Ideas for relaxed, beautiful living — because this season deserves to be savored
A Simple Summer Happy Hour on the Patio
Little Italy Spritz
A few ingredients, one gentle stir, and a glass that catches the light just right — this is my go-to spritz for evenings that don't need to be fancy to feel special.
Shrimp Sambuca — An Easy Little Italy-Inspired Shrimp Recipe
A favorite shrimp recipe shared by my brother Greg — buttery, flavorful, and pretty enough to impress without feeling fussy. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping, or spoon it over pasta for an easy Little Italy-inspired dinner.
Escape the Heat: A Weekend in San Diego
A slow coastal San Diego getaway with waterfront walks, the USS Midway, Balboa Park, Hotel del Coronado, Little Italy, and two recipes to bring the weekend home.
Escape the Heat Series: Prescott, Arizona
Escape the Arizona summer heat with a Prescott getaway featuring Courthouse Plaza, Whiskey Row, public golf, Watson Lake, a Grumpy Sicilian-inspired pizza recipe, and Karen’s weekend checklist for an easy trip.
Golf is Hard. We Still Keep Coming Back.
Golf humbles you, frustrates you, and keeps you coming back for more. A few thoughts on why we love it anyway — plus a golf day checklist and a couple of favorites worth having in your bag.
What I’m Watching for On Prime Day
A short, curated Prime Day watch list focused on things we already buy, restock, or replace — coffee, kitchen basics, beauty favorites, guest room essentials, and a few practical home finds worth watching.
A Summer Night with Rod Stewart
A summer concert in Arizona, a little musical memory lane, Richard Marx opening the night, Rod Stewart taking the stage, and a Maggie May Mule to make the evening feel like an occasion.
A Verde Canyon Railroad Escape: Cooler Weather, Bloody Mary’s, and an Old Arizona Kind of Afternoon
Looking for a cooler Arizona escape? Join us aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad for stunning canyon views, a relaxing afternoon ride, and a Bloody Mary worth savoring along the way.
Summer Evenings on the Patio
Soft lighting, simple food, good music, and warm summer nights outside. A few easy ideas for creating a relaxed patio atmosphere at home — because summer evenings are for the Birds.
Lunch on the Greens: A Relaxed Golf Course Dining Experience (and How to Bring It Home)
A relaxed afternoon at Springfield Golf Resort— where a simple lunch, a beautiful view, and an easy pace come together. A look at Arizona golf course dining and how to bring that same feeling home.
Mother’s Day Brunch Ideas (That Feel Thoughtful, Not Overdone)
A simple Mother’s Day brunch that feels relaxed, thoughtful, and easy to put together—complete with a light quiche, a fresh yogurt parfait, and a simple mimosa bar for a slow, beautiful morning.
Simple Summer Salads for Warm Days
Fresh, satisfying summer salads that are easy to make and perfect for relaxed outdoor living. From crisp, hearty favorites to simple, flavor-forward combinations, these are the kinds of recipes you’ll reach for all season long.
A Few Pies Worth Making Before Summer Arrives
A Few Pies Worth Making Before Summer Arrives
More Recipes Than You Can Shake a Stick At
More recipes than you can shake a stick at—and the stories behind them, from a simpler time.
Well… The Birds Are Gone
The birds have flown north, the pace has slowed, and everything feels a little easier. From morning coffee on the patio to last-minute gatherings and finally getting a tee time, this is one of the best times of year to enjoy Arizona living.
Aloha to the Season: A Backyard Luau Before Summer Begins
Aloha to the Season: A Backyard Luau Before Summer Begins
The Shift Before Summer: The Final Weeks of Snowbird Season
There’s a subtle shift this time of year in Arizona —
the evenings feel softer, the pace slows, and everything becomes a little quieter.
These last few weeks before summer arrive carry a calm, understated beauty —
the kind you don’t always notice in the moment, but remember long after you’ve gone.
Outdoor Entertaining Essentials for Beautiful, Relaxed Living
Create a warm, inviting outdoor space with simple entertaining essentials that make hosting feel relaxed, beautiful, and easy to enjoy.
10 Easy Outdoor Appetizers for Relaxed Entertaining
Create effortless outdoor gatherings with these simple and elegant appetizer ideas. From charcuterie boards to fresh, easy recipes, discover how to entertain beautifully with minimal effort — perfect for relaxed evenings, patio get-togethers, and sunny Arizona living.