Chicken

Lightened Up Chicken Korma

I absolutely LOVE Indian food. There are no Indian restaurants where I live here in Telluride, CO. so my best bet when I crave it is to make it myself. The great thing about cooking at home is that you can control the ingredients you use. Chicken Korma can be a pretty heavy dish, but I’ve lightened it up here without losing any flavor at all! You will likely have most of these ingredients in your home, but they are easy to find if you don’t.

Click HERE for recipe details.

~ Marla Meridith

Baby Shower

Blueberry Pie Cookies

Raise your hand if you love summer for all the fresh, fruity pies you get to enjoy! I just love this time of the year…all the fresh berries beckon. Instead of baking up a pie, how about a blueberry pie in cookie form? These Blueberry Pie Cookies are so delicious and I dare you to try eating just one! The good news is, at least 1-3 cookies are a lot less calories then indulging in an entire pie! If you don’t have blueberries on hand you can sub in raspberries, peach, apple, blackberries, plum or anything you desire.

Click HERE for recipe details.

We are completely smitten with these Blueberry Pie Cookies. This recipe is great for entertaining and it will assure you don't eat the entire pie!  MarlaMeridith.com

~ Marla Meridith

Travel

Bucket Lust List: Top 10 Luxury Hotel Pools to Visit in the USA

If you’ve started to dream up your summer hotel travel plans then this post might inspire you to get booked today.

There’s nothing like a dip in a refreshing pool in the heat of the summer. Whether you crave the desert, a pool next to the beach or a city retreat there is something to splash in for all. Summer vacations should be easy, with plenty of relaxation at your fingertips. These 10 pools are located at the finest hotels and resorts…so while you dive in you can expect all of your needs to be well catered to.

photo credit Enchantment

Enchantment Resort | Sedona, AZ

If you’ve never experienced Sedona then this is how to do it! Enchantment is a secluded spot in Boynton Canyon with an ever present Native American history. Every moment spent here is enchanting and enlightening. You are surrounded by red rocks while enjoying the peace and quiet of nature. Take advantage of the Mii Amo spa while you are here in paradise.

photo: Jetsetter

The Raleigh Hotel | Miami Beach, FL

Located in the heart of South Beach on Collins Avenue, this iconic grand dame hotel is know for it’s old world art deco glamour. Not to mention, it’s on 100 feet of prime beachfront property. The pool is splendid and has it’s own unique history, built in 1947, it is the place to be and to be seen in SB.

photo credit: Trends + Travel

The Amangiri | Canyon Point, Utah

Amangiri also known as the “peaceful mountain” will beckon you while in it’s protected valley. At the pool you will enjoy sweeping views over ancient, colorful, stratified rock towards the Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument. While there, also experience the spa which aims to reflect the healing traditions of the Navajo through the four elements of earth, wind, fire and water.

photo credit: Dream Downtown

Dream Hotel | Downtown, NYC

Just because your are staying in the hustle bustle of the Big Apple doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some pool time. This boutique hotel will wow you with a glass-bottomed, roof top swimming pool. While lounging (or swimming) indulge in some delicious cocktails and don’t forget to show off that stunning swimsuit.

photo credit: Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods | Colorado Springs, CO

Soak in this infinity pool while gazing over million-year-old rock formations…that beckon you to hike. Unless you just want to splash splash around instead. 14,155 foot Pike’s Peak is prominent and for the record it’s the highest summit of the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains.

photo credit: Marla Meridith

Gateway Resort | Gateway Canyons, CO

Whenever I can, I make a pit stop in Gateway in the Palisades region of Colorado. This resort will wow you with spectacular natural views, and the pool is situated right in the heart of pure red rock majesty. While there, also check out the car museum, home to one the most inclusive private collections of the American automobile. The resort was built by John Hendricks, founder of the Discovery Channel and Discovery Communications. If you are an ever inquiring soul, then this place is for you. Here’s my post to learn more about this spectacular location.

photo credit: Shutters on the Beach

Shutters on the Beach | Santa Monica, CA

When visiting LA it’s a top priority to spend time at the pool and on the beach, Where better to do this than Shutters. This luxury beachside hotel will pamper you in every way. Relax in a cabana with
full poolside service. And as they say “Of course, if you prefer the bigger pool, it’s located just beyond the sand.” Shutters is located near everything you could want to do in sunny Los Angeles…shopping, food, cafes, bars and of course, the beach!

photo credit: The Biltmore
photo credit: The Biltmore

The Biltmore | Miami/Coral Gables, FL

Escape into classic luxury at this hotel built back in 1926. This is one of the largest pools in the continental USA, measuring approximately 23,000 square feet. That means there is plenty of room to spread out Don’t forget to reserve your private cabana too. These are pimped out cabanas with flat screen TV’s, lots of room to lounge. And of course, the most attentive staff that will cater to your every need.

