What tastes better than decadent Cream Cheese Frosting? It’s darn great licked off a spoon (or mixer paddle) super on cupcakes, cakes and frosted cookies. This recipe comes together in just 3 minutes. You are guaranteed to be thrilled with the results! Stay tuned for a delicious chocolate cupcake recipe I’ll be posting soon. Even though frosting is great on it’s own…it’s even better paired with chocolate!!
Click HERE for recipe details.
I have collected & worn moto jackets for a long time. They are pretty much always in style, but this fall they are showing them everywhere! I’m thrilled that I can wear my collection proudly. There are so many playful colors and styling to choose from, many different price points too. If you don’t have a moto jacket you need one…If you have one you might be tempted to get another for variety. They also come in many weights and materials. I love classic leather, but you can find eco-friendly styles, denim ones and so much more!
Scroll through this post, hover over the styles for the price and online stores to buy.
Classic black jackets & Leggings: Takara
Metallic jackets
Whenever we are out at any Asian restaurant the first thing we order is a great big portion (or two) of pan-fried potstickers. We usually order chicken, but veggie, shrimp and pork are great too. With this amazing recipe, we can enjoy Ginger Chicken Potstickers right in the comfort of our own home. It takes a little while to fill the dumpling wrappers, but it’s almost like a kitchen meditation. A great project to do with your friends or kids.
Click HERE for recipe details.
I have to say that this has been one off my all time favorite summers. It’s been action packed with heaps of fun every single day. I’m gearing up for my cookbook launch, playing lots of golf, hiking a whole bunch with my pups Moose and Bo and I’ve been experimenting in the kitchen as often as possible. I love that we can make all kinds of delicious no-churn ice creams. No fancy equipment is necessary other than a stand or hand mixer to whip the cream. In just a few hours you can have the most amazing ice cream..get those spoons and scoops ready. My recipe for Blueberry Swirl No-Churn Ice Cream is out of this world!
Click HERE for recipe details.
More ice cream recipes you need to try…
As most of you have probably figured out by now I’m obsessed with the mountains. I love them so much that I moved my family to Telluride, Colorado 5 1/2 years ago. No matter what the season, the majesty of the highest peaks thrills me. There are endless adventures at the ready, every single day. Whether you visit the mountains in the winter, spring, summer or fall…you are guaranteed a life changing experience. These mountain getaways are some of the finest out there. Hopefully you too can soon visit these 10 Luxury Mountain Hotels That You Have to Visit!
Chateau Lake Louise: Alberta, Canada
A few years ago I had the opportunity to visit the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, I was attending the Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival. I was blown away by the views, hiking, impeccable service and the rustic mountain cuisine. My spacious suite was high in the sky and overlooked the the majestic Victoria Glacier and glistening lake. This premier hotel is located in glorious Alberta Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a year round luxury mountain resort, so plenty of seasonal opportunities for you to book a stay.
Read my post on this hotel here.
Tucked away in the the glorious Kingdom of Bhutan you can find the lodges of Amankora (part of the uber chic Aman resort collection.) With open plan accomodations, you will feel at one with the beautiful natural surroundings. The cuisine is a mix of Bhutanese, Western and India dishes. There are 5 lodges spread across the country…72 suites total. You can stay in one lodge or sample a few, when you book they can custom tailor your trip preferences. Aman resorts are know for their wellness programs, at this location services & treatments vibe perfectly with Buddhist and mountain traditions.
Gstaad Palace: Gstaad, Switzerland
The elegance of Switzerland always swoons and beckons me back for a visit. Gstaad is an iconic ski resort with the Palace being the crown jewel…surrounded by the glorious Swiss Alps. The resort has all the amenities a 5-star resort has to have and then some. This is Swiss perfection at it’s finest. The guest rooms and service will have you feeling like royalty. There are indoor and outdoor pool options (outdoor is open in the warmer months) and a very well appointed 1,800 square meter spa.
La Perla: Corvara Alta Baldia, Italy
I visited Hotel La Perla a few years ago when I went on a trekking tour of the Italian Dolomites with the Ryder-Walker tour specialists. The entire trip was epic and spending a few nights at La Perla was definitely a highlight. Nestled next to the Dolomite Superski area and tucked into the beautiful Tyrolean town of Corvara.
