Back to December

Two weeks on the beach was bliss. It made coming back to reality today not so fun, but I am really looking forward to the holidays at home. I have started posting some gift guides and have a few more for next week. 

For now, just a few of my favorite pins that I am glad I found while I was away. 

How sweet are the color of these chairs? I have high hopes of making it a flea market soon to hunt down ones just like it and painting them. Convincing Matt to get new kitchen chairs, when the ones we have are perfectly fine is a stretch. So it will need to be a steal. 

I am obsessed with this photograph, but cannot locate the source. Does anyone know? 

Our mantels are very similar to this. I like the idea of hanging the garland high to the ceiling instead of draping it along the top. 

How cute is this little hair bow? And it is actually pretty easy to master. 

I love this idea. A story book of your parent's love story. 

Enjoy your weekend friends. 

xo

Erin 

Gift Guide: Home Goods

Maybe it is for your friend who loves to decorate or your Mom who loves to entertain. Here are some ideas for that lady who is all about her home and the people she shares it with. 

1. Loving ikat as a pattern, even more so in this dinnerware $12

2. This giant mason jar-esque beverage dispenser is adorable $50

3. Obsessed with this gold flatware set from West Elm $23

4. A pretty swirled lacquer box to hold everything or nothing at all. $86

5. These tortoise shell glasses would look stunning on a holiday table. Set of four $60

6. A card for every occasion in a sweet little box from Kate Spade. $39

7. Vogue covers all of the weddings from royalty to society mavens in their new book $85

8. Love this monogrammed jewelry box $148

9. Ikat turtle ginger jars from C. Wonder would look great on any mantel $10-$58

10. My go-to scented candle by Jo Malone $65

11. Your pooch loving friend will love these fetching neon balls from Jonathan Adler $9

12. This vintage book iPhone charger is genius $68

13. Kate Moss by Mario Testino is a gorgeous and avant garde coffee table book to love $70

14. Scalloped edged pie dish by Emile Henry in the sweetest Citron color $37

xo

Erin 

Smokey Lentil Soup with Turkey Sausage

I am pretty sure that you think all I eat is soup. But I can't help but share another recipe that is on heavy rotation. Especially after the gluttony of Thanksgiving. This Smokey Lentil Soup with Turkey Sausage is not a new recipe. I have shared before on Forks & Amusement. It deserves a re-post. There are a ton of vegetables and the lentils keep the soup hearty, but healthy. I love the smokey flavor the chipotles give this dish, which makes it so different from most lentil soups. If you want to keep it vegetarian, you can keep out the sausage. Turkey sausage works well, but I have also used fresh kielbasa and sweet Italian sausage for delicious results. 

Smokey Lentil Soup with Turkey Sausage

forks & amusement 2010

serves 8-10

1 1/2 cups lentils

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 onions, chopped

3 leeks, rinsed well, chopped, whites only

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 large turkey sausage links, casings removed

4 carrots, small dice

4 celery stalks, small dice


salt and pepper

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped

4 canned chipotle peppers, deseeded, chopped

2 1/2 tablespoons adobo sauce (what chipotles are canned 

in)

8 cups chicken stock

grated Parmesan cheese

Place lentils in a large bowl, pour in enough boiling water  

to cover them and wrap top with plastic wrap. Let sit for 15 

minutes. Repeat. Then drain.

Meanwhile, in a large pot heat up 1 tablespoon of the olive

oil over medium heat and add in the onion and leek. Saute 

until they are beginning to become translucent, then add 

the garlic. Cook for 30 seconds, then add in the sausage.

 Brown the sausage with the vegetables, breaking up the 

meat with the back of a wooden spoon. Continue to cook 

and break it up until cooked through. Remove pot from heat 

and pour meat mixture into a bowl.

Return pot to the stove over medium heat and add the 

other tablespoon of oil. Once it is hot, add the carrot and 

celery. Cook the vegetables until they are just beginning to

 soften, stirring often. Add in the salt and pepper (to taste), 

cumin, thyme, chipotle and adobo sauce. Stir well and add 

the meat mixture back in the pot. Add the lentils and 

combine well, cooking for just a couple of minutes. Add the

 stock and bring soup to a boil.

