Sunday mornings—there’s something special about them. A clean kitchen, soft jazz playing in the background, and the warm glow of a candle flickering on the counter. I’ve never considered myself a baker, but every few Sundays, I’ve started a small ritual: waking up early to bake something sweet (and easy) for my family. There’s something therapeutic about the process. It’s my quiet time; a moment of peace and connection, filled with the anticipation of warm and comforting fresh treats from the oven. I have actually made this a few times and I love it. Eyeswoon’s Apple Cognac-Cake Eyeswoon Apple-Cognac Cake - Recipe from her Cookbook INGREDIENTS 1 cup all-purpose flour ¾ teaspoon ground cardamom ¾ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon...
I’ve been eyeing that bottle of Limoncello sitting in my kitchen all summer, wondering what to do with it. The other day, while wandering through Trader Joe’s, I spotted a Limoncello Spritz in a can—it definitely caught my attention. I’d never had one before, and that’s when it hit me: why not make it myself at home with what I already have? It turned out so fun, refreshing, and honestly… dangerously easy to drink! Just build it all in a glass over ice and enjoy! Mocktail Version: If you want to skip the alcohol, a cold glass of San Pellegrino Limonata served over ice with fresh mint and lemon slices is equally refreshing. To make it feel like a proper Aperitivo Hour, I...
What are we chatting up with friends? Our latest favorite treat for girls’ night in or a cozy dinner party—conversation cards! They’re the perfect way to break the ice and spark unexpected conversations that keep the night lively and full of great moments. I keep mine by our little bar, and it’s always a hit while I mix up cocktails and set out some snacks. I also used it over the holiday season over Thanksgiving dinner! It’s such a simple yet fun way to bring everyone together. Definitely a must for the next gathering with family or friends! What are we eating & drinking together? A truly divine pairing: Avaline organic red wine and Trader Joe’s Portuguese donuts with chocolate...
One of my quiet little joys recently has been baking on Sunday mornings — something I’ve grown to cherish, even if it doesn’t happen as often as I’d like. Baking is still fairly new to me, so I’ve been exploring easy, no-fuss recipes that feel like a small win. This slow, quiet time has become a kind of self-care. I love the stillness of early mornings — the house is calm, everyone’s asleep, no gardeners, no cars outside. Just me, my first cup of coffee, sometimes a candle burning, and always a favorite playlist in the background, depending on my mood. This morning, I didn’t exactly bake, but I did put together something playful for breakfast, a fun little twist...
What are we reading? I can't put down my latest book, Out of Africa, written by Karen Blixen (under the pen name Isak Dinesen). It takes place in Kenya, where Blixen owned and operated a coffee plantation in the early 20th century. The book is a beautifully written memoir, capturing her deep connection to the land, her relationships with local communities, and the challenges and enchantment of life in East Africa. It truly transports you to a different place and time – it's absolutely wonderful. I can’t wait to see the movie after. What are we snacking on? Kale Chips! Perfect for a healthy bite that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Just remove the kale leaves from...