My room was gorgeous, decorated thoughtfully with antiques and a mix of modern amenities. This is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, so standards are set at the highest rank. I enjoyed a massage at their spa & I would highly recommend you make this a part of your stay too. Dine at the hotel restaurant as much as you can. The food is locally sourced & delicious, there is a beautiful garden on the property. We celebrated my birthday there, which was an unforgettable treat.
Hotel Jagdhof: Stubaital, Tyrol, Austria
This Relais & Chateaux spa-hotel is surrounded by the tallest, most picturesque mountains in Austria. The hills are alive here no matter what the season! Located in the Stubai Valley, this family run hotel takes great pride in their genuine Tyrolean hospitality. The JSPA is 3000 square meters dedicated to wellness. The hotel’s Vitality World offers 20 different bathing, relaxation and sauna experiences. This is something no one should ever pass up!.
Badrutt’s Palace: St. Moritz, Switzerland
St. Moritz is the epitome of Swiss luxury and Badrutt’s Palace is the most iconic hotel in the area. This was the first resort in St. Moritz, built as Mr. Badrutt’s place to entertain his friends in the summer. After seeing how the winter was just as fun as the summer, he invited everyone back. This launched winter sports & skiing in St. Moritz. The rooms & suites are old world glamour with modern amenities. Your luxurious comfort is their first priority. There are eight Palace-Restaurants, three bars the King’s Club (a nightclub) and a giant wellness and sports center. There is also an indoor & outdoor pool. You don’t even need to leave the hotel! But you will certainly want to take in all the Engadin valley has to offer, so stepping out will happen at some point!
Read about my stay at Badrutt’s Palace here.
Blanket Bay: Glenorchy, Otago, New Zealand
They call this the ultimate alpine escape for so many reasons…first of all, while at this rustic-luxe mountain escape you can fulfill so many adventurous dreams. You are just moments away from fly fishing, horseback riding, hiking, heli-skiing, golf and a special wine and arts trail. Enjoy the award winning New Zealand wine grown in the Otago region both at the hotel and on the trail tour. There is a fine dining restaurant and beautiful spa with heated lap pool.
You can also charter a private helicopter tour to spectacular Milford Sound and Fiordland. You embark on this two hour helicopter experience on the lawns of Blanket Bay. They will show you the best of everything, from the highest peak, Mt Tutoko, to the coastal fiords and glaciers to waterfalls.
The Little Nell: Aspen, Colorado
If you want the very best of Aspen, Colorado then book a stay at The Little Nell. Located slopeside on Ajax mountain, this hotel will cater to your every need. I have stayed there a couple of times and now I feel like family every time I return. The staff is so attentive, always greeting you by name and anticipating everything you could ever want. I even brought my two dogs Moose and Bo this winter and they were treated like royalty! Rooms are spacious, beautifully designed and super comfy. There is plenty of closets to bring a big wardrobe which you might want for the glitzy Aspen scene. The hotel is steps from the finest boutiques & restaurants.
There are two restaurants in the hotel: Ajax Tavern (slopeside) and Element 47. Be sure to experience both of them. Dishes are creative and ingredients are locally sourced. These are the places to be seen & to fill up your belly before or after a big outdoor adventure.
Read my two posts: Weekend Getaway at The Little Nell & Refined Taste and Style
Arakur Ushuaia: Southern Patagonia (South America)
They say a visit here will be etched in the memory of it’s visitors…one glance at their website and you will see why! The hotel is designed with sustainable resources and architectural design that showcases nature. Arakur Ushuaia is situated 800 feet above sea level, surrounded by stunning panoramic views, native forests, natural terraces and green areas harmoniously integrated into the environment. You can enjoy Argentine and international meals at the restaurant “La Cravia”, there is also a piano bar that highlights flavors from Tierra del Fuego and a pool bar. Rooms are contemporary, light and bright.
Arakur Ushuaia is located inside the Natural Reserve and close to Mount Alarkén’s summit. This is a dream location for nature lovers and explorers. You can reserve a guide trekking tour, wildlife watching and photo tours. In the Southern hemisphere winter, there is skiing close by at Cerro Castor.
Last but certainly not least we need to venture to the French Alps. Book an ultimate mountain getaway at Altapura in Val Thorens. Situated slopeside, this 5-star retreat is located in the famous French Les Trois Vallées, the highest altitude ski resort in Europe. This is also the largest ski are in the world…so it’s safe to assume you will be kept very entertained! They call this hotel a Ski Palace, designed in a beautifully appointed nordic style. You might never want to leave this cozy mountain cocoon…but then again the great outdoors awaits! Check out their Cocooning Suite for the ultimate mountain luxury.
