Sweet Inspiration

You know the old saying: When God hands you blueberries... make pie! Spying these below on a recent trip to my local farmer's market gave me the ideal to make some rustic mini pies. 

After washing them and removing any stems, I tossed them in some lemon curd and added a 1/2 cup of sugar. I used a store bought crust and a large round lid to cut out circles of dough and then pressed them into a lightly greased muffin tin. Then I just pricked the bottom of each with a fork before spooning in the filling.

I baked them in a pre-heated, 350 degree oven for about 25 minutes, until the crust was golden brown. Let cool before trying to remove them from the pan. It is ok if they crumble up a bit, it just adds to the "rustic" charm.

Tea Towel via the wondrous Skinny Laminx!

 

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

Savory Inspiration

Be inspired by what you find when you shop for fresh produce. When I saw this package of mini heirloom tomatoes at my local Trader Joe's, I was inspired by the colors to make a fresh spring salad as a main course for a special lunch.

Letting the tomatoes be the star, I just added some thinly sliced red onion, mache lettuce, avocado and just a bit crumbled goat cheese. 

I used the same simple vinaigrette I described in this post which I like to assemble in a glass storage jar with a tight lid. It makes mixing it easy as well as storing any leftovers.

My very favorite way to eat salad is to add a cup of warm steamed rice just before serving. Not only does it make a more complete meal, but it is so delicious. I use jasmine rice, but you can use any rice you like. It's an especially great way to use leftover rice. To re-steam cold rice, just place in a microwave safe bowl with a damp paper towel covering it and heat for 1 to 2 minutes.

I am not a big kitchen gadget person, I still use a hand mixer (!) but I'm really glad I invested in a rice cooker. I use and highly recommend this low tech and fairly inexpensive Panasonic version. 

 

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

An extra-Kawaii Mothers Day

For the first time in over 20 years I will be able to actually spend Mother's Day with my Mother. I am making her lunch today and then attending a family party Sunday. I hope all the Mothers I know and also those I don't have a wonderful weekend. 

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

Porch Party

How I love my new porch and this pretty patio set I scored at the Rosebowl Flea. It was a "worse for the wear" white but I had it made over by the amazing guys at Sundial Powder Coating who you may remember also transformed this iKea cart. Now I have the perfect place to entertain on a lovely spring  or summer day.

A salad is a great choice for a small or large group. Easy to make ahead (just do not add dressing till right before serving) and you don't have the worry of timing a complicated entree.

For my "cobb-ish" I started with a mix of baby spinach and butter lettuce, then added red onion, avocado, bacon, chicken and goat cheese instead of blue. Then dressing was made with aioli mustard (from Trader Joe's, love this stuff), red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, a dash of Worcestershire Sauce and salt & pepper.

I've mentioned fried green tomatoes before, they are a southern favorite and easy to make. Green tomatoes are just red tomatoes that have not yet ripened. I was able to find  some at my local Sprouts.

I mix corn meal and flour, some bay seasoning and garlic powder and then dip the sliced tomatoes into a mixture of egg and low fat buttermilk, then dredge in your dry mix, then put into a hot pan. I used the left over bacon fat (from the salad) to fry them. This is really the key for a true southern style taste. On top, a cilantro dressing with a touch of sriracha mixed in.

I made my life easy by picking up a ready made "mini" cherry pie, also from Sprouts. Everything else I picked up at Trader Joe's, naturally. Check out this book, it had the best reviews of the many TJ's cookbooks I discovered.

 

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

Rules for a Kawaii Life

I remember a wise woman once told me that her only rule about working out was she had to go to the gym and touch the wall. Knowing that getting herself there was 99% of the battle. I am not a gym person, I do better if I find a home routine that works for me. So my equivalent of "touching the wall" is simply to "suit up". Putting on work out cloths and shoes is often all it takes to get me going and so far so good.

 A new rule I'm implementing is no more buying bread. I can have it if I'm eating out, but I am not bringing it into my home. I did find some excellent lowfat tortillas at TJ's that combine corn & flour, making for a healthy substitute. I used one here to make a tasty quesdilla with sliced rotisserie chicken, avocado hummus and salsa. Goes great with some mango greek yogurt.

Even a simple geranium bloom can brighten your space. I promised myself to bring more flowers into my home and you don't have to be Martha Stewart to afford it either. If you don't have them growing in your garden, you can pick up fresh blooms fairly cheaply at your local farmer's market or even Trader Joe's.

 Once a week, usually on the weekend, I like to band the computer and TV for most of the day. For as long as possible I keep the world at bay, curling up with Mr. Finch, a good book and plenty of Joe.

Finally, don't forget to stop and smell the cactus. I truly believe gardening is good for the soul and whether you have just a window sill garden or a full back yard. There is a special kind of beauty in the process and having growing things around you.

