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
What are your “must haves” when you travel to a blog conference or just to visit with friends?
You know, when it comes to fall, there is always the inevitable 
Ahhhh – you know it’s going to be a 
is on my list of “must have” holiday cookbooks. When Ms. Daisy was in Philly over the summer, she had discussed some of the fab recipes that were slated to be in it and, finally, it’s been released! I have bought more cookbooks this holiday season than ever – and have every intention on using them!
Socialize