In your room & at the spa you will find my favorite bath and beauty products by Pure Altitude (the spa is the same name) The wellness center combines pale wood paneling and ice blue glass blocks that echo the color scheme of the alpine slopes, pure tranquility! Something you can’t miss when there: Head to the “Nordic spiral”, a course alternating wet and dry heat, punctuated with waterfall showers and ending in the Ice Igloo.
The entire hotel collection by Maisons & Hotels Sibuet is very impressive. It’s on my bucket list to stay at all of them…starting at Val Thorens.
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of BUSH’S® Beans. The opinions and text are all mine.
As you guys already know, I love to feed my family super healthy meals with lots of delicious flavors. I like to keep recipes simple for me and you. There is no need to spend heaps of time preparing a meal when you use the best ingredients out there. I know you will love these Mexican Pan Seared Salmon Kabobs served with a tasty side of BUSH’S® Black Bean Fiesta™. This is a belly filling meal that is perfect for summer entertaining or for the family table. They only take 20 minutes from prep to serving!
It’s a treat to work with brands I love and I’m thrilled to share this savory BUSH’S® Black Bean Fiesta™ with you. They are already seasoned to perfection, so that means you have less prep and cook time. All you need to do is heat and eat! I top mine with a confetti of diced yellow bell pepper, fresh cilantro and some red onion. That adds color and a bit of extra flavor and texture too. The beans are already seasoned with chipotle sauce and combined with corn & peppers. They are truly delicious!
BUSH’S® Black Bean Fiesta™ pairs perfectly with my grilled salmon kebabs. I marinate the salmon for just 15 minutes in a homemade Mexican spiced marinade. The spice blend includes mild chile powder, ground cumin, cilantro, oregano and lime juice. Those fragrant ingredients are mixed with olive oil and white vinegar. This marinade can be used on so many other proteins too. Try it on chicken, beef, shrimp, halibut and anything else you can dream up.
If you are into spicy foods then you can add some heat to these beans, they are mild so great for folks who don’t want the extra heat.
This meal is as beautiful on the eyes as it is delicious to eat. Enjoy!
Be sure to follow BUSH’S® Beans on their social channels too. They post all kinds of great recipes and creative ways to use their ingredients.
Click HERE for recipe details.
Looking for Insta worthy photo ops? If you are (and who isn’t these days) then you have got to travel to Telluride, Colorado. In our mountain paradise, there are endless places to take in the views and capture them in the most amazing photos. If you are planning a trip, or even if you live here, there is something you need to experience. My daughter and I were invited to have dinner at Telluride Sleighs and Wagons. This is an adventure I’ve been looking forward to for a long time. We immediately jumped at the chance to go. Tucked in the San Juan Mountains in Aldasaro Ranch you will have breathtaking views everywhere you turn.
When you book a reservation it includes a gourmet rustic dinner. There are two seatings: a 4:30pm Family Ride and a 7pm Sunset ride. You will need to book ahead of time, so make sure you add that to your to-do list if traveling here. I promise you every bit of this experience is worth it. Leela and I were there for the Family Ride…
Bring the kids, go on a romantic date or even go alone. It’s family style seating once you get there, so you can expect to have lively conversation no matter what. You can book trips throughout the year, they make sure you are cozy and warm no matter what the season.
You meet your scheduled group on Colorado Ave. (Main St.) in the Town of Telluride. From there you are driven to the family owned Aldasaro property where you meet your wagon or sleigh.
A pair of stunningly large Finnhorses trot you away to the tented dinner. These horses are gentle giants and sure know how to pull a wagon of hungry mountain folks. We fell in love with them immediately. We also couldn’t keep our hands off the adorable pups on the ranch…
When we got to the tent site we were greeted by Ashley, a lively local (and personal friend) who explains her family’s colorful history on the ranch. She explains the flow of dinner and like magic a large charcuterie plate appears. Hungry guests dive in and there are ohhhh’s and ahhh’s around the tent. The adults are poured delicious wine and the kids indulge in hot chocolate.
Chef Graham serves up rustic dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The food is absolutely delicious. You can see the current menu on their website for more details. Locally sourced ingredients are used whenever possible.
The dining table seats 12-14 people, the tent is kept warm with a wood burning fire place.
