Indulge Decor Blog

Where Do You 'Flock' (Rafter) on Thanksgiving?

 

Let me first clarify, I have no way to substantiate my Thanksgiving Day Feast Hypothesis; 'said' TDF Hypothesis is based strictly on here-say of lovely customers over the last few weeks, but here it goes -

TDF Hypothesis: I think that 1/3 of our lovely customers cook the Thanksgiving meal at home, 1/3 of our lovely customers go to someone's (dear relative's) home for Thanksgiving, and 1/3 of our lovely customers dine out (The Club). 

If 'said' Thanksgiving Day Feast Hypothesis is correct, than 1/3 of you can spend the weekend researching which blockbuster movie you wish to spend an hour waiting in line to see and the other 2/3 of you should continue reading on.

Let me dedicate the first section of this stimulating (ha, ha) blog post to our dear customers (and devoted blog readers) who have dedicated their lives to creating those perfect family memories. In those 'perfect-family-holiday-memory-scenarios', children(s) are: dressed appropriately with shoes on, phoneless, and exchanging lively banter amongst themselves with no hitting or tears . Husband has learned how to pre-program DVR and is secretly recording his (stupid) football games instead of locked away in a remote room by himself. All family 'units' are participating in some type of willing conversation with extended family, and dear Mother-In-Law is distracted enough by charming off-spring to stay out of your kitchen (for the time being) while you prepare (slave) to make the best Thanksgiving Day Feast in your Domestic Goddess career.

The Thanksgiving Day Feast has so many components that it (8-10 dishes) could easily be construed as being incredibly stressful. The reason that I think the meal is stressful is because you (Domestic Goddess) are trying to serve 8-10 dishes (turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, another gravy, green beans, biscuits) reasonably hot at the same time with typically little help from 'said' charming offspring, and overly sports stimulated husband, while under the ever watchful (glaring) eyes of Mother-In-Law. 

As a 'said' proven Hostess-With-The-Mostess, I have learned over the years to let go of the things that you can't control (8-10 dishes served simultaneously hot) and focus on the things that you can control like a beautifully set table. May I remind you of the saying - First Impressions Are Everything.

Just picture this scenario - You announce dinner is ready (on time). Everyone (your loving family) assembles to the dining room. You are in the kitchen frantically getting 'it' all together. And, you over hear your Mother-In-Law in a rare monumental compliment - 

"My, doesn't everything look beautiful."

Husband lets out an unconscious sigh of relief (actually, he's very proud). Son grumbles that he's glad 'we' didn't go to The Club, and teenage daughter (eye lids covered in the most God awful light blue eye shadow) claims that when she grows up, gets married and has everyone (you!) to her house for The Thanksgiving Day Feast, she wants it to look exactly like this.

Domestic Goddess Bliss, ahhh.

To Set The Perfect Thanksgiving Feast Dinner Table, It Is All In The Details

 

 

Dinner Candles

I love the shade of these tea-stained colored beeswax tapers.

Flowers

How charme are these fall colored hydrangeas?!

Insider Blog Tip: Sprinkle beautiful flowers around your home for an unexpected 'pop' of fall color.

Dried Hydrangeas Shown with handsome Match Pewter Pitcher

 

Dried hydrangeas shown with Juliska stoneware pitcher and tray and small glass rose bowl.

 

Dried hydrangeas shown in various Juliska vases.

 

Insider Blog Tip: Velvet Pumpkins with natural gourd stems, my all time favorite Thanksgiving decor accessory . . . ever!

 

Velvet pumpkins in various greens and golds shown with Juliska cake stands.

Table Linens

Sferra 'Festival' Hemstitched Linen Napkins shown in Chocolate, Curry, Cinnabar (also available in Oyster and White). Set of 4 for $39. Cocktail napkins available also. 

Casual Flax Colored Napkins

 Just in from Belgium! Placemats and tablecloths to match!

Plates

Insider Blog Tip: I choose to not serve my Thanksgiving Day Feast on pastel pinks, greens, blues, and yellows. I prefer  a neutral colored plate and really play up the table linens, flowers, and decor for a festive fall affect.

Glassware

Insider Blog Tip: I like to serve a nice white wine with my Turkey Feast, perhaps a Cote du Rhone Guigal or Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio, and I always have a water glass set at each guest's place. Chances are irritating brother-in-law will be less obnoxious if he has something else to drink other than too much vino.

Flatware

Insider Blog Tip: I always set my dinner table with the entire place setting of flatware. I'm not showing off; I just think it looks nice at each place setting to have small fork, big fork, knife, big spoon and small spoon. 

Serving Pieces

Think ahead in regards to what dishes you are serving and how you are going to serve 'said' dishes.

Gravy(s)

In terms of 'drippage,' best to also set out Sauce Boat Ladle and Sauce Boat Mini Tray.

Cranberry Sauce

The scrumptious red berries will look beautiful in this glass bowl by Match. And, how cute is the pewter spoon by Arte Italica?

Sweet Potatoes

Oval Pyrex dish/ pewter serving dish by Match, oven-to-table ready.

Turkey

 
Over-sized pewter platter by Match, even if the Turkey doesn't turn out just as you expected, 'it' will at least look delicious on this stunning fall motif platter.

 Decor

These velvet pumpkins are beyond Gourd-geous! In fact, the velvet pumpkins are gourd-ilicious, ha ha. 

