How to stay warm this winter (without looking like a marshmallow)

So, the crisp and glorious fall days have gone, and we're left with weather that could make a penguin shiver.  Not to mention that winter doesn't even start for another month! "Wait your turn, sir!"

Despite my feeble attempts to boycott winter temps and snow flurries, it seems that Mother Nature doesn't give a shit that she has shortened my season of beloved vests and light jackets.  So I gave in. I pulled out all of the winter gear and wear it.  If you find yourself shivering and in need of some warmth-spiration, look no further!

COATS:

My best friend told me that the key element of a good warm coat is that it covers your butt.  She is always right, so I traded my short puffers for a longer down coat.  I must say, this was life changing...and here I was thinking that you lose heat from your head!  Anyhow, here are two of my faves, 

This one  from Sam Edelman is perfect for everyday casual looks, especially on weekends:

Sam Edelman, retails for $199, Found at TJ Maxx for $112

This one from J Crew is so warm and versatile, wear it to work, for a night on the town, or dress it down for a casual look. I love the toggles and multi pocket detailing as well as the zip off hood!

J. Crew - Last season, retailed for $395, on-sale last January for just $120!

SCARVES:

Scarves are both decorative and functional (which is how I like to think of myself).  By choosing soft thick fabrics like wool, cashmere and cotton, your neck and face are sure to stay toasty on the most horrid of days.  Just make sure to get some in fun colors and patterns (like Fair Isle and Plaid, bonus points for critter designs) to avoid the winter blahhhs!

Left to right: Me2 Reindeer scarf, Banana Republic (old) green plaid
scarf, Gap (old) blue and grey flannel scarf, Pink Pineapple Shop
plaid blanket scarf (available at pinkpineappleshop.com)

HATS:

Honestly, if you asked me 5 years ago I would've told you I hate winter hats.  They look dumb and mess up your hair.  Boy, I was wrong (so very wrong). They keep so much warmth in, and they are, in fact, adorable. Pom-poms, cable knit, trapper flaps and sweet warm goodness!

Left to right: Patagonia Fleece Beanie, C Wonder Orange Pom,
Gap Cable-knit taupe pom hat, Patagonia fleece aqua hat
Center: 1/2 of a Best Friends hat set from Nordstrom

BOOTS:

Just like winter hats, I used to think snow boots were for kids and for shoveling only., and that they were never stylish.  That was until I met the Sorel Joan of Arctic boots.  Now I know how happy your feet can be, while looking cute too!  Other must haves in my arsenal of warmth are the ever controversial Shearling boot (mine are EMUs) and the Hunter rain boot with fleece liners.  Ready for anything!

Left to right: Sorel Joan of Arctic boots (I added my own red laces),  Hunter
Rain Boots in Green with Hunter's white fleece liners, Emu Stinger High Boot
in Chestnut

GLOVES:

I alllllllways lose my gloves, get my gloves dirty, rip my gloves, etc...I find them balled up like socks in the strangest places months later.  For this reason., I buy nothing but $2.00 knit gloves (with iphone touchscreen compatible finger tips) from Target.  I get a whole bunch and by New Year's I have one raggedy pair left.  They are warm,  machine washable, come in tons of colors, cheap, fit almost every hand size, and you don't feel bad when you lose them.  

For really cold days, I like to wear them underneath a pair of cute hand-knit mittens.  I am still on the hunt for the perfect pair...these I found on etsy could be just the ticket!

Stay warm out there everybody!

Cheers,

Bee

Holidaze: Gift Giving Guide

Looking for original, stylish and fun gifts this giving season?  Look no further than Sea Salted Bee's Gift Giving Guide for everyone on your list!

The Little ones:

For her - Beauty and Brains, that's what little girls are made of! I am in love with these limited edition Rifle Paper Company  "In Bloom" Book Collection. Each book comes complete with matching book mark. The collection of 4 classic hard-cover children's novels retails for $64, or buy them individually for $16.  A darling keepsake for the voracious little reader in your life, that is certain to become an instant favorite.

For him- Remember in elementary school gym class, when we used to play on those little sit scooters that you steered with your feet? Apparently they are called Flying Turtle Scooters and they still make them!  Retailing for $89, these are perfect for the super active kids in your life (and of course, a test lap in the driveway for you!)

