I realize that it is rare for us to get together in the afternoon, but I had to share this with you. Stephanie Johnson is having a sale! For those of you who are not familiar with Stephanie and her bags, let me clue you in. She has been featured in all the best fashion mags, from In Style to Vogue. Plus, I used to be her personal assistant when I lived in L.A. (glamorous work if you can get it!) So I might be a wee bit partial to her. But with very good reason.
Eric and I are grilling more everyday. And although the kitchen is right inside, I would love to have a piece to store all my grilling goodies. Voila! Look at this prep station just made for outside. I love it! It is touted as a prep station, but I do believe it would make a fabulous outside bar – cocktails, anyone?
Prep, Cocktails, Fireworks Storage...Well Maybe Not Fireworks Storage...
What do you think? Isn’t it marvy? Lets see what the specs are:
The Suncast Serving Station makes cooking and dining “al fresco” that much more enjoyable! Sometimes when you’re grilling up a storm, you just don’t have a big enough landing area to set all your supplies, platters and flame-broiled masterpieces! Well, your problem is solved, my friend! Just roll this totally handy Serving Station up to your grill for prep made easy. Also makes a great spot to serve up appetizers! The details: Provides 40″-wide counter space with ceramic tile-looking surface; 2 drop down leaves allow you to customize surface area; Casters (2 locking, 2 non-locking) for easy mobility; Easy snap-together assembly requires NO tools; 20 x 34 x 22″ d. (leaves down), 40 x 34 x 22″ d. (leaves up).
It rolls, y’all! A rolling outdoor cocktail cart. Wouldn’t this make a perfect gift for Father’s Day? Or maybe just because it’s Friday!
xoxo, Patti
Today blogging to Charlie Daniels – Devil Went Down To Georgia
Today I’ve got a fun idea for you from charming Party Guru Colin Cowie to keep your party going when no one is ready to leave.
If you plan to see the sunrise, throw an after-party with whatever you think will keep the party alive. From colored lights to mirrored balls, from an espresso bar to an assortment of specialty cocktails or—one of my favorites—Coffee Shooters presented to guests while they’re on the dance floor. Iced and potent, they are sure to keep the party going, providing the needed rocket fuel without missing a single beat. You’ll look back at your wedding and say, “I could’ve danced all night—and that’s exactly what I did!”
To get started, rim some test tubes or shot glasses with the peel of an orange and then dip the rim of the glass in chocolate shavings and some chili flakes. In a shaker filled with ice, mix the following:
1 ounce Vodka or Tequila (I prefer Tequila)
1/2 ounce Kahlúa Especial
1/2 ounce Tia Maria
1 ounce cold espresso
And here’s a link for those test tubes so you don’t have to go searching for them – super cheap!
Tapas continue to hold our collective attention and of course there will always be places that do it halfheartedly and others that excel. Unfortunately, most tapas restaurants serve the same tired old dishes.
But not The Iberian Pig. They are producing small plates that thrill. Best friend Clint picked the perfect spot for Holly and I to meet up with he and his mother, my Memphis pen-pal, the genteel Miss Sylvia. Situated in the middle of Decatur Square, you can support the environment and jump on the MARTA and end up right in the middle of the square – how’s that for green?
The official start of summer is just days away, but Old Sol seems antsy to bring it on. It is positively steamy here in Atlanta and what better way to beat the heat than ice cream? Now I know that might coincide with your bikini-ready plans, but you need to give yourself a tiny break here and there, yes?
There are so many fantastic ice cream purveyors here in our city – just turn around and you bump into one!
If Only We Could All Look So Sweet Gobbling Ice Cream
Sex And The City 2 has opened and what better way to celebrate the girls than by starting with brunch at The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead? I know, I’ve been spending a lot of time at The Ritz, but I am sure Carrie Bradshaw would approve. I donned my girliest outfit ever – pink frilly top, Liz Claiborne garden skirt, sweet sandals and a very pink beaded purse. I might have looked more fluffy pink cupcake than glamour girl, but it suited the occasion.
The Perfect Skirt For A Brunch With Friends
Pair my sugary apparel with bestie Holly and the most dazzling brunch buffet known to Western Civilization and we were on! A red carpet was awaiting our arrival at the entrance to The Ritz-Carlton. Opening the door we were enveloped by the sounds of a tuxedo-clad pianist in a lobby dripping with crystal chandeliers. Jaw dropping, to say the least.
Just when I think life can’t get any better, I turn a corner and a wonderful surprise pops up. Yesterday was one of those days, but instead of one surprise, it was twelve in the form of the amazing Public Relations staff of the Southeast Ritz-Carlton Hotels.
It was my genuine pleasure to attend a special media luncheon as the guest of Sandra Ryder, Area Director of Public Relations, Atlanta. When I arrived at The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead, I was greeted warmly by each staff member I encountered. They embody the epitome of hospitality.
Yesterday you saw me use up leftover ribs and potatoes in a tasty breakfast hash. Today I will recount Sunday’s breakfast – Chilaquiles.
Never heard of it? It was our favorite way to start the day on several of our trips to Mexico. Let me share with you.
Start with tostados (you can also use tortilla chips – leftover from last night’s cookout, perhaps?) Usually the next ingredient added is refried beans. I had some in the pantry, but totally forgot that they were in there. Eric made a homemade tomatillo sauce (salsa verde). Then the cheese – queso fresco would make your dish authentic, but we used cheddar. Top with an egg, sunny side up and finish it with a dollop of sour cream and maybe a bit of avocado. If you are feeling fancy, garnish with a bit of cilantro. Devour with mucho gusto!
This past holiday weekend we just threw caution to the wind and indulged. My favorite indulgence is breakfast.
On Friday night I had cooked some ribs and we had some leftover (how could that even be?) So I decided to shred them and use the leftovers in a breakfast hash the next morning (we also had leftover potatoes – what?)
After shredding the ribs, chopping the potatoes and cutting up some onion, I lightly oiled my skilled and put the potatoes and onions in first, so they could get good and browned. And they did. Next up, the rib meat. Now, while I was making the hash, Eric cooked eggs – sunny side up to go over the hash (I told you this was pure indulgence!) Lastly, gobble down like greedy badgers.
Cooking The Hash
Doesn't That Look Delicious? It Was!!
Now you have enough calories to run the marathon. Or just shop a lot. Either way.
Follow up the next weekday with Resolution Fruit Salad. And water. Maybe a celery stalk for lunch.
I trust that everyone had a marvelous Memorial Day weekend, yes?
My weekend kicked off with a Friday lunch date with my sweet friend, Christy Annis, the mastermind behind Peas for Prosperity, an organization aimed at helping the disadvantaged. Christy just glows with love for what she is accomplishing and it overflows into every aspect of her life. I am humbled and delighted to call her a friend.
But first, lunch. We chose Noon for their central location and healthy fare.