This creamy Curry Tumeric Roasted Butternut Squash Soup was belly warming and worthy of every decadent spoonful.
We loved the generous, well-balanced entree..acorn squash, pureed parsnips, Colorado lamb and braised baby carrots.
We couldn’t pass up this Mountain Berry Bread Pudding with Palisade Peach Ice Cream!
The entire staff takes great care of you with big smiles and gratitude for where they get to live and work.
When you visit the mountains it’s special to have authentic experiences that really take advantage of the beautiful setting. This is one you can’t pass up! Be sure to follow Telluride Sleighs and Wagons on their social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can easily make reservations online.
If you love to try unique cocktails then I know you will enjoy these Smoky Watermelon Jalapeño Margaritas! This drink is all about cooling down on steamy summer days. It’s fruity, refreshing, spicy and smoky (from the Mezcal) It covers all the bases for a whole lot of tasty fun! You can adjust the spiciness to taste, use as much jalapeño as you wish.
Click HERE for recipe details.
I absolutely love Mediterranean cuisine. So much so that I’m dreaming of a trip to Greece, I’ve not been there in a few decades…so clearly it’s time to go back! This recipe for Beef Kofta Kebabs with Cucumber Salad & Tzaziki Sauce takes you to the Greek islands no matter where you live. Protein packed, healthy and filled with flavor, this meal goes from prep to ready in just 20 minutes. This will become a go-to in your home too!
You can either grill the kebabs or make them in a skillet, since the meat is so well seasoned…either cooking method tastes great. Serve as a main course or appetizer.
Click HERE for recipe details.
Have any air travel coming up soon? If so, you need to be equipped with these essentials in your purse or carry-on. Let’s face it, it’s super fun to travel to far away lands, but getting there can be a bit hectic. The great news is, traveling on an airplane can be tolerable…even fun & relaxing. In order to maximize your travel experience here are some travel tips: In-Flight Essentials all these items I can’t live without.
1. Hair Ties: I love these hair ties & using them will help keep you from that awful airplane bedhead! Kitsch $9.00
2. Refreshing Facial Spray: There are many great sprays out there to help you stay refreshed. Choose a scent you love. This one is a favorite of mine: Coconut Water spray by Herbivore $16.00
3. Facial Moisturizer: Skin needs all the help it can get to stay hydrated on long flights. This Clinique Moisture Surge 72-Hour Cream will help you out big time! One ounce $19.00
4. Moisturizing Overnight Face Mask: You can sleep in this wonderfully moisturizing face mask. No need to even rinse it off! Look like a million bucks even when you get off that red eye flight. Jet Lag Mask by Summer Fridays $48.00
5. Compression Socks: The moment I board a plane my shoes come off. These compression socks are great for long flights, they help with blood flow and circulation. That means less cramping and swelling. They come in the cutest patterns too! by Newzill $14.99 per pair
6. Tea for Relaxation and Sleep: A great way to help you unwind and stay hydrated is with all natural herbal teas. I love this Honey Lavender Stress Relief Tea by Yogi $3.39
7. Facial Cleansing Clothes: These disposable wipes are everything when you want to freshen up your face before, during and after your flight. Purity by Philosophy $10.00
8. Lip Balm/Salve: When it comes to protecting your lips from the dry air, this Rose Salve by C.O. Bigelow® is an essential $5.50
9. Oversized Scarf or Pashmina: There are so many things you can do with a scarf on an airplane, I have used mine as a pillow, head wrap and blanket. Those overnight journeys can get super cold! Halogen® at Nordstrom Anniversary sale item until August 5th $132.90
10. Eye Drops: Natural saline drops are wonderful for perking up tired eyes and for making sure they don’t dry out on long hauls. Systane Lubricant Eye Drops $14.96
11. Coloring Book, Colored Pencils and Sharpener: I always find flight time to be a great place for creativity. With limited distractions and time to focus on things you might not regularly do. Escape To Calm Adult Coloring Book Set With 24 Colored Pencils And Pencil Sharpener $5.49
12. Books and Magazines: Is there a novel you’ve been dying to read? Now is the time. Long flights mean it’s time to focus! Grab your favorite magazine and book and catch up on that reading. Girl’s Burn Brighter by Shobha Rao $13.99
13. Antibacterial wipes: Wipe a cleansing cloth all around your arm rests and tray table. You will feel way better about the flight once you handle the cleanliness of the journey! 6-Pack $11.88
14. Noise Cancelling Headphones: Want to drown out the unwanted sound of those jet engines and ambient noise? These headphones are worth the investment and will help you get that much needed relaxation and sleep. This is the most expensive thing for your travel essential kit, but it will serve you well year after year. Bose $349.00
15 & 16. Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Keep your breath and pearly whites feeling their very best with the Radius Tour Travel Toothbrush $6.27 and C.O. Bigelow Marvis Toothpaste $7.50 for .84 ounce
17. Silky Sleep Mask: Turn off the lights, even if they are shining brightly with a soft & silky sleep mask. I love this one by Slipsilk™ $45.00
18. Large Disposable Shower Sheets: OMG….these individually wrapped sheets are everything when you need a quick shower-less shower. Yuni 12 pack $15.00
I have such a great love for scones…the crumbly texture swoons and I also like that they are typically not too sweet. This recipe for Chocolate Chip Buttermilk Scones is built for perfection. It’s got the perfect ratio of flavor, chocolate and buttery crumbles. Using buttermilk in your baking helps to add to that moist, flakey texture we all seem to love so much. These come together quickly. Great for grab and go breakfasts, brunch and afternoon snacking.
