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Irish Examiner
4 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Examiner
Meet the celebrity home interior design collaboration dream teams
It seems celebrities are every bit as consumed by interior collections as we are. Blake Lively announced on Instagram this year that she does interior design for her friends, and Reese Witherspoon is collaborating with US retailer Crate & Barrel on a table textile collection. While we might think we're buying a bit of our favourite celebrity, collaborations sometimes lack authenticity, with celebrity participation being more of an endorsement while actual designers are at the drawing board. Where you feel you're getting authenticity without the designer price tag is when a retailer teams up with a well-known interior designer or interior influencer. Black and white tablewares and accessories have a sculptural aesthetic in the Kelly Hoppen x M&S collection. On the high street and online, in time for seasonal changes, there are a few fitting the bill, including M&S x Kelly Hoppen, which is a 75-piece edit including bed linens, throws and cushions with the designer's signature panelled detailing and geometrics. 'As one of the most well-known interior designers in the UK and with a global reach, we knew from our very first conversations that Kelly Hoppen would be the perfect fit for M&S Home,' says Karen Thomas, head of M&S Home Design 'From day one, Kelly had a clear vision of how she would bring her signature style to M&S, translating her luxurious aesthetic into an accessible collection for the high street.' It's all quite neutral, with interest from contrasting textures and oversized pieces with a sculptural aesthetic. Monochrome and geometrics are a theme in the Kelly Hoppen x M&S collection. For minimalists who like a moody look, this might appeal when main trends have us awash with colour. Prices range from €7 for a ceramic candleholder to rugs, €429, Dunnes Stores has been outsourcing for inspiration for quite some time. The best all-cotton fitted sheet I've ever owned was designed by hotelier Francis Brennan for the retailer. The Carolyn Donnelly Eclectic collection bed linens at Dunnes Stores in soft blue with tactile velvet cushions are a relaxing and inviting combination for winter hibernation. Just in time for autumn and winter home projects, Carolyn Donnelly's Eclectic range has cosy vintage floral themes and delicate wildlife in tablewares, textiles and accessories. 'Designer collaborations are wonderful for many reasons,' says Carolyn. 'Primarily, they bring well-designed, original and exclusive pieces to a broader customer base at an affordable price. They also elevate the existing offer in the store and make the shopping experience so much more exciting and enriched for the customer.' The collection ranges from printed napkins, €3, to double duvet sets, from €60; Clare Walsh, creative director of Kukoon Rugs, approached interiors social media influencer Caoimhe McGinley from the Big Hill House to create the Caoimhe x Kukoon collection. 'Caoimhe was buying rugs from us for years while she was building [her home], so we knew the idea she would naturally be drawn to; traditional styles that are transitional; more muted colours but not neutral," says Clare. Colour and pattern are blended in the Caoimhe x Kukoon collection of family-friendly rugs. "Colour was actually the main thing she wanted, and something washable, no fringing. "She has a great eye for design and colour.' Caoimhe's choice of the medallion motif, synonymous with Persian rugs, is influenced by time spent in the Middle East in a design interpretation for modern living, whether it's a period property or new build. As the mother of four young children, she has ensured this is a collection of washable, stain-resistant rugs to make them family-friendly. Rugs are priced from €185-€495; runners, €185, Specialist rug retailer has been flourishing under the guidance of managing director Phoebe Holland and attracts not only the public but also interior designers. One is Geri O'Toole of Geri Designs, who has designed lush interiors for the likes of Vogue Williams and a clientele nationwide and in the US. 'We have worked with Geri for many years, and have sourced rugs for many of Geri's design projects,' says Phoebe. 'Throughout our time working together, we discovered it was difficult for designers to source versatile, durable rugs that can be used cohesively in multiple spaces. Light pattern and muted colours characterise the designs of the x Geri Designs collection. "The collection is a continuation of Geri's love of natural materials, reflecting the colour palette she has in her own recently renovated home in Limerick.' The x Geri Designs collection has a subtle colour palette of warm whites, olive green, grey and blue, with discreet pattern in runners for halls and the kitchen (for softness underfoot). Rugs are are reversible to extend their lifespan. It's a limited edition collection, handwoven from responsibly sourced wool and recycled cotton giving it an air of exclusivity if you want something less likely to be found in someone else's home.
