Between the Ditches

I've MOVED!!

2011-02-24T17:58:00.001-06:00

please come visit me in my
snazzy new space

betweentheditches.com

see you there!
x o
h

Coming Back Across the Pond

2010-09-22T19:01:00.005-05:00

There are pictures to post and stories to tell, but at the moment, sitting in an Admiral's Club for the 5th hour of my layover in D.C., I have something different to share.

The past 3 weeks have been divided between Paris and Florence. The time spent was much needed on all fronts: work life & personal life.

Beautiful moments alone to process a thought instead of just simply having one.

Fast-forwarding, back from la la land, I find myself reviewing the past several months. What have I learned? Better yet, what will I do with the lessons?

Some of that I'll keep close to my chest, but one thing that this big universe seems to keep beating me over the head with is the worthiness (even the calling?)

of simply striving to be a great manager.

As a designer, I've carried a bit of a complex: what to I actually do that contributes to anything wholesome? I don't save lives on a daily basis. I don't get my hands dirty rebuilding villages,

or see to it that children are given medicine and education....I could go on.

However, there has been just enough of a belief in what I do, or at least have the opportunity to do, that has kept me going. Although, to this point, I've never been comfortable in my articulating it. Then today I read it so well put, that I actually felt the proverbial weight lifted.

An article in the Harvard Business Review's website, a professor, Clay Christensen wrote what I longed to hear,

"...Management is the most noble of professions if it’s practiced well. No other occupation offers as many ways to help others learn and grow, take responsibility and be recognized for achievement, and contribute to the success of a team.

The context of that particular statement described the difference that could be made in someone's life when they are built up and empowered verses belittled and demeaned.

It's well worth the read:

link to hbr.org "How Will You Measure Your Life?" article

The article is only free to read through the end of the month. I highly recommend taking a moment if you can muster one.

He goes on to express another well made point, which is the mundane nature of the expected return from an MBA program: buying, selling, investing...

Mentioning that the pursuit is too often missed of the life that can be made by the good that can come from managing, building–things that make people's lives better.

Stepping off my little inspirational soap-box and onto a plane. I hope you read Mr. Christensen & take away a bit of encouragement.

Cheers for now - and maybe some Euro-trip photos later.

This Week's Eye Candy: Natural African Horn Jewelry from Astrid Sulger.

2010-07-20T15:25:00.005-05:00

Thursday night, my former boss, a talented Texas girl–now residing in Mozambique–is bringing over a, no doubt, treasure trove of jewelry she's discovered in her Southern Africa home. I'm planning to be in attendance for the collection preview, with all sorts of ulterior motives...

The designer is Astrid Sulger, a Swiss-born artist who lives in Maputo.

Besides looking forward to some eye-candy after seeing nothing but numbers for the past 2 weeks, the natural materials and beautiful simplicity has me more that slightly curious.

For you FB fashionistas, check out some more of her things here.

Stay tuned for more from Astrid and Amy. I promise a full report post-show.

I predict good things from this duo.

Friday Assignment

2010-07-16T15:53:00.006-05:00

It's about 4pm on a Friday in July. At least four people have taken the day off. Music is piping through the studio speakers.

I'm barefoot & the bracelet has come off, signaling a fixed effort toward the business at hand. At least, my grandest attempt, in spite of giving up on focus-power sometime around 11am.

The choice at this point is simple: a late night tonight or an all-work Saturday

(oh, how I want to lay by a pool!)

Two calls just came in from magazines doing a fact check–always a good sign.

One was Vogue - yay!

Just one more week of this math-entrenched, detail-laden, beast of a project, then it will be time to move in on two more big ones, but not before finding tickets for fall travels.

Which means more decisions.

Not a fan of those today.

Hiring seems to be complete, now it's just the pending orders and fulfilling requests for brilliant-yet-commercial ideas (due yesterday). Yet, my usually lovely, comfy perch is rather uninspiring today. Outside that big, seductive window, however...

Which is exactly why I'm closing down and heading to a shady patio.

Happy Friday. Go do something fun with someone fun! If you don't have plans,

be brave–make someone's day!

Afternoon Cut-Ups

2010-07-15T13:14:00.012-05:00

My Skype (a new and dangerous discovery) was buzzing this morning with a mixture of short bursts and long conversations from friends and colleagues abroad. As I sat talking about ideas, jotting notes, and sifting through old files, I bumped into some previous inspiration worth sharing.

An exhibit from last October that I completely fell for: Slash, Paper Under the Knife at the Museum of Arts and Design was what caught my attention. I had just finished an invitation for an event hosted at the Hearst Castle in San Simeon.

I was meeting someone for tea at Robert, when I saw the paper exhibition and knew I needed to investigate. The show had mixed reviews from staunch critics, but the ideas are worth considering. It inspired me to do a little gathering of paper-art images for my own inspiration–which brings me back to my original point: sharing it with you.

Just think of it as comfort food for the right side of your brain.

Buon Apetito!

Peter Callesen

Georgia Russell

Trashion dress...read about it

Bovey Lee

The Path to Perfection

2010-07-14T11:31:00.005-05:00

To a fault, I wait. I wait until I've thought everything through. Then, rethink. Maybe a few more times: what am I missing? What did we forget? Let's get this one more thing perfect, before...

All along, one friend in particular, is always nudging, "just show it already!" Assuring me and reminding me that it's ready. It is sometimes an idea that just needs to be implemented, sometimes a product or a new design. Mainly, it is my own hang up, for whatever reason.

Today, I'm tossing an it out to you. Unfinished, a bit raw, but so lovely. These shots came in yesterday at the end of a long day. My happy hour, to be sure. Victor Schrager does such wonderful work. The web meeting for implementing the new shots is this afternoon. I've been waiting to move forward on this new web project for what seems like ages...all part of the process.

Have a peek, and stay tuned for more...

...and now on to rethinking.

Happy Wednesday–enjoy the journey!

Picture Perfect

2010-07-13T10:04:00.004-05:00

The Monday morning rush hit hard, in fact by 2pm, I was certain there was visible bruising. Yearning for just 2 minutes to rant to someone-anyone, for nothing other than the kind validation of a sympathetic ear, I converted instead an extended stay at the studio. Certain Tuesday would be much nicer if all Monday could be laid to rest, my maze of math and design commenced around 5pm. Unfortunately the ratio of the former was not in my favor.

By midnight my brain was thoroughly jumbled & processing at fractional speed, so home bound and just realizing the burn in my stomach was emptiness, I resigned to skip dinner for a cup of tea and relax in a hot bath.

But, Monday wasn't finished yet. My usual greeting of flying fur and desperate whimpers wasn't there. It wasn't anywhere, the house was dark, locked–no dogs.

The next 25 minutes consisted of panic-stricken calls iced with the guilt of A) calling past a reasonable hour and B) plaguing someone else with my own problem.

Damn, you Monday!

And, so to this point, all you've heard is whine, moan, blah, blah...

It's Tuesday.

At noon, I haven't quite unwound. There definitely hasn't been a spare moment to look up, but to point out the positive:

A wonderful woman and her daughter found and took in my pups, and they are quite possibly my new favorite people.

Bell'Invito has (after 6 years in the filing department of some government office) become an officially recognize Trademark - yay! (shouldn't we toast, or something?)

Brides magazine gave us front and center in the latest issue, invitation story,

p. 232, August Issue.

I am taking a rare moment during the day to blog–nearly defiantly.

By all accounts, I'm healthy, my family is well, my struggles are still proving great fodder for life lessons–or at least blog material. Maybe.

...and I have dinner/drinks with a great friend on Thursday! (Hurry up, Thursday).

Hey - and my A/C works. That, my dear people, is lovely.

Keep the good things coming...peace out.

Mid-Everthing

2010-07-12T12:07:00.002-05:00

This week's theme:

limbo.

mid-project(s)

{NEST: 5 year anniversary...TBD!}

{Bell'Invito: new web launch}

{NEST: new web launch}

{Bell'Invito: Holiday designs due - yesterday}

{Bell'Invito: as of this morning...something for a magazine...

can they have it this afternoon?(really?)}

{wedding books, still need pricing tweaked...due to ship Friday}

new hires starting

{yay!}

a wonderful employee leaving

{boooo}

still interviewing for a key role

{spread the word}

VIP invitations - rushed!

marketing strategy calendar due - both companies

holiday catalogs concept

{the creativity is sitting under an elephant at the moment, I simply can't get to it}

new product to approve

new packaging arriving...hopefully

...which is why I can't seem to put together a sentence for a blog.

Today, and maybe tomorrow–it's just going to be about keeping it between the ditches...

...but after that...

a little off-roading, anyone?

Hello, Honey

2010-07-07T20:41:00.008-05:00

Sitting under the swirly orange and red pendants in my kitchen is one of my favorite places to focus. Somehow, knowing the artist responsible for the warm glow above has a transcending effect that melts away the coldness of an all-systems-go-day at the studio.

The dogs are at my feet. I'm back to round two of work with a main course of design project and a side of humbolt, white tuscan honey, and a bowl of cherries.

Who says working late can't be fun?

There are exciting things on the horizon. A new blog, for one. One of those professional ones with a little bit of focus and a point to the ramblings–imagine that!

Here's what's coming up this month:

two new wedding books hitting hip boutiques around the globe.

I've been challenged on a new project (more details when I know more...) that brings new ideas to the table...vague, but interesting–at least to me, for now...

A new collection launches nationally, tomorrow, I think?

...and an exclusive collection is hitting Bergdorf Goodman and my own Nest.

Oh, and Bell'Invito and Nest both launch new websites - months in the making!

Then there's the really fun stuff for next month that I can't tell you about,

or I'd have to kill you.

I'm off to work...again...but officially off the clock.

So, pour yourself a glass and raise it with me,

"To inspiration, creativity,

and a chance to be asleep before the witching hour."

Cheers!

What Day Is It?

2010-07-01T09:12:00.006-05:00

They're all running together. This week–or was it last–

anyway, the night before leaving for NY this trip, was all about The Old State.

They are our amazing web company, and were throwing a party to launch a series of sites.