Lower heat to low and allow to simmer for 30 minutes or 

until lentils are softened and cooked through. Taste soup 

for seasoning and adjust as needed. Serve in bowls with 

grated Parmesan on top.

Gift Guide: For the Kiddos

Santa would be a much loved man for leaving these under the tree this year for your favorite little guy or girl.  

1. Mirabelle the Bunny by BlaBla is handmade and super soft $52

2. Personalize a Memory Game from Pinhole Press with your own photos. Love love love this idea. $20

3. A striped jumper by Oeuf for J. Crew that supports a good cause as well $88

4. Kids can build and learn their ABC's with this block set $25

5. Old Navy makes the cutest Sherpa lined suede booties. I could not resist and already got them.  $9 

6. Walrooz connectible sleds come in a bunch of sizes and colors. How fun would a sled train be? $12

7. I love this nameplate puzzle. The pastel is so sweet for a little girl. $25

8. A shiny, chubby piggy bank for all those first coins to save for college. Or ice cream. $50

xo

Erin 

Hollywood Holiday

The lovely ladies of the red carpet are the perfect inspiration for your holiday party dress shopping. I only have a couple of invitations this year that warrant a flirty cocktail look. I plan on wearing this again and think one of these should fill in for the second. 

Black and strappy on Anne Hathaway 

dress $64

Something with sparkle, like Emma Stone

top $106 / bottom $60

A statement blazer with skinnies and pumps on Gwen

top $473 / bottom $121

Totally chic black and white on Jennifer Aniston

left $76 / right $385

Unexpected yellow on Kristen Stewart

dress $253

Which is your favorite? 

xo

erin 

I'm Thankful

Life is full of craziness and let's face it, nonsense. Taking just a moment to remember what truly makes you thankful each day is almost therapeutic. Because you might surprise yourself at what things you may list. Health, family, and love are obvious choices, but what are those little things each day that make it worth living? 

I'm Thankful For....

Wispy baby baby hairs after bebe gets a bath

Warm tea in a big mug

An unsolicited foot rub
Ben & Jerry's Half Baked

Someone thinking I am funny

A long, super hot, uninterrupted shower

Getting through a long run

FaceTime

Grilled cheese, in any form
Bear hugs from Matt
Grandparents
A bubbling pot with something delicious in it
The complete privacy of our new house


And though the list can go on and on, it is recognizing these little things each day that can pull you out of any funk. Because there are a lot of people out there that cannot experience life the way you are luckily enough to enjoy it. 

Time to start your list so you can figure out what to say when someone asks, "What are you truly thankful for?"

I am off to this sunset for a couple of weeks and bebe's first beach trip. Think I have something else to add to my list...

Have the best holiday with you and yours. xoxo

Erin 

Surprise Favorite Things

There are so many things to register for, and many of them are so obvious. But it is that one item that you randomly received or ordered blurry eyed at 2am that became your favorite. I asked some other new moms to share that one item that surprised them the most and could not have lived without. 

Kelly, mom of Eloise (5), Millie (3) & Wells (10m): I am not really into a lot of baby gear, but the car mirror was something I loved. No more driving myself crazy wondering if he was snoozing in his car seat or not. 

Kristen, mom of Hutton (1): Someone sent me a Mom's one Line a Day that I absolutely love. It is a five year memory journal that only allows 2-3 sentences per day to record a milestone, thought, story, etc. Easy and quick to do so it does not feel overwhelming. Also, Meal Train, a website that friends and family can log into to schedule the drop off of a meal or groceries. It is a favorite since it is hard to feed yourself breakfast/lunch/dinner when you are busy with a newbie!

Betsy, mom of Harley, (2): By far and away it was a bottle holder. I feel like I kept seeing moms propping up their kiddos bottles with burp clothes and anything else they could find, so this "donut" was perfect. 

Rachel, mom of James (3m): The Woombie, it's the swaddle of all swaddles. All you do is zip it up and the babe cannot get out! We tried traditional swaddles and he escaped from them all except this. Plus, it has a double zipper, meaning you can unzip just the bottom to change a diaper and not let his arms free.

Leigh, mom of Reece (7), Chloe (4) & Wes (3): I loved the old school Platex bottles with the plastic liner inserts. They were so easy for the babies to use (and no air bubbles) once they could hold on to the bottle themselves. 