 For the minis- The Land of Nod is my perennial favorite for stylish children's gifts, and this season is no exception.  For the baby in your life,  this cozy Elemenopee Quilt would make an adorable addition to their winter gear.  Beautiful muted colors and natural fabrics make this an easy choice!

The Grown Ups:

For the cocktail master - This darling Fox glass and decanter set from Tuckernuck is a perfectly vintage inspired addition to any well stocked bar!

For your best friend - This Opal Wreath Collar from Bauble Bar makes a stunning statement. It compliments every outfit...from the casual plaid shirt, to a cashmere sweater, to the perfect little cocktail dress. Your best friend deserves to look this good all season!

For the hostess - Domestic Goddesses shine during the holidays.  Planning, cooking, crafting, decorating, entertaining...it all can take a toll.  Let her know how much you appreciate her passion for hosting, with a custom state cutting board from A Heirloom.  They are 100% bamboo, can be custom engraved, and retail for only $48.

For Mom - While common sense recommends eating a balanced breakfast, any wise (and stylish) mom would certainly approve of this cheeky Eat Cake for Breakfast bangle from Kate Spade's "Words of Wisdom" Collection (at least mine would). Retails for $78.

For dad - Sometimes Dad can be the hardest person on your list to shop for.  What better way to show him you love him, than by getting a gift you can use together! This Beatles Jigsaw Puzzle would be great for my dad, but Seriouspuzzles.com has a jigsaw for any dad's interest!

For the Newlyweds - The wedding is over, their registry has been fulfilled. But it's still their first Holiday season as MR & MRS, so why not celebrate it with something special and USEFUL! These Milk&HoneyLuxuries Antique Engraved Silver Spoons are just the ticket. $30 for the pair.

Generally Awesome Stuff to give:

Monogram Soaps from Tuckernuck (they come in full monogram or a simple initial)

Bubbles Champagne Flutes from C. Wonder

Simple Monogram Clutch from monograms on Webster

Ork! Neighborhood Maps

General Holiday Gifting Tips -

Prepare early: Feeling prepared and un-rushed allows you to ENJOY the holiday season. My general rule of thumb is to gather all of your wrapping supplies before Thanksgiving.  Make it a priority this weekend.  Target and TJ Maxx have stylish wrapping gear that is on par with all of the paper boutiques.  Don't forget the tape, ribbon and tags as well!

Shop soon: By making a comprehensive list of loved ones you're shopping for, gift ideas, and budget, you ensure that nobody gets forgotten, and you have a game plan.  Do this before you take a bite of turkey next week.  Once Black Friday is over, make sure to get out there (or online) to start collecting gifts.  By doing this, you avoid crowds, get the deals, and ensure everything is shipped to you in plenty of time!

The Annual Holiday Card: The card is ALWAYS my favorite part of the season.  Both designing, photographing and crafting my own, as well as receiving heaps of them from friends and family far and wide.  Most custom printing services take 10-15 days to get cards shipped to you, so it's best to order EARLY.  Also, remember to collect updated addresses from friends and family who may have moved over the year. 

Happy gifting little bees!

Pilgrim Loaf- The everyday spin on holiday dinner

In the spirit of the Thanksgiving holiday next week, I treated us to a re-imagined turkey dinner last night. I called it Pilgrim Loaf.

**Disclaimer: Loosely based on my turkey meatloaf recipe, I must tell you that I completely made this recipe up. But, it was darn good...so much so that Ty put it in the top 5 dinners I've ever made him.  

Recipe takes about 30 min prep and 30 min cook time.  Prep time could be shortened if using store bought items. Fresh herbs are a must though! Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees.

Turkey:

3/4 lb of ground lean organic turkey meat

2 large fresh sage leaves*

2 twigs of fresh thyme*

10 fresh rosemary leaves* (chopped together)

1 large egg

1/4 of large white onion chopped

1 clove of fresh garlic

S&P to taste

3 dashes of Lea & Perrin's Worcestershire sauce 

fold all ingredients in a mixing bowl until even (don't be afraid to get in there with your hands!)

Potatoes:

boil 1/2 QT of salted water

wash and thinly slice 2 cups of organic potatoes 

(skin on - did you even know that potato skin is a nutritional NINJA!? 

