The Picky Pair

The Picky Pair {Bold Spaces}

2012-01-27T08:54:00.000-05:00

I enjoy the departures many of us take in our homes...usually in our powder rooms...seldom used, so we tend to not tire of the bold statements we make in the tucked away hidden spaces

{The powder room in the home of another designer...India Hicks...simple, subtle statement to the well traveled life she has been blessed with.}

The Picky Pair {Sprinkle...Sunshine}

2012-01-18T09:08:00.000-05:00

{image: abeautifulthingsisneverperfect}

The Picky Pair {Lovely..}

2012-01-16T01:31:00.000-05:00

"Everyone has inside him/her a piece of good news. The good news is that you don't know how great you can be! How much you can love! What you can accomplish! And what your potential is!."

~anne frank

{looking for the LOVELY in each day}

The Picky Pair {Gratitude}

2012-01-13T00:12:00.001-05:00

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, and confusion into clarity.... It turns problems into gifts, failures into success, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.

Beautiful images of Africa...

Love bears all things,

believes all things,

HOPES all things and ENDURES all things.

1 corinthians 13:7

The Picky Pair {Walking into the Future}

2012-01-11T23:12:00.000-05:00

"We need to find God, and he cannot be found in noise and restlessness. God is the friend of silence. See how nature - trees, flowers, grass- grows in silence; see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence... We need silence to be able to touch souls."

~Mother Teresa

The Picky Pair {END}

2012-01-10T01:12:00.001-05:00

"The kindness I have longest remembered has been this sort, the sort unsaid; so far behind the speaker's lips that almost it already lay in my heart. It did not have far to go to be communicated."

~henry david thoreau

The Picky Pair {One Fine Day}

2012-01-09T00:09:00.000-05:00

Sprinkle JOY!!!

~ ralph waldo emerson

via brochebrocante on flickr; thisisglamorous

The Picky Pair {Truth}

2012-01-08T04:35:00.000-05:00

Picky Pair : {The Blessing of Friendship}

2012-01-06T09:20:00.001-05:00

Great friendships can easily make a difference in how we view our world on a daily basis. A truly great friend seems to be the one that is there when we least expect it and is always there experiencing our joys as well as our sorrows never skipping a beat when it comes to what place we are in our lives. Beautiful Friends are true treasures. Here is a beautiful passage from a favorite book {given as a gift from a wise friend in my life}.

The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran

Speak to us of Friendship.

And he answered, saying:

Your friend is your needs answered.

He is your field which you sow with love and reap with thanksgiving.

And he is your board and your fireside.

For you come to him with your hunger, and you seek him for peace.

When your friend speaks his mind you fear not the "nay" in your own mind, nor do you withhold the "ay."

And when he is silent your heart ceases not to listen to his heart:

For without words, in friendship, all thoughts, all desires, all expectations are born and shared, with joy that is unacclaimed.

When you part from your friend, you grieve not:

For that which you love most in him may be clearer in his absence, as the mountain to the climber is clearer from the plain.

And let there be no purpose in friendship save the deepening of the spirit.

For love that seeks aught but the disclosure of its own mystery in not love but a net cast forth: and only the unprofitable is caught.

And let your best be for your friend.

If he must know the ebb of your tide, let him know it's flood also.

For what is your friend that you should seek him with hours to kill?

Seek him always with hours to live.

For it is his to fill your need, but not your emptiness.

And in the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter, and sharing of pleasures.

For in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed.

{I thank all the Women who have stood in the gap... with Kindness, Love & Understanding...}

{images:iheartthis}

The Picky Pair {Peaceful Retreat}

2012-01-04T01:32:00.000-05:00

Thankful for family and friends...This New Year is turning into something beautiful...

"Spread love everywhere you go: First of all in your own house... let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness."

~mother teresa of calcutta

The Picky Pair {JOYFUL...NEW YEAR!!!}

2012-01-01T01:12:00.000-05:00

"For last year's words belong to last year's language and next year's words await another voice."

~t.s. eliot

The Picky Pair {Soon to be... NEW YEAR}

2011-12-30T00:28:00.001-05:00

. . . perhaps one of the simplest & loveliest cocktails ever: a glass, some ice, three-quarters of drychampagne or prosecco, a thinly sliced cucumber and fresh mint, and a splash of st. germain, an enchanting elixir of handpicked wild elderflower blossoms from the foothills of the french alps, and it's time to celebrate . . .

{{image & recipe from zestedthisisglamorous}image: livingetc. via alkemie}

The Picky Pair {Dreamy New Year}

2011-12-28T01:30:00.000-05:00

"A new year is unfolding, like a blossom with petals curled tightly concealing the beauty within."

*dress by jason wu, kenneth jay lane earrings, joanna dahdah stacking pave bangles, anya hindmarch clutch, manolo blahnik heels. and for an affordable option to jason wu? i'm considering this max & cleo dress instead!cocokelley

The Picky Pair {MERRY CHRISTMAS}

2011-12-25T01:25:00.000-05:00

"Prayer is the peace of your spirit, the stillness of our thoughts, the evenness of recollection, the seat of meditsation, the rest of our cares and the calm of our tempest: prayer is the issue of a quiet mind, of untroubled thoughts; it is the daughter of charity and the sister of meekness."

