thelionsdenstudio's Profile

Hosting with my boyfriend, for the third year in a row, for 20 of our closest friends. Most of us are a few years out of college and it's really exciting to have our own homes and start our own holiday traditions instead of just going "home," although I plan it for Saturday for those who do both. :)

It can be stressful, but is so worthwhile. I recommend prepping dishes days in advance and even freezing things that you can just put in the oven before guests arrive. Especially if you have a tiny apartment kitchen with no counter space!

*the

I live in Santa Barbara, this trend is not limited to Northern California.

I got rid of my Macbook and now only have the Ipad. Seriously.

For some reason this really seems to upset people and I often find myself defending the decision. This calms them down (sometimes):

1) I work in a cubicle in front of a computer all day, I have internet access, and don't want to be on a computer when I come home.
2) After getting an Iphone, about 6 months ago, I realized I rarely used my laptop.
3) I live with my boyfriend who has a MacBook Pro, which I can use if I need to. (Almost never, so far just for Etsy posts.)
3) I always used to use my laptop while laying on the couch, watching tv, and unwinding after the gym. The Ipad is much more comfortable for this application and doesn't overheat from sitting on a pillow.
4) Portability is not really an issue, but friends often assume that's why I downsized and demand to know why I didn't just get the MacBook Air. I'm a girly girl with a professional job. IF portability were the issue, I would want something that fits in my purse. The MacBook Air is completely useless to me, I am not going to use a backpack or a briefcase. I don't care how flat it is, it's huge.

@jsev -exactly what I was thinking

Agreed, the rule is definitely 2 lbs per person! Last year 16 lbs of turkey was not enough for 12 people. Granted I have more than a few guys over 6' tall, in their mid 20s on my guest list, but I also have a few vegetarians (like myself). I'd rather have leftovers for guests to take home than not enough food!

Cast. Iron. Griddle.

Have patience.

I'm pretty sure any cast iron pan would revolutionize grilled cheese making, but after tasting the difference, the Le Creuset griddle I purchased no longer seemed so ridiculously expensive. It will never leave my stove top.

caprese salads
caprese sandwiches
pesto
bruschetta
I need basil. Of course it's a staple.