Insider Blog Tip: Last shipment of velvet pumpkins to arrive by Fed Ex Friday.

Real Insider Blog Tip:  I, personally, plan to use the velvet pumpkins as informal/formal centerpieces on my Thanksgiving Day Tables. 

and, as . . . .

 place card holders, too charme.

Well, there you have it, - all my best suggestions for overly impressing your dear, sweet family on a most memorable Thanksgiving Day Feast. Who knows, maybe you will even crack a smile out of that staunch mother-in-law of yours. 

- - - - -

Next Blog Post - Monday

Tips For The Beyond Perfect Thanksgiving Feast Hostess Gift . . . . .

Gobble, Gobble, Gulp . . . .

4th of July Extravaganza Part II - Paying Forward

  

Customers always ask me - Is it better to arrive with the Hostess Gift, or to send the Gift in the mail after the 'visit' ? 

Well, my advice has always been predicated on the same question - 

How Well Do You Know Your Hostess? 

And, by well - I mean her taste, her style, her color palette, her entertaining sensibilities.

Chances are that the home (her 2nd, 3rd, or 4th) you are about to be a guest in is yet another reflection (extension) of your hostess and her personal style (or, at least her decorator's personal style, hee hee). 

I hear customers state all the time - "I don't care what the house looks like, I always give . . . .  for a hostess gift. You can never have too many."

How thoughtful. How controlling. Ugh. It's a good thing that you are so charming (not) and thoughtful (not), otherwise you may never be invited back. This guest usually falls under the category - 'obligatory' and is usually situated in the spare room over the garage. 

My answer - if you have been invited to someone's home as a guest (bestie or not) than I would chance to reason that you know them (lovely hostess and endearing husband) pretty well, and with a little thought, assistance, and confidence (ahem - effort), I am certain that (we) you could choose the ideal Hostess Gift that would properly reflect the anticipation of a lovely, fun filled, splashy beach holiday.

For instance - 

The Hostess With Too Many Powder Rooms

   

Linen Tissue Box Covers $43, Matching Guest Towels  $38, Sea Shell Soap $2.50   

The Hostess Who Loves Loves To Snack on Hors D'ourves

Pewter and Wood Crab Tray $240, Set of 4 Rope with Anchor Hors D'ourves Forks $50

The Libatious Hostess

Shell Glasses Large $15, Shell Glasses Small $12

French Hand Embroidered Cocktail Napkins, Crab, Shrimp, and Lobster $16

The Hostess Who Always Serves With A Smile

 

Ceramic and Pewter Tray $340. 

 

The Hostess Who Loves To Dine A-Casual

Les Toiles Du Soleil Table Runner 22x72 $65, Napkins $20 each

Melamine (Plastic) Tableware - Dinner $16, Salad/Dessert $13, Bowl $13

The Hostess With The Most-ess Table Linens

Le Jacquard Table Runner 22x79 $119, Napkins $21

Tse Tse Vase Large

The Hostess With the Clumsy Husband

Plastic Goblet $7, Plastic Tumbler $6, Plastic Pitcher $32

The Hostess Whose Compass Points Due North

 

"Can anyone tell me which way is the beach?" . . . . . Penguin $158

The Hostess Whose Dear Husband Insists That Thermostats Be Set At Frost-On-The-Windows Temperature.

Sferra Celine Throw (all cotton) in Slate Blue $70, Book $30

  

The Hostess Who Spas

By The Sea - Bath Gel $21, Bath Foam $34, Bath Salts $33, Wrapped Soap $14.50

The Hostess Who Loves to Laugh Out Loud

It goes beyond reason (at least, my reasoning) that hostess' love presents; even if they (bestie, husband's boss' conspicuous wife, zany great aunt, or soon to be in-laws) instruct - "Don't bring a thing. I have everything I need." 

Bring something. At least, a little something (gesture) to pave the golden way.  If 'The Holiday' turns out to surpass even your wildest vacation dreams and at some point you actually had a moment of  - 'Wow, I can't wait to do this again next year' than you might want to think of something that you noticed that they (hostess) did not seem to have and send 'said' item (quickly) in the mail with a thank you note. 

I have heard so many customers fret over the value of 'said' Hostess Gift, "How do I ever repay them? We ate at their 'club' at least once every day, and my daughter ordered the melted lump crab-meat sandwich 7 times! I told her (typical teenager) to order the cheeseburger, grrr. And, my husband, with his cocktails. How much do you think that I need to spend?" 

My advise, right or wrong, has always been it's not about money. (In fact, it should never be about money.) The Hostess Gift should reflect an ideal of what you think would be a lovely gesture. Hopefully, you (we) will be able to chose something that The Hostess will leave out, and every time she passes by or uses 'said' lovely gift, she thinks of you and the grand time you all shared that weekend at the shore.

Wasn't it a grand weekend? Weren't there fireworks? We should get together with them more often. Lovely Hostess reflects.

Warning - even if you don't get around to sending a gift (gesture), please remember to write a Thank You Note for a wonderful time with wishes to do it (free vacay) again soon.

Sand Piper Note Cards

also available in lobster $25 for a box of 10, Paperweight $32

If you can't seem to get around to writing the Thank You Note, then call.

And, if you can't find the number to call, then send an email.

And, . . . if you can't find the time to email, don't come complaining to me next year when you don't have any plans for the 4th, and you start that incessant whining about the insufferable heat. "I wish that someone had invited us to the shore for the 4th." Deep pout.

