Happy new year all!
Did you have a nice rest?
Eat?
I didn't do anything other than what is expected of the season.
My brother has become a well versed cook which is a long way from a few years ago when he asked how to make a cup of tea.
The pink ramekin is lined with cocoa powder and the blue ramekin is lined with sugar and he says that it rises more evenly.
The pink ramekin is lined with cocoa powder and the blue ramekin is lined with sugar and he says that it rises more evenly.
He has come a long way although he wasn't impressed with me when I said his souffle tasted more like chocolate fondant.
But all of us laughed over playing Cards of Humanity.
It is an amusing game which isn't as cutthroat as Monopoly.
I gave myself a present and got one of MaiTia's shawl pouches to put in your bag so it doesn't pull when mixed with other items.
I gave myself a present and got one of MaiTia's shawl pouches to put in your bag so it doesn't pull when mixed with other items.
I also got a book I had my eye on which I am still pouring over.
Meg from Pigtown Design is a star because I put my name down for a giveaway the Washington post editor was doing for this House and Garden issue from the 90's and Meg sent it over to me and that has been such good entertainment value.
Thanks Meg!
It was so nice not to have traffic in town and driving around with Millie was such a joy. It makes you want to actually go about London and get out there rather than having that dread of facing traffic.
The Christmas decorations were on the sombre note this year.
The best uplifting one was done by Cartier and they do this on most of their flagships - an oldie but a goodie.
The best uplifting one was done by Cartier and they do this on most of their flagships - an oldie but a goodie.
I must be getting older because I am loving these Bvlgari wraparound watches.
These are limited editions in all sorts of colors.
These are limited editions in all sorts of colors.
I used to think they were slightly "old lady" but now that I am getting there myself as if on cue I want one hehe.
Didn't ask the price but I bet that workmanship doesn't come cheap.
Went for a quick drink at St Martin's Lane hotel.
It was so avant-garde in the 90's...
Its claim to fame was that Samantha's gorgeous boyfriend in SATC with the blonde tresses was discovered here while working as the doorman.
It was so avant-garde in the 90's...
Its claim to fame was that Samantha's gorgeous boyfriend in SATC with the blonde tresses was discovered here while working as the doorman.
I wish I could make these dahi puris which are puffed biscuits that you pour the liquid in and eating it is so much fun. But lately I am not in the cooking mood and one of my new year resolutions is that I need to cook more the way I used to.
I realized that home made beats most things on the supermarket shelves because I have now had the pleasure to try
Chronica Domus' famous marmalade.
Chronica Domus' famous marmalade.
Just the way I like it - slightly tart and sweet all at once.
I even got to meet her too!
We chatted so much with such ease and was such a pleasure to meet someone through the blog I would have otherwise not probably met.
I even got to meet her too!
We chatted so much with such ease and was such a pleasure to meet someone through the blog I would have otherwise not probably met.
I have done a lot of lazing around but was super busy watching the latest buzz called Making a Murderer on Netflix.
I will not be the only one annoying you and nagging you to watch this 10 part documentary.
It is a must watch and even if you aren't into documentaries I warn you now that you will be left out of so many conversations.
It's not just me but every publication out there is obsessed about it.
Then I followed up with the Jinx which was a HBO special and equally blew my mind.
These had such an impact on me I am even toying with the notion of going back to law.
But I probably won't and will just bore everyone senseless talking about it.
But I probably won't and will just bore everyone senseless talking about it.
Hope you have a fantastic 2016! x
I guess I'm heading to be an old lady because I also want one of those watches! So lucky to meet CD I bet that was so fun. Very happy you had some quiet times with Millie over the holidays and well done as far as your brother cooking.
ReplyDeleteWe've been away at the ski chalet where it was so quiet and peaceful, we've discovered Scout loves the country life and she can't wait to get back there.
The thing about a career in law that is tough is that it's not an either/or, I imagine it's very difficult not to work about a gazillion hours a week at it.
Wishing you a really wonderful New Year and I'll be following through on your book/netflix recommendations because you never steer us wrong XOX
Ski chalet sounds marvellous except with this weather my brother complained that his skis are now ruined because he forced "ski" runs going over rocks. This warm weather is rather useless because it's not like I can go swimming or anything. But at least I got to spend time with Millie! yes part time in law here means 9 to 6 pm! I don't particularly want to sleep in the office bunk beds so might reconsider the thought! Hope you enjoy the docos. Happy new year xx
Deleteoh this is what one calls a lot of good news - nice news. Nice break from the ACTUAL news! Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteCan't bear actual news either...Wishing you a happy 2016 AD!
DeleteSo pleased that you like the book! It's got some classic looks in there and some that are a bit dated. BB is the best! xo
ReplyDeleteYou don't know how chuffed I was about the BB book and the magazine issue! xx
DeleteWe have Cards Against Humanity. Must be a bit different because your "boner" card is very tame...not sure I would photo the cards we have. Can you see the watch part easily from the snakes mouth? Anyhoo, so glad you are enjoying the holidays. May the new year offer you many adventures. Much love.
