My quick salad pick me up...

Y'all, I am getting married in 120 days. Working-out and trying to eat right. So there are a LOT OF SALADS in my life these days. Like, tons of damned spinach.

I try to keep it interesting by varying the chopped veggies and proteins, but still, am left with little flavor difference. To avoid boredom, I started rooting through my cabinets, and discovered the "everything bagel" seasoning mix that's been there since the holidays.

 I made a 1950's style cheese ball for a holiday party we attended. Heaps of cream and cheddar cheese, rolled into a ball with chives and bacon...totally decadent. To finish it off, I roll the giant ball in "everything bagel" seasonings (mix of sesame, poppy, garlic, onion and salt flakes). Who knew the leftovers would have such a healthy future.

I decided to sprinkle a teaspoon of it onto my salad a couple of weeks ago, with just a dash of lemon juice.  Turns out to be a DELICIOUS topping (healthy fats and lower in calories than oils or creamy dressings).

Use equal parts of poppy, sesame, onion and garlic, and 1/2 part of flake salt

Try it, you won't be let down.

Happy healthy eating!
xoxo,
Bee

Back in the saddle...

Well, hello there, long lost friends!

I know, I know...I've been letting this blog slip through the cracks these past 2 months.  I've been nothing short of neglectful. I have a very good explanation though: Life.  Life got super busy and I chose to enjoy every second of it.

So, I thought for my first post back in the saddle, I'd catch you up on all the fun.


First of all, Ty and I got engaged (totally super exciting)! He proposed on our usual Saturday morning run to the North Beach lighthouse, along lake Michigan and TOTALLY surprised me. Wedding plans are already well underway.

He even brought his phone along for the run, because he knew the blogger in me would
 want to properly capture the moment with a selfie! What a catch :)

A week later, Thanksgiving arrived. Flights back east to upstate NY were outrageously priced, so we packed up the station wagon and drove 12 hours east to visit my family.  It was Ty's first time meeting everyone (all 25 of them or so).  We even went out on the town with my cousins in Troy!

On our way back to the mid-west, we stopped at a Tree Farm in Buskirk, NY to cut down this beautiful blue spruce. 

** Buyer Beware: Blue spruce is a BEAUTIFUL choice for the
 holidays, but it was the prickliest tree I've ever touched. Ouch!

I left my ornaments back in Boston when we moved.
So, I had to improvise.  Ribbons+sea shells+ lights=Beach-mas tree.

December flew by, and before we knew it we were flying westward to Washington. First up: the Winter Solstice party at Ty's parent's house (GIANT bonfire, hot buttered rum, and loads of fun).  

10 foot tall bonfire to keep warm on the winter solstice,

After the Solstice party, we hit the road to explore Bellingham and gorgeous Chuckanut Drive for a day. The view of the San Juan Islands was so stunning.  I really can't wait until we move out there this spring so I can explore it all!

Next up: Christmas! We cooked, ate too much, opened gifts, and spent the day with family, celebrating.  Here is my favorite photo from Christmas Eve: Tyler and me in his family's kitchen making my family's snowball cookie recipe.

You measure, I'll mix.

We flew back in time for New Year's Eve, which we spent at home.  I literally cooked us a feast. Ty suggested we don our fanciest duds for dinner (a welcome chance to get out of my sweatpants and into a party dress). So fun!

Appetizer:
Vermont Chevre, French Camembert, Italian Genoa Salami, Mrs Potter's
Crackers (Cranberry Nut)

Salad: Boston Bibb lettuce, grape tomatoes, petite herbs, Cabot aged
cheddar, Meyer lemon dressing

Main Course:Petite filet with red wine jus, butter seared sea scallops,
butternut squash puree with fried sage and steamed haricot vert

Dessert: Southern Butter Pecan Ice Cream with Warm Baked Apples

Tiny bubbles...

All dressed up with nowhere to go.

The following week I traveled to Florida for work...always a welcome break from the harsh reality of winter. As soon as I returned, two of my dearest friends came for a weekend visit (one of them with her brand new baby in tow). It was so fun having girlfriends in town and catching up (not to mention how sweet it was meeting Baby A)!

These two photos break my heart...so stinkin' cute!

Finally, it was time to visit my parents in South America! We arrived just in time for Ty's birthday last weekend and a long overdue engagement celebration with my parents.  Again, plenty to keep us busy: swimming, paddle-boarding, hiking, beach running, and my favorite, sun bathing!

Home base: Praia da Vigia

Praia do Siriu

Nightly run along Garopaba

Hike to Pedra Branca (complete with a swim in the waterfall)

My favorite pizza and cocktail in the world.

Relaxing on a rainy day with cribbage 

So there you have it. 2 awesome months.  I am looking forward to sharing some new recipes, fashion ideas and DIY over the next few weeks, so stay tuned!

Cheers!

Bee

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