Yours truly was on video singing their praises–unscripted, which is never a good idea. And yes, I've already been reminded to sit on my hands when I talk...its slightly painful to watch, but here 'tis.

video link

Following, it was off to New York to sample lots of food

and a set out for a little discovery (we may be all discovered out...)

and to shoot various projects for Bell'Invito's July product launch...

my pet project above, to name one.

And finally, after a little off-schedule landing in D.C.,

I've made it to Vail, to my favorite comfy chair for some think time & some design time, and maybe a little yoga time.

Cheers!

Brooklyn Bound

2010-06-28T07:49:00.001-05:00

I'm zooming towards my 9am call time in Brooklyn. I'll be on set with Victor shooting the last few bits of product for our new Bell'Invito wedding books, in stores in July.

Inspite of the heat, it's been a great trip. Donald and I have found exciting things for the store. Check out my bracelets...

I've got 3 on. He'll have our bounty from this new (to Nest) designer in Wednesday.

Off to direct my shoot ( I love my job!! ) tweet ya later.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Weekend Launch

2010-06-25T10:21:00.003-05:00

After a great party at The Old State last night, I'm on a flight this morning (equipped with wi-fi–yay) to NYC. Its a weekend to divide and conquer. In Dallas, Stanley Korshak is hosting a Bell'Invito promotion this weekend that Lauren is covering. Donald and I are on separate flights to NY–he for a food show, which I plan to crash for a tasting or three, and me for a photo shoot with one very talented Mr. Victor Schrager. In a whirlwind of things that must be done, I'm going to publicly admit to turning it all off and reading another chapter of my book. Louis XV's mistress has just died, and Paris is all a twitter...

Too Far, Neighbor

2010-06-24T08:52:00.004-05:00

Warning: this is a rant. Its a beautiful Texas Thursday, not too hot. I'm up early to start the day out on a strong note. I stop by my local Tom Thumb to grab some groceries for the office. There are a few choices on the way to work, but this Tom Thumb is in my neighborhood & I like supporting that.

I get to the register, check out, and just as I'm about to pay, clerk says, "Would you like to donate $1 for prostate cancer research today?"

Did you really just put me on the spot?

It's not enough to simply have a card I can tear off and add to my purchases, or a box to check before I sign or enter my pin for payment. You have trained your employees to put me in a situation that makes me feel (fill in your choice: awkward, judged, unsupportive, ________ - am I forgetting any?) Aside from the fact that I may be contributing to these causes in other ways, may not support a particular charity, may have personal, valid reasons for saying no.

In general, at this moment:

yes=hero, no=jerk.

Now, Tom Thumb, as a chain of stores seems to offer a lot of opportunities for a community benefit from being loyal patrons–and remember, charity or not, it's all about marketing for the sake of revenues–which is fair capitalism. I am in full support of that.

My hope is that they'll go back to support of everyone's best interest. I'm not interested in being accosted or guilted into supporting your corporate donations bragging rights, neighbor.

I just want to say hello to some friendly, familiar faces, check out,

and feel good about coming back.

Someone let me know when that marketing phase has passed.

...and have a happy Thursday.

Read All Over

2010-06-23T11:41:00.003-05:00

I love old books. As I was considering my next summer read I stumbled onto a beautiful old book that had an inscription from 1926. It made my day to have a piece of someone's history and a new book to start the summer.

Book, $3.25

The sordid story of Madame de Pompadour to start the summer, priceless.

If I really like you, I might let you borrow my copy.

Kiss My Frass!

2010-06-22T10:40:00.005-05:00

I've discovered paradise in the most unlikely form. I call it Frass. Hear me out...

I bought my house based on 3 criteria.

1–proximity to a plaza

I like to walk & wanted somewhere I can stroll for coffee, dinner, etc.

2–character & age

Call me crazy, but when my husband and contractor looked at me 6 months into the remodel and said, "you know, it would be a lot cheaper to just tear this house down and start over..." I nearly fired both of them. On the spot.

Character & experience can't be created overnight!

3–the yard

I have a lovely deep lot with this perfect patch of grass leading to a greenhouse that I've made into an outdoor dining room of sorts. The problem? These huge gorgeous trees and 2 german shepherds are not friends to grass.

You see where this is going, but this is the main point: I don't do fake. It is moral issue–or something...I'm allergic to fake flowers. Knock-offs are forbidden (I've made one exception and it haunts me to this day). If it looks like a rock, it should be a rock. If it looks like Jonathan Adler, it should be made my them, if they have red soles...you get my drift.

Circle back to the exception–and here's what sold me. My lovely patch of backyard, including my precious pooches and hand-scraped hardwood floors were constantly a muddy mess.

Despite re-sodding year after year, the rains came down, and the inviting shade had a death grip on the majority of my lawn. Enter my friend Jeremy.

Jeremy is a dear friend in landscaping. He's not just your run-of the mill–everything he touches turns one of 2 colors: green or gold. He's the go to for the best known names in commercial property because he's that good. I've had the fortune to be able to bend his ear for little things: Jeremy, my trees need trimming. Jeremy, what flowers will grow in this spot? Jeremy, I really want hydrangeas, where can I put them in my yard? He humors my little requests & is right every time. But then he and his wife recommended putting in turf in my backyard. What-the--? DO you even know me? No.

Rain, more rain, mud and 2 months of research later, I started bending to the concept.

The recycled material caught my attention. The eco-friendly aspect of not having to water kept my attention. And, frankly, the promise of no more mud being tracked into the house was the best aspect of all. So I embraced the idea, and it didn't let me down. I haven't found a single regret. It looks gorgeous. I've had several people literally get on their knees before they believed it was fake (ugh, the word still makes me cringe). "Turf" doesn't sound much better. It sounds like something you roll out from home-depot for your kid's playhouse. "Fake Grass" - too harsh. Frass, I can live with. And I love it!!

I kid you not, it's changed my world!

Little Packages

2010-06-21T12:25:00.001-05:00

Today I'm doing a little cross pollination. I love these so much, I can't help myself!

If you're a hot momma, a dapper dad, or just parents with ultra cool kids, these brand new child-sized mid-century icons are an absolute must. Well-priced & ultra sturdy,

your hipster-in-the-making will be sitting pretty–and YOU can finally rest assured that this little tyke toy will never be an eyesore in the living room!

Here's a teaser: The Playball in Royal Blue. For more, go to my blog today at the NestDallas.com.

Recipe Weekend: Basil-Pomodoro Marinara

2010-06-19T16:45:00.006-05:00

My girlfriend just texted me for recipes we made on a vacation together earlier this year. Her husband wants her to make them for Father's Day–and that, I believe might be my favorite compliment...ever!

Before I get to it, you have to know she's a great cook. Which is why I'm delighted something I've introduced will make it's way for an encore onto their table. I'll be sharing her fall-off-the-bone ribs recipe in time for your 4th of July cook out, but for today–a simple marinara that's perfect in any season. So easy to make.

This serving is for 2 people.

Start with some garlic cloves. Mince them into a sauce pan that's got olive oil drizzled in it. Keep the pan at about medium heat. Let them start softening up in the heated pan with the oil. stir around occasionally.

Fill a pot of water that look about 3 times the size you think you need to cook your pasta. In other words, give it plenty of room to swim around. Toss in some sea salt.

Grab your onion carrot and basil while your garlic is cooking and your water is heating.

Chop up a sweet yellow onion. for 2 people I used about 1/3 of the onion. Finely chop up about half a carrot and about 6-8 fresh basil leaves. Sautee the carrots, onion, and garlic until all are soft. Add the basil in & stir on low for about 2 minutes

I use organic Tomato Sauce from Central Market, for the flavor, but also for the glass jar. Pomi is an Italian product I can usualy find in stores and it's great, too. Pour in about 2 cups worth.

A tiny bit of honey is a great way to takt the acidic edge off the tomatos.

Some tomato sauce is sweet enough, so just use a bit, and taste, until it seems right.

By now my water looks like this.

Something my italian friends insist on:

no pasta in the water until the boil looks like this...

Choose an Italian product.

For summer I like a light anger hair pasta.

One little pasta nest is great if you're having meat afterwards.

If it's the meal toss in another one.

Read your pasta box on cooking time and take off a minute.

The pasta should be cooked, but not bloated.

Drain your pasta & toss it into your simmering sauce. It's ready to serve up. Sprinkle on some parmesean & enjoy.

Oh–there's one more rule you must follow, in true Italian spirit:

Eat it while it's hot!

ENJOY!

Happiness Is...

2010-06-18T07:00:00.002-05:00

I stole a moment and sifted through photos–subconscious procrastination–but, I'm glad I did. As the stress of the day dissolved, I took note the huge blessings I take for granted.

Happiness settled in.

The rest of the blog changed, now–its all about me.

(so says my baseball cap~thank you, Jamie)

It's what makes me happy. Besides the therapudic sharing of happy thoughts, I hope it inspires a moment of zen to start your weekend, and a reminder to share things that make you happy with the important people in your life, it might just turn their day around.

Spread the love & welcome, Mr. Weekend!

My happiness is...

long tables full of friends...

a night at the opera

working with great people...

these creatures...

laughing with Mona...
a gorgeous place to escape...
my 90 lb. lap dog and a good cab on a chilly night...

laughing at myself...

(yep, that's me with fingers super-glued together. It happens)

dots!

(thanks, hillary)

snow in Dallas...

Dad's weird wardrobe habits...

provoking reads...

family...

making a meal at home...

SNOWMOBILING!!

(ridiculous outfit included)

my studio...

a roaring fireplace...

...and so much more.

Happy Friday!

P.S. It's now Saturday and as I sit having my happy little toes prettied,

my (always reliable) ELLE magazine reports that,

"studies show that each happy person you know increases

your chances of being happy by 9%."

So as I'm getting ready for a night with friends–it's an even better reason to smile, and make smile!

Dad's Day Count Down...

2010-06-17T08:30:00.001-05:00

Calling all last minute shoppers: if you didn't catch my picks for dad on Monday's Nest blog, here's the link.

