I can put a checkmark by one of my Culinary Goals for 2012. I took the plunge and registered for not one but TWO blogging conferences this year – Bloggy Boot Camp in May here in Philly and Food Blog Forum Orlando in March. Jen at One Curly Fry has already started the countdown til #FBFOrl and this gal has to start prepping!
With a trip to Orlando on the calendar, that means a couple extra days visiting old friends and, of course, a dinner soiree at SL’s house. So, marinating on that, I figured I’d center this week’s Fab Friday around the Orlando trip.
1. No matter where I go, I always hear “You’re Cooking in Stilettos – Where are your stilettos?” Granted this is at either a food festival where there is major walking to be had (I learned my lesson after I severely twisted my ankle in 4″ boots) or at a book signing where the lines are 2–3 hours long (if you think I’m going to stand for 2+ hours in 5″ stilettos, let me hand you a pair and you try that). I have, however, mastered the art of the wedge for these events. As I have some running around town to do, I probably will pack some favorite flats (my Tory Burch Teal Revas and the lighter than air Cole Haans – perfect for Disney), a pair or two of rockin’ stilettos for the soirees and, of course, my much beloved Mark + James Magnolia Wedge Sandals that I have yet to wear but just HAD to have. (Side note – I got them for a steal on HauteLook ages ago. You can always catch Mark + James on the sample sale sites lately.)
2. As some serious cooking is to be done at SL’s house (and I’m still hammering out the menu), I will need my trusty knives. I have never traveled with them before so I need to get this lovely Global Knife Case and pack it with my checked baggage.
3. I’m debating on a signature cocktail or two for SL’s soiree and, as I am very fond of my Cruzan, I might have to play around a bit in the test kitchen. One thing that I know will be flowing will be the wine and I might have to swing by Crate and Barrel at the Millenia Mall to pick up some extra stemless wineglasses – just in case I drop a glass or two
4. Speaking of bottles, everyone needs a good bottle opener. This Castle Key Bottle Opener would be perfect for SL as this would fit into his home décor perfectly. I swear – how he designs a room would make even Nate Berkus stand at attention.
5. One of the dishes I’m flirting with needs a dutch oven. This 5qt. Le Creuset Oval Dutch Oven in Ocean would be perfect. Could a gal pack her Le Creuset, I wonder (or should I just ship before I head down…hmmmm)
6. Whenever I entertain, some of most raved about recipes come from my collection of Nigella Lawson cookbooks. As it’s not on the kindle yet, I know I will be packing one of my first cookbooks from her, Nigella Bites: From Family Meals to Elegant Dinners — Easy, Delectable Recipes For Any Occasion. I think SL has a couple other Nigella books in his cookbook arsenal, if I remember correctly.
What are your “must haves” when you travel to a blog conference or just to visit with friends?



















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