Click HERE for recipe details.
More delicious recipes for scones you need to try:
I know the story well: I packed my kids a delicious lunchbox and it came back home untouched! We fear and dread this moment. Then we hear that they ate their friends PB&J instead of what we packed. It’s time to change things up when it comes to school lunch!
With Back to School around the corner it’s time to think about what to pack in those lunchboxes to have meal time success. It’s a bit daunting, but at the same time it’s best to be well prepared. Back to school can be overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be. The more helpful ideas you have at the ready the better you (and your kiddos) will feel during those first few weeks. If you and your kids get into great healthy, habits early, then then more likely you are to keep them throughout the year. These 18 Lunchbox Meals Your Kids Will Love to Eat! are some of my kids favorites and readers favorites too as gathered from my Pinterest boards.
If you have bigger kids, then these meals can be prepared by them. If you have little ones, they might love to be your kitchen side kick. Wee ones can help you pack their lunchbox and they will thrill more in eating lunch knowing that they helped you put it together.
My kids gobble up this Pesto Tortellini Salad..best thing is it tastes great cold or at room temperature.
DIY Lunchables with Salami and Cheese: Don’t buy those prepackaged lunches when you can make your own with way higher quality ingredients.
We love these roll-poly mozzarella balls and bet your kids will to in this Caprese Pasta Salad.
Chipotle Black Bean and Cheese Taquitos: My kids always order these at Mexican restaurants, so what better than to make them at home to put them in the lunchbox!
For those on a gluten free diet, or if you just love quinoa try this Quinoa and Veggies Lunchbox Power Salad.
Every bite of this Spring Pasta Salad with Asparagus, Bacon and Feta will swoon. Chop all ingredients to the same size for maximum flavor!
This Quinoa Salad with Chicken, Chickpeas, Kale and Bacon is protein packed, gluten free and so delicious!
This Summer Pasta Salad is healthy and jam packed with lots of fresh avocado.
If you are anything like me, then you love to grill! This Grilled Greek Chicken Pasta Salad is a protein packed, full flavored lunch.
This Cheesy Green Rice & Chicken Casserole is a favorite of my kids and proves that kiddos can love green food!
I was shocked when my kids took a liking to marinated artichokes and olives super young. The passion has only increased through the years and they love this Mediterranean Salad Platter. Place each of these ingredients in a separate lunchbox compartment and don’t forget to pack the pita chips!
This Asian Chicken Salad is restaurant worthy and even better in the lunchbox. Put the dressing on the side so the greens stay crispy.
We gobble up these Lit’l Smokies Pretzel Wrapped Hot Dogs no matter what the occasion…even tastier when at school!
All kids (and adults!) love mac and cheese. This recipe has sliced mini hot dogs in it too! Lit’l Smokies Grilled Hot Dog Mac ‘n Cheese
One-Pot Meatballs and Veggie Tortellini Soup keep this delish soup hot in a thermal container.
Rustic Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons: Serve the soup in a Thermos and the croutons in a separate container. Watch the VIDEO too!
Lamb Kofta Tacos: Serve each part in separate containers and your kiddos can put their own tacos together at school!
Kale, Bacon and Cheddar Quesadillas: Get those healthy greens in alongside that bacon and cheese.
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