~jeremy taylor

{Wishing You ALL a Beautiful Season of Giving...From the HEART...LC}

{Images: thisisglamorous}

The Picky Pair {Rejoice}

2011-12-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

Rejoice in life for mankind will always advance toward bigger and better things.

~Jack Murphy

The Picky Pair {Christmas Time...}

2011-12-23T00:37:00.000-05:00

{inspiration:snippetandink}

The Picky Pair {Shining Bright}

2011-12-21T01:11:00.000-05:00

Blessed are those who give without remembering. And blessed are those who take without forgetting."

~Bernard Meltzer

*images: fashion editorial by adler frenesda, holiday decor shot by kristian septimius krogh for bo bedre.cocokelley

The Picky Pair {BIRTHDAY Love...}

2011-12-20T00:20:00.000-05:00

LOOKING forward to all my amazing family and friends who are traveling in to celebrate Christmas Holiday... I am Blessed that my birthday falls close to the most beautiful holiday of all...December becomes my birthday Month lovingly filled with great anticipation of the season and...The Coming of a BRIGHT NEW YEAR!!!

{Cheers Everyone ... hugs from LC}

The Picky Pair {Holiday Dream}

2011-12-19T09:03:00.000-05:00

"Christmas in Bethlehem. The ancient dream: a cold, clear night made brilliant by glorious star, the smell of incense, shepherds and wise men falling to their knees in adoration of the sweet baby, the incarnation of perfect love."

The Picky Pair {Elegance}

2011-12-16T01:28:00.000-05:00

"Elegance is something more than ease; it is more than a freedom from awkwardness or restraint. It implies, I conceive, a precision, a polish, a Sparkle, Spirited yet Delicate."

~william hazlitt

The Picky Pair {Let's Celebrate}

2011-12-14T04:55:00.000-05:00

"Each year brings unseen opportunities just waiting to be found."

{images:cocokelley}

The Picky Pair {Silver & Gold}

2011-12-12T01:33:00.000-05:00

Constantly on the fence if I am a girl who loves gold or silver... I've been blending the two for the past few years and love the freedom it lends to pulling together a complete look. Appreciating the subtle details represented in fashion for the body as well as fashion for the home.

{We tend to have a preference...which one are you???}

*resources: all ya'll table from taible, chandler table from fashion for home, cici cashmere sweater, asos portfolio clutch, zara foldover clutch from zadig and voltaire,

The Picky Pair {Beauty in the Walk}

2011-12-05T01:46:00.000-05:00

There is no end of craving. Hence contentment alone is the best way to happiness. Therefore, acquire contentment.

{AFRICAN ROAD}

The Picky Pair {Restful Weekend}

2011-12-02T11:33:00.005-05:00

"Health is the greatest possession. Contentment is the greatest treasure. Confidence is the greatest friend. Confidence is the greatest friend. Non-being is the greatest joy."

~Lao Tzu

{01. Tory Burch pendant {coming for holiday}, 02. J.Crew saturday pants, 03. alfabet earrings from By Boe {via Unruly Things}, 04. StyleMint Lincoln tee (use code OHJOY10 for 10% off first order), 05. Tory Burch heels {coming for holiday}, 06. Satomi Kawakita ring, 07. Butter London The Old Bill polish, 08. Hatch hoodie, 09. Madewell sleep mask, 10. J.Schatz nesting bowl}

The Picky Pair {Around the Bend}

2011-11-30T01:19:00.000-05:00

"Change in all things is sweet."

~aristotle

The Picky Pair {Season of Thanksgiving}

2011-11-28T06:55:00.001-05:00

"Be the change you want to see in the world."

~mahatma gandhi

The Picky Pair {After the Party... party}

2011-11-25T01:22:00.001-05:00

{Images: hostess with the mostess}

The Picky Pair {Give Thanks...}

2011-11-24T01:07:00.000-05:00

"Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving."

~W.T. Purkiser

{Images: amy atlas}

The Picky Pair {Thanksgiving}

2011-11-23T01:32:00.000-05:00

Mini pumpkin candies are cute on their own, but when you add a little gold luster spray and some edible glitter, they become much more dramatic and adult.

Pumpkin pie is a staple dessert this time of year and mini versions are easy and fun for Fall parties. I kept things simple and bought some pre-made mini graham pie shells (like these), a can of pumpkin puree and then assembled according to package directions.

Since these are mini versions, I reduced the oven temp to 350 and didn’t bake as long as the can told me to (just use the toothpick test!). When they were ready, I topped each pie with a big dollop of whip and a golden pumpkin candy!

I really loved the way these came out! The graham crust tasted delicious with the pumpkin pie, I actually prefer it to the traditional flaky crust, and the little pumpkins added the perfect finishing touch

Happy Fall + Happy Gilding to all!

*first image via country living, all other images by apollina text: cocokelley

The Picky Pair {Happy Sunshine}

2011-11-21T01:37:00.000-05:00

"Courage is as often the outcome of despair as of hope; in the one case we have nothing to lose, in the other, everything to gain."