 

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

Light Play

One of my last shoots before leaving Atlanta was with the wickedly handsome musician Paul Warner. We shot these at the beautiful and historic Oakland Cemetery.

Here I did a little freelensing, a tricky technique that can yield great results but if not careful can damage your equipment. The nice thing about working with creative people is they are usually open to experimentation.

 

We also shot at this house but we had to abort when it turned out an actual human being was in residence and not thrilled about us on her property. 

Still, I think it was worth it, what an amazing backdrop.

Check out Paul's music, which I listened to almost non-stop as I drove my truck cross country. You can download his latest, Deadly Waterparks on itunes. 

 

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

relax it's

Big shoot this weekend and editing a few others so Pie will take a little hiatus. Congrats to Monica who won the Lesley Evers giveaway. Back next week with plenty of fresh Pie!

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

Upper Crush

Uppercase Magazine is one of those little miracles that can only spring from a deep passion for design. In an age when just about anyone can whip together a "magazine" (including Pie) online. It is more than admirable to see someone take the much tougher route and create something so beautifully tangible. Which is why despite the high price of the ticket, many have clamoured on to enjoy the ride, that is Uppercase.

I have been fortunate to contribute to the newest issue, just released. I shot a behind the scenes piece, at my last shoot for Lesley Evers. An ideal I proposed to editor Janine Vangool, who is ever open to creative input.

Each issue is rich with ideas and luscious imagery, all printed on a thick paper stock.

A quick search on eBay yielded no back issues, which does not surprise me, these are keepers. 

Speaking of Lesley Evers, today is the last day to get in on the silk poncho giveaway. Just LIKE her Facebook page and comment on the Poncho Pie post!  

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

About Last Weekend

One of my best friends from college came down from Seattle for a long over due visit. I took her to the local Montrose Thieves Market, a small but growing flea that runs tangent with the weekly Harvest Market. There I scored these vintage beauties, so rare to find with the lids intact.

A lovely addition to my potting table which I have decorated with old and new industrial finds.

From the same dealer I also snagged this old fishing tackle box to use for tools for just $15.

Company is a great way to get you to clean house and I always pick up fresh flowers to add a little extra color to my space. Especially nice in the bathroom(s) and next to your guest's bed.

What would a trip west (or in this case south) be without at least one trip to In-n-Out. We kept it a little lighter by forgoing fries and getting just one patty. Oh and if you ever wondered what exactly "animal style" means or other secret options then check out this excellent break down.

It's nice when a guest is thoughtful enough to bring a suitcase to match your interior style. I love her vintage Samsonite she picked up from a rummage sale for just $8. Though be prepared to get a work out transporting it, wheels were not added to luggage until the late 90's.

 

She was also curious to check out Home Goods, which apparently has not yet landed in Seattle. I picked up these pretty bowls for $4.99 each. My trick for removing stickers is to soak them in warm soapy water and the stickers will slide right off. 

Oh an now Pie and I are on Pinterest!

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

Kawaii in the Hood

The best part of a new location are all the new possibilities right outside my front door. Using my new surroundings as a backdrop and a fantastic team from Aim Artists and Next L.A. we created this shiny new issue of Fresh Pie. If you are on an iPad click here to view. Enjoy! 

styled by Jen Pinkston ❀ hair & make up by Eric Barnard 

models: Lena & Savannah for Next L.A. 

 ❀ Bonus Giveaway! ❀

To celebrate Pie's third year you can win this beautiful silk poncho designed by Lesley Evers. To enter go to the Lesley Evers Facebook page, click the "Like" button and leave a comment on the designated post which should be up a little later today (commenting here will not enter you to win). One lucky winner will be selected via random.org, deadline for entry is midnight (pacific), April 20th.

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

Pie turns 3!

All I can say is thank you to all of you who have read, subscribed, bookmarked, followed, pined and supported Pie over the last three years. Time really does fly and I think I have been most surprised at how this blog has inspired me to evolve as a photographer. I look forward to seeing what the next three bring!

  

 content © Lara Rossignol

Kishani Style

A shoot I did with the uber chic Kishani Perera for Matchbook Magazine hit the virtual stands Monday. Kishani is not only an amazing interior designer but owns a fantastic shop called Rummage in Los Angeles.

She combines unique vintage finds and exoctic textiles with modern elements (kind of like me) and is in big demand among the rich and famous.

She also likes to throw in bits of whimsy and humor, which I particularly appreciate. Attitude is everything after all.

Her new book, Vintage Remix will be out later this month.

Have a lovely Easter!

 

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

Purse Envy

I am not sure when or how it started, maybe it has always been so. Though it does seem in just the last few years the accumulation has exceeded the need and I can only admit that I am an addict.

In my own defense some of them have been gifts, like this patent leather Prada bag from my generous sister. I usually use it just for special occasions.