Just be sure to ALWAYS buy organic)

Boil until tender, drain and toss in low sodium organic turkey gravy (Trader Joe's makes a good one)

Set aside in mixing bowl

Stuffing:

2.5 cups of small cubed day old cornbread

chopped sage

Stuffing seasoning mx (Trader Joe's makes a good one)

2 tsp fresh creme butter

3 tbs dried cranberries

1/2 med organic apple - cubed about same size as the cornbread

1 cup water

in a small sauce pan, melt the butter, toss in the sage until you can smell it. The mix in the seasoning mix and water.  Once it comes to a low boil, pour it into the mixing bowl over the cornbread, cranberries and apple.  Toss until evenly coated and set aside.

(or, you could also make a boxed stuffing if you're short on time!)

Cranberry Sauce:

1 lb bag of cranberries

Freshly squeezed orange juice

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 cup organic raw sugar

Put in a small sauce pan and boil on low-med heat, stirring occasionally, until thick and syrupy (usually about an hour).

(or you can use your favorite store bought cranberry sauce)

In a 9x5 coated bread pan, start by putting your stuffing into the bottom of the pan - pack the stuffing down with your palm.  

Top the stuffing layer with your cooked potatoes, laid flat. 

 On top of the potato layer, layer your turkey mixture, again be sure to pack it in with your palm so that it is not too high. Lastly, layer on your cranberry sauce.

 Garnish with a full sprig of fresh rosemary.  Pop the loaf into the oven for 30 min or until the turkey is just cooked.

Allow 10 min to cool, and cut into slices, like you would slice bread. Serve with fresh steamed vegetables (we had green beans and broccoli) Makes 5 portions.

Happy holiday eating!

-Bee

Vintage style wool blankets

People keep asking me if the Chicago winter has started creeping into town.  Thankfully, it hasn't arrived yet, but I can tell that the end of these pleasantly warm days is near.

In anticipation of wintry evenings, I am dreaming of these gorgeous crafted wool blankets (as mentioned in My Current Obsessions: Fall Edition Post).  Hopefully Santa is listening, because these stunning blankets don't come cheap!

Hudson's Bay Point Blanket - Woolrich for L.L.Bean

100% Virgin wool.  Made the same way since 1925.  Practically wind and water resistant, these plush covers have been made in this candy-stripe style for almost a century.  Even Leon Leonwood Bean himself carried the HBP blanket in his car! A new one is $450 but you can find great used HBP blankets on eBay for  under $100.

Swans Island Company Wool Throw Blanket

This mid-coast Maine woolen goods company has some seriously spoiled sheep. So much so, that they are taken by boat to graze on an all-grass island. Doing so keeps the brambles and twigs out of their fleece and thus providing the softest wool ever. Not only that, but the all natural dyes make them graceful and sophisticated. These hand-woven beauties can run you upwards of $450...and that's just for the throw size. But I have heard that they are worth every penny.

Bon voyage lil' sheepies!

 Faribault Woolen Mill - Heritage Blankets

Since the 1860's this Minnesota based woolen mill has been skillfully crafting the finest wool blankets. So much so that 100 years later, in the 1960's, the Faribault Mill was producing over half of the blankets being produced in the United States!  With this kind of longevity and tradition, it's no wonder Target has picked up the brand for their next 'Designer for Target' Series (in stores November 2). Original blankets run between $100-200 but I'd bet the for Target line will be more affordable.

This Navy Foot Soldier Blanket is perfect

Woolrich Blankets

The classic Woolrich woolen mill of Pennsylvania has been keeping America warm for almost 170 years.  I grew up with a hunter green tartan-plaid version of this blanket, and recently hunted for it in our attic.  I can't wait to find it and steal it back for our apartment!

If this doesn't make you want to sit around an autumn
campfire, nothing will.  Just look at that plaid!

Stay warm and happy snuggling!

Bee

Current Obsessions: Fall Edition

Here are the top 10 things I'm digging for Fall 2014:

#1 Athleta Snowscape Jacket

I was lucky enough to win a gift card to Athleta last week through, CARA (Chicago Area Runner's Assoc), and it couldn't have come at a better time! I was running low on cold weather running tops and needed to do some shopping. I went in for my awesome fitting last weekend and I focused on cozy but breathable tops. I had the hardest time deciding on just one, but eventually chose this sweet hoodie.

if only I looked this good while running...