This just in, add this Missoni bath towel to my list of faves.

These waves are making me want to catch a few rays myself

(slathered in SPF 90, of course!)

happy splashing!

Refreshing Perspective

2010-06-16T08:30:00.004-05:00

It's Wednesday.

Let me rephrase. It's Wednesday in June.

It's a Wednesday in June, on a really hot, deadline infested,

do-we-really-need-to-call-the-A/C-guy-again (?) day in June. Blech.

BUT! But, the weekend is a whole work day closer, along with a summer menu worth sharing. Tune in Saturday morning for that. In the meantime–to top it off, and that might be a freudian slip–I've got some promising Summer wines to share with you. Pick some up, and drop by my house to share. I'll have the deck dolled up and ready for you!

Pick one of these:

Grgich Hills Napa Chardonnay 2007

Lunetta Prosecco

Ferarri Carano Fume Blanc

In my stash:

Sunce Sauvignon Blanc, Shanti Vyd, 2009

In Crowd scoop: go to Suncewinery.com & pick up a couple of bottles for summer!

Rorschach Moments

2010-06-15T15:15:00.000-05:00

Had one today while I was wearing my best

ultra-cool-please, pretty-please-give-me-the-upgrade face,

waiting in line at the Admiral’s Club ticket counter.

I realize that sharing this with you risks landing me in the "crazy artsy lady" catalog file in your head, but seeing the thing-within-the-thing is something that takes me way back to a childhood happy place. A happy little zen place…that I might tell you about later.

For now, all you get is this...do you see what I see?

Something Fishy

2010-06-15T08:30:00.002-05:00

You crafty, DIYers will appreciate this.

This blog, strictly on moulds is fun to peruse through for inspiratin, or even resources. I saw these cool moulds and then saw the dolled up version at Fish's Eddy in NYC.

I LOVE this store! In fact, ordering these glasses is top of my list today.

Yesterday was one of those days when one realizes that one (or at least someone) breaks too many glasses all too often...

And another cheap thrill at this must-stop shoppery...

...this is one non-shopper that could stay here hours and be quite happy,

but a Shake Shack burger is calling my name. Must move on...

Hey - remember this weekend is Father's day. What are you getting Dad?

I blogged a few of my favorites from the store yesterday on our Nest blog. I found one more thing I'm in love with–one for dad, one for me? I'll share tomorrow...

Ciao for now.

Up, Up, and Away

2010-06-14T08:15:00.005-05:00

Happy Monday! It is the start of a week I both look forward to and dread: interviews.

Hiring is always a good thing, but there are two things that give me stress.

First, will I find the right person?

Second, that terrible feeling when you've found more

than one right person, but only have one spot open.

No one ever sat me down and taught me how to hire. But a half decade of experience, however small they may seem, has taught me loads.

The first thing–more is learned from a humble perspective than a proud one.

So, time to put on my big girl panties and suck up the lessons I've learned,

both by success and sweet failure.

Alas, the journey begins. Wish us all luck...

I'll leave us all with these thoughts:

If you think hiring professionals is expensive, try hiring amateurs.

If we weren't still hiring great people and pushing ahead at full speed, it would be easy to fall behind and become a mediocre company.
Bill Gates

Before you even think about assessing people for a job, they have to pass through three screens. The first test is for integrity. People with integrity tell the truth, and they keep their word.
The second test is for intelligence. The candidate has a strong dose of intellectual curiosity, with a breadth of knowledge to work with or lead other smart people in today's complex world. The third ticket to the game is maturity—the ability to handle stress and setbacks, and enjoy success with equal parts of joy and humility.
Jack Welch

Few things are brought to a successful issue by impetuous desire,
but most by calm and prudent forethought.
Thucydides

Recipe Weekend: Black Bean Soup

2010-06-12T10:30:00.003-05:00

Here it is: my simple, yummy Black Bean Soup recipe. You know I’m not a measurer, so questions amidst making are always (ok, usually) welcome, well received & quickly addressed :)

For starters, use fresh, organic if possible. I'll give you my exact brands if it helps.

WHAT YOU NEED

extra virgin olive oil
(di Montepulciano, you can get great stuff at Whole Foods & similar stores, but I recommend an import from Italy)

dry black beans, soaked previously
I set mine up the night before

sweet yellow onion
cherry or pear tomatos, from the vine if you can
honey ham steak from a deli, not seal-packed
a semi-dry red wine
I had a Sunce malbec on hand & it was perfect
chicken stock
Central Market Organics Free Range chicken stock has a good flavor. I prefer it over several other brands.

turn on some tunes, pour yourself a glass of that wine & off we go...

this should serve about 4 people

Soak the beans in some purified water overnight. Put about 3-4 handfuls of the dried beans. They'll double in size, so use a container that is at least less than half full when you put the beans in. Fill with water to nearly the top & cover with foil, not seran wrap. They need to breath a little.

Next, chop up your onion. I use about 2/3 of an onion.

Saute that on low in some olive oil (pour in about a 3" puddle) while you cut the
next 2 things & add them in...

cube the ham

Stir it around a bit, maybe half a song and a sip of wine...

Now add in about 1/3 of a wine glass worth of your red wine... preferably not from the one you're drinking.

Simmer that for another song and a half...

add in your beans

Cover and simmer on low for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure there is enough liquid to keep everything cooking.

After the flavors have blended together, add your chicken stock...

Turn to medium low and tune into your favorite TiVo for about 40 minutes.

Ladle about 1/3 of your soup into a blender. Hold the lid tight. Then add the creamed mixture back into your soup pan & stir while cooking for another 3-5 minutes.

It's ready! iPhone may not make a Martha Stewart-worthy photo, but this soup is going to be a promising addition to your recipe box! Dab a little creme fraiche on top & let me know if you loved it!

Stick it to ‘Em

2010-06-11T08:30:00.000-05:00

If you’ve read any entries lately, you understand why I am on the market for a few thank you gifts. While the natural process might seem to be a stop by one of the 2 undisputed best places for gifts in Dallas: Nest & Bell'invito Studio (ahem…shameless, I know), I'm set on a savory treat I ran across not too long ago–Jennifer’s Homemade.

It arrived today, and I am a mess of excitement!

I found these wonderful breadsticks in Miami a few months ago. I know you’re thinking, “Really? Breadsticks? Snore...” Just give them a try – you’ll be addicted. And think of how much healthier and tastier they are than chips.

First, I’m sending out my gifts. Next, I’m off to convince The Donald that they’re the best thing since sliced bread. (almost-pun intended) Shouldn’t take too much convincing, yum!

Black Pearl–(Un)?-Fortunately Perfect

2010-06-10T09:31:00.000-05:00

A gracious Nick Even hosted Scott, The Donald, and I to Black Pearl at the

Water Tower Theater. I have to admit, I’m a newbie as far as knowledge of this

Addison playhouse. I’ve seen a few shows there.

The first was a gala with an ensemble of entertainment.

The second time, for the debut reading of

Donald Fowler’s new musical, Creep

(facebook people: get up to speed if you don’t know about this),

and this past time was for the opening night of Black Pearl,

a musical play by Frank Higgins.

I walked into the smallish theater, and wasn’t sure what to expect from a performance. I love the off broadways in NYC, and the playhouses of Chicago, but in Dallas? No offense, Big D, I love ya.

I must say, however, that the talent this theater continuously produces is noteworthy to say the least. Liz Mikel, notably from Fiday Night Lights, was simply captivating. I've read reviews that found some part of the performance a bit disjointed, but to be fair, I enjoyed it. The strangeness of Liz Mikel and Diana Sheenan's characters is awkwardly captivating, and not the least but uncomfortable.

So the "Un" in the title? I wanted to smack Pearl, or Frank Higgins, whomever–for a provoking choice made in the writing. But maybe I was just feeling easily provoked. You'll have to see it and decide for yourself.

Bravo, WaterTower. Keep up the great strides.

Catch the show through June 20. Call 972.459.6232 for tickets.

STING, Stang, Stung!

2010-06-09T09:30:00.001-05:00

So…my friend, and a fellow entrepreneur I highly regard, Renee Rouleau graced me with not only an evening out with her and cool gal pals Josy Collins and Stacy Girard, but she tacked on some highly coveted tickets to Sting at the Winspear. In case you missed that…STING at the WINSPEAR OPERA HOUSE! These weren’t back-of-the-house seats, either, not that you can have a bad seat at Winspear.

We started at Dali in One arts and took the “Art Cart” transportation over to the opera house for a pre-party followed by a truly amazing concert–complete with all 4 of us on stage for one Desert Rose. Pinch Me!!

...more pictures from Kristina Bowman

Cupcakes and Cake Balls and…Donuts? Oh, My!

2010-06-08T17:40:00.004-05:00

Trend-happy, are we? Cupcakes made sense. Mini-cupcakes are still a weakness

(especially these: www.bakedbymelissa.com).

Cake Balls–good ones–have my undivided attention.

(check out the taste test by Pink Memo)

Honestly, I thought that was simple stroke of genius. But, designer donuts? Come on, people....needless to say I’m a skeptic.

I've heard a bit, to be honest, been tempted a bit–but what really caught my eye was this article in American Way, all about the rising trend of designer donuts. Amazing how this faction of sweet trendiness is so ironically opposed to getting me into my designer clothes.

But who can really be a critic without at least an open-minded sampling of the subject?Maybe I should start with

Now, bacon brittle: this trend savor a bit.

A Squirrel, a President, a Diva, and a Pig

2010-05-14T01:59:00.000-05:00

They don't have much in common, except marking moments of distraction from an otherwise non-stop work trip.

Lauren, Alison, Anna and I began the day with breakfast in the newly reopened Palm Court at The Plaza. After strategy over an omelet, we moved along to meet with an editor at the hip new Lonny Mag. Watch for it-you'll be hooked.

More hours of conference calls & returnig emails, then another meeting at Real Simple.

Famished by 3:30, we opted for tea at Robert at the top of the design museum in Colombus Circle overlooking a vast tree-top landscape of Central Park.

