Frieze Art Fair

I don't pretend to know anything about modern art but I will say that I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon tour of the Frieze Art Fair in Regent's Park. I thought I might share a few of my favorites and give you a chance to experience a little "culture". Our guide told us that this year's program of commissioned projects incorporates a number of unique viewpoints that demand a shift in viewers' perceptions.....I'll say!

Which one owns a famous New York Gallery?

My favorites.....

Here's an interesting concept, if you want to purchase this incredible Yacht as a vehicle for water sports, it will cost you £60,000,000 but if you want to purchase this gorgeous Yacht as a piece of art, it will cost you £160,000,000. Something about the honor of owning a piece of art, stay with me here!

I saved the best for last....a machine that will chew up your credit card and draw you a picture to replace it!

Chocolate groupies, pay attention

This week may very well turn out to be the best in your year, the next six days have been declared National Chocolate Week in the UK. From Dorset's Chococo to London's Rococo, Britain's best chocolatiers will arm themselves with spatulas and piping bags to reveal their skills. The article I read claimed that ~British chocolatiers have become the rebellious punks of the chocolate world, bending the rules and incorporating everyday products into their creations.

Yesterday Rob and I were exploring Borough Market (not many stalls open on a Monday!) and found this great little Chocolate shop called The Rabot Estate from Saint Lucia, West Indies. We were intrigued by the chocolate pasta.....

but even more by the menu: Savory Cacao Wrap - Duck Confit, Dark Chocolate, Dried Cherries, Coriander, Roasted Cacao Nibs, Creme Fraiche or Sweet Cacao Wrap - Hazelnut Chocolate, Cacao Whipped Cream, Roasted Cacao Nibs

It was just too exciting for us so we settled for the most delicious cup of hot chocolate! Cheers!

Visit the Dalmatian Islands.....

Clear, blue water, glorious pink sunsets.....

and a pure sense of a rich history influenced by many cultures. As we toured Croatia and Montenegro, we could see how much the war in 1991 cost the people in this area, our guide reminded us, "We are looking to the future, not focusing on the past. It is up to our generation to change things." It was truly a beautiful place to visit and the people were so welcoming.

Who will help me eat the pie?

What's not to love about my new French Kitchen Island with a beautiful marble top. It is exactly what I needed in my narrow kitchen and yet still feels open and doesn't block the view of the river. I love having the extra counter space and will fill up the bottom shelf in no time! While hubby and the kids watched football I christened the new island by baking an apple pie.... hmmm hmmm delish! Since it's post wedding, I think I'll have a slice!

Tucker doesn't seem to mind sharing his space at all!

.....top 10 details

1) The wedding map! (designed by ME!)

2) The favor - Long & Blonde Limoncello! (Home-brewed by Doug and Christy) 3) Green and white flowers with special purple butterfly and The Col's Wings!

4) The Beach Bonfire with s'mores!

5) Rehearsal on the lawn, rehearsal dinner and gift bags for the bridesmaids!

6) Up-do's and a special lunch prepared by Chef Rob and his Sous Chefs!

7) A front room in the Mansion where we could watch the guest arrive!

8) Cocktails on the Terrace watching an incredible sunset!

9) Friends and family!

10) Rick relaxing with happy memories!

Happiness!

Pictures have been floating around on facebook from the minute Christy and Doug said "I do"! So I have borrowed a few photos for my blogging peeps. The wedding weekend was perfect and we could not have asked for a more beautiful day on the Cape. I'm still tingling from pure joy and I'll bet Christy is still smiling on the sunny beach in Aruba. Enjoy a few of my favorites and as soon as the photographer gets the "official" website up, I'll let you know!

More to come!