 **If you haven't shopped Athleta yet, definitely take a look.  Both nice looking, and high performance, this gear will take you from the gym, to coffee with friends, to lazy weekends on the sofa!

#2 Vests...all of the vests

The puffer, the quilted, the fleece or the long open sweater vest...I adore them all.  They are a versatile part of every fall wardrobe (especially on days when the temperature can't seem to make up it's mind).  I like to layer mine over long sleeve t shirts, button down chambrays, thin cashmere sweaters and especially flannels.  Accessorize with a scarf, wear under a light jacket for added warmth, dress up with tall heeled boots or dress down with a pair of Chuck Taylors.

Here is a partial peek at my collection of these cozy little puffers!

Red: J Crew Winter 2012, Tan: J Crew Fall 2013,
Buffalo Plaid: J Crew Factory Fall 2014, Fleece: Vineyard Vines 2012
*When I find a good thing I get multiples...don't judge 

 #3 Cinnamon scented pine cones

I walked into Whole Foods the other day for some dill and pickling salt.  When I crossed the threshold, I was overcome by the tantalizing scent of cinnamon.  I needed to have whatever it was that made the entire store smell like fall goodness.  When I found out it was this $5 bag of pinecones, I was thrilled.  We've had little bowls of them scattered around the apartment for a week now...and it smells better than any candle we've ever owned (and less flammable too!)

#4 The ever-popular blanket scarf

If you are from northeast, female, and follow any fashion bloggers, it's likely that you have seen this scarf at least 100 times.  So, consider this the 101st time you're seeing it.  It is warm.  It is enormous.  It is wonderfully soft and snuggly.  It goes with 90% of the clothes in your closet.  It is affordable.  Now, if only the weather would drop 10 degrees so I can wear it without breaking a sweat!

The Pink Pineapple Shop
This store is located in Newport, RI and has some amazing accessories,
cashmere sweaters and gifts.  Stop in and visit the store on
Thames St or  just log onto their website!

#5 Pickles, pickles, EVERYWHERE!

I love to make handmade Christmas preserves for family and friends each year.  I never remember to do it during the harvest season, however.  Thus missing my opportunity to use locally grown produce picked at their peak, while spending extra cash on out-of-season items.

This year, though, I finally remembered...HARVEST! We cleared out the farmers market of cucumbers, peppers, onions, herbs and garlic and made a first batch of dill pickle spears this past weekend.  I can't wait to get back at the end of November and do some dilly carrots, dilly beans, bread and butter pickle chips and even some jam.  In the meantime, I'm ordering extra pickles with everything, mmmmmm!

These spicy dill's are devilishly good, and SO easy to make!

#6 Vintage inspired wool blankets

Whether on your bed, used at a picnic, or just a throw to cozy up on the couch with, these classic blankets keep you warm, and look great in any room!

**Keep an eye out for a wool blanket post coming up in the next few days!

#7 Pears

These days it's hard not to bump into a "Pumpkin Spice" flavored product.  But, let it be known, pumpkins do not have the monopoly on Autumn flavor.  The pear is both delicious, and abundantly in-season right now.  They are full of fiber, vitamins C and B-6, and sweet juicy goodness. Pick some up today!

#8 Vance Joy's 'Riptide'

This song...this song is GREAT (and has been on repeat for days). 

#9 Pumpkin Greek Yogurt Parfaits

I made these for us last fall and this year, they have become a fan favorite.  Super easy and quick to make, while still seeming fancy.  Make ahead or make to order, these will definitely wow your brunch guests.

What you'll need: 8oz Fage 0% plain greek yogurt, 1 8oz can of organic plain pumpkin,
1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice,  mix these three ingredients together.  Serve a glass
in layers with banana slices, your favorite granola and almond slices.

#10 Frederic Fekkai Essential Shea Riche Moisture Mask

The temps begin to drop and the dry heat starts pumping through your radiators....it's right around now that our hair starts to look wintry dull and dry.  Have no fear though friends.  Fekkai's rich, luxurious and downright luscious scented hair mask is here to help.  It takes 5 minutes to work it's magic in your shower and you'll emerge with soft, shiny and full locks. Promise.