The Joule | Dallas, TX

This pool literally hangs over the city of Dallas! It’s unreal what technology and awesomely enlightened designers can come up with. This neo-Gothic 1920’s landmark hotel was renovated in 2007. Classic meets modern throughout. Inside the hotel you will be swooned by World-class art, award-winning food, craft drinks, and plenty of cozy nooks to read that book you’ve been wanting to dive into!

photo credit: SLS Las Vegas

SLS Las Vegas | Las Vegas, NV

There are three pools to choose from at this gorgeous Las Vegas boutique hotel. Choose from the Foxtail, Retro or Grand Pools. You can book a cabana ahead of time at each of them. At each rooftop pools you will find excellent cuisine, librations and entertainment. Each of the three towers at this hotel has it’s own unique personality…I’m sure you can find something to suit your every wish and whim.

~ Marla Meridith

Recipes

Greek Salad with Salmon and Creamy Feta Dressing

For the busy week ahead, it’s best to make sure that you have some great meal ideas at the ready. In my house we absolutely LOVE this Greek Salad with Salmon and Creamy Feta Dressing. It’s so healthy and crazy delicious! If there’s a cuisine that’s at the top of my list it’s Greek/Mediterranean food. This salad combines so many great flavors and will knock your socks off.

The Creamy Feta Dressing is out of this world and can double as a dip for veggies or even chicken wings!

Click HERE for recipe details.

For a super healthy, delicious and gluten free meal you have gotta try this Greek Salad with Salmon and Creamy Feta Dressing recipe. The dressing can also be used as a dip for veggies or wings! MarlaMeridith.com

~ Marla Meridith

Fashion & Beauty

The Best Lip Plumpers & Glosses

When it comes to my make up kit there are a few essential elements that I can’t live without. Lip glosses and plumpers are at the top of the list. There are a few rules of thumb I always follow…and all of these products that I’ve tested are among the best I’ve ever used.

My 3 essentials when it comes to the best formulas:

They need to be long wearing.

Weightless, non sticky shine.

Very moisturizing!

Here’s a video I made demonstrating these fab glosses and plumpers…

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer Plumping Gloss

If you are looking for a whole lot of something fabulous look no further than this lip plumper/gloss combo. Eight shades will keep your lips bathed in high shine with maximum volume. This formula contains spheres of hyaluronic acid for powerful hydration and a volume-maximizing effect. $34 each

Fenty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer

Expect mega watt shine with these lip luminizers. This gloss in three shades that flatter all skin types. With a delicate scent of peach-vanilla it’s almost like a taste of a sweet little dessert every time you put it on! $18 each

DIOR Addict Lip Glow Color Reviving Lip Balm

This lip balm enhances your natural lip color and leaves your lips smooth, fresh, full and radiant. It comes in Original, Holographic and Matte Glow. My fave is the Holographic with an iridescent tint. Comes in six colors $34 each

Sephora Ultra Shine Lip Gel

These ultra shine glosses come in 33 juicy shades. This gloss has plenty of shiny light reflecting properties and is not at all sticky. Also a great price! $12 each

Anastasia Beverly Hills Lip Gloss Minis

This set includes four new, fully pigemented shades that are free of sulfates SLS and SLES, parabens, and phthalates. Colors include Diamond, Citrine, Pearl, Pink Tourmaline. These glosses are also vegan and gluten-free. A great value at $25 for the set!

Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme

This lip plumper will keep your lips very hydrated while offering maximum glossing power. It has both immediate and long-term results with scientifically-proven, advanced lip-volumizing technologies. A great layering gloss too! There’s a tingly sensation when you put it on for about 10 minutes…I love it! $28

Charlotte Tilbury Collagen Lip Bath Gloss

This rosy pink gloss delivers essential moisture for the healthiest looking lips. The formula helps to hydrate and enhance lip volume, defining the contours of your lips and creating a fuller, firmer-looking appearance. Made with great ingredients including coconut oil, mustard sprout extract  and marine collagen. $35

MAC Lip Glass

I’ve been a fan of these MAC glosses for years now. It comes in so many shades and you are guaranteed to find one you love. Great for layering and awesome staying power! $17.50 each

~ Marla Meridith

Fashion & Beauty

Summer Trendsetter: Having Fun with Temporary Hair Tints

It’s the season for temporary tattoos, whimsical clothing, accessories and easy breezy hair color. Now that my hair is lighter, it’s fun to play with sprays and wash in colors…without having any commitment to anything long term. There are lots of fun colors out there, just read the directions carefully before you apply. I like my color super subtle, so I applied this Kristin Ess Rose Gold Temporary Tint in the shower to my wet strands and only kept it in about 60 seconds. I then rinsed and towel dried and styled as usual.

So what makes these tints special are the unique and playful hues and the fact that they wash in and easily wash out, typically after a wash or two. Make sure that when you are playing around with wild colors that you don’t have anything planned that these colors wouldn’t work for, as they can take a few washes to return to your natural color. These are all meant to be short term colors…if you need something longer then look for semi-permanent or permanent colors instead.

Here are some favorites to choose from…

It's the season for easy breezy hair color. Now that my hair is lighter, it's fun to play with temporary tints...without having any commitment to them sticking around. These colors wash in and easily wash out, super fun to play with this summer! MarlaMeridith.com
I love this Rose Gold Tint by Kristen Ess at Target $12
So many colors to choose from in this conditioning color treatment by Keracolor $22 each
Arctic Fox comes in many colors and is very easy to use. Mix with white for softer shades. Vegan and cruelty free $12.99 each
These sprays by L’Oreal is perfect for spray and play! $7.39 each
Head turning color wash color by Viral come in vivid and pastels. $35 each
Here’s another Colorista formula by L’Oreal that’s fun to try. Mix and match colors at your whim.. This one is a cream, not a spray like the version above. $6.59 each
These Eva NYC hair sprays are infused with Argan oil, this salon-quality formula instantly delivers optimal anti-breakage benefits and commitment-free color! Pink, Purple and Blue $10 each

~ Marla Meridith

Berries

Vegan Raspberry Steel Cut Oatmeal

With the start of a brand new week it’s nice to have a healthy breakfast to look forward to! We love this Vegan Raspberry Steel Cut Oatmeal for any day of the week. The great news is, you can plan ahead and make it the night before so everyone has a delish meal to wake up to.

Click HERE for recipe details.

~ Marla Meridith

Fashion

Mother’s Day Weekend: 20% off Everything at Anthropologie

Ok, I don’t usually talk about sales here on MM…but this one is way to hard to keep to myself! I absolutely LOVE Anthropologie. The boho-chic styles are so fun, especially in the warmer months. I also appreciate that they have sizing for all. Most styles are available in standard, petite and plus sizes. This makes things way easier with less guessing whether or not your favorite items will fit.

Not only do I love their clothing, but the housewares at Anthropologie are amazing too. I like to order mismatched items for the whimsicality of it and because I love to use them eclectically in my food styling.

So hop to it! I was working on a cart and the pieces I wanted were going as fast as I was ordering them.

Here are some of my favorites you can shop right now…

Flirty floral dress (Gal Meets Glam collection @Anthro) & Golden Goose booties

Last Minute Gifts for Mother's Day that Mom will Really LOVE! MarlaMeridith.com
Pink Hat & Blouse
One of my absolute favorite dresses of the season!
I love the criss-cross details in the back of this dress!

~ Marla Meridith

Fashion

Last Minute Mother’s Day Gifts

If you are anything like me then maybe you do things kinda last minute. There’s still some time to get those gifts shipped or brought over to your mom. Here are some great last minute ideas that are sure to let mom know how much you love her. I would love any and all of these…hint hint!