Time Out
4 days ago
- Time Out
The Key West stay that changed my mind about the Florida Keys
I'm not a Keys hater—I'm just not a Keys lover. Given the chance to travel anywhere in Florida, I'll always choose the west coast with its miles of sandy beaches and sprawling resorts. Key West is, well, the opposite. Accommodations are usually boutique-y, and going for a swim in the ocean means getting on a boat. Thanks, but no thanks—unless you're taking me to Lunara Bay. I quickly changed my tune about Keys life after a weekend in this new oceanfront development near Stock Island, just minutes from Key West proper. Bookable on Airbnb, the luxury homes are massive—upscale, newly built conch houses with state-of-the-art appliances, modern furnishings, and space for you and your closest friends. The spate of homes can host anywhere from eight to 20 guests—if you can believe it—ranging from four to eight bedrooms, all with ensuite bathrooms. Plus, each home has its own private dock, saltwater pool and outdoor sitting area complete with a grill, sound system, wet bar and fire pit. Truly, a dream rental. We stayed in the Joyrise House, a three-story, 6-bedroom/6-bath beauty that looked straight out of a Crate & Barrel catalog. I can say this confidently after flipping over every vase and checking under every chair, rug, dresser and cushion for the maker—yes, I wanted inspo for my own home. I was that impressed. The chef in our group was equally dazzled by the Viking gas range, matching Viking fridge, and icemaker. Let's just say both of us considered extending our stay… permanently. More than an Airbnb Guests of Lunara Bay are assigned a Guest Experience Manager (GEM), basically a personal concierge to see to your every need before, during and after your stay. Our GEM checked in pre-arrival for a grocery list to stock our fridge, sent restaurant and sightseeing recs, and curated a thoughtful Key West itinerary. We texted throughout our stay, and our GEM always responded quickly. When we scrambled to meet our 10am checkout (honestly, the only downside), we left behind valuables, which housekeeping secured and our GEM safely shipped back. Brightwild operates Lunara Bay (and several other properties) plus an excursion arm with sandbar trips, snorkeling and blissfully chill booze cruises—which we took and loved. I half-expected a rowdy Duval Street crowd on the water, but our mid-afternoon ride was smooth and laid-back. After cruising for about an hour, we found our sandbar and spent another 90 minutes wading in shallow waters before heading back. The pontoon boat was pristine (yes, even the bathroom!) and beer, wine and a sandwich lunch were included. A definite upgrade from my past Keys experiences. Embrace Key West at Lunara Bay Key West is only as fun as your company, and Lunara Bay gives you the space to bring all your favorite people. As a home base, it's close enough for sightseeing, meals or a big night out on Duval Street—without racking up ridiculous Uber fares. Ensuite bathrooms make every room feel like a mini hotel, complete with Salt & Stone and Grown Alchemist body products. The spacious living room and outdoor space give everyone a place to hang out and daydream about life in a mansion this size. For now, we'll plan our next getaway.