Too late! You can never pay backwards, sorry. It's the karmic law of Hostess Gifts - Those who arrive empty handed may very well find their calendars empty as well.

*All items available at either Indulge Saint Street (713.888.0181) or Indulge River Oaks Blvd. (713.521.7107) Please feel free to call or email (indulge@indulgedecor.com) for assistance.

- - - - -

2 impressive Hostess Gift suggestions featured by our dear friends at Vogue Magazine, July 2010 - Ya gotta love the conspicuous wealthy.

Chanel Boccie Ball Set $2,800

 

Hermes Terry Beach Mat $1,725

A quote from Editor: Virginia Smith - "Take one to your hostess, and no doubt you'll be invited back."

That's $4,525 if you splurged on both items - a toy for him and a terry mat for her.

This is when you catty readers cough up a giant fur ball of realism, achem.

Both items stunning, but really . . . . .? I guess if you are living in that world than friendship really does cost a lot, ha ha.

4th of July Extravaganza - Part 1, Cover Up

You've just received that much campaigned for invitation to your best friend's fab beach house for the 4th of July weekend, lucky you - you deserve it, ha ha. 

Well, we are all realists here, and I know that you are hoping that this invite will somehow become a tradition and that you will be invited every year to celebrate the 4th with your bestie (of the moment) at her lovely beach house in . . . . .

So, lets just get a few things clear ahead of time that will help you secure your position long term on bestie's unobstructed beach front balcony.

   

Rule Number 1 - Pack Appropriate Beach Attire: 

Translation - Your bestie will not appreciate you prancing around her family (husband) in a teensy bikini. Always have cute cover-up (that actually does cover) on hand for when sweet host's husband is near by (leering).

Petite Bateau Linen Dress $178, Petit Bateau Cotton Tank Dress $60

Raffia Hat $34, Stripe Hat $56

      

Claridge and King 'Boyfriend Shirt' $102, cute Raffia Hat $34

Rule Number 2 - Sun Causes Wrinkles:

    Wrinkles lead to aging. Aging leads to wasteful spending on botox, lasers, peals, creams, and surgery. Save yourself a few dreaded lines, not to mention tons of money, and wear a hat. These adorable hats are way more fashionable than wrinkles, hee hee.

"Crusher Hats" Taupe, Ecru, White - $34

 

Rule Number 3 - Be Prepared:

Nothing is worse than getting all lathered up and settled in on your (bestie's) chaise, and then remember that you have forgotten something really important in your room (far away). Have your beach bag already packed with your must-have beach essentials.

Sunglasses, Water, Flips, Sunscreen (face and body), Lip Gu, iPod, Hair Brush and Twistey, Reading Fodder, Camera . . . .  

Les Toiles du Soleil Canvas Totes $75, and Havaianas $22

    

Les Toiles du Soleil Canvas Mini Totes $34

Try to leave ubiquitous cell phone in room. You may have to start with baby steps, say an hour at at time, but remember you are on holiday, perhaps you don't have to check your email every second of the day. Remember other emailers (bestie's without beach houses - next summer's competition) might be on holiday also.

  

Rule Number 4 - Jewelry:

There's day-time-jewelry, and then there is day time jewelry.

In the immortal words of Kramer from Seinfeld, "The Sea was angry that day, my friend."

Don't wear jewelry to the beach that you are not willing to wear into the water. In other words, most beach thieves have caught on to Rolex watch hidden in toe of shoe, or the diamond ring stuffed down into secret pocket of beach bag next to the goopey sunscreens.

Sweet Grandad's Gold Rolex - Priceless

Wrath of sweet Grandmother if you lost her dear departed husband's gold watch while bobbing - endless!

We all know you have great jewelry, leave the crazy expensive stuff (diamonds) at home and go for a little lighter (less flashy) look for the beach. Trust me, the seagulls (and your hostess) don't care how many diamonds you can pile on at a time.

Like I said, it's not nice to outshine the hostess. You may have more diamonds, but remember - she has the lovely beach house! 

 

Nothing shines like 22kt gold. I love this Nancey Chapman 22kt. gold disc and leather necklace $4800.

Or, for just as much oomph, but way less money - this 22kt. gold Safia Day vermeil necklace $350

And, don't forget your Vrai Sugar Scrub and Vrai body Cream - every sun-goddess' essential.

Now that we've got the what to wear and what not to wear part covered (remember - appropriate beach cover-ups, ha ha), our next thrilling blog installment will be what to bring for a Hostess Gift. Remember, if you have a really great time at bestie's fab beach house, you might as well secure your position for next year with a most thoughtful present. After all that trouble (a year of unmitigated flattery), you would hate to blow your East-side protected dunes view on something as thoughtless as forgetting to thank your hostess properly.

Check back for pleasing Hostess Gifts.

The Great Easter Feaster

C:

'The Great Easter Feaster'

Easter Brunch Recipes and Festive Decorations

If you keep a yearly calendar, then Easter is your first big family holiday. If you keep a school-year calendar (09-10) then Easter is your last big family holiday; either way, Easter is a really big family holiday if you are of the church going persuasion.

Although there will not be any actual children (my 83 year old father doesn't count) at my 'Great Easter Feaster,' I still go all out on the food and decorations.  

I am joyously expecting no less than 15 people this Easter Sunday. Like Thanksgiving, I have several dear orphan friends who will not be able to make it back home for 'The Holiday' who will all participate in preparing 'The Great Easter Feaster' at my house.