Of course it should be no surprise that Orla Kiely is my favorite. For the last 5 years I have gifted myself a new Orla bag and sold an older one on eBay to help fund it. Though her prices are not as outrageous as some, they are not cheap either.

My most recent is from her Mainline line, it has leather trim and came with a cloth purse bag (bonus!) and I bought it on Amazon which has pretty good deals on Orla bags. I love the lollipop flower pattern. She recently opened a shop in NYC and I can't wait to check out next time I'm there.

Lulu Guinness designs bags with a definite retro flair, fairly pricy, I have acquired my small collection via eBay. Her bags are also very photogenic, I love using them as props.

Of course I love vintage bags as well and this amazing Rendl Original above, I bought eons ago in NY at the Piers Antique Show. I paid quite a bit for it and my only regret has been it's slow deterioration. The strap especially is in poor shape. I think possibly due to the humidity down here. Check this mint conditionRendl I found going for $2,400!

I found this handpainted wood purse at an estate sale and this very early 1900's pewter purse at an auction.

Check out more on the subject in this fun book, The Power of Handbags by Anna Johnson.

 

Models Claire B. & Frida both with Factor Women, H & M by Faith Brooks

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

In Service

My friend found this super kawaii diner style dishware by Peter Terris at a local yard sale. She bought them for me knowing I'm always in search of small lots for props and also becasue of my fascination with restaurant ware.

These were made by the Shenango Pottery Company that produced much of the diner china in the U.S. in the 50s and 60s.

"Diner" style dishes have a distinctive style and density. They can sometimes include the name of the establishment they were originally made for.

They appeal for me is not only for the vintage design but the little bit of history they represent.

I picked up this fun little dish at Kudzu Antiques.

The extra heavy weight made them more durable and is a distinctive trait for spotting true restaurant pieces. If you want a complete set but don't want to hunt for them, check out these fun reproductions by Pendleton.

This was part of a set sold by Fishs Eddy, which specializes in discontinued lines and restaurant salvage.

 

This book by Michael Pratt looks like fun, though it is more about general pottery than actual dinerware.

With Spring finally here, this might be a good weekend to go looking for your own! I will be on the hunt next weekend at the PCC Flea Market, one of my new favorite treasure troves.

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

tea & kumquats

I will be reposting a bit of vintage Pie, my own personal favorites, slightly refreshed as we head toward our third anniversary. Here is one from May 2010.

Such an odd little fruit, I had to google them to even figure out how to eat one. You actually eat them whole...skin, seeds and all! Who knew? 

Because of their natural tartness some like to dip them in sugar.

Or you can try these by Roland preserved in syrup.

I have also discovered they are wonderful in tea, hot or iced, my favorite is Twining's Lady Grey.

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

Happy Mr. Finch

 I have had a few readers asking how Atticus is doing... thanks so much and he is doing great! He has never had so many windows to look out of and really loves the porch. Under careful supervision he gets to spend much time out there. He especially loves napping on the couch in the late afternoon with the light comes streaming in. Overall, I think he made the move and has adjusted better than I could have imagined.

Lots of shooting scheduled over the next few weeks, so posting on Pie may be minimal, it has been a challenge to keep Pie going during this transition but I am determined to do so. Coming up on 3 years (!) next month and I appreciate all of you for hanging in there!

 

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

Interior Inspiration

Since I can't post photos of my own abode until the fall/winter issue of Flea Market Style hits the stands. I decided to post some rooms I find inspiring. Like this lovely bedroom with its exquisite vintage charm. (source unknown)

I love this office which belongs to Victoria Smith of the fab blog: sfgirlbybay. Clean, organized and the use of industrial bins through out adds so much character. I also love the desk under the window, which inspired me to try something similar in my own small space.

Or how about this kawaii set up! I actually found a very similar wire basket at Home Goods for less than $15 (score!) and it is perfect for holding rolled paper. Now if I can just find that lamp!

A wonderful mix of color & pattern in this mid century styled space. 

I love wallpaper, as you well know by now and this room has just the right amount of faded glory to make my heart sing.

The last three are all from one of my favorite decor mags, Homes & Antiques which is published in the UK in conjunction with the show Antiques Roadshow. 

content © Lara Rossignol

1 2 Watch 4!

Wes Anderson's newest film, Moonrise Kingdom is a luscious looking love story set at a retro summer camp.

 

 content © Lara Rossignol

Vote 4 Pie!

I just found out Pie has been nominated for an Apartment Therapy Homie award for best food photography! Very flattered and honored, especially since I am up against some very well known food blogs. If you can please take a minute and vote, if you don't have an Apartment Therapy account you can log in via Facebook or Twitter.

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol

Rack-it

A really easy DIY bulletin board using a cooling rack and a can of spray paint. That's it, just spray it any color you like, then hang it up. Since it is metal I used both magnets and paper clips to put up some bits of fun and inspiration.

all photos & content © Lara Rossignol