July 2013

Our outdoor dining table in Southampton was looking a little bare, so I quickly put together a long-lasting, neglect-proof centerpiece with pots from the garden center and some spiny cactus.  See how in my second video!

I enjoy a full bar (heaven knows), but if I had to choose just three bottles for summer, they would be Campari, sweet vermouth and London dry gin.  Check out the video below to learn why, and for three delicious, quick cocktails made from these three key ingredients. Thanks for watching!

Take Five: Navy

July 9, 2013

Orlebar Brown Setter Swim Shorts.  Smartly cut swimmers that are nice enough to wear to lunch by the pool. Marimekko Rasymatto paper napkins.  For lunch on the patio (or to brighten up Julia’s lunchbox.) Gucci Bamboo Detail Leather Driving Shoes. Fancy with a summery sense of humor. Smith & Cross Navy Strength Jamaican Rum. Revive the traditional […]

This past long weekend was hot and sunny, and Julia requested her favorite ice cream (and mine, I think) — lemon verbena gelato made from the fragrant herb growing in our kitchen garden.  I also made lavender gelato and whisked in about a third of a cup of good fruity olive oil before I froze […]

The fresh sea air is one the nicest things about Southampton, but it takes its toll on outdoor fixtures and furniture.  When we set the table on the back porch for our first outdoor lunch of the season, we noticed that our dining chairs were looking pretty shabby.  Their powder-coated finish had faded, and rust […]