Buzz Feed
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
36 Cool Products If You're Just Bit Of A Show Off
Maybelline Lifter Glaze Oil Balm to give you an oh-so-smooth, moisturizing shine and fuller lip look, thanks to its hydrating oil blend and hyaluronic acid. Bonus: reviewers claim that the "Acai Glaze" shade is a perfect match for the $25 internet-beloved Clinique Black Honey "universal" shade that has taken the beauty world by storm! A pair of luxe retro-style oval sunglasses giving Miu Miu vibes without the $489 price tag. The devil's in the chic details on this one, including the little gold embellishments on the sides and the nostalgic shape of the lenses, which are softer than the typical skinny oval lens. A plated, jewel-embedded ring you can buy yourself as a little treat if the $1,250 Cartier Love Ring is decidedly out of your budget. Dare I say this version is ... prettier than the designer one? A holy grail 5-in-1 Edgelift Curl Brush to define curls, waves, and coils, help prevent frizz, and create precise parts and sections. Reviewers of all curl and wave types are just short of shouting in the comments about how they never found a brush that worked as well as this one, and parents are especially grateful for how easily this untangles their kiddo's hair! A wall-mounted coat rack/art piece, because why be beautiful *or* functional when you can be both?? This right here is the subtle guest-impressing flex your entryway deserves. A set of sophisticated cylindrical wineglasses to rival Crate & Barrel's, and to elevate your Friday wine-cheese-and-Netflix nights so instantaneously that you'll feel like an extra in one of those Shows About Rich Families Who Fight All The Time. A set of hair tie bracelets designed to look like *actual* jewelry, so you won't be kicking yourself when you realize you left a hair tie on your wrist for every photo. A projection alarm clock so you don't even have to turn your head or lift yourself to see the time — you can just glimpse at the wall and be like, "Ah, yes. That strange dream about turning into a pool noodle happened at exactly 3 o'clock again" before falling back asleep. It also functions as a USB port to charge devices! A shaker of edible cocktail glitter, because why go through life without taking advantage of every opportunity to make it sparkle??✨ Reviewers add a touch to glam up their Prosecco or jazz up colorful-themed cocktails. A retro-style Comfort Pro rocking camp chair in a newer "Sweet Tea" color combo so darling that all of its cool features will be just an extra perk. Reviewers have loved this cult-fave, lightweight outdoor chair for years because it's super lightweight, portable, and ohhhh-so-comfortable when you're sitting for long spells during games, camping trips, or other outdoor events. Now it's cuter than it's ever been!! Welly's Color-Changing Bandages that will change color in the sunlight and make you feel like you have superpowers. Parents especially love these as a fun distraction for ouchies (and honestly, who wouldn't love them for the fashion statement?). It's really just a bonus that these are some of the best quality bandages on the market — I'm talking holy grail over here. A darling "Candle By The Hour" beehive candle with an absolutely genius concept — once you light it, it only burns until the flame reaches the tip of the little extinguisher, so you don't have to worry about forgetting an open flame. This version is especially cute because you get to decorate the little bees on it yourself! Red Robin Original Blend Signature Seasoning, because you shouldn't have to make the trek all the way to that giant red bird's Mojo Dojo Casa House to enjoy the RIDICULOUS, semi-feral joy of his seasoning. This *chef's kiss* blend of garlic, onion, and tomato is one of the most aggressive "if you know you know" seasonings out there, and owning it is about to make you the most popular person on your block. A vintage-style six-in-one Bluetooth record player that will play *deep breath* vinyls, CDs, AND cassettes along with connecting to Bluetooth and the radio, so you can walk down every single musical path on memory lane. Paper Mate InkJoy Bright Pens with ink SO VIVID that it will pop up on black paper, making it the ultimate for any and all arts and crafts projects. A simple faux diamond tennis bracelet to add a touch of sophistication to any outfit without the price of name-brand versions like Swarovski (even though reviewers agree this looks like the Real Deal 👀). And a dainty gold-plated station necklace, another home run from jewelry brand Pavoi so close to the real diamond versions from Quince and Dorsey that run $400+ that it'll turn all your everyday looks into ~quietly expensive~ looks. Vacation's Classic Whip SPF 30, a wildly beloved "dessert for your skin" that feels so lightweight and decadent to apply that reviewers can't get enough of it. (No, REALLY. This is selling out all over 😭.) Not only does it feel ridiculously indulgent, but it's water-resistant and sensitive skin-friendly, so you'll be the sweetest AND safest treat. A color-coded Cuisinart knife set so not only will you have the perfect blade for each task like a true profesh, but you'll be able to avoid cross-contamination without having to pause and wipe everything down every time you transition to a new food 🌈. A reviewer-beloved sparkling crystal suncatcher that will be an investment in lifting your spirits every day — now you can come home to soft rainbow lights cast all over your entryway, turning your home into a magical realm as effervescent and lovely as you. A set of cheerful Lego botanical "happy plants," aka your new favorite coworkers. How can capitalism bring you down when these two are smiling up at you all day