Kate, mom of Lily (5) & Myla (2): The squeezable baby food packets are genius. My two year old still loves them! 

Rebecca, mom of Georgia (1): I'm super embarrassed to admit this but the Nose Frida is amazing! I had panic attacks when she got sick and that little miracle saved me during her first few colds. 

Lauren, mom of Grayson (10m): The old school liquid Neutrogena (with the black pump). It gets out ANY stain, including blood if you rub the soap into the stain and let it sit overnight in a small tub filled with water. The next day I rub the stain area before throwing it into the wash. 

Alexis, mom of Jack (4m): I did not register for the Fischer Price Rock n Play Sleeper, nor did I know anything about it until after 10 tough weeks. When we finally came to grips with the fact that Jack has a pretty bad case of acid reflux, it became invaluable. 

Eva, mom of Jenna (16m): I loved my Itzbeen Baby Care Timer. It is a little gadget that helps track the last feeding, diaper change, sleep, etc. You can also keep track of which side you nursed on last. It really help me make sure I was sticking to our schedule. They do have apps for this as well, but when Dad and grandma take over for a few hours this kept us all straight and was easy to hand off to one another. 

Kristen, mom of Kinsley (1m): I'm obsessed with Aquaphor for baby. with 12 diaper changes a day this has been a must have. It helps prevent diaper rashes and it makes it easier to clean those frequent dirty diapers, no dried mess on baby skin. 

Marita, mom of Emme (10m): Mine has to be the ugly Piano Kick Gym we received (unsolicited). It was amazing and bought me tons of time when Emme was little, but I wanted her to be entertained. Not pretty, but I loved it.   

Lauren, mom of Sloane (1m): Since I am a "pumping exclusively" mama, I am obsessed with the steam bags. Seems silly, but pumping and feeding every two hours lends itself to a lot of bottle and pump part cleaning. The Medela Steam Clean Bags allow me to throw all of that into the bag, throw it in the microwave and everything is sterilized and cleaned. The bags are safe and it saves me so much time! 

Krissy, mom of Charlie (3) & Cate (11m): My best gift was girlfriends! That includes every woman in my life that helped me through the newborn months with advice, meals, support. Everything. My best discovery through these lovely ladies was nipple shields. Charlie was miserable at breastfeeding and during a visit from a friend, she was appalled at the sight of my (mutilated) nipples. She left and brought me nipple shields immediately. I never knew they existed. She literally saved me, or my nipples at least.  

Lindsey, mom of Jake (7), Kate (5) & Jude (4m): My Pronto changer has been great! I hate the big bulky diaper bag and this is really all I need for cruising around. I thrown it in the bottom of the stroller or just clip it onto the handle and it even as a spot for my phone, wallet and keys. 

Me, mom of Tommy (9m): The Organic Ultimate Crib Sheet is awesome. Crib sheets have to be changed so much and sometimes in the middle of the night. This sheet snaps on over another regular sheet, but under the bumper. That way when you need to change the sheet, you just snap it off and a fresh sheet is waiting underneath.

Thank you to all the moms who contributed! What are some things you could not live without?

xo
Erin 

Turn Up the Lights

And then there was light...

I finally got to take out the lamps I had been using in the kitchen and flip a switch. Even though I was obsessive over the decision, I am glad I went with these Restoration Hardware pendants. The industrial feel of them is a nice contrast to the country look of the cabinets and barn floors. I went with brushed nickel to match the stainless appliances and the open glass dome so light would reflect into the vaulted ceiling. So happy I can check this off the list and enjoy the light for the holidays. 

xo

Erin 

My Wish List

My wish list for Christmas always has expectations well beyond what will actually be opened come December 25th. But it is fun to put together a list of what you love and it helps you understand what you actually might need. 

Because of the new house, my list includes quite a few decor options that would make me smile. Plus, there are my usual smattering of beauty products I either want to try or need more of, a couple delicate jewelry pieces, clothes that would fill holes in my closet, shoes that replace scuffed ones, electronics that would improve my life, and a couple of far fetched items that I am dreaming of. 