~Diane De Pointiers

The Picky Pair {Travel Inspiration}

2011-11-18T01:08:00.000-05:00

"Desire and HOPE will push us on toward the future."

~ michel de montaigne

{images:jcrew}

The Picky Pair {Red}

2011-11-16T01:16:00.000-05:00

I am forever on the search for a great coat...I tend to gravitate toward black or grey...this year I find myself drawn to a bold pop of color!!! I love the way the classic look has new life in the bold color of red.

* clockwise from top girl: asos, dkny, miu miu, prada, milly and j.crew

The Picky Pair {Cafe Love}

2011-11-14T01:27:00.000-05:00

Meet Mrs. Cafe-oh-lait, a rather sought after lady who'll never be passe! She's tall and skinny, stimulating and robust - mingling with her in the morning is an absolute must! She tends to be bitter yet pleasingly milky - her presence is both invigorating and silky. She's the perfect companion at nearly any time of day - she's the ultimate pick-me-up when you're feeling blasé. All hail this dreamy creamy gal - she's one heck of a bushy-tailed pal

Earrings / Cape / Bootie / Cup + Saucer / Coffee / Cream / Sunglasses / Bag Mrs. Lillian styling house ;)

The Picky Pair {Favorite Pencil Skirt Look}

2011-11-11T01:30:00.000-05:00

The collections of Spring 2012 have proven to be a celebration of femininity, and not a moment to soon! Menswear is fun 'n all, but the girly girl in me rejoiced at the floral prints and figure-flattering cuts of Prada and Dolce & Gabbana. It's Cristina from Fuji Files here with one key piece to get the lady-like look right off the catwalk: the printed pencil skirt. Because the silhouette is so form-fitting, this style is best worn with a modest cut top like a boatneck or long-sleeved crew neck (especially for day). Keep the jewelry to a minimum and let the skirt make the statement.

{Text&Images: cocokelley}

The Picky Pair {Classic in the City}

2011-11-09T01:59:00.000-05:00

Classic pieces with a signature pencil skirt in a bold pattern...my new favorite wardrobe.

{images:cocokelley}

The Picky Pair {Comfort and Light}

2011-11-08T11:30:00.004-05:00

"Dum spiro, spero."

'While I breath, I HOPE'

~latin proverb

We have been enjoying mornings "camping out" enjoying coffee with one inspiring woman. The images above convey the essence of her sense of style... Each of us has a story... She is inspired to help others tell theirs.

The Picky Pair {Floral Fashion}

2011-11-07T01:29:00.000-05:00

With the onset of fall comes dahlia season, which is always hotly anticipated by this flower lover. Inspired by both the vibrant colors and energetic brush strokes of of Yolanda Sanchez's Orange and Pink, I jumped at the chance to showcase the electric palette still available in seasonal flowers. A wild arrangement full of texture includes dahlias, celiosa, queen anne's lace, pink crepe myrtle, purple beautyberry, and orange trumpet vine and shows that fall can still pack a punch! — Liz

{left photo by Kathryn Markel Fine Arts, right photo by Liz for Oh Joy}

The Picky Pair {Perfect Combination}

2011-11-04T01:03:00.000-04:00

"Some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again."

~C.S. Lewis

{images: photography by lorena*arance on flickrthisisglamorous}

The Picky Pair {Fall Fashion & Apple Love}

2011-11-02T08:41:00.000-04:00

The crisp Fall air adds a wonderful energy to our everyday. The {PP} crew is as active as ever and enjoying all that Fall has to offer. I am in love with the sweet details, fashion and fun...in Mrs. Lillian's inspiration board...Inspired to Update...loving the twist on the traditional!

Happy Happy Happy Fall day!!!

{mrs.lillian styling house}

The Picky Pair {HAPPY HALLOWEEN}

2011-10-31T00:34:00.000-04:00

The Picky Pair {Beautiful Office}

2011-10-27T11:10:00.002-04:00

This antique desk inspires me to keep things simple...because life should be about depth...not things...Your Home should reflect you. Dream Big...It's the Only way to live.

{"Do not go where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."} ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

The Picky Pair {Halloween Sweetness}

2011-10-26T01:44:00.000-04:00

My Picky Pair Crew has outgrown the sweetness of these adorable pottery barn costumes. We have moved on to the rough & tough, spooky cool phase. I still can't help myself...wishing for my {PP} to have another "cupcake". Here is some inspiration for the crafty ones, looking to create another memorable holiday... your little ones would be the cutest ones on the block!!!

The Picky Pair {Gearing up for Halloween}

2011-10-24T01:49:00.000-04:00

My favorites, scarf, big shades, jeans, fun shoes...with a splash of color {holiday RED}!!! Perfectly paired with treats for our Sweets!!! Gearing up for fun & fabulous Halloween.

*Snickerdoodle Pumpkin Ice Cream Sandwiches, Black and Red Candy Apples. 1. Alexander McQueen 2.Chanel 3. Alexander McQueen 4. Steven Alan 5. French Connection 6. Christian Louboutin cocokelley

The Picky Pair {Halloween Children's Party}

2011-10-21T11:56:00.000-04:00

Always on the lookout for fun {already in your closet...yet}"super cool" costumes for children ...I flipped when I found these images... what a clever and original way to set a stage for a party in your home or classroom party. It's all in the details...details make the ordinary extraordinary!!!