I just have to be clear about something: I love tea service. I don't know why. It's as relating as an aperitvo and much healthier.

On to errand running ad last minute grabbing of a few things i forgot-like cool, rainy weather clothes. So without changing from stilettos to flats, we took off for uptown. A huge mistake. Apparently a Presidential arrival royally jacks with ones ability to get from point A to point B using the shortest route. So five extra city blocks and some very sore feet later, the tasks were complete and I was fully educated on which groups didn't like Obama for whatever reason. At least, as educated as one can be from slogan posters and phrase chanting. But, maybe now as informed at at least half of those in protest.

Next order of business. This fat little guy-munching of his find. May have made my day.

Finally, the great part. We caught the last showing of Tosca at the Met for the season, promptly shed te opera clothes for jeans and comfy shoes, and headed for The Spotted Pig.

It's now 3am, and I'm going to forgo the spelling/typo/editing for now. A full Friday awaits, and some insanely high thread-count is calling my name.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Pressed For Time

2010-05-13T00:07:00.001-05:00

Pardon the pun-sort of. The presses have been hopping. I've been deigning non-stop, it seems.

A Mother's Day weekend with my mom in Houston broke up a two week long crunch-time fury of work, fund-raising obligations, putting out small fires, and fielding the usual randomness that I never cease to be surprised by.

Not kidding-one day I'm swear I'm going to start a list of the weird interruptions that happen on a daily basis. From unexpected offers for press and exposure (usually... welcome) to someone in a chicken suit walking in to sing happy birthday. It all happens, and yet I still am somehow surprised.

So many cool things have happened in the past few weeks. I'm looking forward to writing them down. For now-just this: Lauren and I are in NYC. Krystal and Beth will be joining us soon. In spite of the impending mountain of work-we've sworn to bowl in Brooklyn at least one night...and to thoroughly enjoy our fantastic hotel suite that we are enjoying because of some very wonderful people.

Night y'all. I'm spent.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Days Gone By

2010-05-03T21:58:00.002-05:00

My house has been full of sweet people. Tonight it seems so quiet. I posted the Behind the Scenes moments with Tiziano, Mauro, Robbie and David on the Nest blog. I've got recipes & more details from their visit coming, but for now, I'm exhausted!

I'm fashion-showed, designed, and wined-and-dined--out. Night, y'all.

Must See - before Wednesday, April 26

2010-04-26T15:31:00.004-05:00

For starters - I had a marvelous time with the Italian artists that came for last Thursdays' art show. In spite of last minute changes and a show that almost didn't go up because of a volcano, I have a laundry list of great things to share. Including a weekend with the artists - complete with a beautiful portrait, a garden party and a rodeo.

Being that's it's 3:45 and I have a completely unrelated laundry list to finish...it will have to wait for tomorrowish. But look - my mom even came from Houston to see this work.

If you're anywhere near Dallas, you've got to see Mauro's work before it comes down on Wednesday. Read a little about why it's fascinating - click here.

Friday Already?

2010-04-23T14:21:00.003-05:00

We shot out of the gate this week with thundering fury. I can hardly remember what kept me so busy...oh wait, now I remember. But, if I tell you I'd have to kill you. Enough exciting things are going on to pass the time, at least.

Wednesday night, the 3 artists and stars of last night's opening, finally arrived after a long, touch-and-go few days of trying to get overseas amidst a huge airline debacle. We found solace in a casual dinner at Lee Harvey's. I love that place.

Yesterday we scrambled to quickly hang art for a show (link to come) that should have taken us a couple of days to hang and document. Thankfully, it was hit! The show was wonderful. The art is amazing–pictures to come. The house was full for the whole 2 hours, plus an extra one.

Ready to unwind, we hit Sangria's for dinner, and then the roof of The Quarter for an after-dinner drink.

All in all– ahhhhhh. The show's over and the gallery is full of beautiful art. And some wonderful Italian artists have promised to cook me dinner at my house tomorrow night.

(yep - be very jealous!)

Time to complete design launch for May in New York.

Sweet Chaos

2010-04-19T12:09:00.004-05:00

A cloud of ash is threatening to keep the stars of our Thursday night (2 years in the making) Nest Loft Gallery opening from making the party.

Along with some very important pieces of art.

Rerouting to to avail has been going on since ?A.M.

For some reason, no one feels the need to return calls with much needed info today. And, of course, A waits on B, B waits on C, etc. If C and company could just CALL with the information - that would be great.

A line somehow formed in less than 2 minutes in my office to ask questions:

what are the...,

could you take a look at...,

what should be do about....,

have you heard from....

could you help me with....

...and in the meantime, what better to do than shoot a few photos of each other while you're waiting in line for an answer from the boss. In her office... hey, why not?

Aforementioned confiscated photos - with the one of me edited out, can be seen below.

I heart these obnoxious people.

Thanks for making me smile.

On the Fly

2010-04-15T22:14:00.001-05:00

An impromptu dinner with my mom and some family friends was thrown together at 7 tonight. At 6:30 I was driving home with a trunk full of groceries for 9 people.

The weather was gorgeous, so we drug the table out of the greenhouse and set it up under the oak tree.

Somehow-my husband and I tossed together a decent dinner of grilled fish and chicken, herbed goat cheese mashed potatoes, steamed veggies and a quick ice cream and berry dessert. Max brought some Texas wine. We tossed some ciabatta in the middle of the table, and voilla-instant success.

Dispite pleas to leave the clean up to me, my table has been cleared.

I love nights like this-great insight, delicious food, beautiful weather, good people. Hard to top.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Mocktails All Around

2010-04-15T14:08:00.009-05:00

Jeremy and Jamie Saylor

My dear girlfriend, Jamie Saylor, is getting close to introducing baby number two to the world. A cause to celebrate. Saturday night was her cocktail party–and luckily, I got to host!

She and husband, Jeremy, have been friends and partners in crime for most of my years in Dallas.

I know someone in the invitation biz, so that part was a cinch. With newebuting a new collection in May, but I couldn't resist using elements from it for Jamie. Laurie Harper did blue calligraphy on dark brown envelopes for the icing on the proverbial invitation cake–I love the way they turned out!

Guests with beautifully wrapped gifts started arriving at 6, and we mingled the evening away on the patio out back.

ON THE TABLES

stuffed button mushrooms

local goat cheese spread and pear crostini

chick pea and red pepper garnished cucumbers

olive and cheese tray

Rush Pastisserie petit fours

and cream puffs

(Thank you for the recommendation, Jamie Oliver!)

pom-champagne cocktails

cranberry-citrus mocktails

Ferarri Carrano Fume Blanc & Toasted Head Chardonnay

and shiners for the boys

Congratulations you crazy kids! What a lucky little one.

Found it.

2010-04-14T22:10:00.002-05:00

One of my dogs has required the use of a very safe, apparently ineffective No Bark collar. For the 2 weeks he wore it, the barking was reduced maybe by 10%. The past 2 days it has been M.I.A.

I'm not sure how he managed to chew, or rather, bribe his sister to chew it off, but I'm really annoyed at his ingenuity.

PATCH It Up!

2010-04-13T10:00:00.004-05:00

I've blogged about Don Carney and John Ross before, for Nest and Bell'Invito both. It's no secret that I am a huge fan. I have a PATCH NYC tote from their own collection hanging by my back door, 3 needle points in my office, a lovely peacock original ink drawing in my living room, not to mention the Bell'Invito 2010 sold all over the country–illustrated by Don, and most recently a scrumptious smelling candle burning in my library at home.

Now, if you're not up for splurging on an original, your can still take your walls from drab to debonair with some of their designs that have just debuted at West Elm.

Check out the Patch NYC for Anthropologie collection while you're shopping.

Definitely keep an eye out for great things to come from this amazingly talented pair

(and their beautiful dog, Edith.)

Monday Morning Nest Blog

2010-04-12T12:29:00.004-05:00

That's my assignment. If they could have fired me for not doing it, that definitely would have happened by now–but I'm trying to be better!

It's super easy in theory, except the part about having enough hours in a day.

However–new things have come in & they are fresh and fun and easy to get excited about. I've picked a few favorites & I'll let you know what they are.

For today, if you've got kids in your life, you'll love this little stress-reducing gift.

Check out today's edition, click & go...

All Things White

2010-04-12T10:00:00.000-05:00

I have a weakness for quirky white functional ceramics. I came across this little juicer by Imm Living, and have added it to my spring want list. If you delight in cheeky, check out their goods.

What a great little housewarming gift!

Appleicious!

2010-04-09T10:08:00.004-05:00

Spring is definitely in the air! I've got a welcome baby cocktail party at my house on Saturday, so today when I was in Nest, I had lass work and more personal ambitions.

I'll preface this little schpiel with–this blog is typically a guarded no-selling zone, so my apologies for 2 in a row....but I love these...and Nest happens to sell them.

Saw these votive-size candle-apples by D.L. & Co. There's 4 in a set. I'm going to try to leave a few behind incase you want some before we reorder.

HOW CUTE ARE THESE?!

One of the Boys

2010-04-08T21:51:00.002-05:00

It's not feminine-not Southern, kosher, or dainty...but if a girl can't hang with the boys every once in awhile, she's not worth her weight in the diamonds you need to buy for her.

It helps to be with the right guys. Common interests, something besides sports and hunting as conversation.

So here I am, hanging with the boys. Loving every minute.

This makes tomorrow filled with work a bit more bearable.

FRIENDLY FORWARD

2010-04-08T11:30:00.003-05:00

This is the final week for the Bell'Invito Queen's Ransom Sweepstakes. If you're in the market for some beautiful invitations, you've probably done your homework. If you've done your homework, you probably know that the most expensive part of custom luxury printing are all the set up cost.

We've decided to select 7 clients, and give them exactly what they want, and then some–for a fraction of the price.

Why? When I design new product samples, there are 2 choices. I can use what we've already produced, or I can dream up things that no one has seen. Finance prefers the former.

I, however, want a completely new wardrobe of lovely things to unveil.

So the compromise was to offer to do suites at our expense for a handful of people. I'm going to be paying for new suites anyway–might as well let someone enjoy them.