1. Jennifer Zeuner cursive nameplate bracelet (TMV) $125

2. Lait-Creme Concentre 

3. Dash & Albert Steps Runner 2.5 x 8 $208

4. Pashli Tote in Jade by Phillip Lim $895

5. Mary Green sleep mask $26

6. Vintage Pajama Set by J. Crew $85 

7. Yosi Samra two tone flats $66 

8. Gorjana rose gold pendant necklace $70

9. J. Crew cardigan in Byzantine blue $49 

10. Peekaboo console table by Crate & Barrel $399

11. Stella McCartney over sized glasses $225

12. Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray  $39

13. MoraccanOil Conditioner $22

14. Kiehl's Amino Acid Shampoo $48

15. CB2 Vapor Bar Stool 30" - 3 $199

16. Amy Sia print 26 x 38 

17. Faux Deer with Seafoam antlers $110

18. Color block sweater dress by Club Monaco $170 

19. Nike Air Max+ 2012 in Punch $136

20. J. Crew Fair Isle Sweater $148

21. 3 x 5 Thorndike Mills Entry Rug $164

22. Canon EF f/1.8 II Camera Lens 

23. Photo by Jerry Cook 48 x 36

24. Sperry Top-sider for J. Crew boots $138

25. Cartier Love bracelet $5,575

Wishful thinking, right? But that is what wish lists are for. I would be more than lucky to receive any of these gifts. Maybe I gave you an idea or two for yourself? Have a happy weekend, whatever you are wishing for. 

xo

Erin 

Setting the Table: Thanksgiving

Setting the table for a traditional holiday meal does not have to be all that traditional. It is way more fun to do something unexpected and outside the normal harvest looking routine. Getting inspiration can come from anywhere. A Thanksgiving table should be festive and warm, with touches of tradition.  

Images from Pinterest

My fantasy table this year...

1. Runner $30 2. Coral Vase  $20 3. Wooden Hurricane $40 

4. Clear Column Votives $10-$30 5. Golden Rhino  $38 

6. Tortoise Glasses $60 7. Scalloped Plates $20 (set of 4) 

8. Gold Dipped Flatware $38 9. Cocktail Napkins $3

With touches of tradition in the warm orange tones and white scalloped plates, it is easy to mix in some modern and rustic pieces. Using fruit and magnolia leaves instead of bouquets of flowers is a nod to the whole harvest theme, without being cheesy. I like mixing up all these different types of accessories too, it makes the table way more interesting. And who doesn't want a couple of gold rhinos peeking from behind a candle? 

xo

Erin 

Peanut Sesame Spaghetti Squash

We have a pretty serious Thai and Chinese take out schedule around here. And though it is always enjoyed, you can't erase the guilt. So I set out to make at least one of our favorite dishes in a much less caloric way. This side dish is creamy, nutty, spicy and feels indulgent. The perfect combination so you can enjoy it anytime you are craving take out. Or at least the night that your favorite place is closed. 

Peanut Sesame Spaghetti Squash
Forks & Amusement 2012
makes 4 side dishes

1 spaghetti squash, halved and seeds scooped out
1 tablespoon sesame seed oil
1 clove of garlic, minced very fine or smashed to a paste
1 tablespoon peanut oil or olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
chili garlic sauce or Sriracha to taste (I like 1 tablespoon for heat) 
2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter
juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
Optional: if you use natural peanut butter, 1/2 tablespoon agave nectar or honey
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Roast spaghetti squash in a 375 degree oven for 30-45 minutes until just tender and you can rake a fork through the strands. Remove the strands of the squash and place in a large bowl. Set aside to come to room temperature or chill in the fridge. 

Meanwhile, place all of the rest of the ingredients, except the cilantro in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust for any seasoning or additional splashes of ingredients. 

Once squash has cooled, toss the dressing with the squash to coat evenly. You may not need all of the dressing depending how large your squash is. Sprinkle the cilantro over the squash and serve at room temperature or chilled. 

Million Dollar Decorators Part Deux

If you did not catch the first season of Million Dollar Decorators on Bravo, you are lucky enough that it is back for a second season. This gem of a show follows four over the top decorators as they transform spaces for demanding (incredibly wealthy) clients. There is a lot of champagne, antiques, the use of the word "dahling," and inflated egos that you grow to love. And as you see the spaces come together, you understand how talented these designers really are. 

