Interior designer extraordinaire, Paul Mathieu first showed me a collection of these miniature pieces of furniture made from the cork covers of Champagne. We were visiting his client's house in Aix en Provence and these beautifully crafted pieces have stuck in my head. Viva la France!
Wonderful memories of the Stork Club. The legendary spot where the elegance of New York City flourished during the fifties, and sixties. So festive at this time of year; especially New Year's Eve. Paley Park now stands in its' place; a tribute by Bill Paley to the spot where much "Social" history was made.
This 1924 Lanvin dress inspired the pattern Brazil/Classic for my Sunbrella fabric collection. The interesting play of pattern in black & white has be interpreted for interiors in my textile collections available at Miles Talbott Furniture.
During our filming for the "Best of Italian Design" for HGTV, I was able to find a copy of the famous "red goblet" in a shop in Murano. This goblet was made famous in the delightful movie Summertime with Katherine Hepburn filmed entirely in Venice, Italy. If you have not seen this movie it is a must for those who love Venice as I do.
You can not beat the Cheese Souffle and the steamed Artichoke at Swifty's in New York. Have a side of mixed greens and this is heaven. Sorry they are having so much snow in New York. Don't miss the snow but I miss lunch at Swifty's.
We're enjoying our decorations during the holiday season. The tulips mixed with evergreens and small red carnations are at their prime and our tree still is fresh. The Sunbrella table skirt certainly performed with spilt gravy, ice cream and a spot of red wine. No worries. Enjoying the time with friends and family.
I enjoyed the movie "The Tourist." So refreshing to see a film totally shot in and around Venice. I especially liked the art direction and interiors which brought back memories of our filming for HGTV and "The Best Of Italian Design." I am always taken over by the beauty of Venice; one of the world's most romantic cities. Pictured next to me our producer, Drew Hallman (dark glasses) and to his right, my daughter Beth. If you love Venice, see the movie. 
Pictured on top, our visit to the Fortuny showroom and factory. I am pictured with members of the Riad family who now own the company. What a treat to visit this legendary fabric company in Venice.
So many wonderful memories of family Christmas vacations in Park City and Deer Valley, Utah and Beaver Creek and Vail Colorado. Nothing is more fun than being in a Christmas atmosphere, outside with plenty of snow. I cherish these wonderful times.
The preparations for the Christmas table are just finished and we will get ready for Christmas Day dinner with friends and family. Christmas Eve we traditionally celebrate at Church and dinner afterwards. The hydrangea from the garden seem to be just the right color for the buffet table.
The January issue of Town & Country Magazine takes the reader on a delightful tour of the new and old pastry shops of Paris. This is a great trip for anyone who loves these Parisian confections. Count me in!
If you "need a little Christmas" no one does it better than Christopher Hyland. This man can spin a fantasy of delightful Christmas decorations that can get Scrooge in the mood. Thank You Christopher for sharing via the New York Social Diary.
It may be raining here in California, but some of our stone animals are keeping the Christmas Spirit!
Hat's off to this amazing baker: Sarabeth's Bakery is the place to be anytime of the year but especially during Christmas to celebrate the delicious treats of this amazing woman. I especially like her new book. I will be gifting this beautifully photographed collectors item for any one interested in desserts. I have already given one to my daughter. I hope to reap the rewards. Thanks Sarabeth for a delightful collection of carefully selected recipes.
How delightful: "Christmas in France." The snow covering the ground during this period of time and the welcome of a crackling fire in a room filled with books, French antiques, fresh evergreen and good cheer. Joyeux Noel.