The catch: the deal ends at midnight this Sunday. I must have them all produced in about a month, so the clock is ticking...

Le Principesse

2010-04-08T10:19:00.001-05:00

Grown up stuff is fun, but escaping the reality for a lunch with two beautiful princesses, is the really good stuff.

Holding court,

is the little ballerina–my youngest goddaughter.

She's my line to all things gossip-worthy.

And the notorious queen bee...

who can make any perfect outing...

that much better.

O.K., maybe a little more than that, even.

Vote!

2010-04-07T21:54:00.006-05:00

Beth for President!

If only we could be so lucky. Our favorite interior designer is up for a Juli B award.

I'd love it if you would vote for her!!

You have to sign in to vote–but I, the most impatient person you know, did it and it took seconds.

Beth deserves the gold - please go vote!!

BEST DESIGN PROFESSIONAL

2010

Steady Pace

2010-04-07T12:54:00.006-05:00

I remember last April, we were moving into our new space here on Dragon Street. There was one printer, myself, a design intern, a new account manager, and our office administrator.

We were getting cramped in our 1200 square foot basement space & knew we needed to accommodate larger orders.

Today, to my right, there is a room full of new faces. Some of whom I haven't even had the chance to meet yet. All moving at a steady pace to get orders out and keep the clients happy.

There are still fires to extinguish daily–but this one moment, seeing all the productivity, and how far we've come, feels good.

I have a just few very talented people to thank for that.

Golden Egg

2010-04-05T20:41:00.022-05:00

On rare occasions, there is no laptop, no impending deadlines, no fires to extinguish.

This weekend, more by choice than opportunity, I indulged in family instead of work.

I went home for a break from the norm, and a relaxing weekend of tradition. Wiese traditions, however, are not created in obligation.

They are forged out of wonderful happenstance and idiosyncrasy.

Friday was a late night arrival, a tradition in itself. Saturday, the traditions continue. Before a remote chance of me stirring, Scott and my dad hit the golf club for a minimum of 18 holes and countless rounds of gin.

My mom, sister and I lounge and chat all morning.

We grab lunch at a girly tea room, and lounge back by the pool in great weather.

Mom will bring out snacks mid-afternoon. We'll have tea.

A spa appointment is worked in at some point in the day.

The lounge entertainment: canine comedy.

The high-speed chase.

Eva's relentless stalking of the noodle.

Pazzo traumatized by falling in.

The chasing of the white streak.

Saturday night: dinner and a movie.

P.F.Chang won for pre-flick dining. The fam, including our Lenny (Hil's BFF), shared the usual dishes: one beef, one seafood, one chicken. And a starter of appetizers, including one mandatory fried vegetable. We are, after all, Southern.

The movie, I chose. This, mind you, was an exception to the rule.

I haven't been allowed to choose a movie since A.I.

There are 4 movies I can remember watching with my dad as a kid:

Star Wars

SpaceBalls

Clash of the Titans

Blazing Saddles

So the natural choice seemed obvious. Unfortunately, the movie was ridiculous

and my flick-choosing credibility remains tarnished.

Moving on, Easter Sunday...

Sunday morning, 8:30 a.m., church, followed by lunch at the golf club.

(Not to be confused with a country club, my father is adamant about that detail).

At lunch, we take our usual place at the round table by the window.

I sit next to Hillary so we can resume what sisters do best: immature banter.

The men assume their posts together in a manly conversation cluster.

We order our usual drinks, and then...

we hit the buffet.

Champions Golf Club is famous for 2 things:

strict golf traditions and fantastic Southern buffets.

Unlike our yankee counterparts, we're not afraid or offended by a buffet at fancy affairs.

(No one can use the word fancy like a Texan.)

That's the Southern way.

We have duckies.

bowls of bright candies,

furry animals,

balloon animals,

and crazy-eyed, over-stimulated animals.

And sisters.

God bless family.

Da Boys

2010-04-01T23:25:00.002-05:00

What started as a post work cocktail with Scott and David turned into dinner with a rotating group of intriguing minds.

While I readily admit I'm a fool for good dinner conversation, the most important feat of the evening was getting to indulge in my still-favorite dish from Abacus: Kobe beef carpaccio.

In short, work wrapped up on a good note. I accomplished a decent amount before leaving. The studio gets a half-day off tomorrow. I postponed a work night at the store until tomorrow afternoon. There's a full list to accomplish over the weekend, but no complaints from me.

Cheers and goodnight.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Good Knight

2010-03-31T17:24:00.004-05:00

There's not much in the way of decent food immediately surrounding my studio. It's an adventure anytime we need to grab a bite fast. Today was no disappointment.

The BBQ joint up the street was on the radar. Upon pulling in the lot, a sign tells you you're in the right place.
Walk in, and it's a literal jungle of manliness. At least, I think that's a good description.
Not exactly my preference to dine with dead animals, but by no means should I think I'm in the wrong place for good barbeque.
Brisket, fried okra and a baked potato in tote, I carried my restaurant-supply-red tray over to a choice table.
I double checked the spin class schedule.

As we checked out, the madamme at the register said, "N'don't furgit to gityesom ice cream on the way out, honey."

"Yes, ma'am." You don't have to tell me twice (when in the South, one must think in cliche).
For the record, you Yankee readers, Blue Bell is the best ice cream in the country. It really is.

Next came the best part. Yep. In walks a knight. Hair flowing past his hind quarters and all. His {un-knighted} friend's polo read, "Midieval Times."

God bless Texas, and I heart Industrial, ahem-Riverfront Avenue.

New Shoes!

2010-03-31T00:06:00.002-05:00

Every girl wants them. Today I got 2 pair. My dear friend Yvonne came to help out at the studio during a rush of work that has come through. Highly over qualified, she put her fantastically detail-orients skills as an architect to use with paper, all in the name of helping out a friend. Yvonne has a beautiful daughter named Aveline, who no doubt has inherited some of that freakish talent. So, where am I going with all this? I'm showing off my new shoes-and shirt, handmade by miss Aveline. Precious!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Just One

2010-03-29T14:24:00.007-05:00

It's not smart to walk into Eatzi's hungry. But there I was, in the thick of multi-tasking to the sounds of Mozart. "Did you just walk in Eatzi's?" asked the voice glued to my ear. I laughed out a rhetorical, "how'd you know?" just as I swiped some obscenely delicious spread and prepped a cracker for consumption.

We finished the call and I bypassed my usual salad line for the grill. I couldn't decide on just 2 veggies (there was mac-n-cheese to be had) to I opted for a third. Loaded up, I grabbed my water and hit the cashier. Where I'm really going with this is here: the guy half my stature gives me a sly glance and says, "do you need one set of utensils or two?"

"One, you little smartass." thankfully stayed politely inside my head. I just smiled and said, "One's perfect, " then continued my mental lecture, "....it's just one extra vegetable! I'm hungry.....and, and I SPIN! Or at least I'm supposed to. Tonight. I'm sure I'll make it–because I didn't wash my hair..."

Men! Especially little ones.

Sit-n-Spin?

2010-03-28T23:42:00.001-05:00

I'm tempted to try this spinning thing. Maybe working out early is easier if you at least have a machine propping you up. The clincher was hearing someone say, "...she has a biker body, you know, no hips..." (unfortunately, in reference to someone else).
What? I thought I was stuck with these babies. Nothing has ever quite whittled down my German hips, but lately, several people have unknowingly dangled a little carrot of hope just long enough to get the wheels turning. Spinning.

Ok, so my gym spin class choices are 6am or 6pm. In fact, all the morning classes are either 6 or 9, and I REALLY wanted to do mornings (it's all about the hair washing convenience). But 6 or 9? My religion is extemely anti-alarm clock. If the sun isn't awake, I shouldn't be either, but 9am is too late for a working girl-my company or not. All to often, at 5:30 pm I've just hit a stride. Stopping is unproductive, even if it's just an hour early.

6am, huh? What kind of crazy, fanatical morning people might I have to deal with? I'm not sure about this...but I will be sitting, right?

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Webisode?

2010-03-26T09:35:00.000-05:00

Tea. I need my hot tea.

Someone's coming from The Old State to tape something for a webisode. At 10:30am.

The Old State, I know. They are our web council. Cyber gurus-they are responsible for bellinvito.com and are redoing nestdallas.com.

Everything else in that previous statement is a still huge question. Including, what's a webisode?

First things...tea.

Tub Sweet Tub

2010-03-25T23:44:00.001-05:00

How I've missed you!

30,000 feet

2010-03-25T19:49:00.001-05:00

Sporadically reading my Italian Elle Decor. Baroque + Classic Contemporary still wins. Ahhh, to have the space.

I just paid six bucks for cheese, crackers and a box of raisins. I don't even eat raisins. My husband says they make you...wait this is public. You'll just have to find out over a dinner sometime.

Yep-I'm in coach. With my knees up to my chest. Listening to the soothing sounds of a squeeling todler and an audible snorer. All you people who think I jet set around on daddy's planes, I wish I could let you go on believing that. Those occasions are rare. Remember this is the guy that made me work summers since I was 15, never bought me a toll tag because I needed to drive through Houston's fifth ward to witness what life was like for the less priveliged. Oh, and still calls me his "artsy one." I'm not sure what that makes my sister. I think she's the "independant one." BTW, for the record, she still makes me come to the ladies room with her in restaurants. (I think this is the bitterness that my therapist refers to.)

So...no in-flight wifi. I'm contemplating help. I need help. Cut the sarcasm, I'm serious. I ran the idea of a Creative Director past my publicist. She gasped, "No!" And followed, a slew of well defined reasons. Ok, so what I probably meant was an executor of the creative strategy. What do you call that? An Executor. A Doer. That guy that gets stuff done. And where is he? Something to mull over a bit while I don't have wifi, thus am not getting said things done.

I'll ponder it over Pepperidge Farm and Canada Dry.... You let me know if anything comes to mind. You know where to find me.