Last Minute Gifts for Mother's Day that Mom will Really LOVE!  MarlaMeridith.com
Pink Hat & Blouse both from Anthropologie
1. Give mom the warm & fuzzies with this super soft robe! $99
2. This sweet ring is a constant yet subtle reminder of your love for mama. $45
3. This fresh grapefruit scented candle will burn bright in any room of the house. $64
4. Monogram necklace for MOM. $58
5. Even if you don’t remember these Nikes, your mom likely will! They come in many cool color combos. $70
6. Give mom that all-natural, safe sun glow with this Glowgasm makeup kit by Charlotte Tilbury $75
7. All mom’s need a little Coco in their lives! $105
8. Furry Ugg Slippers: Mom will walk on a cloud when she wears these. My mom and daughter just got pairs and are smitten with them. $99
9. Maggie Louise chocolatier does it again with this adorable vanity box of chocolates! $48
10. Protect mom’s skin this summer with this awesome pale pink ranchers hat. It’s one of my favorites this season. $68
11. Around here there are never enough cozy throw blankets…I love the distressed denim look of this one. $99
12. I’m sure someone got mom flowers for Mother’s Day…besides, doesn’t she deserve them everyday?! Those pretty blooms will look great in this painterly pitcher. $58
13. No matter what mom’s monogram is, there are beautiful soaps for her! $9 each
14. Wine glasses: Because you know how many times you’ve driven your mother to a glass (or two) of vino! Set of 4 $48
15. Even mom needs a pair or rose colored glasses and these are beauties by Tory Burch $155



~ Marla Meridith

Breakfast

Bacon, Egg & Cheddar Cheese Breakfast Casserole

I really don’t think anyone ever have enough great breakfast/brunch recipes handy. This Bacon, Egg & Cheddar Breakfast Casserole certainly needs to make it to the top of your list. Not many ingredients are required to get this hearty, tasty casserole on your table. The only thing you need to be patient about is the baking time!

Serve this up for Mother’s Day brunch or any time at all. The perfect dish for potluck get togethers too!

Click HERE for recipe details.

~ Marla Meridith

Travel

10 Best Glamping Spots in Colorado and Utah

Photo credit: The Conestoga Ranch

Well howdy! As we fully immerse ourselves into the warmer weather it’s fun to start planning those summer getaways. It’s a smart idea to plan ahead as the best places book up very quickly. If you really enjoy time outdoors, but also luxury (and showers!) then glamping might be for you. Have you ever glamped? It’s amazing! A great way to be out in the wilds, but still get all the creature comforts you know and love. Glamping isn’t only in tents..the offerings have gotten very creative out there! Covered wagon anyone?

10 Best Glamping Spots in Colorado and Utah! MarlaMeridith.com
Experience the great outdoors with lots of pampering when you go glamping! Outfit link.

Included in this post are my top picks for Colorado and it’s neighboring state Utah. It’s a hop, skip and a jump from one state to another. So if you want to explore a few of these options over the course of a week that would be fantastic! Oh the things you will see along the way. Natural beauty galore!

Something to also consider is a National Parks annual pass for only $80. This gives you access to all the NPS parks for one singular fee of eighty bucks. A sweet deal, considering most parks charge an entrance fee of $30 for a daily car pass. I just bought my pass, an I know it will offer me lots of sweet inspo to get out there on more road trips.

Wondering who to glamp with? These properties have all kinds of arrangements to choose from. Some can accommodate families, others are more intimate for couples. Maybe make a girls trip out of it. The skies the limit!

10 Best Glamping Spots in Colorado and Utah! Marla-Meridith.com
Once you visit Moab, Utah you will be hooked!

Moab Under Canvas: If you love the idea of the high desert and the most stunning red rock formations then Moab, Utah is a must. It’s a hot spot for all kinds of adventures including hiking, mountain biking, rafting, horseback riding and star gazing. These tents will have you begging and booking another trip next year!

Stay in a stylish wagon at the Broken Spur in Torrey, Utah
10 Best Glamping Spots in Colorado and Utah! MarlaMeridith.com

Broken Spur in Torrey, Utah: Be a pioneer! Stay in a very well-appointed Conestoga Wagon, reminiscent of the wild west. These wagons are exact replicas of the original big wagons used by the pioneers as they crossed the prairies, traversed mountains and colonized the American West.

While there, visit southern Utah’s stunning canyons. And the property is just minutes away from incredible national parks and forests. Capitol Reef National Park and Boulder Mountain are both just a short drive away.

The Gypsy Wagon at the Avalanche Ranch

Covered Wagons at Avalanche Ranch in Redstone, Colorado: Here you will have breathtaking Colorado country views and the ranch offers you great proximity to the hot springs. My favorite of the wagons is the colorful, boho-chic Gypsy Wagon, though I’m sure you can’t go wrong with any of them!