ReplyDeleteThere were some corkers but they were too much for this space!!The watch part only turns up if you want so it looks more like a bracelet. It's funny how time passes and I love things I would never have though I would like - brown furniture is another ;P Happy new year BB x
Deletelove every word and picture on this post!!! Happy NY from the beach! I hope you cook more and drive more too xxx
ReplyDeleteIt's finally turned here and crispy cold! Have as much fun for the rest of the year as you are on the beach! xxx
DeleteHappy new year Naomi. I love reading your tales xx
ReplyDeleteWe are just on our way back from NZ. Flying visit to Mike's family xx
HNY Cilla!! Have a safe fight and wish your dreams come true in 2016 xxx
DeleteI love those watches. I've been to a couple of Bvlgari sample sales in NYC and have a couple of nice pieces as a result but nothing so swish as those watches!
ReplyDeleteI think law is like investment banking, which was my old stomping ground. I asked if I could do it part time a few years ago and was greeted with blank and slightly angry stares! I have lawyer friends working on the edges of law now that have quite excellent lifestyles, however.
How fabulous to meet Chronica. I love bloggy meet ups!
We played that same game over the holidays. Always fun to see how outrageous one's friends can be!
I hope you have a happy start to the new year. xo
I wish they did Bvlgari sample sales here! I wish I could just find a flexible gig dipping in and out but I still don't know how to detach so well which was my downfall and why I couldn't stay.
DeleteCDomus has such a wide range of interests so rather easy to talk to like an old friend which is a niche bloggy phenomenon on? Hope to meet you one day! Happy new year Jen xx
Going from Doorman to SATC boytoy is more like a court marshal than being 'discovered'.
ReplyDeleteYou really are living well gallivanting with The Beacons of Budapest and now the charming CD.
Ha!!
DeleteThe Hattats and CD are the top echelons though and I doubt everyone is quite like them!! Happy new year GSL and good luck with your book.
Oh, um, does Millie have her hands, er, I mean her paws on the wheel? If so, that is totally awesome and I love her even more for it...
ReplyDeleteCheers to the Years!
GF - remember this is the UK so it was my husband driving and i was with Millie on the passenger seat! :)
DeleteYep, yep, I understand, but you have to admit the idea of Millie driving the streets of London is certainly an intriguing one...
DeleteYes, full-time performance on part-time hours -- that's ideal for the firm! BTW, I'm going to try that sugar instead of cocoa powder technique your brother so wisely introduced here. Still don't like those Bvlgari snakes even though I consider myself already old! Will definitely get on the bandwagon and watch both of those shows you recommended. Happy New Year, dear Naomi! Love your posts! Best, Emily :-)
ReplyDeleteI could also go in just for the office gossip and lunches and leave too if that was an option hehe. Those snakes are niche but oddly I hate snakes so can't understand why I like these. Thanks so much Emily and wishing you all the best for 2016!!
DeleteHappy New Year to you, Naomi. I love going to London in that deadish week between Christmas and NY. Not quite sure why everyone disappears from London, but anyway, doing anything at this time becomes a total joy. Like living in 1956 or something. Are the Bulgari watch bracelets not massively heavy? They do look very lovely in a Duchess of Windsor type of jewellery way. I am a big fan of enamelling and yes, I think I would also be able to detach them from the idea of snakes quite easily. Very sadly, it's unlikely I'll need to make the effort anytime soon. The marmalade looks good, too. Lucky you with homemade as a present: it always disappears very quickly when we have some (can't always say the same about chutney....). The idea of City employment is not always the same as the way it feels in reality is it? I am very glad I don't have to work for a big firm anymore.Xs
ReplyDeleteYes apart from Selfridges the streets are empty and you don't have to book. It's so livable. Homemade jams are oddly such a luxury isn't it? all the time imbued when you could have been watching netflix! yes i am now old enough not to romanticize too much :) Happy new year Sue x
DeleteI adore YOU and your humor.THAT MAGAZINE will have an Editor's article by D.Browning......NO?I adored her writing she wrote a few garden books as well..........now she has a blog SLOW MOVE LIFE??Does not post often as she is working hard for MOM's CLEAN AIR ACT.I subscribed to the magazine just for her LETTER's!
ReplyDeleteAs for those bracelets..........NO!NOT YET FOR ME!
The CARTIER building to SWOON FOR..................
Yes, home cooking is the best and so worthwhile.......amazing how many people buy prepared foods and shovel it down.What happened to enjoying what one puts in one's mouth?Looks like your brother figured that one out!
HAPPY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
XX
I heard there is a limited edition of House and Garden right now in the states. do you know? The red ribbon on the building works in every city I see it in and is somehow always fresh.
DeleteI need to be inpspired and cook again but the problem is that I live near so many restaurants!! Happy new year to you too Contessa xx
NO< but if there is I will TRACK DOWN and mail to YOU!STAY TUNED........go read my AURA READING on the blog today!I found it FASCINATING!
DeleteHappy New Year! Oh that marmalade must be so delish! I am addicted. I have been trying NOT to watch The Making of a Murderer, now I suppose I will have to! Right there with you because I love, love those cuffs!
ReplyDeletexoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
New Years Thoughts!
Happy New Year Naomi. Well it sounds like you did do exactly what is expected of us at this time of year: shop, eat, watch telly, read and play games.....lovely! I don't know what age you class as 'old' but i certainly wouldn't be saying no to those watches either. I remember I wanted to be a lawyer when I watched LA Law - I'm not sure why I changed my mind! xx
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year! Totally spoiled in Sydney by our wonderful DIL who made fabulous meals and had been Christmas present shopping for me for almost the entire year! So funny, we both bought the same pool toys for the girls - they now have two huge blow-up pink flamingos and a giant white swan - plus so many other things.
ReplyDeleteHard to come back home and begin cooking again - though I did make an old fave, Julia Child's tomato quiche a la nicoise, which is always yummy. Still have a bottle of Bolly to tap that's waiting for G to recover from a dreadful dental emergency on New Year's Eve and root canal therapy today.
Have such a phobia about snakes - could never even think of wearing those Bulgari bangles. Would freak me out. Luckily can't imagine G ever buying one as a present.
Sydney seemed very busy despite the hols (though traffic fairly light) - lots in the shops for the post Christmas sales - and at the wonderful Scottish Great Masters exhibition at the NSW Art Gallery. Our son loves his Netflix - but we couldn't find many movies we liked - only the House of Cards series which we binge watched 11 episodes. Family couldn't understand why so tired the next morning. Canberra at this time of year is dreadfully quiet - lots of cafes/small restaurants close down for weeks from Christmas till well after New Year. Next week the annual National Bridge championships are on here and so will be catching up with old friends and rels who take part. Luckily by then most places will have re-opened. Pammie xxx
So is G back today? Good to know its ok now then!
DeleteThe pool must be very lily pulitzer eh?
Snakes freak me out but oddly this doesn't scare so it must be the sneak of diamonds?
I have to say I don't really watch movies anymore BC I don't see his I'm to care about characters I just met for almost 2 hours at best. I need a marathon to get into it so I think technology has changed our tastes. Gosh I took a course of bridge lessons but I still play it like poker! I am terrible needless to say xx
G is a lot better - but still on antibiotics so that Bolly remains unopened. Soon!
DeleteThe pool is great fun! With the swan and flamingo - and surrounded by palms and tropical shrubs it's very Sydney.
We go to the cinema a lot - specially film festivals - but don't watch many movies on TV. G keener on docos and the business news.
Can just see you playing bridge like poker! So funny! I used to play social bridge with girlfriends one morning a week when we lived in Colombo. But have never played seriously so my cousins wouldn't even consider playing with me. The husband of one of them took a kind of mature gap year when he was in his twenties and travelled the world as Omar Sharif's professional bridge partner. He had a ball then went back to normal life, emigrated to Oz and met my cousin at a bridge tournament here. There were also several blood relations in my family who were national bridge champions - but it didn't pass on to me. I'm dreaders.
On the subject of the law - have you watched any of the Judge Deed series? I always find these so interesting - though second time round all the bureaucracy's efforts to get him do get a bit tedious. Used to have a bit of a thing about him until I saw the UK Who do you think you are? when he was the subject. The actor himself seemed rather a sad depressed guy who appeared to be living a rather lonely life alone, so unlike the irrepressible naughty old judge. Pammie xx
I have t seen it but will see if it's on Netflix or Amazon. It's shows like the doco or the good wife with a nice resolution that makes it seem enticing.., meanwhile in real life the case I worked on back in 2001 is still plodding along to nowhere it seems.
DeleteProblem with bridge is that like tennis you have to find someone who's slightly ever do better than you otherwise it's not a good sign when I'm getting frustrated st my partner. I knew I had to quit when I practiced online but even strangers didn't want to ply with me!!!
Happy New Year to you, Naomi! Finally returned State side yesterday and still high upon a cloud from my jaunt to London. Of course, a particular highlight for me was meeting you. I believe that was coffee session was a personal best being as it lasted into the wee hours of the afternoon. But, they do say time flies when one is having fun and is in such jolly company.
ReplyDeleteThanks again for the memories. Now, onto other things such as that delish looking souffle your brother conjured up. Well done to him!
By the way, we did manage to indulge in a few gee and tees made with Sipsmith anda bottle came back home with us. It was everything I had hoped it would be. Thank you for the encouragement to try it.
So glad you are safe and sound and can't wait to see what you got up to!!
DeleteYou need to come up with a few cocktails! By the way I have now added the marmalade to the sauce for fish and it works sooo well. In fact too well I'm running out fast. Might need to make some Roth your recipe!
Just read The Bucolic Plague about a couple who move between the country and new York. One of them works for Martha so they see her a lot and its an amazing insight into her. The best scene is when they go to her annual peony party which is perfect in every way but all the staff is whining and moaning and picking holes in it.
ReplyDeleteI adore the quiet period between Christmas and mid January. It's as though everyone has left town for the purpose of letting me have the city to myself. It's delicious. Where does everyone go?
ReplyDeleteI need to watch that!
ReplyDelete