Jiggety-Jig

2010-03-25T17:20:00.001-05:00

It's time to go home. Bitter sweet–I'll be glad to get back to my space, but so very sad it will be a little more empty without my Chloe. You fellow dog owners get it-they are family. Almost human. I knew she wasn't doing well when I left last week, so I gave her an extra long goodbye. Sadly, that was the last. I miss my girl.

She's been with me since I first came to Dallas. In a one bedroom apartment. She hated when I left, and used to sit on my luggage or my paperwork to divert my attention back to her. Loved that dog!

Must change subject! Or I'll turn into a weepy mess in the back of this cab....

Three days of meetings turned into a week, which as of a few hours ago, almost turned into another 3 days. Thankfully, all went well. New collections are in the works. Everyone's happy. I'm going home!

The studio is in full swing, so I hear, with something like 9 additional workers for a large job going out. I've got new ideas for fall-and a girlfriend's baby shower to plan! Oh...and some funds to raise for cancer research. Oh...and an artist to book for a new zodiac collection (any ideas out there?) Oh...and a house-full of Italians on the way (yaaay!) Oh...and a documentary to finish editing. I think I'm forgetting something...

Must go-let's chat again soon.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Some Mornings...

2010-03-24T09:57:00.002-05:00

...just call for a diner.

I've got to tie up loose ends today. A meeting with a store I'm designing a collection for is this afternoon. After that, I've got jewelry to pick up that is bound for Nest's emerging jewelry section. I brought some of these pieces back from my last trip thinking they would take about a month to sell through. They were gone in the first 3 days.

Breakfast has arrived! Signing off...

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

My Russian friend.

2010-03-23T21:29:00.002-05:00

I'm in a Starbucks in NYC thawing out with some hot tea after a run. An old Russian man just offered me his Chai tea. I'm not sure why. I smiled and said, "No thank you, I have some," then he held up his used straw and tried again. "Try. With straw, see? Good!"

We had a small awkward conversation. I was actually pleased to be having it--it's been a long, relatively lonely week of designing, presenting, designing, meeting, designing.... you get the idea.

So I've downloaded blogger to my iPhone, as you see. We'll see if I can be a better blogger this way. Goodbye edited blog posts. Hello typos!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Write Up

2010-02-23T20:51:00.003-06:00

My mother harped on me for 2 things growing up: clean your room, write a thank you note.

I was terrible at both. Years later, I know she is right. I’m learning that it is much easier to learn from the advice and mistakes of others, but that lesson has been a long time coming.

As I employ strong willed twenty-somethings, its almost fun to watch and laugh a little. It’ll come. It’s not an all-bad quality to have, this stubborn will. All this to say: I get it. If it’s not part of your routine, and you don’t see the benefit, it will not be a priority.

So hear this, if you will: write often. Journaling is good. Notes are easy. Letters are better. A quick email is nice, but a hand-written note is altogether in a league of its own. I know you’ve heard this before, time and again. So, listen already. Get yourself some decent stationery (it doesn't have to be mine) and send a lasting reminder that you’re considerate, appreciative, respectful, not to mention well mannered and maybe even a bit sophisticated.

What are you waiting for? Brew a cup of tea and hop to it.

Gala~vanting

2010-02-16T09:30:00.007-06:00

The hot ticket Saturday night came from Nick Even, a friend of one multitalented Mr. Donald Fowler.

The multi-talented Mr. Fowler directed the fund-raising gala for WaterTower Theater. Adorable actress, Stefanie Darrah, set up invitees for eye-popping entertainment with a techno-witty intro on large screens encompassing dinner guests.

The evening's live performances touted rich voices and colorful arrangements of disco-era favorites. A classical rendition of Kung Fu Fighting was one of my favorites–but truly it was difficult to have just one.

No surprise, the mastermind wielded creative adroitness and charmed donors into giving for a worthy cause.

Left powerless to resist, we ate, bid, and hustled the night away.

Feed!

2010-02-15T13:14:00.003-06:00

After a decadent dinner last night, I couldn't help but be truly thankful and humble for the things it's so easy to take for granted–like a meal.

Its so very hard to find time to escape for weeks at a time to go on a mission to a third world country like so many of my friends have done. The solution for me has been to use what I have at my fingertips to do a little good.

That's the aim of Furnish and Feed at Nest. I can't afford to let the bargains go on too long, but from now until the 27th, I've dedicated discounts off of most of our assortment with the food and donation proceeds going to North Texas Food Bank.

Daily Candy put it on their hot list of things to do - thanks for that, DC!

Helping Heart

2010-02-15T09:30:00.000-06:00

Hearts are fine for Valentine's Day, but for the rest of the year...not my favorite. Today however, I came across this heart-motif rug that was more class than kitsch. Leave it to Beth to find the goods. Love Heart rug by Vivienne Westwood on NestDallasDesign.com blog.

Hope your V-Day was a hit!

Fingers Crossed

2010-02-13T09:30:00.001-06:00

I'm scouring the internet for a good deal on a hotel in south Florida for an upcoming trip. My usual deal sites are luxurylink.com, tablethotels.com–but I had forgotten about the latest and greatest! Gilt Groupe has added travel deals to their wonderful assortment steals. It's called Jetsetter. I'm eyeing the Omphoy at Palm Beach for an upcoming trip. If that doesn't work out...Embasssy Suites?

Snow Day, Game Night

2010-02-12T15:06:00.008-06:00

Yesterday started the beginning of a record making snowfall. I heard it was the 2nd largest Dallas has seen to date.

It was beautiful! Everyone was outside playing in it - I'm looking through facebook at tons of images of impromptu sleds and snowmen. My dogs were in heaven and slept like logs afterwards.

My afternoon appointments all canceled. The Plaza was a ghost town except for a few random cars. I worked from home the rest of the day.

Now, as you yankees know, it's never good to let cabin fever ruin a perfectly good spontaneous holiday...

So, last night was a wonderful diversion. My master plan was to lure in at least one friend for some company, maybe a scrabble game–something. In case my charm alone wasn't enough, I was armed with my buffalo chili, good wine, and a few other enticements.

Nick, Donald and Stefanie came over with a game called called Blokus,

which I'd never heard of, and is now something I want to buy. In case you're already convinced (as you should be) that you should add this to your fun-arsenal, here's your link.

The girls proved once again, that brains and beauty over braun isn't to be scoffed at.

...and being good southern girls, we knew enough to let the guys win at at least one thing...perhaps a snowball fight.

(rogue snowball)

Thanks for a fun evening, y'all!

Playing at Work, II

2010-02-01T22:01:00.013-06:00

Work days have been long, but rewarding. In addition, the nights have been one treat after another. Half way through the trip, more than a few treats are worth mentioning.

Leave it to Lauren to find the best dining for our dollar–much appreciated.

Donald, Lauren and I took advantage of Restaurant Week at Le Cirque. Three people, 3 courses each & a bottle of prosecco, all under $200. That includes the 20+% tip.

Additionally, a couple evenings of entertainment didn't disappoint.

My second time to see Next to Normal was possibly even better than the first.

The performances seemed more energized.

My initial dismay at the little slip of paper in my Playbill stating, "...tonight the role of Diana..."

What? No Alice Ripley? Whine......!

Enter understudy Jessica Phillips, who's amazing performance

was instantly magnetic. One song in, I had forgotten my annoyance (I had been talking up the play to the 5 friends in company) and was settled into be entertained, even moved.

Jessica Phillips, u/s to Alice Ripley, playing Diana Goodman .

The next evening's hot tickets were for A Little Night Music starring Angela Lansbury and Catherine Zeta-Jones.

The star-studed cast is worth the see.

On non-broadway evenings, Ze Cafe and Robert have been all the temptation I need to toss control aside and take on a savor the moment mentality.

Ze Cafe

Robert

Luckily, Equinox is a mere 5 blocks away. Sadly, that might not be close enough...

A Good Start

2010-01-26T20:56:00.000-06:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Aaaaaahlmost New Year

2009-12-28T18:45:00.000-06:00

I make an effort to refrain from sweeping generalizations, but truly, everyone should have a day like today. I hope this coming year, you will. I hope that you will unselfishly take a day to relax, see beauty, appreciate, discover, and think-but not too much. I hope you'll realize that even if you don't need or have time for it, the rest of us might benefit from your day. So just make it happen.

My day began with no alarm, which isn't all together abnormal. I like to keep it that way as much as possible. Nontheless, a crutial beginning.

Walking down to breakfast here is always a treat, but today especially, when I realized my mom and Scott were making breakfast. Eggs, bacon, English muffins, tea, it was perfect.

Off to the lodge where we're welcomed by friendly faces, boot up, sip something hot, and hit the lifts.

A sunny day made for a beautiful day skiing.

With 2 hours before a dinner party, there's just enough time to dig through the study for a book, brew a cup of tea, run a hot bath, and be ready for a night with family friends.

On the Twelfth Day of Christmas

2009-12-26T13:43:00.009-06:00

my family gave to me: twelve Wiese traditions

Yes, there are at least that many. Before you jump to the conclusion that we have organized family traditions, let me be clear–not a single one is organized, but they are each, traditionally present at our family gathering. This year was no exception.

Tradition One

The Late Arrival

I'm not proud of this, but I've held the "late one" title for about 5 years.

Hmmm. Maybe another New Year's resolution is in order.

Tradition Two

The Room Discussion

SCOTT

"The guest bed is bigger."

"It's the guest bed, this is my room. I can't stay in the guest room at my parents' house -

this is my room!"

SCOTT

"but I like the shower better in the...."

"Do what ever you want, I'm staying in my room."

Nothing like a 34 year old spoiled brat.

She is, however, an integral part of the family gathering.

Tradition Three

The Tree Trio

Yes, Three trees are better than one. Just ask mom.

Tradition Four

The Cold-Season Sabotage!

Inevitably, someone will bring a cold to Christmas. This year it was me. Inevitably, my mother will hit and kill any cold with tigress fury. It works, too–Mucinex D, alieve, massive amounts of Vitamin C in liquid and pill form, withholdings of ALL sugar, and some hours of rest later, I do actually feel better. I did, however, turn down the B-12 shot she offered me this morning. That was after the lecture on the electro-magnetic fields and radio waves that were't doing me any favors.