Do you have any must-have items for fall?  If so, please share it in the comments below!

Happy obsessing!

Bee

Dinner for Two...

Nuthin' says lovin' like 3-course home-cooked meal from the heart, especially in this house :)

All 3 of these recipes are super easy and quick to prepare, full of healthy whole-ingredients, while still being scrumptious and romantic!


Crisp Veggie Salad with "Lemon Sauce"-
2 cups of dark leafy salad greens (I used baby kale)
1 cup of grape tomatoes halved
1 bell pepper chopped
1 cup fresh green beans
1 cup sliced mushrooms
2 persian cucumbers chopped
(any of your other favorite veggies...but keep it light, the main course is RICH)
1/4 cup of chopped scallions
S&P to taste

Lemon Sauce-
This dressing recipe is from my dear friend, Sonal.  Her crazy adorable kids eat it on EVERYTHING and affectionately refer to it as Mama's lemon sauce.
1/4 cup olive oil (light, not extra virgin)
1 cup fresh lemon juice
5 fresh garlic cloves minced and ground with a mortar+pestle
S&P
1 tsp good dijon mustard
Stir or shake vigorously until emulsified

Spaghetti + Turkey Meatballs-
1 lb (organic, anti-biotic free, and lean) ground turkey
2 organic eggs
1.5 cups whole wheat breadcrumbs
1 tbs oregano (I use ground, but flakes work as well)
1 tbs thyme ( I used fresh but dried also works)
2 tbs each sea salt + black pepper
pinch of red pepper flakes
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 yellow onion finely chopped
3-4 cloves of garlic minced

In a large mixing bowl, mix all of the ingredients together (Use your hands. Yes, it's messy, but it's the best way to mix it evenly, plus, it's FUN!)

Turn on your crock pot to high setting and pour in your favorite marinara sauce (about 12oz).  I usually use my own sauce, but this time, I used Rao's low-sodium marinara sauce to save time.

Roll the meat mixture into balls (about the size of a golf ball), and set aside. Tip: dip hands in water to keep the mixture from sticking to you while you form the balls. In a hot non-stick pan with a few drops of olive oil, place the meatballs.  After about a minute turn them 2-3 times to allow for browning on all sides.  Once all of the meatballs are browned, place them carefully into the sauce.
Allow to simmer in there for at least 2 hours (warning: simmering may cause irresistible smells)

Boil your favorite spaghetti with a bit of olive oil to keep it from sticking and salted for flavor (I like whole wheat pasta).

Serve pasta topped with turkey meatballs and marinara sauce.  Fresh ground black pepper and shaved parmesan cheese as desired.

Handmade Biscuits topped with Bourbon Berry Compote+ Whipped Cream-
2.5 cups Krusteaz Buttermilk Pancake Mix (you can use any pancake mix)
1/3 cup skim milk
1/3 cup sweet butter (softened)
1 egg

Preheat oven to 375 degrees, Mix in a bowl with fingers until dough forms.  Roll into a log.  Cut into 1-1.5 inch thick rounds and place on a parchment lined baking sheet.  Bake for 9-11 minutes or until golden brown.

Bourbon Berry Compote-
1 pint of halved hulled strawberries
1 pint of blueberries
1/4 cup bourbon of choice
2 drops of vanilla extract
1/3 cup of raw sugar

In a small saucepan, on med heat, slowly bring bourbon, sugar and vanilla together to a slow boil. Stir constantly until the sugar is disolved.  Toss in the berries and turn heat to low.  Stir occasionally and remove from heat once the compote thickens to a syrup- like consistency (about 25 min).

I cup whipping cream (aka: heavy cream), 2 drops of vanilla extract and 1 tsp of confectioners sugar. Using a hand mixer, whip until the cream peaks. Be careful not to whip it too long, or else you'll have butter.

Serve biscuits warm topped with compote and cream.
Sorry there is no finished product photo of this recipe, we were too busy stuffing our faces to photograph it...living in the moment and such.

How good does this biscuit look? It tasted even better

Tyler gave this dessert an A++

Happy eating, friends!
-Bee

PS. Stay tuned for recipe cards