Also like Thanksgiving, I get almost all my cherished, fave recipes from my favorite tried-and-true Southern (Southern New Jersey, ha ha ) comfort food cookbook.

Recently, I read a statement Kate Moss said - "Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels."

Well, I've never had English cooking (which I'm sure has a lot to do with Kate's skinny statement), but I would love to be able to write Kate back and tell her that my 'Great Easter Feaster' is so worth at least 5 lbs. 

So, here it goes, The-Extra-5-Pounds-On-Your-Hips-In-One-Seating Easter Feaster Menu.

Please note, no carbs were spared in the planning of this menu.

 - - - - -

"I Just Quit Stirrin' When the Tastin's Good"

Recipes from The Chalfonte Hotel Recipe Collection

CHEESE GRITS

Prepare 1 cup Quick Grits according to package directions. 

Add 1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (more if desired), 1/2 cup butter, 1/2 cup milk, large dash of Tabasco, and large dash of garlic salt. 

Stir and cook over low heat until cheese is melted. 

Add 2 well beaten eggs. 

Pour into 2 quart buttered casserole dish, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. 

Bake for 1 hour at 350 degrees. 

(Recipe serves 6)

GLAZED CARROTS

Scrape 2 pounds of fresh carrots, halve then split.  Cook in boiling water until tender.  Drain carrots.  Place in 9" x 15" x 2" Pyrex dish. 

Mix 1 cup fresh orange juice, 1/2 cup pineapple juice, 1 tbs. brown sugar, and 1 tbs. Karo Syrup (dark or light).  Pour over carrots.  Dot with butter. 

Slice 1 orange and 1 lemon and place over carrots. 

Heat in oven at 350 degrees until hot and bubbly.

(Recipe serves 6)

POTATO SALAD

Cook and cube 4 cups of peeled potatoes (approx. 5 medium size potatoes). 

Chop 2 hard-boiled eggs, 1/2 cup celery, 1/2 cup onions, and 2 tbs. fresh parsley, and put in bowl.   

*In keeping with any (Jewish) Southern recipe, Issac adds plenty of bacon.*

*Issac also chops up some Cornichon pickles and throws them in there too.*

Add 1 cup mayonnaise and 1 tbs. vinegar to bowl and gently mix with chopped veggies. 

*Issac adds some spicy mustard, amount to taste.*

Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. 

Add potatoes, fold, and chill at least 3 hours before serving.

(Recipes serves 6)

 

BUTTERMILK BISCUITS

Mix 2 cups all purpose flour, 2 tsp. of baking powder, 1/2 tsp. salt, and a pinch of sugar.

Blend 4 tbs. Crisco into dry mixture until well mixed.

*I add a few chopped green onions.*

Gradually add 3/4 cup buttermilk until dough is manageable. Do not make too sticky.

Roll on floured board until dough is 1/4" thick. Cut out biscuits about the size of a silver dollar.

*I add a sliver of butter (topper) to each biscuit before baking.*

Bake in greased pan (Pam) at 400 degrees until brown on top - approximately 20 minutes.

(Makes 20 biscuits)

 

CARROT CAKE

In a blender, combine 2 cups sugar, 2 cups flour, 2 tsp. cinnamon, 2 tsp. baking soda, 1 cup corn oil, and 1/4 tsp. salt. 

With blender on, add 4 eggs, one at a time. 

Next, fold in 3 cups grated carrots and 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional). 

Pour batter into two 8" round Teflon pans (for a two layer cake). 

Bake in oven at 350 degrees for about 50 minutes.

CARROT CAKE CREAM CHEESE ICING

In a blender, mix 1 8-oz. package of cream cheese, 2 tbs. melted butter, and the juice from 1 large lemon. 

Slowly add confectionery sugar, approx. one box, until icing is stiff enough to spread on cake. 

Frost lightly between layers of cake, then ice the sides and top.

 

HONEYBAKED HAM

'The Authentic HoneyBaked Ham,' purchased from The HoneyBaked Ham Co.

And, for those mamby-pamby Easter Sunday infringers, who insist one carb load per meal is enough, I always have a big glass bowl filled with fresh berries (with a bowl of scrumptious creme fraiche strategically placed next to it, tee hee. Less carbs, but more calories. Am I bad?)

Festive Tabletop Decorating Ideas from The Store:

Le Jacquard Lavender Colored Table Runners, Placemats, and Napkins

Purple Butterflies and Paperwhite in terracotta pot, not-exactly-real, wink.

Grass Bunnies, Le Jacquard Table Runners, and more of our Not-Exactly-Real-Flowers

Ranunculus in fun oh-so-bright colors - pink, purple, orange, white, & coral.

and, How Cute Are These Toys For Easter Basket Surprises?!

Feetsie Covers (for a little someone's first Easter) - Saint Street Store

   

Cute Books - R.O. Blvd. Store

       

Soft Jellycat Toys Galore - R. O. Blvd. Store

   

Some Bunny Loves You - Saint Street Store
   

And, for the Grumpy Teenager who thinks she's too old for stuff animals, ha.

SigiKid Bunny

---------

Is is a Persian? Is it a Pomeranian? Is it a Hamster?

No, It's Our New Baby Bunny - Macaroon!

Who happens to eat carrots faster than a speeding bullet...

     

Macaroon lives at our Saint Street Store if you would like to meet him.


And please remember, be a responsible Bunny Giver.

