Just Add a Pretty Ribbon

This year, I ran out of time to do a Holiday Gift List like last year's, so thought I'd do a quick one - based on my personal wish list.

If it's time to upgrade, why not choose the phone that is a work of art (and not settle for an inferior imitator).

Quelqu'un M'a Dit by Carla Bruni. Although she has a newer album out, this one has received better reviews and after listening to some of the songs, I thought I might like it better.

If I were going to invest in a bag that I wanted to last a re-a-ll-y long time, this would be it. In Florida, this would work year-round.

The Mini Cooper Convertible would please most anyone, I think, but of course, it has to be white.


These Scott Waterman "Looking Glass" paintings would be quite nice in any decor. The style feels like modern art, yet the imagery hints at ancient histories and dark stories.

Current Eliot Boyfriend - Super Love jeans look so great on SJP, I'm sure they'd look just as good on anyone else. (I might not wear mine quite this baggy, but I am just a beach girl at heart!)

I'm still fixated on these little notebooks from Astier de Villatte. I love the classic tile design covers, and they would be great gifts for any designer or architect. I believe they're available at John Derian, or if you're in the UK, you can pick them up here.

Here's hoping everyone has a bountiful holiday season. But don't forget, sharing a simple meal with friends and family can be the best gift of all!

I'm going to be changing tradition and cooking up a simpler menu, calling on my favorite chef, Ina Garten. A friend gave me the cookbook Barefoot in Paris, and some of her recipes have become part of my regular repertoire. (A big plus, she loves all things French!) See her new Axel Vervoordt inspired kitchen/barn over at Design Editor.

Her Boeuf Bourguignon recipe is a crowd favorite, and it's a one dish meal. And, I love the drama of setting my big Calphalon pot on fire! (The first time I made this, I thought the kitchen was going up in flames!) You'll have to read the recipe to find out what it's all about, but if you want a hint, the dish includes a bottle of Burgundy wine and a half cup of Cognac! You know it's got to be good! Add some crusty bread, an earthy salad, and some good wine, and you're ready to sit back and enjoy!

Happy Holidays!
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Next up, I'll be doing a year-end rundown on some great new books.
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