long? All the joys of having an office plant without the shame of your coworkers being like, "Shouldn't you ... maybe ... water that??" A set of espresso martini instant cocktail tea bags — all the sophistication of tea, the zing! of coffee, and the 😜 of a cheeky cocktail, without the exorbitant bar price tags. All you have to do is add three ounces of cold water, 1.5 ounces of hard liquor, and the tea sachet into a glass, and you'll have a delicious cocktail in one minute. A ginormous "marshmallow cloud fleece" blanket you should only pull out in front of guests if you're prepared for them to burrow inside and never, ever leave. A marble board wire cheese cutter to serve as half decor, half kitchen tool, and 100% the biggest hit at any wine-and-cheese night when you let guests slice their own cheese with it. A moon wine holder so your favorite bottles can spend some time floating happily in the ether before you pop them open to celebrate. A set of Wicked-inspired glasses designed to look just like Anthropologie's icon glasses, but make it ~witchy~. It will be giving "happy hour in the Oz Dust ballroom" in the best way. A little popcorn bucket vase for a fun punch of color that basically DEMANDS you go to Trader Joe's and get the most colorful mini $4 bouquet to put in it, STAT. A set of silicone teacup cupcake liners so you can have your cake and "drink" it, too. Reviewers loved these for tea parties and cupcake decorating parties! A disco ball bar cart with some real "yeah, I've listened to enough ABBA to cover for literally any role in Mamma Mia at the drop of a hat" energy. This comes with a handy ~secret~ storage disco ball and wheels to easily rearrange it mid-dance party. Birdie, an indoor carbon dioxide monitor that — bless her dramatic heart — will flip over and "die" if the air quality in your home goes down, prompting you to open a window or run an air purifier so you can breathe easier. Once Birdie is happy with the air quality again, she'll pop back up! A deeply adorable retro-style portable Bluetooth keyboard you can connect to your tablet, phone, or computer to easily type on the go. Reviewers especially love the satisfying ~clickety clack~ feel of the keys! A three-tiered ring floor lamp for anyone who wants a lighting option that isn't going to bore them to tears. This not only has unique, sophisticated flair, but comes with adjustable brightness so you can curate the room's mood. A pair of high-waisted "Secretsculpt" biker shorts with some real booty-lifting action (AND NO FRONT SEAM!!) that will have you admiring your reflection in shop windows all summer long. Psst — reviewers compare these to the WAY more expensive $64 Lululemon Align shorts, and these come in a whopping 11 colors!! A cloud-shaped magnetic key holder for an absurdly cute storage option for keys that will prettttyyy much guarantee you never lose them again. A heart hands statuette to display all your beloved friendship bracelets when you run out of real estate on your wrists. A set of lightweight, oh-so-dainty ruffled pajamas inspired by the $89 Piyama version. Revievers are in loooove with this set for summer, saying the fabric is so high quality that it feels like linen. If you're looking for breezy warm weather loungewear, this adorable set fits the bill!
Buzz Feed
09-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
34 Products So Beautiful They Will Haunt Your Cart
A copy of Burn After Writing, a guided journal countless TikTokers swear by — through a series of questions and thought experiments, it encourages people to take time away from their screens to explore their feelings, both new and old, so they can embrace meaningful ones and try to let others go. Maybelline Lifter Glaze Oil Balm to give you an oh-so-smooth, moisturizing shine and fuller lip look, thanks to its hydrating oil blend and hyaluronic acid. Bonus: reviewers claim that the "Acai Glaze" shade is a perfect match for the $25 internet-beloved Clinique Black Honey "universal" shade that has taken the beauty world by storm! A pair of gorgeous kitchen shears that are as functional as they are stunning — reviewers love these all-purpose, super sharp blades for cutting everything from meat and fruit to opening packages and wrangling with complicated wrapping. Wild Iris Musk Body Wash, the summer-friendly sister of the TikTok-famous "old money" Baccarat Rouge 540-inspired body wash. I am a massive fan of both — the moisturizing clean is so fresh, and the scents are so DELIGHTFULLY luscious without overpowering — but trust me when I say that Wild Iris Musk is *the* scent of summer. It's floral, soft, playful, and grounded all at once. (And yes, just like the original version, it smells ... expensive 👀.) An Anthropologie-inspired reversible quilted throw blanket you can get in all kinds of fun, lively prints that will startle your boring couch into having a personality, or give your bed a *much* needed reset after a rainy, dreary spring. A set of sophisticated cylindrical wineglasses to rival Crate & Barrel's, and to elevate your Friday wine-cheese-and-Netflix nights so instantaneously that you'll feel like an extra in one of those Shows About Rich Families Who Fight All The Time. A plated, jewel-embedded ring you can buy yourself as a little treat if the $1,250 Cartier Love Ring is decidedly out of your budget. Dare I say this version is ... prettier than the designer one? A reviewer-beloved sparkling crystal suncatcher that will be an investment in lifting your spirits every day — now you can come home to soft rainbow lights cast all over your entryway, turning your home into a magical realm as effervescent and lovely as you. An absolutely darling Kate Spade lunch tote at such a reasonable price point that honestly, it will