Tradition Five

The Meal Debacle

It never fails, this year, in one big splat. a large portion of turkey hit the floor. No problem, that's what the colander and sink sprayer are for...

Tradition Six

The Get-Out-of-Kitchen-Work Distraction

Traditionally employed by my younger sister, although some years dad or Scott may try this.

Hillary introduced us to the iPhone app Call Excuse

From now on, you have good reason to wonder about a quick exit from me...

Tradition Seven

The Enlightenment Experiment

Always. Always. It starts with mom.

"This year, I want to do something, and your dad doesn't want me to do it , but I'm going to do it anyway."

The sigh from the opposite corner of the room comes from dad.

Mom continues, "I want us all to (insert action) so that we remember the reason we're here.

Dad chimes in, "Nancy, that's ridiculous."

Hillary or I usually take it from there, "Let's just (insert appeasement) and go from there..."

Mom and Dad have to have a "discussion" making their points. And, then it ends on the traditional enlightening speech from dad.

And then, we open gifts on a high note. But, hey, It's tradition.

Tradition Eight

The Weird Gift

Every year, like a Christmas Miracle, there's one that makes you cock your head to the side and say, "humph."

It's not nice to make fun of someone's efforts, so I only say all this out of love and appreciation. Bless their hearts.

This years winner: a little painted tray that our non-english speaking housekeeper gave to my mother. It reads, "Sisters by chance, friend's by choice."

Can't help but wonder if something wasn't lost in translation.

Tradition Nine

The Flubbed Gift

Switched tags are nothing–we're pros at missing, forgotten & partials. I took the prize, initially thinking I had only left one each of mom and dad's gifts at home. Later, I realized that I had successfully flubbed my sister's gift by giving her a box with nothing in it. Whoops - shoulda shook it for contents?

Tradition Ten

The Funny Gift

I loved mine from Hillary. There are my 2 favorite candies–and Hil found them Texas-size!

Tradition Eleven

The Christmas Movie

The only one who made it this year was Hillary, who went with a friend. I was sick, the remaining Wieses opted to stay in and possibly go the next night. Which brings us to the next tradition...

Tradition Twelve

The Big-Screen Lullaby

Everyone loads up in front of the den TV to watch countless NBA games until the sports-center-sick females suggest we watch something that doesn't involve a ball. That's when the movie is found and within about 30 minutes, the entire room is snoozing.

Which traditionally ends a perfect family gathering. In my opinion, anyway.

Merry Christmas–God Bless us, Everyone!

Photos to come...

On the Eleventh Day of Christmas

2009-12-25T01:14:00.001-06:00

a sore throat brought to me: eleven hours of napping.

I will not be sick on Christmas.
I will not be sick on Christmas.
I will not be sick on Christmas.

On the Tenth Day of Christmas

2009-12-24T11:03:00.004-06:00

my friends had given me: ten teas for steeping.

And maybe a few more...I think I have a reputation.

Alas, I love my tea time. A security blanket of sorts–I wonder what the psychoanalysis of that is. Thank you, thank you thank you for my teas! This little stash should last me all the way through the end of January!

I'm now between nephews leaving this morning and goddaughters coming this evening–which I am very excited about!! My oldest dog, Chloe has decided to take on seizures in the middle of the night. We're pretty sure she does this for attention. (kidding) And, at some point I'd like to find and kill the cat who must have clawed its way down the back of my throat. Bad timing!

Airborne + Mucinex D + Alieve + Vitamin C + a nap + TEA! Here I come.

On the Ninth Day of Christmas

2009-12-23T00:40:00.006-06:00

my nephew taught to me: nine rules of tackle

Game on! Living room football started with my 4-year-old nephew needing to expend some extra energy. Scott and niece, Caroline, joined the game and it morphed into girls vs. boys keep-away with, as always, a few valuable lessons.

1: Know your teammates from your opponents.

2: Sneak attacks from behind = highly underrated.

3: When possible, use the pass over-head-along-ground technique.

4: Practice tackle with your teammates during timeouts.

5: Fumbles are unacceptable.

6: When the big people go at it, get out of the way

7: Maximizing the tousled look is essential to achieving coolness credibility. Professional work attire highly recommended.

8: The Energizer Bunny Award will always go to the 4-year-old.

9: It's all fun and games 'til someone gets hurt!

Luckily the scratches, bruises and egos are all quick-healers. Chocolate chip cookies make exceptional medicine.

P.S. No children were harmed during the making of this blog.

On the Eighth Day of Christmas

2009-12-21T18:16:00.009-06:00

The Saylor's texted me: Eight o'clock seating!

Which means, drop everything, were headed to Abacus to end this day right.

That's exactly what we did. Knowing Christmas chaos was leaving us no time for the usual dose of camaraderie, we met up after work and headed to the local watering hole–o.k., not exactly a dive, but non-the-less our unwinding place of choice.

A friend in prior obligation texted cynical condolences for a meal missed. We returned half-hearted sympathies and whole-hearted heckling to said friend in absence. That's what you get for failed priorities.

We enjoyed great wine, great company, great atmosphere–all before the rush of holiday hit.

Viva los amigos.

On the Seventh Day of Christmas

2009-12-20T12:13:00.006-06:00

my stomach said to me, seven hours later...

What possessed you to eat at Western Sizzlin? Idiot.

On the Six Day of Christmas...

2009-12-16T21:34:00.011-06:00

my true love gave to me: six skis awaiting!!

I've got nothing witty, adorable, newsworthy or helpful. Just this: countdown to SKI!

The phone will be off, the text messages ignored, mind cleared, and family enjoyed.

Scott just reserved skis for both of us and a friend. My boots are there. The Cordillera Club will have a fire going and a glass of wine ready to hand me when I come in with jello-legs after a day of flying down the mountains. What's not to look forward to!?

Woo hoo!

P.S. Double entry day...Seventh Day of Christmas still in the works :)

On the Fifth Day of Christmas...

2009-12-16T21:14:00.004-06:00

my schedule gave to me: five hours to sing!

I loaded up gifts and made my way to Arkansas. I love getting to be cool aunt Heather.

There's not much to see between Dallas and Little Rock, but while filling the tank with gas somewhere near Where-Am-I, Texas, there was a shot I had to snap: a co-habitating chinese buffet and Metro PCS.

Fantastic! Mu shu, dumplings and a pay as you go, please.

It's late, kids. Time to be with people I love and get a cat nap before morning.

g'night

On the Fourth Day of Christmas...

2009-12-16T21:03:00.005-06:00

my clients said to me: more calling cards!

That was cheap.

I did, ironically have a couple of clients ask for calling cards today.

I never really talk specifics about work on this blog.

This is always my outlet to vent, think, refocus, edit...although I'm still leery of divulging too much. I digress–we're on calling cards.

I'm always (arrogantly?) surprised when someone asks me if I can make invitations, or stationery, or business cards, or christmas cards. (Wow–how self-absorbed is that? Don't we all know what I do on a daily basis?) So, I'll put it out there: give me an idea, we'll make it happen. If it's on paper of any kind, it's the easiest thing you could ask for. Hand-delivered custom books, pop-up castles, and making children look like they were being still for a photo - still on the resume, but it will cost you.

So on the fourth (ok, now fifth) day of Christmas, I'm posting an iPhone line up of some business cards & calling cards. Why? I don't know - I feel like it. It's my blog. And calling cards sounds somewhat like calling birds. Remember–we're on a theme here, people.

Maybe it's time for a marketing slogan–Making people look good on paper, since 2004.

Maybe I'll stick with the sketching.

On the Third Day of Christmas...

2009-12-16T20:08:00.005-06:00

my TiVo brought to me: three Dench films.

Today started a week on the mend, I'm nearly positively sure-ish of it.

The last of the rushed holiday cards are being wrapped up at the studio. I'm determined to enjoy the eye of the storm. 21 designs have to be finalized for a client by Friday–tomorrow, if I want to leave town early. This calls for a bowl of soup, a cozy fire, and uninterrupted TiVo.

With the Dame of the silver screen to keep me company, I'm sure I'll be able to present logo-worthy designs by dawn.

In the meantime, name that flick...

On the Second Day of Christmas

2009-12-15T23:09:00.008-06:00

I hoped for a better third. Ok, forgive the negativity, but sometimes you just have those days.

On the up side, I made a few things for the office potluck that I enjoyed making (and eating), half of my Christmas cards are addressed and will hit the mail tomorrow. We'll count those two hurdles past as my two turtle doves.

Just go with it.

So, to dwell on the good stuff–last night's very therapeutic cinque formaggio mac-n-cheese making moments were documented with care...

Accomplishing the task took:

one glass of a good red wine, to soothe the savage nerves...and because I used the rest of the bottle for the other recipe...

...1 pound of good Italian pasta...

If you're serving up a savory sauce (like one with 5 cheeses) choose a curvy pasta that will hold a little extra sauce in the pockets. There's a joke in there somewhere.

...a about 1/4 stick of butter

1/4 cup of flour

1 1/2 cup cream

2 shallots

2-3 cloves of garlic

some olive oil

cayenne pepper

sea salt...

...a big, BIG pot of water–set to boil before you do anything else. It will take a while to get going. Toss some sea salt in. Don't add the pasta in until you've got a big rolling boil going.

(in the meantime, chop up your shallots and mince or chop your garlic)

onto the rest of the ingredients...

...Fontina...

...Gruyere, Sharp Cheddar, Asiago, and Parmesean...

which you can shred and toss together.

Use equal parts (about 1/4 lb each) gruyere, fontina and cheddar, equal or less asiago, depending on how much bite you want the dish to have. Set the parmasean aside to be mixed with the bread crumb topping & to add into the bechamel sauce.

Next, ladies, get out a large sauce pan, a small soup pan, and a skillet, & light up the burners around medium heat. Throw them all on and load up the pans.

(Men, this is what we call multi-tasking, just keep up where you can.)

Cream goes into the soup pan to heat slightly. Careful not to scald it.

Toss a splash of olive oil in the skillet to saute the garlic and shallots.

