A Harbor View Event

This past Saturday, my husband and I attended an event benefitting Boston's Camp Harbor View.  It's a summer camp that gives city children the opportunity to escape their urban environment to experience fun summer activities like swimming, hiking and crafts.  The camp's programs are geared to build confidence and leadership skills that will empower the children throughout their lives.  Located on Long Island (in the Boston Harbor), the camp has open fields, wooded trials and sandy beaches all of which can be safely explored and enjoyed.  To learn more about the program click here.

The event was beautifully executed in a classic New England style.   Red and white boat-wheeled tablecloths, tightly wrapped blue gingham fabric and exposed wood tabletops set the tone for the dining hall.  Take a look at a few photos.  (Keep in mind my new 50mm camera lens was being tested for the first time...)

Thanks to NM and GM for inviting us to share in celebrating and honoring a truly wonderful Boston program:  Camp Harbor View.

Beer Walls and Beer Glasses

During a recent trip to San Diego I had the pleasure of drinking some really good beer at BLAH (Blind Lady Ale House).  I'm a beer drinker, it took me some time to realize that, but I really enjoy it.  So when I was faced with a wall of vintage beer cans I just had to take a photo.  I would have taken more but I had beer to drink.

This ultra cool pizzeria and brewery is both kid and pet friendly.  Upon entering, we were greeted by a family dog (only in Cali).  Large rustic tables flanked by benches offer the perfect place to set down a pie and a couple of beers.  Take a look at a few other "beer" photos:

The glass the beer is served in is just as important as the beer.  See a few of my new favorites.

Inverted pint:  Alessi

Eco-friendly glasses produced from empty wine bottles.  Available at Canoe.

Pre-chill this textured mug for a truly refreshing beer.   Available at Crate and Barrel.

What's your favorite beer?

Delightful and Dangerous: The Punch Bowl

Celebrate this holiday season with a punch, a  punch bowl that is.  This historical way of serving cocktails is making a big come back and David Wondrich's book "Punch" tells of its delights and dangers.   Take a look at some bowls that are deserving of becoming the main attraction at any party.

I love the shape of the 14-piece liberty punch bowl set.

The cheers punch bowl has an art deco look.

Crate and Barrel's 10-piece set is simple and elegant.

Vintage milk glass punch bowl from Esty.

When hosting your next party consider using a punch bowl.  It's an easy way to serve a delicious cocktail to a lot of people without being tied up at the bar.  It really does free one to chat and mingle with the guests.  Be forewarned, the ladle is very easy to pour and your guests will be in a holiday 'spirit' rather quickly.  To see photos of a recent party I hosted , due in part to a great find at a second hand store, go to Cocoon's Facebook profile.

Celebrate!

Black and Gold: The New Table Standard

Black and gold table accents can add drama and elegance to white/light wood tables.   I've found a few great items to dress my table for the holidays and hopefully yours as well.

Dahlia placemats add texture to your settings.

Sleek and elegant with a gothic twist:  Almoco Flatware.

Tom Dixon's etch candleholders can be locked together to create a centerpiece that gives off masses of warm light and interesting shadows to your table.

Dazzle dinner plates at Crate and Barrel

Ikea's wood pepper mill acts more like a sculpture than a mill.  Sure to add interest to any table.

Love the ease of a caddy for offering guests welcoming shots.  I know many friends who would absolutely LOVE this.  Find it on Esty.

Quick Post

Whenever  I have a play date or a a birthday party the muffin pan comes into use.  Its a great way to serve several kid friendly snacks without having too many bowls out.  You can combine dips, veggies, and crunchies all in one pan.  Easy  to assemble and a cinch to clean.