Hoping this inspires those last minute people {myself included} to throw in an extra detail..or two...or three... Happy Halloween!!!

The Picky Pair {Fall "Playtime"}

2011-10-19T12:05:00.000-04:00

"Autumn is a second spring where every leaf is a flower."

~Albert Camus

*resources: gloves, sweater, skinny cords, boots, and scarf

The Picky Pair {French Inspired Weekend}

2011-10-14T01:08:00.000-04:00

Now here's a lady with blinding style and allure: a Mademoiselle no less who's delightfully mature. She answers to the name Mlle. French although she says it best with her charming accent. She's effortlessly beautiful and undeniably chic; she "throws herself together" yet always looks magnifique! She self sustains off wine and croissants; it does wonders for her figure which she shamelessly flaunts. You want to hate her yet there's just too much too love, which is why Mlle. French is an eternal cut above.

Le Neck Scarf / Le Striped Top / L'Tell-All Style Guide / Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner. / Le Painted-On Jeans / Le Lanvins Mrs Lillian Style House

The Picky Pair {Soft Neutrals}

2011-10-10T01:06:00.000-04:00

The transition into a new fall season has me seeking simple style solutions as well as the desire to add warmth with a punch of color for home.

*images: interior via simply grove, street style via unknown and tabletop by jane packer

The Picky Pair {Warm Chocolate}

2011-10-07T01:05:00.000-04:00

Inspired by one of my friends who seems to have that put together look. Her signature color is chocolate, the layout is very fitting. I love the translation of fashion in a room and incorporating an unexpected element makes the room warm and inviting. I can't help but smile at the addition of zebra skins in the eclectic environment, reminds me of home away from our home...

*dress by gucci, latte bowls at anthropologie, graham & brown wallpaper, marcie bag by chloe, smoky topaz earrings, jonathan adler tray

The Picky Pair {Fall Best}

2011-10-05T09:27:00.000-04:00

October screams out for black and sassy; the kind that's every bit sophisticated and classy. Turning up the fashion volume with the change of season means making a bold style statement with very good reason. As a briskness whirls about and a chill hits the air, fall fashion beckons a spicy, sauced-up flair. With autumn looming large, and the weather becoming ferocious now's your golden chance to don the October uniform, all playful and precocious.

The Row, Aligator Backpack, Jcrew, Bubble Necklace, A.P.C. Turtleneck Cape, Alexander Wang by LindaFarrow, Cateye Sunglasses, Kate Spade Clip Earrings, Gucci, Betty Booties text & images :Mrs. Lilien styling house

The Picky Pair {New Go to Look}

2011-10-03T01:52:00.001-04:00

A smart blue collared shirt with black slim fitting jeans is endlessly sleek, and most of all simple! It almost feels too easy, in that effortless Parisian kinda way - and that's ultimately what we're all going for right?

The key to this super simple look is in the styling. Be sure to tuck the shirt in, and for a menswear edge you can add a belt. For a modern take roll your pant cuffs up to the ankle. In the evening switch ballet flats out for black heels, and if you want to add a bit of extra glam opt for jeans in a wax-coated finish as they have a similar sheen to the leather looks worn above. Remember to keep the accessories very minimal, as this look is all about effortless style!

*resources: shirt American Eagle, glasses Asos, nailpolish Butter London, ring Iosselliani, , shoes Proenza Schouler, purse Zara, pants Topshop

*images via stockholmstreetstyle, tfs, altamira, jakandjil, americaneagle, asos, lagarconne, ulta, zara,topshopt text: coco kelley

The Picky Pair {Looking...}

2011-09-30T01:49:00.001-04:00

"Focus on the journey, not the destination. JOY is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it."

~greg anderson

The Picky Pair {Book Inspired}

2011-09-21T01:48:00.000-04:00

Literature is my Utopia. Here I am not disenfranchised. No barrier of the senses shuts me out from the sweet, gracious discourses of my book friends. They talk to me without embarrassment or awkwardness.
Helen Keller

The Picky Pair {Woman's Heart}

2011-09-19T01:04:00.000-04:00

"The heart is quiet rather than noisy, intuitive rather than deductive. It lives entirely in the present and is at every moment accepting of reality as it is. Moreover, the heart does not seek to distance itself from or dominate anything or anyone by labeling. Rather, it begins with an awareness of its relationship with the rest of creation and everything and everyone in it. It accepts rather than objects, it finds similarity rather than alienation, and likeness rather than difference. Your heart knows no fear. It experiences no desire and never finds the need to defend or justify itself. And, unlike your mind, your heart never seeks to impose itself. It is patient and undemanding and does its work with no prompting. It nourishes your body in every moment. Little wonder then that the mind, always impatient and very demanding, manages to dominate the heart so thoroughly unless we are vigilantly watching and making our hearts the absolute kings of our beings."