If you are so inclined to give a bunny to someone for Easter (religious holiday, stores may be closed!), please be sure to include with 'bunny gift' a bunny hutch, bunny food, and a book on how-to-take-care-of-a-bunny.

House Rabbit Handbook

If well taken care of and loved, House Bunnies can easily live to be 6 to 9 years old, and possibly better trained than that Persian or Pomeranian you so adore.

And, if I might add, a whole lot cuddlier than a hamster.

75th Annual Azalea Trail

 

 

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the River Oaks Garden Club's Azalea Trail!

The Azalea Trail began in 1934 when 12 gardens were opened to the public for an entry fee of 5 cents (what a bargain!). Thousands are expected on this year's three-day, seven-stop tour. A $5 individual admission includes home and garden.

The tour includes 4 homes and gardens, the Bayou Bend estate gardens, the Forum of Civics, at 2503 Westheimer, and Rienzi, the 4.4-acre gardens at 1406 Kirby.

Bart Brechtor (you may remember him from Bulbilicious), the talented garden curator responsible for keeping the beautiful 12-acre grounds at the Bayou Bend estate, says that despite the nippy weather this winter, the "Jennifer" Kurume (purplish-pink) azaleas are beginning to bloom and show color as are the "Elegans" (lilac-pink Indica azaleas). With the long winter we've had, many azaleas are holding their buds, as you may have noticed driving around Houston, but a few days of sun should encourage these otherwise shrubish-looking plants to bloom.

In the meantime, Garden Club volunteers have cleaned Bayou Bend's sweeping beds and filled them with flowering annuals and tulips to spread color throughout the garden.

 

1. River Oaks Garden Club Forum of Civics - 2503 Westheimer

2. Bayou Bend Gardens, Philadelphia - Enter at 2940 Lazy Lane or One Westcott

3. Rienzi - 1406 Kirby

4. Home & Gardens - 3606 Chevy Chase

5. Home & Gardens - 3637 Del Monte

6. Home & Gardens - 3617 Inwood Dr.

7. Home & Gardens - 3650 Inwood Dr.

 

Ticket Information

Dates: March 5, 6, and 7, 2010

Hours: 11 pm - 6 pm

Prices: Seven Admissions $20; Single-Site Admission (available at each entrance) $5

 

Ticket Locations

River Oaks Garden Club Forum of Civics   -    The Arbor Gate in Tomball, TX

Another Place In Time    -    Bering's     -   Condon Gardens    -    Cornelius Nurseries

The Empty Vase    -    Garden Gate    -    Museum of Fine Arts     -   Bayou Bend

River Oaks Plant House   -     Tanglewood Gifts & Stationary    -    Teas Nursery       

Thompson + Hansen      -     Leisure Learning Unlimited     -   Randalls

Rice Epicurean

River Oaks Garden Club is a member of The Garden Club of America and was founded in 1927. The club has made many contributions to the Houston community in the areas of conservation, horticulture, education, and civic beautification.

Proceeds from The Azalea Trail support these ongoing projects:

• Maintenance of the River Oaks Garden Club Forum of Civics Building and Gardens (the gardens are open to the public).

• Maintenance of the 14-acre gardens of Bayou bend, the former estate of Miss Ima Hogg and now the Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

• Continuation of the Bayou Bend Gardens Endowment, a charitable trust for the perpetual maintenance of the gardens. The endowment is also supported by public contributions.

• Hosting of the annual Sadie Gwin Blackburn Environmental Seminar, which is open to the public (admission is free).

• Publication of A Garden Book for Houston and the Texas Gulf Coast. In 2009, the River Oaks Garden Club made contributions to the following: Holly Hall, Casa de Esperanza, Trees for Houston, Lamar High School-HISD, and Students Conserving America.

Oh, and Don't forget to mind your manners when you're stomping through these beautiful homes...

Don't stray from the delineated path - there are plastic floor coverings and ropes to guide you so you can't pretend you got lost.

Don't go upstairs (the stairs are always blocked off with rope but you'd be surprised how many people make it up there).

Don't walk through the house backwards. Again, delineated pathways. Narrow. Crowded.

Don't ask how much the house costs. That's just tacky.

Don't pick the posies. Um, hello?

Don't ask where the powder room is. Seriously. Don't

Don't say "Do you think that's real?" out loud. Sure, the homeowner will probably not be there. But let me tell you, her big-eared friends will be.

Do wait to say something tacky when you're safely outside (not that you would ever say anything like "They obviously have everything they own out" but in case you know someone who would). Again, friends with ears.

Do say how lovely everything is. Those wonderful Garden Club volunteers have come through and made the gardens absolutely perfectly beautiful and I'm sure they would love to hear how much you appreciate it.

 

Happy trails!

 

 

Be Mine

C:

Valentine's Day is just another way Hallmark reminds husbands how lousy they are at romance. Personally, I don't think that there is anything romantic about a bare-assed, winged cherub with a small potentially lethal weapon fluttering around a page shooting arrows at my 'metaphorical' heart. 

Now, I'm not picking on Hallmark per say, I'm just stating in my own words that I kinda feel sorry for husbands around Valentine's Day. I think us wives (or girlfriends) put a hell of a lot of pressure on these poor husbands (and just after Christmas!) to be overly sappy romantic on a predetermined day. 