Melt butter in the sauce pan until it gets frothy, then stir in the flour, quickly, followed by the warmish milk - whisking it all together until smooth. Reduce the heat.

Once the shallots are soft, whisk the shallots and garlic into the bechamel sauce. Sprinkle in a handful of parmesean. Sea salt and cayenne pepper to taste.

Keep stirring the sauce until your pasta is just barely undercooked. Drain and coat in the bechamel sauce.

Layer the pasta into the pan, followed by a layer of cheese. Repeat until you're pan is full.

Throw in a decently salted bread-crumb and parmesean mixture and bake for 20-30 minutes on 350.

I love making individual servings in big ramekins, or adding in prociutto or mushrooms. Just saute and throw in the bechamel sauce. And share!

On the First Day of Christmas...

2009-12-14T17:50:00.003-06:00

My true love left town to fight fires, and I had a few of my own to put out. For a much needed break, I dropped into Scardello's on Oaklawn to grab a bite to bring to my desk. I'm embarrassed to admit it's my first stop in, although they've held post over a year now–with rave reviews.

"For here or to take away?" asks the friendly face behind the counter. "Take away," the reflex response. Work to do, designs to finish, hurry, hurry! The phone buzzed a text and a incoming call at the same time. "On second thought, I'll stay."

As I savored my sandwich in silence and calculated order ship dates on my iCal, I realized - today's the first day of Christmas! Surprisingly, that was a happy distraction & the gift ideas flooded my brain...

I hate giving obligatory gifts, to a fault–even erring on the side of not giving one when I probably should. However I absolutely love giving well thought out, gift collages. I've got a few in the works for Christmas, now a few more, after lunch at Scardello's.

I'll save the gift pitch for the Nest blog. I'm excited about this one!

Tomorrow–the office christmas party. I've got entree duty. Along with, of course, some blogging for the second day of Christmas!

Where Credit is Due

2009-12-10T22:02:00.003-06:00

I began to recap the trip to NYC last week. Instead, I decided to save that for later.

Today, just a note of thanks. My wonderful parents came to Dallas for a visit. I love it when we get time together. We spent the short visit our favorite way–dinner & a good wine. Breakfast and a good talk - lots of ideas tossing around. I can't imagine being more thankful for the family I was given. You poor people out there will just have to settle...

Happy Birthday, Mom! Love you!

Coffee Shop Moment

2009-12-07T11:48:00.000-06:00

Chris had a client meeting. Lauren had family to see. I have things to do, but no pressing schedule-which calls for time to think-preferrably over breakfast.
Chris recommended the spot-1/2 block down Madison.

Complete with booth-side coat rack and neon sign, I met my coffee shop moment.

A refreshingly pleasant waitress
with a beautiful Jamaican accent brought my favorite breakfast. Hey Jude rose over the customer clammor.
A whole 25 minutes passed without a single text, email or phone call. It was beautiful.
Sigh.

Moment over... Moving on. Mitzvah obligations.

Have We Met?

2009-12-06T23:27:00.002-06:00

One of the best things about NYC is also the worst: the pace. Which is why a strategically planned afternoon tea is perfect to sooth the feet and brain.

Jasmine Pearl for me, and the Metropolitan Museum's High Tea service signature tray of tea-time goodies.

Pecan tart with a side of Central Park through the floor to ceiling windows.

Stalling is part of the strategy...

...maybe we should all have another course before the next meeting.

Food for thought.

Sweet Diversions

2009-12-06T00:50:00.003-06:00

When you travel and work on a consistent basis, its important to keep the details in check. Lauren and I discovered the moist little morsels of goodness that are Soho's Baked By Melissa's mini cupcakes. My last trip to NY was actually too busy to afford me the moments of bliss that these little babies bring. A mistake I'll avoid in the future. This time, they're top priority. We're on our way.

There are about 10 flavors to choose from. We have 3 mutital favorites: Peanut butter, cookies and cream & red velvet.

A box of 6 seems hardly worth the journey from midtown, so a collection of 12 is decidedly the better choice.

Left to right, pay attention, this is educational...

column 1:cookies & cream

column 2: red velvet,

column 3: peanut butter & choc,

column 4: the tryouts–cinnamon, tie-dye, smores.

Take a big look - they won't last long!

Cheers!

Good lord, we're not even to the end of the block.

Mmmmm.

Wake Up Call

2009-12-05T16:51:00.000-06:00

It was painfully early after a great show with Jonathan Adler at the store last night.

No time for a full entry...

But I did get a snap of LBK and Chris snagging a fast food pre-flight bite around 6:45...

Darn-it's on my camera. I'll have to download later.

Just left a lunch meeting with Gilt buyers. Heading out to do a little searching and maybe some Christmas shopping.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Monkey Business

2009-12-02T22:33:00.009-06:00

How could you not slip up on a bud-vase-turned-banana?

One look at Jonathan Adler's latest collection and I was set on hosting a signing at Nest.

(Check out Christopher Wynn's pre-party interview)

Graciously, the Top Design host accommodated our request to meet and greet Dallas locals for a fun evening of Christmas shopping & object-signing. The evening's festivities promise a night to remember, complete with an adler-inspired blue cocktail & retro nibbles.

Which begins the slippery slope...

Chris, Lauren and I are preparing everything we need for a long weekend of work in New York for Bell'Invito. For starters, Friday begins 3 full days of meetings, hand-shaking, strategy, and finally, the fun stuff: a trunk show with one very groovy Don Carney at Bergdorf Goodman.

On the heels of the debut in New York, we will launch the collection in Dallas next weekend back at Nest on Saturday, the 12th from 11-1 o'clock.

Jonathan Adler and Simon Doonan commissioned this work from Don for their New York home.

Don also incorporates his distinctive designs into totes and pillows.

I LOVE the beetle! I just gave it in tote bag form as a gift to a very hip mom-to be.

Now, off to the races! There are Mitzvahs to finalize, caterers to meet (food!), invitations to send out, and hopefully a manicure to be had–but I won't get my hopes up.

If you're in the hood, stop by tonight for a fun evening.

Tomorrow...New York!

Are You Conscious?

2009-12-02T07:38:00.001-06:00

One of my dear friends is an ER doctor. She valiantly goes to work to save lives, counsel, console, and give hope and options on a daily basis. Not to mention the glamorous Grey's Anatomy life that I'm sure she's enjoying on a daily basis.

Still, I harbor a tinge of jealousy for her gift. She can help people every day.

I make things pretty. Certainly, saving the world by design is more of a leap.

Damn the internal struggle!

Now, having lifted my proverbial skirt, I'll also defend my labor of love. I don't doubt my path. I know luxury–however crass that may sound. I know I have creative talent. I know I'm a good problem solver. I know that while I wasn't looking for it, the dots of this wonderful business that I am heading up fell into place as brilliantly as a Leonard Bernstein musical, with little prodding from me. Solving my moral crisis couldn't be achieved in abandoning this work in progress.

So, what's a girl to do?

I've found solace down a few avenues. This one is so simple, I wanted to share it.

Become a more conscious consumer. It's nothing new to see your favorite store advertising a sale that benefits a cause. But seeing manufacturers to the masses becoming more community and cause-conscious is a growing trend worth supporting. Sure, its arguably a marketing ploy, but brands position according to one thing: profits. If you appreciate the big companies giving back, buy the products, and they'll keep up the endeavors.

A few of the manufacturers jumping on the benefactor band-wagon:

Subaru: Share the Love

Tide: Loads of Hope

Milkbone: Good to Give ~ Canine Assistants

KitchenAid ~ Cook for the Cure products, Susan G Komen

Online shoppers, it's even easier for you with websites like iGive.com.

iGive will make sure a portion of your purchases from everyday purchasing goes to the cause you designate. I'm starting to make my online purchases through them from places like Sephora, Ebay, Expedia and Gap.

Some other online resources facilitating easy philanthropic consuming:

Office Products

GiveSomethingBack.com

Gifts:

Shop.TheHungerSite.com

GreaterGood.org

StJude.org

This is the tip of the iceberg, and isn't in place of your general generosity, but it does make giving a little extra a little easier. It also speaks to the big brands you buy every day.

I'll be looking for more Consumer Conscious opportunities to share on Wednesdays. Check back for updates, and let me know if you have something you want me to consider posting.

Tuesday Tip: When All Else Fails, Make Cookies

2009-11-30T21:30:00.007-06:00

Monday, got away from me. I started out intending to share this by 10 a.m. this morning. It's 1 a.m. Tuesday. I guess this makes it officially Tuesday's blog. I've been guarding 2 recipes for years. This if one of them. Why? That's for a therapist to discover.

This is for you: HWA's Chocolate Chip Recipe

ACT ONE

All of them organic except one, little necessary evil.

Remember, they're cookies, not rice cakes.

1 cup crisco shortening–original, plain, no flavorings

1/2 cup unbleached sugar

1 cup, 2 T firmly packed light brown sugar

2 large fresh eggs

Blend until just barely mixed together, but still clumpy from the crisco.

Don't over blend. You'll RUIN EVERYTHING!

Oh - and preheat the oven to 350.

ACT TWO

1 1/2 t good quality vanilla. Do not use an alcohol-free product.

1 1/4 t salt

1 t baking powder

Blend again until just smooth. Don't over do it.

ACT THREE

2 cups, 3 T flour, shimmy it in while you're blending & mix well, but keep the blending time to a minimum.

ACT FOUR

Use semi-sweet chips. I use about 3/4 of a bag.

~nice to have a few around to top off some ice cream later~

Mix those in for about 4 seconds with your mixer, or until integrated through the dough with a wooden spoon.

Use spoons to gather up clumps of dough. DON'T use your fingers. Handling the dough will make it tough.

Only handle the dough if you're going to eat it.

Which I recommend. E Coli be damned.

Cook for 12-13 minutes, depending on your oven.

Store in a air tight container & eat within 3 days or freeze.

Share the love.

P.S. Cooking for Dummies: T=Tablespoon, t=Teaspoon. If c eludes you, get out of the kitchen.