be worth buying just to make your coworkers jealous alone. Let the office lunch thief TRY and take snacks out of the chic bag that everyone knows is yours! A set of itty bitty vintage-inspired spoons that will just BEG to be used for all your coffee, tea, dessert, and yogurt needs. (Is it just me, or do we all have an Emotional Support Tiny Spoon?) A simple faux diamond tennis bracelet to add a touch of sophistication to any outfit without the price of name-brand versions like Swarovski (even though reviewers agree this looks like the Real Deal 👀). And a dainty gold-plated station necklace, another home run from jewelry brand Pavoi so close to the real diamond versions from Quince and Dorsey that run $400+ that it'll turn all your everyday looks into ~quietly expensive~ looks. A set of flower petal dessert glasses so you can serve up little puddings, ice creams, and yogurt parfaits and decorate them with edible flowers for your Meghan Markle era. 🌸 Reviewers also use these for cocktails and juice! An Our Place–inspired minimalist nesting bakeware set to help save space *and* your budget — these are similar to the $200 Our Place set, which does include one other piece, but is very similar in function and style. If you're looking for a lovely way to streamline your baking supplies and elevate your kitchen's aesthetic, this right here will be your affordable solution. An affordable cult-favorite luxury-scented candle with a scent reminiscent of Le Labo's $90 Santal 33 version, and a throw so satisfying that reviewers can't stop gushing about it. If you're in the market for a signature scent for your space this fall, look no further than this jasmine, oud, and sandalwood blend. A set of dainty but surprisingly strong bow-shaped hair clips to pair with all your frilliest summer dresses or to add a soft touch your more structured work outfits. A gorgeous statement checkered cutting board designed with deep grooves for juice, hidden handles on the bottom, and end grain to "heal" cuts from knives. A true overachiever considering it's worth the buy for decor purposes alone!! A marble board wire cheese cutter to serve as half decor, half kitchen tool, and 100% the biggest hit at any wine-and-cheese night when you let guests slice their own cheese with it. A cheerful fruit bowl for a pop of deeply functional color in your kitchen — this thing is secretly also a colander, so you can wash your fruit and leave 'em sitting pretty on the counter to dry. A set of hypoallergenic gold-plated earrings you can mix and match to your aesthetic's content. Reviewers love how well these hold up over time, especially given the price! A vintage-inspired flower table lamp so dreamy that it will feel like you pulled it out of a fairy tale and into your room. It features an adjustable "stem" neck and three brightness settings, making it the perfect option for late night reading and extra desk illumination! A vintage-style six-in-one Bluetooth record player that will play *deep breath* vinyls, CDs, AND cassettes along with connecting to Bluetooth and the radio, so you can walk down every single musical path on memory lane. An absolutely darling satin ribbon bow bookmark with such irresistible Belle vibes that it'll be a miracle if all your local pots and pans don't start singing to you as you pass. Birdie, an indoor carbon dioxide monitor that — bless her dramatic heart — will flip over and "die" if the air quality in your home goes down, prompting you to open a window or run an air purifier so you can breathe easier. Once Birdie is happy with the air quality again, she'll pop back up! A wildly popular hummingbird projection lantern to make your porch or backyard feel like you're stepping out of the real world and into a whimsical fairy tale. A set of golden bracelets that will give ~quiet luxury~ vibes at "I want to pay rent this month" prices. Reviewers especially love these mix-and-match sets because they look like expensive versions from Cartier — the middle one is giving the $8,000 "Juste Un Clou" and the studded one is giving the $6,000 "Love Bracelet!" A wooden digital alarm clock/wireless phone charger so you can have all the charm of a rustic aesthetic with all the convenience of modern tech. We love a useful piece of tech that blends in seamlessly as decor!! A set of lightweight, oh-so-dainty ruffled pajamas inspired by the $89 Piyama version. Revievers are in loooove with this set for summer, saying the fabric is so high quality that it feels like linen. If you're looking for breezy warm weather loungewear, this adorable set fits the bill! A set of 3D succulent fridge magnets perfect for the fridge or the office so you can extend your Plant Parenthood aesthetic to every adorable corner of your life. A flower-shaped pill organizer so cute that taking your medication will suddenly feel like the most ~~aesthetic~~ main character part of your routine. These feature a surprisingly large capacity, and the days are detachable so you can take pills on go! An oh-so-sweet reusable bowl cover to inspire you to make all your coziest meals so you can stash the leftovers as aesthetically as possible. These environmentally friendly covers are machine washable and also super handy for bread proofing! A moon wine holder so your favorite bottles can spend some time floating happily in the ether before you pop them open to celebrate. A set of deeply charming Monet posters to add a touch of calm and sophistication to your walls without breaking the bank. A vintage-inspired standing bird bath with a little planter underneath to give your backyard some whimsical flair and encourage little flying friends to come visit. A lot of reviewers also mention that this makes a unique and lovely gift for the gardeners in your life!
