Pickie, Pickie, Pickie

 

I have exciting news:  Pickie, a new IPad shopping magazine has asked me to share some of my favorite gift ideas for its holiday gift guide launch at the end of this month.  So, whether you're shopping for a design enthusiast, a modernist or someone with an artistic eye, Pickie and Cocoon Home will make your shopping fun and easy.  I'll let you know when my picks are featured, in the meantime be sure to check out Pickie here and here.

Just In Time: Glass Top for Coffee Table

The glass top for our cedar trunk coffee table base arrived on Friday just hours before the first of our 2 weekend birthday celebrations.  Now that we have a place to stack our books, magazines and the occasional cocktail, the room feels complete.  Well, almost.  It would be nice to have one of these...

What's YOUR favorite living room item?

'Til Monday: Celebrating Past And Future

This week all three children celebrate their birthdays.  Max and Ben are turning 7 and Zoe is embracing 5 as only she can.  As I reflect on how they've grown, I can't help but think of the family and friends that have celebrated their births with us in the past. For the first time since our move we're inviting new acquaintances and quite possibly new friends into our home to celebrate our children. As I sit here on the eve of the festivities I am reminded of the people who know us so well and the uncertainty of those who don't quite as yet, and wish that I could somehow blend them together.

Here's to the past and the future and I am grateful for them both.

Happy Birthday Max, Ben and Zoe!

A DIY (Sort Of) Navajo Bedspread.

I knew I wasn't true to myself by using a hand made quit on Zoe's bed, especially after falling in love with the colors and patterns of an H&M shawl.  So, I opted to turn three of them into one twin size bedspread.   Now, Zoe's bedroom displays a brand new look:

Not being a huge fan of DIY projects and totally incapable of sewing, I commissioned our local dry cleaner to sew the 3 scarfs together (the project would obviously be more cost effective if one is good with a needle and thread).  Next week I'll show you how an Alameda Flea Market find, a potted plant and lot of free spirited attitude work to bring our daughter's bedroom together.

Remember to look for room inspirations everywhere and anywhere.  They're there for you to borrow, implement and enjoy...

Off The Counter: Market Veggies And Rocchetti

This week's Off The Counter is inspired by a recent trip to Monterey Market, my favorite spot in Berkeley to shop for fresh fruits & vegetables.  Visits to the market have become part of my weekly routine.  The aisles are overflowing with the most amazing varieties of fruits, vegetables and mushrooms, all of which target my taste buds and culinary sensibilities.  This week I stocked up on goodies for the grill:  portabella mushrooms, star squash and late season tomatoes.  Preparing a substantial amount on a Sunday evening leaves plenty  left over for a week's worth of dishes.  Take a look at last night's:

Ingredients:

Portabella mushrooms, star squash, zucchini, tomatoes, fresh basil, parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, olive oil,  pasta, salt and pepper.

Instructions:

Add diced star squash, zucchini, tomatoes and portabella mushrooms to a rimmed tray.  Season with olive oil, salt and pepper.  While grilling the vegetables prepare the pasta.  Toss the pasta with olive oil and top with grilled veggies.  Top with parmesan ribbons and drizzle in a bit of balsamic vinegar. Salt and pepper to taste and serve.

During the week we'll use the left over grilled vegetables in tacos, served them with pearled couscous or use them as pizza toppings.