My personal Valentine's Day expectations run the gamut somewhere between reservations, flowers, and cheap baked goods. For years, my husband and I ate dinner out so much that what was special to me was for him to cook us dinner at home for V.D. Last year was the opposite, we'd been eating dinner at home a lot so I asked him to make reservations for us to go out for a special V.D.dinner to one of our favorite neighborhood restaurants. In the twelve years that we have been together, it would be our first V.D. dinner outing. I thoughtfully reminded him that he would need to call the restaurant way in advance for reservations because V.D. is a huge event in America and the restaurant would book-up quickly.

My sweet husband was all kinds of pleased with himself for immediately calling the restaurant and reserving their best table. 

My friends still laugh at this story (now, you have to remember that my husband suffers from ETL - English is his third language.) So on February 13, my  husband gleefully reminds me of our best-seat-in-the-house dinner reservations being held for that night.

To which I blankly respond, "You mean tomorrow night, right? Today is just the 13th."

He looks at me kinda warily, "Isn't Valentine's one of those days like Christmas or New Years that you celebrate it the night before, on the Eve? You know, Valentine's Eve?"

 The "Ughh!!!" that could be heard around the world."You didn't!?"

"Umm, I think I probably did," wince.

So, we sat in a nearly empty restaurant on Valentine's Eve celebrating Valentine's Day with all the procrastinating husbands or boyfriends (and their angry wives / girlfriends) who called too late and couldn't get reservations for the real night (14th). The mood of the restaurant was anything but romantic, I would say more like piercing. I, however, had never been out for a Valentine's Eve Dinner and actually thought it was quite charme. Once I warmed up to the idea, I agreed with my husband that the restaurant was not nearly as crowded, they did not have some ridiculously arranged price-fix dinner, and they were in no hurry to turn the table over for the next seating (because there was no next seating). So, on that very Valentine's Eve night, we decided to celebrate Valentines like all the other really confusing American holidays and exchange pleasantries on the eve of - Valentine's Eve that is.

I'm one of the lucky ones. I don't have any unrealistic expectations around Valentine's Day; therefor, I am never disappointed by the holiday.

Cartier Love Bracelets

(Husband should buy Valentine lottery ticket, ha.)

But, hey, I get it - some women go into Valentines with years of disappointment strapped to their backs. Warning gentlemen, she will snap sooner than later.

When I was in New York last week, I was sitting in a swanky jewelry store having a ring sized while at the desk next to me an older woman was shopping on line with a sales associate. The unassuming customer was contemplating a lovely pink sapphire bracelet (presumably for Valentine's Day) for $465,000. And then, she really brightened up when she realized that for just a little bit more (another $60,000 = $525,000) she could have it with diamonds too. All day I thought about it - Do husbands really gift half million dollar bracelets for Valentine's Day? Will she (unassuming customer) even bother to tell her husband (presumably unromantic robot) that she has already charged the bracelet (of course, to him) and had it wrapped for V.D.? Surprise! Hmmm.

I read on the internet this morning that 20% of all Valentine's presents will be an expensive piece of jewelry (10% will be engagement rings) Who knew my 80 / 20 rule applied to Valentine's Day to?! I wonder if they (the study makers) figured out what % of 'said' 20 % jewelry buyers were women getting even with their unromantic (robot) husbands, hmmm?

I will remind you all that since I own Indulge (gift store) my husband is at an even further disadvantage than most husbands because I sell almost everything that I truly love - gift idea wise. But here is a list of great gift ideas that I think any woman would be happy to receive for Valentine's Day. I know I would be happy to receive any of them. (Feel free to forward to unimaginative husband accidently, wink.)

10 Great Appropriate Valentine Gifts for her:

Card - sweet, sappy, funny, or romantic. Lovingly signed!

Flowers - delivered or personally selected, almost anything goes - just try to stay clear of the Carnations and Baby's Breath. My personal favorite V.D. bouquet would be baby-aspirin-pink French  Tulips.

Champagne - giggle

Sweets - always a favorite! Nothing with the words - diet, low cal, or less fat printed on the packaging.

Perfume - can be tricky, stick with a fragrance she already wears. Can not be found at Walgreens or CVS.

Sleepy-time outfit - something she would like, not you. It's her present.

Bath Bubblies - one of my favorites.

Spa Package - ahhh. To included - massage, facial, mani / pedi, not bikini wax!

Weekend Getaway - that may turn into week-long getaway.

 Jewelry - if you fell short at Christmas, this is a good opportunity to step up to the plate and redeem yourself. 

Cartier Love Bracelet in white gold, yellow gold and rose gold (He won't have to think of another V.D. gift for two years - so convenient.)

*** All gifts can be combined with other gifts on the list for even more hugs and kisses of thanks, wink. May I suggest at least three picks for maximum Valentine return.

And, a Valentine's Day must:

Reservations - at home (he shops, cooks, cleans up and puts the dishes away - because you just know he's going to use twice as many pots as you would) or at a favorite restaurant (preferably a table for 2, sans any pathetic old divorced hunting buddies).

**Clarification for husbands - (in my humble V.D. opinion, which in reality is probably similar to your wives) reservations are probably not enough, you (husband) should still select from above mentioned 'Gifts for Her' list.

   

Not very Valentine-y:

(and may get you (husband) in all kinds of trouble)

Anything with batteries

Anything with electrical cord

Anything with garters

Anything that is lick-able or edible

Anything that she can't tell her mother or best friend

Anything that sounds like you (him) would like too much - i.e. sports game, terminator movie, boat show, hunting trip . . .