{~Fr. Archimandrite Meletios Webber}

The Picky Pair {Gingham & Fashion}

2011-09-16T01:24:00.000-04:00

I will be the first to admit I am not a "plaid girl" but give me black and white gingham, I might actually try it!!! Truth be told it was the Blonde in the safari boots that sold the look for me...Just a hint of the trend, boots I already own, check, big shades, check again... I think it's a smart and unexpected combination...

*images via Vanessa Jackman, Atlantic-Pacific, Mr Newton, Netaporter cocokelley

The Picky Pair {Living Loud}

2011-09-14T01:24:00.001-04:00

If you ask me what I came into this life to do, I will tell you: I came to live out loud.
Emile Zola

...wear this vena cava dress, decorate with that anthropologie rug...

The Picky Pair {Fellowship}

2011-09-12T01:57:00.001-04:00

{There is something about sharing a simple meal with friends...fellowship with the ones we love fills everyone with a feeling of great JOY!}

A leaf fluttered in through the window this morning, as if supported by the rays of the sun, a bird settled on the fire escape, joy in the task of coffee, joy accompanied me as I walked.
Anais Nin

The Picky Pair {Season of Change}

2011-09-09T10:21:00.004-04:00

"In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy."

~william blake

{Loving the simple pleasure of the Season...beauty...in the garden, in life & in the heart of home...

The Picky Pair {Along the Way}

2011-09-09T01:45:00.000-04:00

It is for us to pray not for tasks equal to our powers, but for powers equal to our tasks, to go forward with a great desire forever beating at the door of our hearts as we travel toward our distant goal.
Helen Keller

The Picky Pair {Dreaming Of...}

2011-09-07T01:45:00.000-04:00

1.pendant, 2.rug, 3.blanket, 4.globe, 5.vase, 6.pillow, 7.bench
Photos by Anne Naumann my paradissi.

The Picky Pair {"Dreamy"}

2011-09-05T01:35:00.000-04:00

Thinking of my wonderful friend {JJ} in Malibu who managed a surprise visit...the timing was perfect. Earlier in the year while visiting{JJ} and her {Pep} girls we talked about what they love to do...SURF...something I plan on attempting, my next visit with {JJ, AJ & RB} in their glorious Malibu home!

{It will be DREAMY!}

{I couldn't resist combining my love of all things CHANEL...with my dream wish...Surfing}

{Reality...when we hit Amy's favorite surf spots in Malibu}

{JJ} and the {Pep} girls are working on Law Degrees in different fields of practice...the Bright Leaders of the Future!!! What a difference they will make with their strong bright perspective.

The Picky Pair {Happy First Day of School}

2011-09-01T01:23:00.000-04:00

The Picky Pair Crew is attending their first day...at the same school for the very first time! Looking forward to the Joy, Happiness and the Blessing of this new school year!!!

{Just a window into treats awaiting them after day 1!!!}

{LHM has the "baking bug", today we were greeted with homemade donuts...mmmmmm}. We all look forward to the treats we will be guinea pigs for... Me especially!!!
b e g i n w i t h t h e c a k e

Sift together the flour, dark cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, and vanilla and almond extracts. Set aside, as well.

Cream the butter and sugar in the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Keep the mixer on medium speed until smooth, then set it on low speed as you add the eggs, one at a time, until combined.

Starting and ending with the flour mixture, add the dry ingredients and wet ingredients mixtures in an alternating fashion. Scrape the sides of the bowl between additions and ensure each is properly combined before switching bowls.

With the mixer still on low, slowly add the [room temperature] coffee into the batter and beat until combined.

Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Divide the batter evenly into liner lined cupcake pans, filling each cup to about ½ full. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out barely clean [so as not to over-bake], then set aside to cool.

c a k e

2⅔ cups all-purpose flour
1¼ cups plus 2 tablespoons premium dark cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon pure almond extract
1 cup butter
2 cups granulated sugar
2 eggs
1¼ cups strong [french vanilla] coffee, room temperature

......................................................................................................

n u t e l l a g a n a c h e f i l l i n g

2 cups heavy cream
2 cups nutella

......................................................................................................

c h o c o l a t e h a z e l n u t b u t t e r c r e a m

1 jar (13 ounces) nutella
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 pound (half a bag) of confectioner’s sugar
pinch of salt
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
8 tablespoons heavy cream
finely chopped hazelnuts (for garnish)

{all images & recipe instructions [with edits] from something splendid; cake recipe adapted by something splendid from The Confetti Cakes Cookbook by Elisa Strauss} this is glamorous

The Picky Pair {Artistic Beauty}

2011-08-31T01:29:00.000-04:00

"Every artist dips his brush in his own soul, and paints his own nature into his pictures."

~henry ward beecher

resources: dress by erdem, blouse rachel rose, flamestich pillow furbish, rug at marc phillips, clutch by goodmarvin, cocokelly

The Picky Pair {School Rocks}

2011-08-28T01:55:00.000-04:00

Educating the mind is good... when we educate the heart we are prepared for the lessons of life...

The Picky Pair {End Of Summer}

2011-08-26T01:12:00.001-04:00

Every end is a new beginning...