Los Angeles Times
28-07-2025
- General
- Los Angeles Times
Relishing a grandmother's love, one meal at a time
My most vivid food memories involve overcooked spaghetti in a wooden bowl, and my grandmother Phyllis. For decades, my grandmother's wooden bowls sat stacked in the cabinet next to the refrigerator in her old, two-story home in Gardena. They followed her to her retirement home in Palm Desert, which she lovingly referred to as 'toe-tag city.' She was part of the volunteer wellness-check committee that called other residents to make sure they were still breathing. The bowls were lopsided and smooth, burnished and misshapen by countless years of scraping Lipton onion dip and spaghetti off the sides. When she died on July 17 at the age of 91, the first memories that came to mind involved spaghetti in those wooden bowls, and all the meals and laughs we shared together. They were not the expensive cherry wood, olive wood or acacia you might find at Crate & Barrel. The wood was thin, pressed and woven — the chicken nugget equivalent of a piece of dinnerware. My grandmother bought them at a restaurant supply store in Los Angeles almost 40 years ago. An internet search for 'cheap wooden bowls' produces images of something similar. During my childhood summers, I spent most of my days lounging on a fraying towel on a patch of lumpy grass in my grandparents' backyard, eating out of one of those wooden bowls. My too-long hair was always damp from the aboveground pool where my late grandfather, Warner, taught me how to swim. 'You're my favorite,' he would say. He said that to all the grandkids. Phyllis and Warner were Jewish but never kept kosher. She used to boast that her grandfather opened the first kosher butcher shop on Pico Boulevard, though she could never remember the name or the year. There was always bacon in the house. She used a plastic tray to microwave the bacon until it was crisp and perfect. And her most famous dishes involved both meat and cheese in those wooden bowls. The sound and sensation of my bent fork against the wood is palpable even now. My grandmother's spaghetti was always cooked two minutes past al dente. I squeezed the noodles between my tongue and front teeth and counted how many I could eat without chewing. The sensation was simply exquisite. The meat sauce, slightly salty and grainy, was always seasoned with Lawry's spaghetti mix from a paper pouch. The ground beef was pulverized until it became one with the canned crushed tomatoes. My grandmother slid the emerald green cylinder of Parmesan across the table and never questioned the Everest-sized mountain I managed to shake into the bowl. I used to study the grooves and nicks in the bowls and wondered what would happen if I accidentally ate wood. Is there a tiny tree growing in my stomach right now? Armed with a head full of dreams, a slender grasp on reality and the high of a new Hello Kitty backpack for the fast-approaching fall, I happily slurped my noodles, unburdened by the anxiety of the 1/8th-life crisis that so often crept into my thoughts and threatened to ruin a good meal. But never this meal. The bowls were a promise, that at least for the time it took to eat whatever filled them, things would be just fine. I have my grandmother to thank for this, and for so many of my fondest memories, food quirks and preferences. It's thanks to Phyllis Harris that I prefer the Lipton onion soup mix dip to anything whipped up in a restaurant kitchen. And that I know how to host everything from a small gathering to a proper rager. She's the reason my friends ask me to make latkes for every Hanukkah party. Her holiday gatherings were legendary, with a full spread of golden latkes, brisket, bagels, lox and white fish. And there was always a bowl of pitted black olives. My cousins and I used to slide an olive onto each finger and pop them into our mouths while we ran around the house. My grandmother was the master of something called the schmutz platter. I can't recall which one of us came up with the name, but I suspect it was me. It was more of a table-wide spread than an actual platter, comprising various deli cold cuts, leaves of romaine lettuce, dill pickle chips, black olives, sliced cheese (always havarti and usually provolone), a wooden bowl of tuna salad, another of potato salad, sliced rye bread and challah, ramekins of mayonnaise and mustard. While grandma made her own tuna salad and potato salad, both studded with bits of hardboiled egg, the coleslaw was only ever from Kentucky Fried Chicken. 