Anything that says I.O.U. (back-rub, massage, breakfast in bed)

Anything that resembles 'love' dollars, whatever - you know what I'm talking about. Redeemable for - - - 

Porn is always a bad idea

As I mentioned earlier, my Valentine's Day requests are simple:

A funny card that he writes a message in (no fair just signing your name.)

Reservations (Valentine's Day Eve, ha ha)

Flowers arranged in pretty vase (not sitting in the sink when I get home from work.)

Cheap baked goods (preferably purchased from supermarket with gobs of sugary icing.)

***And if I happen to fall into the lucky 20% category, I won't brag to much.

Who am I kidding, I'll blog about it !!! (But blogging isn't bragging, right? ha, ha)

Tipping Is Not A City In China

Indulge

And the countdown begins: two weeks to go until Christmas (gulp).  At this point, all anyone has on the brain is SHOPPING. Hostess gifts for the friends of yours throwing Holiday parties, something to take to that White Elephant Exchange at work, something for your kids, your husband, your mother, etc.

But this year, when you're out and about shopping for Holiday gifts for your friends and loved ones, don't forget about passing on that Holiday spirit and generosity on to those people who help you throughout the rest of the year. You know, the ones who deliver your mail and/or deliver your dry cleaning, manicure your nails and/or manicure your lawn, clean your pool and/or clean your house. Even if you're on a budget this year, don't forget that the definition of thrift is economizing at your own expense - so just because you have to be more careful on what you spend for you, doesn't mean you skimp on or skip tipping the people that make your life run more smoothly through the year around the holidays.

 

So who should you tip? And how much do you tip them?

 

First, you should give a holiday tip to people who provide you service frequently and regularly on a daily or weekly basis. Emily Post asserts that between $10-30 is appropriate. This includes:

- postal workers, UPS and FedEx

- Other regular delivery people who bring your laundry, take-out, etc.

- trash collectors

 

 

 

Second, it's nice to tip those people who serve you perhaps less frequently but who you see for longer periods. For these people, it is customary to tip the equivalent of one visit/job:

- Hairstylists

- Manicurists, Facialists, and Massage Therapists

- Personal Trainers 

- Regular Babysitters

- Lawn-care crews, Pool Cleaners

- Pet Grooming Technicians

 

 
 

Third, people who work for you. Emily Post agrees that anyone you employ more than a couple of days a week should get a check typically equivalent to about one week's pay. This includes:

- Nannies

- Housekeepers

- Permanent Caretakers and Home-Care Attendants

 

 

Fourth, tipping people who can be strategically tipped (or should I say strategically bribed). If we must think of ourselves and do something somewhat selfish during the holidays, these kinds of gratuities can make a real difference in your own quality of life. Here, the range of what's appropriate varies greatly:

- Doormen and concierges

- The bartender, wait staff, or maitre d' at your favorite and much-frequented restaurant (see if your table location doesn't improve!)

- Country Club staff (don't be fooled by that idea of a "Secret Holiday Jar" - there are no secrets when it comes to who donated to the fund and who didn't)

 

 

 

Finally, there may be others in your life that make things run more smoothly. Don't forget anybody else that serves you throughout the better part of the year. Think about who helps you, and who you can help (here comes the strategic part) help you later. These people can include:

- Carwash Attendants (my grandfather washes his car atleast once a week - not only are these people his friends, but he notices that they handwash and wipedown his car quickly and efficiently, even when they're busy)

- Dog Walkers 

- Baristas (Go to Starbucks every morning? Have someone there that says "Goodmorning so-and-so, will it be the regular this morning?" Here's a tip: tip them!) My roommate M. and I love ours so much - we get out of bed in the morning as much for the coffee as we do for an early morning conversation with him. He makes our day even before we get to work!

 

 

Here we are with our friends at the Starbucks on the North side of West Gray (there are three on that same corner; it's the Drive-thru!). 

 

Now, that being said, there are in fact other options besides handing over wads of cash if you're really in a spending hiatus this Holiday Season. Emily Post says that if you really can't afford to tip some of the many people who care for you (say, for instance, you felt so generous towards your mail carrier and manicurist that you forgot about your child's busdriver), a small gift with a handwritten note will do. I know people who have baked cookies or roasted nuts and put them in cute gift bags along with a note to hand out to people they might usually tip. A kind, thoughtful handwritten note is key. See, it really is the thought that counts!

 

 

 

 

When generously and graciously tipping the people who make your life run more smoothly from January to December this Holiday Season, just remember the idea of tipping kharma. Be guided by the spirit of gift-giving and generosity! The better you take care of the people who care for you, the better off everybody will be.

 

  

Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town: Great Gift Ideas

Great Holiday Gift Ideas for everyone on your list!

A wonderful teacher/neighbor/colleague gift:

European Eiffel Tower Paperweight $15

For the kids on your list that are begging for a puppy for Christmas:

Jellycat Pull-Along Puppy $24

 

To bundle up on Christmas day...

Bella Bliss Christmas Sweaters $90 each

 

For Dad, Grandpa, or your Brother:

European Stag Votives $58 each

For your Mother, Mother-In-Law, Grandmother, or Aunt:

Rance "Tuberose" Box of 6 Soaps $54

For the world traveler on your list:

Elizabeth W. Clean/Dirty Lingerie Bag $34

The Gardener:

(Christmas Joke: What does Santa do in his garden all day - hoe, hoe, hoe.)