1.Dominique Vorillon, 2.Kathryn M. Ireland

The Picky Pair {Ethnic Inspiration}

2011-08-24T01:05:00.000-04:00

1.table, 2.rug, 3.chair, 4.bolster, 5.pendant, 6.quilt, 7.birdcages, 8.lamp, 9.bench
Image by Miha Matei.paradiisi

The Picky Pair {Dream BIG}

2011-08-22T01:02:00.000-04:00

The Picky Pair {Possibilities}

2011-08-19T01:54:00.000-04:00

"The moment when you first wake up in the morning is the most wonderful of the twenty-four hours. No matter how weary or dreary you may feel, you possess the certainty that, during the day that lies before you, absolutely anything may happen. And the fact that it practically always doesn't, matters not a jot. The possibility is always there."

Monica Baldwin

The Picky Pair {Life is Life...Fight for It}

2011-08-17T01:29:00.001-04:00

Image credits:

1.Amkoo, 2.Scott Lawrence (via style me pretty) my paradisi

The Picky Pair {Life}

2011-08-15T01:01:00.000-04:00

"Be in love with your life. Every detail of it."

~Jack Kerouac
'

The Picky Pair {Relax...It's Summer}

2011-08-12T01:11:00.000-04:00

Image credits:

1.Nicolas Matheus, 2.Cote Maison (photo by Nicolas Matheus), 3.Marie Claire Maison,myparadisi

The Picky Pair {Summer Pleasures}

2011-08-10T01:08:00.000-04:00

The Picky Pair {HOME}

2011-08-08T02:05:00.000-04:00

(photos: Brian Ferry)

"Every day is a journey, and the journey itself is home."

~ matsuo basho

The Picky Pair {Love of a Mother}

2011-08-05T02:10:00.000-04:00

I imagine my {PP} taking long walks with her little ones... my heart skipped a beat seeing this image of the beautiful raven haired mother and daughter...we seem to find our homes and lives are naturally opening up to others around us... A mother's love always has room for one more!!!

"Motherhood is priced of God, at price no man may dare to lessen or misunderstand."

~helen fiske hunt jackson

The Picky Pair {HAPPY BIRTHDAY LHM}

2011-08-03T01:33:00.001-04:00

"Plant the seeds of LOVE in your hearts. Let them grow into trees of Service and shower the sweet fruit of ultimate bliss. Share the bliss with all. This is the proper way to celebrate the Birthday."

~Sri Sathya Sai Baba

As my {PP} celebrates her birthday we celebrate with her in spirit... I imagine she, Mimi & little {A} are creating a memorable day, baking THE famous sugar cookies!!! Hugs, lots of LOVE and well wishes from me and the {PP} crew!!!

The Picky Pair {Montana Bound}

2011-08-01T01:49:00.000-04:00

"Experience, travel- these are as education in themselves."

~euripides

As my Montana Bound {PP} bff.... travel with her babies across the country... my {PP} crew and I will miss the laughter and LOVE we experience each time we are together... Safe Journey...don't forget you are Treasured and Loved by your family that remains home. Hugs to Mimi, Pop, the awesome uncle's who remain elusive legends!!! also baby Josie & Mal when they join you!!!

The Picky Pair {Jim Denevan}

2011-07-29T01:04:00.000-04:00

The Picky Pair {Heart of Nature}

2011-07-27T00:57:00.000-04:00

{Galesnjak, Croatia}

{Heart-Shaped Mangrove, Voh, New Caledonia}

{Heart-Shaped Forest, Cantabria, Spain}

The Picky Pair {Coastal Dreaming}

2011-07-25T01:28:00.000-04:00

"Certainly, travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living."

~Miriam Beard

The Picky Pair {Tea for a Change}

2011-07-20T01:32:00.000-04:00

While away in Africa visiting my family earlier this summer in Kenya...we enjoyed the best of both worlds being in the largest coffee and tea producing areas in the world!!! I hope to find a treasure like one of these to serve family and friends... what a perfect way to enjoy a beverage with the ones you love...

The Picky Pair {Simple Morning Delights}

2011-07-18T11:49:00.000-04:00

toasted pistachio and honey yogurt

{poached eggs with bacon & toasted pecan pancakes}

serves 2

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup whole-wheat flour
5 teaspoons sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
coarse salt
3/4 non-fat buttermilk
3 large eggs
1/2 pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons butter, melted, plus 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1/2 cup pecans, toasted and coarsely chopped (about 2 ounces)
6 strips thick-cut bacon
pure maple syrup, warmed for serving
toasted glazed pecans, for garnish (recipe follows below)

{one}
preheat oven to 200°f
whisk flours, sugar, baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a large bowl; set aside
whisk together buttermilk, 1 egg, vanilla, melted butter, and 1 tablespoon oil; whisk into flour mixture;
using a rubber spatula, fold in chopped pecans; set batter aside

{two}
cook bacon in a medium skillet over medium heat, turning once, until crisp, 6 to 7 minutes per side; let drain on paper towels; transfer bacon to a baking sheet in oven to keep warm