The Ranch is the perfect base camp for hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing, paddle boarding. There’s also massage, yoga and plenty of yard games available.

You are well covered in these beauties in Granby, CO.

Arapaho Valley Ranch in Granby, Colorado: These 3 Canvas military tents on wooden decks will treat you with views overlooking the lake. Each has a private fire pit so you can cook like a cowgirl. Granby is only 85 miles northwest of Denver and 14 miles southwest of Rocky Mountain National Park. So that means you can quickly leave the hustle bustle of the city and within 2 hours be soaking in mountain bliss.

Granby is home to views of the Continental Divide, National Forests, the Colorado and Fraser Rivers, and Lake Granby which is the 2nd largest body of water in Colorado.

10 Best Glamping Spots in Colorado and Utah! MarlaMeridith.com
Collective Retreats handles everything, so you can unwind and relax!

4 Eagle Ranch in Wolcott, Colorado: Go with the more spacious and secluded Summit tent or the more rustic, communal setting Journey tent. No matter which option you choose, you will be more than thrilled and very pampered. Each of these offerings are through Collective Retreats. This company specializes in creating memorable experiences in iconic destinations. This glamping experience would be booked through Collective Retreats.

The 4 Eagle Ranch is located near the ski resort Vail, Colorado. So you can get your dose of the chic Vail lifestyle as well. Embrace everything the Rocky Mountains has to offer at this property. From horseback riding, to paintball and even wine tasting. The offerings are great here and the views even greater!

At the Conestoga Ranch in Bear Lake, Utah there is no detail forgotten.

Conestoga Ranch in Bear Lake, Utah: Choose from Royal and Grand tents or a selection of covered wagons. The accommodations are absolutely gorgeous! You will stay plenty busy or not…all up to how active you choose to be. Around Bear Lake so many grand adventures await including hunting for fossils, caving adventures, hiking, horseback riding and plenty of water sports as well.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Milky Way from your retreat at Basecamp 37˚

Basecamp 37˚ in Kanab, Utah: Wozers! This place is glamping on steroids. Take some time to view the Milky Way from this pristine location. Soak in the high desert sun and just be. Kanab is located on Kanab Creek just north of the Arizona state line.  The natural beauty of Kanab is astounding. With scenery ranging from coral pink cliffs and sand dunes, volcanic craters and lava flows to deep canyons, majestic mountains and plains. Don’t forget to visit the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument while there.

How beautiful are these teepees in Capital Reef Resort?!

Wagons with a view!

Capital Reef Resort in Torrey, Utah: Once again we end up back in Torrey, but for so many great reasons as this area is the hub for so much nature. These luxury teepees are decorated in traditional western furnishings that will make your trip to the Red Rocks all the more authentic. Private bathrooms are just steps away. There are also Conestoga wagons on this property should you want to go that route instead.

Explore Capital Reef on a llama if you wish! That’s the kind of adventure you might never stop talking about.

10 Best Glamping Spots in Colorado and Utah! MarlaMeridith.com
How exotic and fabulous are these bubble tents?!

Bison Peak Lodge at Puma Hills in Lake George, Colorado: Here you have an epic array of lodging choices. Choose from a tipi, bubble tent, wagon or tree tent. The most glam being the tipis and wagons. But the bubble tents are pretty extraordinary too! Full stargazing from those beauties.

Staying at this property offers visitors all kinds of summer activities from gold panning, archery, hunting, hot air ballooning, fishing, hiking and so much more.

Find yourself in a comfy Airstream surrounded by nature in Moffat, CO.

Red Cloud Ranch in Moffat, Colorado: Just because you don’t own an Airstream doesn’t mean you might not dream of staying in one! This 34′ Avion is located on a 40 acre ranch. Pristine settings surround you hear.  From the front porch, enjoy views of the entire Sangre de Cristo mountain range, from Poncha Pass to Mt. Blanca. 

The camper assures that you will be uber-comfortable. It offers heat-on-demand, sleeps four adults, has a working refrigerator, hot water and shower, three burner stove, fully functional toilet and booth-style seating plus sofa. All you need for a great stay in Moffat.

Have another glamping spot you love? Let me know about it in the comments. XO

*all photos in this post are credited back to the individual properties…other than the photo of me, taken by me.

~ Marla Meridith