I have had a wonderful time working with our talented staff on our newest book, which ships on April 10, The Tiny Book of Tea & Treats. It is part of our Small Pleasures series and is the perfect gift book for the hostess who loves to entertain. All of the foods in the book are small portions suitable for …
An Easy Recipe for Pi Day
3.1415 is the numerical value of pi. March 14 this year, 3.14.15, is as close to pi as possible for a mathematic celebration. But on pi day at our house, we will be celebrating by having a “pie” day. One of my favorite pie recipes is one that Barbara Cockerham serves. It is an apple pie made by a recipe …
It’s Almost Time for Easter Dresses
I have one month to go until Easter when my granddaughter will be wearing her dress made by me, Gigi. She told me yesterday that she wanted a pink dress again this year. Truthfully I had planned on white lace, but maybe we can meet in the middle. Hays and I will shop for his outfit, but I have to …
How to Write the Perfect Thank You Note
Taking the time to hand write a note—especially a thank you—is such a wonderful gesture. It can be the bright spot in someone’s day, and it says a lot about how much you value his or her friendship. Of course a note is welcome any time, but I truly believe it’s just good manners to send notes after receiving gifts, …
Get Creative With Potato Soup
The most requested dish at my house during these cold winter days is Potato Soup. My mother used to make it for me when I was sick and missing school. In fact, it was almost worth being sick to get a hot, steamy bowl as a treat. Everyone has their version of this soup, and it can be made in …
Chicken Pot Pie Mac and Cheese Recipe
Cold weather makes me crave comfort food. And after the recent cold snap in Birmingham, I’m ready to whip up something hot, golden, and bubbly. The Extra-Cheesy Mac and Cheese Recipe I posted a few weeks ago was such a hit, I thought I’d share another from Taste of the South‘s Southern Classic Mac & Cheese special issue. This one combines …
Savannah Tour of Homes & Gardens
Savannah, Georgia, is one of my favorite places to visit. It is home to some fabulous houses that we enjoy photographing for our magazines. I had the privilege of interviewing Laura McCarthy of the Savannah Tour of Homes & Gardens, and I asked Laura to tell us about the tours and the marvelous community work that is done with the …
Happy Valentine’s Day
Today I wish you a heart of love! We are all bonded together in friendship by our love of beautiful moments in life. Thank you for being my friend and sharing these times together. Several years ago I recorded a CD, “An Evening in May,” and on that CD is one of my favorite songs, “It Had to Be You.” …
A Valentine’s Tea to Remember
Treat your sweetheart to a memorable afternoon tea for Valentine’s Day with the help of TeaTime magazine. Delectable heart-shaped desserts from baked cherry-filled tartlets to gluten-free French macarons are sure to please. And chocolate lovers will swoon over luscious strawberry-topped cheesecake tarts and petite spiced cakes. Get all seven Valentine’s Day desserts. Whether you’ll be celebrating with your one and only …
Beaucoup Designs Giveaway
I don’t know a woman alive who doesn’t love beautiful jewelry, and the designs from the lovely Leah Ann Messer are exactly that. I am always looking for great pieces for gifts, and her jewelry is so personal. It’s all in the details. Beaucoup Designs started when Leah Ann was a young mother making jewelry and selling it at craft …