{three}
heat 1 teaspoon butter and remaining teaspoon oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat; working in batches of 2, pour in 1/4 cup batter for each pancake; cook until small bubbles from, 2 1/2 to 3 minutes; flip; cook until golden brown, about 2 minutes; transfer to baking sheet in oven to keep warm

{four}
fill a small, high-sided skillet with 1 1/2 inches water; heat over medium heat until barely simmering; break remaining eggs into separate cups; pour eggs into water; cook, basting tops of eggs with the simmering water, until set, 2 to 3 minutes; using a slotted spoon, transfer eggs to a paper towel to drain

{five}
place 2 pancakes on each plate; drizzle with warm syrup; arrange bacon over pancakes, and place poached egg on top; drizzle with more syrup, if desired, and a sprinkle of salt; garnish with toasted glazed pecans

{toasted glazed pecans}

1/3 cup pecan halves
2 teaspoons lightly beaten egg white
1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
pinch of coarse salt

{one}
preheat oven to 350°f; toast pecans on a rimmed baking sheet, shaking pan occasionally, until fragrant, 3 to 4 minutes

{two}
whisk together egg white, syrup, oil, and salt in a small bowl; add pecans; toss to coat; toast on sheet, stirring occasionally, 8 minutes;
let cool completely

{images&credits:thisisglamorous}

The Picky Pair {Sunshine & Joy}

2011-07-15T01:42:00.000-04:00

"It is a fine seasoning for joy to think of those we love."

~Moliere

The Picky Pair {Happy Birthday}

2011-07-12T01:48:00.000-04:00

{Fell in love with this party favor and it is a must for our friend and her little Liza {Cherry} R. for her special birthday party today!!!} Happy Birthday to one sweet little girl :)!!!

The Picky Pair {Partners in Crime}

2011-07-11T01:25:00.000-04:00

Thinking of the 2 Seven year old's in our {PP} crew. How we love them so.

Inspired by Green + Yellow.

Lemon Handbag

Vera: The Art and Life of an Icon

Lime Coinpurse

Core Cider

Partners in Crime Print black eiffel

The Picky Pair {America the Beautiful}

2011-07-08T00:21:00.000-04:00

This print created exclusively for the Royal We by Oliver Jeffers. Each print comes with you pins so you can track the states you've been to and where you want to go... Perfect. Find them here for $120.

The Picky Pair {Loving the Holiday Week}

2011-07-06T01:41:00.000-04:00

The celebration of family and friends continues as we gather once again for a joyful time together. We have much to be thankful for.

The Picky Pair {Happy Fourth of July}

2011-07-04T00:06:00.000-04:00

The Picky Pair {WOW & a Wish}

2011-07-01T01:50:00.000-04:00

This modern cabin is called the Chicken Point Cabin and is located in Northern Idaho. Low maintenance materials were used and the space is intended to be a seamless extension to the natural setting. What a beauty! I can't get over that revolving wall of windows. It is designed by Olson Kundig Architects. (via the Contemporist)

Photos by Benjamin Benschneider

The Picky Pair {Summer Reflection}

2011-06-29T11:37:00.000-04:00

"The beginning of love is to let those we love be perfectly themselves, and not to twist them to fit our own image. Otherwise we love only the reflection of ourselves we find in them. "

~thomas merton

"The learn'd reflect on what before they knew."

~alexander pope

The Picky Pair {Lego Love}

2011-06-27T08:35:00.000-04:00

For the Loves of our lives...currently obsessed by all things LEGO... looks like the love might never end...{Hope the boy's and girl, in our lives will remember to always keep that spark of childlike wonder with them Forever!!!}

Love this clever Lego as brick work art by Jan Vormann. Found via honestly WTF

The Picky Pair {Pondering the Beauty}

2011-06-24T01:10:00.000-04:00

"A happy life must be to a great extent a quiet life, for it is only in an atmosphere of quiet that true joy dare live."

~bertrand russell

Photography is by the talented Chris Shipman and Kate Jones is the model who is also a jewerly designer.

The Picky Pair {Beauty in Giving}

2011-06-22T08:54:00.003-04:00

All the time I have been away I have found places of inspiration. The magic of Africa is one that once it captures your heart seems to never let go. Returning I have loaded my bags with a few special items for myself and friends. I have always enjoy receiving gifts acquired from other people's travel. Traveling abroad makes one "edit" in many ways... and the gift only shows the receiver how you continued to carry them with you while apart... It's the Romantic in me... {Happy To Be Back, with the ones I LOVE}

My Obsession has always been fabrics... I hope my {PP} enjoys a few of the lovelies I brought back with me... Next time we will make sure All of us enjoy the adventure of Africa. I look forward to the day I can share this part of my heart with her. LC

The Picky Pair {Classic Library}

2011-06-20T01:02:00.000-04:00

I Love the elements of a Library...I could spend hours discovering all the hidden treasures on each shelf.

The Picky Pair {Traveling}

2011-06-17T01:24:00.000-04:00

"The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page."

~Saint Augustine

The Picky Pair {Inspired by The Sun}

2011-06-15T01:58:00.000-04:00

On our way to the Equator!!! Naturally, I am Inspired by the Sun on this next leg of our journey. There is something so beautiful about a meal prepared with fresh ingredients, each meal has been a bountiful and beautiful experience. Seeing Africa through the eyes of {SHC} has been the greatest feast of all. What a priceless gift travel becomes, with the ones we love.