 Jeffrey Alan Marks might be my favorite. He is so obsessed with himself and what a great designer he is, it is hard not to laugh. But when you see his classic, yet fresh California design aesthetic you understand his success. 

Kathryn Ireland, not to be confused with the swimsuit model turned Kmart design star, is a Brit with sass. So immediately you like her. Then you see what a mess she is and have no idea how this woman has churned out some of the most beautiful interiors while also having a kick ass textile business. She drinks a lot of champagne on the show, so clearly I am a fan of hers. She has the whole French country goes Bohemian vibe going on in her design. 

Martyn Lawrence-Bullard loves all things glamour, his celebrity client list, and talking about how fabulous he is. He is another over the top Brit, but I love that he moved to LA wanting to be an actor and is now a super successful designer. His use of the word "delicious" is amazing. 

Lastly, there is Mary McDonald. She has this high pitched voice that reminds me of Karen from Will & Grace, and I say that in the very best way. She loves over the top glam and rooms with serious impact. While sometimes over the top, I really love seeing what she comes up with. She is also by far the funniest on the show. 

Can't wait to watch tonight! 

xo

Erin 

A Comfy, Chic Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is next week and choosing the perfect outfit that has room to grow, yet looks pulled together and chic is as easy as pumpkin pie. A soft sweater dress and knee high boots offers an easy way to enjoy your day of feasting. Add some bangles or your favorite statement necklace and you have a perfect outfit for your holiday.  

1. Old Navy $29 (comes in other colors and stripes)

2. Velvet $150

3. Rubbish $54 (love the cable knit)

4. Minnetonka $86

5. Steven $200 (classic shape at a great price)

6. Steven $170

7. Club Monaco $170 (obsessed)

8. Topshop $88

9. Asos $79

10. Frye $458

11. Joie $425

12. Madewell $298

xo

Erin 

Weekend's Here

What are you up to this weekend? My schedule is completely open. I plan on making dinners, drinking vino, catching up on some mags, and maybe squeezing in a much needed afternoon nap. Is it weird to already be looking forward to that? 

How amazing did Cameron look at the Gambit premiere in London? Stella McCartney perfection. 

As if my reality television obsession was not overboard enough, Style network is premiering Made in Chelsea. Looks like something that will have me hooked, in the very worst way. 

Been dreaming of this pool and view at Megan Mullally's home. 

Hello lover. I want you. 

This sweet little print would be fun on a gallery wall from Furbish. Entitled 'Pink Ladies'

I guess I cannot dodge the election subject all week, so let me go out like this....

It was a tight race, which is great. It shows that this country is filled with different views and opinions that we all have the freedom to vote for and express. And though we cannot agree and have done a lot of finger pointing, blaming, and overall bashing over this election, it is time to forget it. Those who were elected are in office now. To do good, we hope. So let's come together and try to get this country to be great again. Whatever party you might be a part of, the bottom line is we all just want to be safe, be prosperous, and set an extraordinary example of democracy for the rest of the world. 

Have a great weekend loves. 

xo

Erin 

Design Snapshot: Kate Marker

While it is fun to pour over images of exuberant and eclectic design blogs and images, it is the interiors that we can actually envision working into our own homes and every day lives that make the most impact. 

Kate Marker of Kate Maker Interiors is a prime example of how gorgeously designed spaces can also be functional and accessible. Her spaces are fresh, classic, with a touch of whimsy. 

Kate has incredible style and taste, but as a wife and mother of two adorable girls she understands how great design also has to fit into your life. 

Pretty arched windows and doorways lead to a kitchen. Love the lanterns...

How amazing is this backsplash? 

Blue and white powder room. Yes please... 

Check out the jewelry storage in the closet. The books stacked in the open space above the door is fun and unexpected. Worship the modern lantern. 

A painted church pew is the perfect entry bench and the door hardware is amazing. 

This is such a great use of space....

A light and bright kitchen with lucite stools

A layered look in navy and white with great balance...

I want to open all of those French doors (check out the hardware) and enjoy that couch and fireplace...

A great mix of modern and rustic...

Kate works with clients in Chicago and the suburbs. I am lucky enough to call her a friend and can attest that any project with her would be fun. 

xo

Erin