This & That: No. 28

A holiday dress you might just fall in love with, a cookbook for foodies that I highly recommend, a blog that Francophiles are going to delight in and more . . .

~Blog

~My French Country Home created by Sharon Santoni

Living the dream is most certainly what Sharon Santoni and her family are immersed in as she shares on her blog My French Country Home the simple luxuries enjoyed in living in their picturesque Normandy maison. Full of inspiration on how to make your very own French hot chocolate, her decor discoveries after perusing Normandy antique fairs (it’s fair season after all!) and the lovely observations and treats of living in the French country. If you have even an ounce of Francophile blood running through your veins, you will enjoy living vicariously through Sharon’s daily adventures.

~Book

~The Oregonian Cookbook: Best Recipes from FOODDAY 

To Oregonians, it will come as no surprise that The Oregonian Cookbook (released October 1, 2012) is one to have on your kitchen shelves. For those of you not living in Oregon or reading the state’s newspaper (The Oregonian), the Tuesday edition includes the much anticipated and enjoyed food section titled “FOODDAY”. Full of recipes from local chefs, bakers and artisans, I regularly tear out recipes and try them, and have yet to be disappointed. My favorite simple scone recipe and Elephants’ Delicatessen Carrot Cake recipe were all discovered in the pages of FOODDAY, and they continue to be regular go-to recipes.

~Decor

~Nate Berkus’ New York City apartment in Architectural Digest

In the October issue of Architectural Digest, interior designer Nate Berkus reveals his Greenwich Village apartment that he recently remodeled after having purchased in 2011. With the architectural designer Carlos Huber, within three months (yes, only three months!), the three bedroom duplex had been entirely renovated and redecorated. While he readily admits being a stickler for detail (vintage Belgian hardware and bronze radiator grilles), he also appreciates the worn appearance that reveals a deep history or a desire to tell an intriguing story – so a few nicks and dings are acceptable. Be sure to view the entire slideshow that contains before and after images. My favorite room is the entrance of the living room with the matching custom designed upholstered chairs placed in front of a weathered fireplace mantle.

~Zara Home

Whether you are decorating your home on a budget or are looking to add a small change to your sanctuary, Zara Home finally will be available to shoppers in the United States beginning today (October 9th). From dinnerware, bedroom and bathroom linens, pillows, candles and wall decor, the items are simple, stylish and affordable. I already have my eye on some of their glassware and dinner sets as I’m revamping my kitchen cupboards. Have a look.

~Film

~Argo (premiering Friday, October 12th)

Based loosely on actual events that took place in Iran in 1979, Ben Affleck directs the widely acclaimed film Argo that shares the story of six Americans and their safe escape after 52 Americans were taken hostage by militants inside the US Embassy in Tehran. While history reminds us that these events did not have such a happy ending for everyone, hearing how this particular part of the story played out for these six hostages is something to tip our hats to. Based on the successful plan by the CIA and operative Tony Mendez (played by Affleck), they orchestrate a creative escape based on the fabricated idea that they are a film crew working on a film titled Argo.

With the foreknowledge that there is a happy ending, I am very much looking forwarding to viewing this film when it premieres this Friday. Impressively enough, the rescued hostages kept silent about the truth of their escape far longer than anyone expected of them, and that, that is impressive in and of itself. Nowadays, so many people are looking for a book deal, and for them not to fall prey upon returning to the states to seek out such a selfish gain is admirable.

~Shopping

~MICHAEL Michael Kors sequined metallic boucle dress

Last week I mentioned it was never too early to begin shopping for the perfect holiday attire, and keeping that in mind, I’ve discovered a dress that is perfect for holiday dinners or evening gatherings, and even better, will be gentle on your budget. MICHAEL Michael Kors’ sequined metallic boucle dress with its classic festive color and flattering shape would look beautiful on many different body types. Accessorize with a black wool coat, gem tone sandals and very little jewelry and the evening is yours to enjoy. Priced at only $175, while a bit of an investment, it could certainly be worn to weddings and holiday occasions year after year.