Cavallini & Co. Butterflies & Insects 2010 Calendar $25

Potting Shed Creations $13.50 each

 

Elizabeth W. Sleep Mask $22.50

Pewter Sugar/Creamer Set $192, Pewter Gerbera Tea Spoon $72 for 4

Scents and Sensibility:

Fragonard Jasmine Scented Soap $20, Cote Bastide Ceramic Tray

Hand Embroidered French Lavender Sachet $16

 

Antica Farmacista Diffusers $25 for Petite, $70 for Large (Available in 6 fragrances, shown in Magnolia)

. . . Nestled all Snug in their Beds,

       

B. Up "Sophie" Nightgown $58, Camisole Top $45, Boxers $32,

 

B. Up "Sophie" Robe $80

  

The Scarves Were Hung by the Chimney with Care:

     

Scarves, scarves, scarves! $65-$86 (shown with
Love, Nina Jane Necklaces)

Peace to All... and to All a Good-night!

Safia Day Peace Sign Necklace $135

Halloween: I Want Candy

C:

Should you measure the success of your Halloween decorations by the sheer amount of candy distributed or by how much fun your family has scaring the hell out of the neighbors?

 At first glance, you will think that I spent a crazy amount of time and gasoline driving all over creation trying to find all these scary, spooky images. Well, not exactly.

This is the house of my very good friend M.  In my opinion M. has unfaltering taste; I'm even flattered when she picks something up in my store and exclaims, "I love this!" (not knowing that I had her in mind when I bought it in the first place.)  M. and I even share the same birthday week, with our birthdays only days apart (and, many years!) it has become a tradition to celebrate it together every year. I guess you would say, M. and I are October birthday kindred spirits. Every year when I was a little girl, I got to have a Halloween themed birthday party with really cute scary treats and games. So, I guess you would say as an adult I have never outgrown the idea of Halloween being one of the best holidays ever!

Now, in M.'s case she has parlayed Halloween into a full on family event. What might have started as something cute for the kids is now some serious Halloween loot. Her collection is years in the making, collected over time with the same care and enthusiasm that she uses when selecting all the lovelies that are in her beautiful home.

When I called her last week to ask if it would be O.K. to shoot some pictures for the blog, she exclaimed, "I can't wait for you to see our new dancing ghosts! I just got them and can't wait to put them around the cemetery. And, wait until you see my new pumpkin from Watkins Culver - they finally got someone to reproduce that one that they've had in the window for years.  It's going outside my bedroom!" 

This is what Halloween looks like when the parents are as excited about the holiday as the kids. And, just remember when picking out your Halloween decorations - you can never be too scary. Gruesome is a good thing.  And, no need to edit - more is better. And, if you must - include the children.

May I introduce you to the modern day Munster Family - or as I affectionately call her M.

Upon first glance, what a pretty house (looks like it should be on the cover of Veranda Magazine.)

Now, let me take you on a little tour. You might want to turn the overhead light on in the room you are sitting in because you are in for a real Stephen King-like scare!

Decorating Tip: I think the key to really good Halloween decorations is that everywhere you look you are freaked out - at every turn.

Gates of Hell

 

Entrance to Purgatory

 

Driveway to Hell

 

Jack and His Little Friend

 

(Notice cute hanging-upside-down bat)

 

Window Treatments:

Count D. - Just back from Transylvania.

"Your father just got home - he took the red eye."

 

Mummy Dearest

"Yes children, of course you can play in the street.  Mummy needs to go change her dressing and paint her face."

 

Mummy in her new Herve Leger dress.

"Children, don't forget to feed your rat."

Lurch's Cousin - Larch

"Children, snack time!.  It's your favorite - deviled spider eggs."

 

At Every Turn - Freaked Out !!!:

Rabid Dogs

"Is that one of Cynthia's Briards?"

 

  This Year's Halloween Block Party Chairman.

...last seen running around with his head cut off!

Gossip-y Neighbor

"That Gladys Kravitz never shuts up."

 

Pet Rat

"I smell candy. I'm so hungry, I could eat someone's big toe."

 

Family Pet Arachnid

"Would someone put Itsy-Bitsy back in her cage?!"

 

Damsel In Distress

"Mom, someone's stupid head is in Itsy-Bitsy's cage!"

 

Who Says Red-Heads Don't Have More Fun.

"Has anyone seen my husband, he might have lost his head earlier?"

 

Looming Overhead:

 

Scary Yoda Guy

  

 

Chain of Fools... I mean Ghouls

     

 

Mr. and Mrs. Smith... aka Brangelina

   

         

Lawn Ornaments:

 

Those Zombies Sure Are Early Risers.

     

M. tells me, "For the really good scary stuff - go to Frankels.  But, my new, very favorite decoration is my pumpkin, I got him this year at Watkins Culver!

 (Fiberglass pumpkin from Watkins Culver looks great outside or inside - and look how well he looks mixed in with 18th century French antiques! I want one, too.)

 

Parenting Tip:  Lesson learned - You can have the gorgeous, beautiful house and still make your kids really, really happy. Life doesn't always have to be so serious. Sometimes it's kind of fun to let that little kid inside you out to join in all the reindeer games (oops, that's from that other holiday.) In other words, loosen up a bit - buy a scary pumpkin or eat too much candy, why not ???!!! You can be overly perfect another day, let your kids have this one. Or, at least pretend it's all for them.