I can’t help but notice how incredibly early we are starting to feel the summer heat this year. The sweltering sun wasted no time making its debut, so I’m already taking every chance I get to cool off. And one of my favorite ways to do that is a delicious no-bake dessert! Just because it’s hot doesn’t mean that summer …
An Easy Southern Lunch Menu for Casual Company
I saw a reader request for easy recipes, and I am all about a quick yet delicious meal. I loved the idea of a simple menu for when you have friends or family stopping by briefly, and you want to serve them a delightful lunch! Luckily, my friend Paula Deen was delighted to share some of her favorite recipes from …
A Springtime Tablescape from Southern Lady Magazine
The first official day of spring is not until March 20, but that doesn’t mean we can’t start getting ready! This year, I have found myself more excited than ever to change seasons. Fresh flowers, light and bright recipes, and plenty of color are all ways I try to embrace the arrival of springtime. And not to mention, who doesn’t …
Hospitality Trays 101
It is often the simplest of gestures that let people know you care. Hospitality trays might sound elevated and fancy, but the truth is, they could not be any easier to put together! Create this special experience for your guests just one time, and you’ll never turn back after seeing how surprised and delighted they are. Having one of these trays …
Home Bakers…This Is For You!
Now, this is an announcement that I am beyond thrilled to share with all of you! Bake from Scratch magazine just unveiled their third annual cookbook! Covering both sweet and savory, Bake from Scratch: Volume Three is filled with artisan recipes for yeast bread, pies, birthday cakes, and so much more. I am particularly excited about the plethora of birthday …
Two Chocolate Desserts That Kids and Adults Will Love
When planning a holiday menu at my house, it is important that I have plenty of kid-friendly dishes. Especially in the dessert area. And what child doesn’t just love chocolate? Actually, what adult doesn’t love chocolate? Simply put, chocolate is a crowd-pleaser. Time and time again I’ve seen rows of nut-studded pies, spiced cakes or cookies, and cheesecakes galore. But …
Hostess Gifts for the Holidays!
We all kick into hyperdrive during the holidays. There are triple the errands, triple the meals, and triple the “projects,” as we call them in the South. Yet, we just miraculously keep going! Any other time of year, this number of to-dos would seem nearly impossible. In fact, we probably wouldn’t even attempt the insanity. But in these couple of …
The History of Pickle Forks
We all know the dainty fork perched on the side of relish trays during holiday meals or family get-togethers. But where did this pickle fork come from? In the South, it doesn’t matter if there’s a holiday or not, we love our home-cooked meals. Anytime company comes, you should just go ahead and expect a kitchen full of dishes and …
Pumpkin Spice Biscotti
Autumn is almost here, which also means its almost time for all things pumpkin spice. I love, and I mean LOVE, all things pumpkin spice! It has been a favorite flavor of mine for years and I still wonder why I cant get it all year long. Actually, last year I wrote a whole blog post on the subject, and …
Footsteps of a Southern Lady
I had the privilege of speaking in Mobile, Alabama last week at the Signature Fundraiser of the Assistance League of Mobile. The theme was “Footsteps of a Southern Lady.” Carol Bishop and Elizabeth Harrison came to Birmingham several months ago when they were planning this event and we shared some fun ideas on decorating for ladies luncheons. Elizabeth chaired the …