'KFC or bust,' she would say. And she meant it. I brought countless acquaintances out to the desert to visit, and each time, a schmutz platter would be waiting on the dining room table when we arrived. But even when it was just me, the platter was there. After living in Los Angeles for most of her life, grandma was used to the depth and breadth of cuisines in the city. Her move to Palm Desert 20 years ago was accompanied by a bit of culinary shock, when she realized there were no Asian markets nearby and the local dim sum restaurant wasn't exactly local or actual dim sum. Each trip to visit came with a request to bring her a loaf of double-baked rye bread from Langer's Deli and an order or two of siu mai. The desert being the desert, we used to brave the 30-second walk to her car in the 110-degree heat to drive to the Rite Aid down the street for ice cream. She used to call the pharmacy waiting area an 'ice cream cafe,' and we sat in the blood pressure chairs while we licked our cones. I was only ever able to convince her to order the Chocolate Malted Krunch (the best flavor) once. Grandma only had eyes for rainbow sherbet. While we sat in the ice cream cafe, she asked about work and my love life, but never in a prying way. She listened intently and never judged, though I gave her plenty to question. By the time I made it to the bottom of my cone, I felt like there was at least one person in the world who understood me. As much as grandma loved to host company, with her weekly card games and mahjong, she lived for a night out. She had her hair done regularly into a golden coiffed pouf. Her nails were always painted. I don't think I ever saw her leave the house, let alone her bedroom, without lipstick. There were dresses for the grocery store, dresses for the mall, lunch with the girls and dinner out. We often staged mini fashion shows to compare outfits. Sullivan's, a lively chain steakhouse on the second floor of the El Paseo shopping center in Palm Desert, was our favorite place. She went so often that she had a regular table. She always enjoyed a glass of red wine. I sipped a martini. And we both ordered the crispy Shanghai calamari. This was the height of luxury and culinary achievement for grandma. A plate of battered and fried squid from Point Judith, R.I., coated in a sweet chili glaze with cherry peppers, scallions and sesame seeds. The rounds of squid were always tender, dredged in a light, crisp, shaggy coating. The orange, chile-flecked sauce was sticky and sweet, similar to the condiment typically served with Thai barbecue chicken. I can see her licking the sauce from her fingers as I type this. One of the last great meals we shared was at Alice B., Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger's restaurant at the Living Out LGBTQ+ community in Palm Springs. Feniger was there that evening and graciously took us on a small tour of the property before steering us toward an order of executive chef Lance Velasquez's excellent biscuits. My grandmother, who was a fan of Feniger's for years, was elated at meeting the chef. If the TV was on at grandma's house, it was tuned to the Food Network. We marveled at the texture of the biscuits, equal parts crunch and fluff. We finished every drop of the honey and butter. Grandma and I shared a love of fried chicken and discussed the restaurant's chicken cutlet for much of the drive home. She grew teary-eyed as we finished dinner. Grandma was someone who treated each meal, whether it was out or a schmutz platter at home, like it was something to be savored and appreciated, grateful for every moment we got to spend together. I know that with time, this pang in my chest will dull, but I'm confident that these memories will stay vivid. I can summon the smell of her kitchen. The warmth of her embrace. The sound of her laughter and the way it filled a room. I can taste her spaghetti and feel the grooves of the wooden bowls. Thank you, Grandma, for showing me just how delicious this life can be.