Asparagus Tart
1 disk Pate Brisee
All-purpose flour, for surface
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
8 ounces asparagus, trimmed
1 1/4 cups fresh ricotta cheese
4 thin slices prosciutto
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Roll out pate brisee on a lightly floured surface to a 10-by-15-inch rectangle. Press dough into bottom and up sides of a fluted 8-by-11-inch rectangular tart pan with a removable bottom. Trim excess dough flush with edges of pan using a sharp paring knife. Prick bottom all over with a fork. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, prepare an ice-water bath. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Cook asparagus until tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove with tongs or drain in a colander, and immediately transfer to ice-water bath. Let stand for 1 minute to stop the cooking process. Drain. Slice each spear in half lengthwise.
Line dough with parchment, and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake until edges are just golden, about 25 minutes. Remove pie weights, and bake until tart shell is golden brown and cooked through, about 15 minutes.
Spread ricotta over tart shell while still warm. Season with salt and pepper. Top with asparagus, and drape prosciutto over top. Drizzle with oil. Serve immediately.

Meyer Lemon Pastry
2 cups water
1 cup granulated sugar
6 Meyer lemons, thinly sliced
1 package frozen puff pastry (14 ounces), preferably Dufour, thawed
All-purpose flour, for surface
1 large egg, lightly beaten, for egg wash
Fine sanding sugar, for sprinkling
1 cup cold heavy cream
1/2 vanilla bean, split and scraped, pod reserved for another use

Directions

Bring water and granulated sugar to a simmer in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring, until sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes.
Cut out a circle of parchment the size of the saucepan. Add lemons, and cover with parchment. Simmer gently until lemons are soft and translucent, about 1 1/2 hours.
Remove lemons from syrup, and transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to an 11-by-14-inch rectangle. Lightly score a 1-inch border around edges using a sharp paring knife. Brush entire surface of dough with egg wash, and sprinkle with sanding sugar. Freeze until firm, about 30 minutes.
Bake pastry until golden, 22 to 24 minutes. Let cool completely.
Meanwhile, whisk heavy cream and vanilla seeds with a mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
Top pastry with lemon slices. Serve with vanilla cream.
{images:marthastewart}

The Picky Pair {Tribal Love}

2011-06-13T01:40:00.001-04:00

Hoping to Inspire my {PP} for the next phase of her home while I am away. I am certain the colors of the Tanzanian cloth I am surrounded by will be well received upon our return home with suitcases full with the colors and gems of Africa.

Headed out to the next adventure on this amazing family reunion in Kenya.

{Wishing MY LOVES a Beautiful Day}

The Picky Pair {Beauty in Travel}

2011-06-10T00:37:00.000-04:00

"A man practices the art of adventure when he breaks the chain of routine and renews his life through reading new books, traveling to new places, making new friends, taking up new hobbies and adopting new viewpoints." ~ Wilfred Peterson

The Picky Pair {Adventure}

2011-06-08T08:31:00.000-04:00

"Difficult times have helped me to understand better than before, how infinitely rich and beautiful life is in every way, and that so many things that one goes worrying about are of no importance whatsoever."
{Isak Dinesen}

The Picky Pair {To Africa With Love}

2011-06-07T00:46:00.000-04:00

"If I know a song of Africa, of the giraffe and the African new moon lying on her back, of the plows in the fields and the sweaty faces of the coffee pickers, does Africa know a song of me? Will the air over the plain quiver with a color that I have had on, or the children invent a game in which my name is, or the full moon throw a shadow over the gravel of the drive that was like me, or will the eagles of the Ngong Hills look out for me?"

~ Isak Dinesen {Out Of Africa}

{The Very First place I plan to visit once we land!!!}

KAREN BLIXEN'S Home, in Nairobi KENYA

The Picky Pair {African Adventure}

2011-06-06T01:02:00.002-04:00

"God made the world round so we would never be able to see too far down the road." ~Isak Dinesen

Looking forward to the next great adventure, it will take my family back to the most magical place on earth, The heart of Africa!!! I plan to document the beauty of the colors the joy of the people and the amazing landscape for everyone. My picky partner will be missed on this trip, but her entire family will join us for the next trip!!! Like the trip she takes to Capitola for her family reunion's, this return to Africa will be a reunion for me. An introduction for members of my family to the country and old family friends. The agenda includes some of the most spectacular game parks as well as the markets I frequented as a young girl.

{Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all. ~helen keller}

*Packed:leica M8 , FE New York by Fantas-Eyes Sunglasses , Eugenia Kim Max 8 Straw Fedora, Kenneth Jay Lane Peackock Feather Earrings, Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen, DV by Dolce Vita Morgan Sandals, Field Notes Journals, Aurora Asia Fountain Pen, Miu Miu Brown Lambskin Hobo, Kiona Silk Playsuit

The Picky Pair {Travel Ready}

2011-06-03T01:11:00.000-04:00

"I took the road less traveled by, and that has made all the difference."

~robert frost