christmas table-setting and dinner, our still-unpacking-style

This was my first Christmas with my husband in our new town of Franklin, and we were only a month into living here. Boxes everywhere… I did the best I could using what we found. I’ll outline the menu and then just show photos, as well as where I got some of the things you’ll…

salad, pasta & a bundt cake

**This post includes a full meal: Starter, Main and Dessert. Scroll through if necessary.** Cooking, table-setting, hosting, decorating… these have all been what have brought me the most happiness. I love cooking for and taking care of my husband and my friends. It has been a way for me to show my love and my…

pretty in pink, shrimp charcuterie tray

Cheese. Enough said. For the most part, I’m a massive fan. You put cheese and creamy marinated artichoke hearts on a shiny silver tray with other goodies and a gorgeous full bodied wine, and I’m not going anywhere. Let’s be honest, if you’re avoiding this heat, use a charcuterie tray like this What a gift…

smoked salmon avocado toast with coddled eggs and champagne

I feel as though the construction work on our building will never end. Ever. Granted, it’s not just our building; it’s the entire community “compound” but, the new roof shingles have taken well over a year to replace. It has been an ongoing noise onslaught which has driven me to drink. This includes during today’s…

garlic and tarragon shrimp over homemade cheese-free pesto

Sundays nights in Florida aren’t typically nights you can enjoy long walks holding hands with your partner, thinking about the week to come… It’s hot, it’s humid, it’s a problem. Sometimes though, we get a break from all that and even better still, it lasts for weeks. Just long enough to forget about running away…