like this shade Audrey Hepburn wore in Breakfast at Tiffany, which is still available here or this shade of pink, Penelope Cruz wore in a Lancome ad years ago, and one I wear to this day. Pink is a wonderful color. So just humor me, for those on the fence about Pink. Would you consider pink in… {featured image source}  

Decor: Cotswold Family Manor

Here’s the thing. While I was fortunate enough to be chauffeured through the English countryside by a wonderful friend of mine last year and this one, to explore every nook and cranny of England, I couldn’t help but wonder what the interior of the homes looked like. I know some remained true to their traditional style, but I was also certain, some of the homes were remodeled beyond my imagination or hers, for you see, we were discussing decor throughout our adventures naturally. So, when I stumbled upon this article, I needed to share it: How the interior of a 16th Century Manor in the Cotswolds is tastefully transformed to include 21st century  amenities/conveniences.

Food: Dinner Tonight – Grilled Zucchini all around

So excited to report that I found yet another recipe that I can keep as is for the FAM, and also add my own twist to make it Keto-friendly for me. Here’s what I am thinking: ORIGINAL INGREDIENTS 1 cup dry orzo pasta    ***instead I will use ground chicken sausage – remove skin and saute with a touch of butter – or lots of butter – I usually use Ghee or Grass-fed 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon fresh chopped oregano 1 clove garlic, minced or grated kosher salt and pepper 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes 1 cup cubed feta cheese   ***or Parmesan if you aren’t a fan of feta 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved 3 zucchini or yellow summer squash, halved  *** sticking to only green zucchini for the calorie count and carbs kosher salt and pepper 1/4 cup basil pesto   {MORE} And because this variation is delicious, I am making it for the entire family rather than the orzo pasta option for them. {image and recipe source}

Travel: Italy’s Exotic Beaches In Off-Season

I hardly believe there is an off-season when it comes to Italy. But if you’ve been, you can actually tell the difference in some parts of the country. Mostly along the coast – the tourists have tapered off and the locals seem to be taking a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle. Enter – me and whoever I am travelling with in late September or anytime in October or November – always interested in exploring the coastal towns in off-season, no matter if buses, trains and ferries have adjusted their schedules according to off-season runs.  I love having a place nearly all to myself,  with ideal climate and quiet. See what I mean:

Lifestyle: What Are You Watching On Television?

When I started blogging – twelve years ago – wow! I didn’t know if it was best to keep a separate blog for my love of films and filmmaking and another for all other interests that I have. Since being new to the concept of blogging, I ended up launching several blogs across the internet and watched them take flight here, here, and here. Twelve years later, I have slowed down this blog to a crawl – because I don’t get the chance to red carpet premieres anymore like I did, nor attend film festivals every year. But nevertheless, I still maintain an entry here and there about some of my recent favorite shows and films or discuss upcoming projects I am excited about – minus all the reality (actually staged) TV shows. But today, I am interested in finding out what films you’ve seen or shows you’ve binge watched, if you care to share. Because, I keep feeling as if I have reached the end of all films, and have caught up to all …

Food: Dinner Tonight – Spinach and Artichoke Melt – Two Ways

Sorry to keep opening most of my food posts with this – but in my household there is me following Keto, and others who don’t really want to (yet), so I have to be mindful when announcing our dinner menu. Although really, I seldom announce it, I just make it – one meal, two ways so no one feels left out. This morning I searched for a cheesy, gooey recipe since the crazy cold weather in San Francisco is making me crave comfort foods – and this is what I came across to tweak a portion for my dietary needs: INGREDIENTS 1 tablespoon butter 1 clove garlic minced or grated 1 tablespoon flour  * I usually omit the flour – no need for it really, the cheese is enough thickening ingredient.  1/2 cup milk (I used 2% but whatever you have will be fine)   * I replaced with almond milk or coconut milk for entire meal 1 ounce cream cheese 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese 1/2 cup greek yogurt I used 0% 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach thawed, about 5 ounces 1 (8 ounce) jar grilled artichoke hearts or …

Decor: English Cottage Right About Now

Seeing gray every waking hour is not a good thing – referring to the dense fog and gloom cloaking all of San Francisco from mid-June to mid or late September. I keep forgetting how the dreary atmosphere can play up on my moods. You know, feeling sluggish, uninspired, questioning life, my existence. I normally put all these thoughts aside when the sun is out, and the temperatures upwards of 70’s. So, by Sunday night, all I do is crave color and naturally an English cottage getaway of course.

Lifestyle: Four Day Workweek to Gender-Neutral Parenting

Sunday morning, although time is flying by in a blink of an eye, is one of my favorite days of the week. Where I can simply stay in bed and read, with my favorite companion curled up next to me, or get up and have a cup of coffee, while pondering life in a good way and sharing topics of interest with all of you. That’s what Sundays are for – at least for me.   {featured image source}