The Edit No. 21
Back from Charleston, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, a lovely lavender syrup...
Happy April and happy Spring, friends! I’m feeling refreshed and rejuvenated since welcoming the new season. And honestly still coming down from an inspiring trip to Charleston— where a good portion of my time was spent hearing from some favorites in the interior design world. So very grateful to have had a bit of business mixed with pleasure in one of my favorite American cities. But more so, I’m feeling thankful to be back in this space! Let’s get to it, shall we?!
MAKING: I’ve been delving into homemade pizza for our weekly Friday night pizza party (FNPP) tradition. The key is for me perfecting the dough, after all it is the foundation for all the heavenly goodness. I came across this recipe— it’s really good and quite easy to follow. Also, seriously taking into consideration of investing into a pizza stone.
ORDERING: I’ve been hearing all good things about the matte lipsticks from Merit. Thinking Classic (a neutral) and Antibes (a soft peach) need to arrive at my door step.
READING: Still in a reading rut, but I did come across this interesting article. And if there truly is a pastry cult count me in! Actually, I hereby start the US chapter, and with the amount of croissants I consume I announce myself as the cult leader. Now accepting applications!
TESTING: As you probably know by now, I take coffee very seriously around here. Cold brew has been my method of choice lately and I’ve been testing out this bottle. The verdict: so far it’s been, hands down, the best way to make cold brew and so easy to use. The night before, I simply add my grounds to the mesh filter, cover with water, and the next morning voilà! And in case you're curious, Lamill is my current choice of coffee. It’s so good!!!
WATCHING: Officially watched of all the British crime/historical dramas— or at least all the ones that appeal to our taste. I’m finding life a bit dull without spending the evening with all my favorite across-the-pond characters. Alas, life does go on… Currently searching for something worthy to watch and when I do I’ll be sure to report back. Although I think I may have found it…
If you’ve been following along, you know that when it comes to interior design I shy away from color and lean into more neutral tones— but that doesn’t mean I can’t have an appreciation for homes filled with a rainbow of hues! And when it comes to color, the British have a keen eye for all shades. Rita Konig is the perfect interior designer to illustrate just that, as she is all about using rich tones and textures to create the most beautiful lived-in spaces.
Her farmhouse in County Durham, North Farm, is completely doused in vibrant hues from fabrics to wallpaper. It is a home that really draws you in, leaving you full of curiosity and wonderment in the best possible way. There is something about it that is simply inviting and comfortable even for those like myself who are more color apprehensive. Will I be adding a plethora of dazzling tones into my own home anytime soon? More than likely not, but I am inspired to expand my horizons ever so slightly.
Photography by Paul Massey via House & Garden
There is a running joke in our home that wherever there is a drink collection that is where you’ll find me. Always at least three… coffee, smoothie, and of course water. I just can’t help it— I like to sip and savor each one! And with the weather warming up, I’m sure a fourth will be added *wink*. Having said that, I’ll be sharing a few new drinkies (the non-alcoholic variety) in the upcoming weeks.
While this edition of the RECIPE is not necessarily a beverage, it is something you can definitely add to one. Inspired by a latte from one of my favorite coffee shops, I chatted about over here, my lavender syrup is one you’ll be creating a bevy of beverages around… and then some. Sweetened with honey, gently simmered with lavender, and infused with vanilla— it’s simply lovely.
But please don’t just limit lovely lavender to coffee or sparkling water (or your next cocktail), this syrup pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream and your morning yogurt too!
Lovely Lavender
*makes about 1 cup
what you need
1 cup water
3/4 cup honey
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
3 tablespoons dried lavender
1 tablespoon vanilla
what you do
In a small sauce pan, add water, honey, sea salt, dried lavender.
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring until the honey dissolves.
Continue to simmer on low for 15 minutes.
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and let mixture rest for about 30 minutes, allowing time for flavors to infuse.
Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve, into an airtight container, pressing down on the lavender to squeeze more flavor into the syrup.
Serve over yogurt, in sparkling water, drizzled over ice cream, or my favorite, a tablespoon (or two) into your coffee.
Note: It keeps, refrigerated, for a month or so… but if you’re anything like me it probably won’t last that long.
xx,
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