Tomato Time! Grilled Tomato, Basil & Cheese Sandwich with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

It's difficult to think anything but pleasant thoughts while eating a homegrown tomato. ~L. Grizzard

Tomato season is in full swing. Grab a few from you garden or local veggie stand and treat yourself to one of these delicious sandwiches.

Toasted Cheese, Tomato, & Basil with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce:

Heat a skillet on medium with olive oil.
Add a slice of bread and top with cheese (I used cheddar/mozzarella), layer sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, salt & pepper, and slice of bread.
Toast both sides until golden brown and cheese is melting. Slice in half.
Honey Mustard Sauce:
In a small bowl whisk together 2 Tbsp. honey and 2 Tbsp. spicy brown mustard. Enjoy!

Delicious!

Another of my all time faves is the CBLT (California Bacon Lettuce & Tomato).

CBLT: In an oiled skillet toast bread, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, avocado slices, salt & pepper. Feel free to add fresh herbs and mayo if you wish. Enjoy!

Have a beautiful day,
kathy

Escape to Nashville, IN

For our mom's birthday, my sister and I took her on a road trip to the wooded rolling hills of southern Indiana. Our first stop was The Brown County Winery for a tasting of their delicious sweet and tart wines.

After browsing through a roadside flea market and finding my sister's old summer camp Gnaw Bone tucked way back in the forest, we reached our final destination. Nashville, Indiana. This is a little gem of a town filled with cute boutiques, art galleries, and down home restaurants that serve fried chicken, biscuits, and homemade apple butter.

We checked in our charming bed and breakfast in the heart of town called The Cornerstone Inn. Upon arriving they directed us to the gathering room where fresh baked pies and fluffy cakes awaited.

The highlights of our little excursion were being together, carefree laughter, shopping, and eating dinner at a surprisingly gourmet restaurant called The Hob Knob, recommended by locals. The house spinach lasagna and tart glass of New Zealand sauvignon blanc was delicious.
To end the evening we ended up at The Chateau Thomas Winery tasting room sharing a bottle of their Fleur d' Peche wine and listening to a country blues singer sing about his long legged lover. She was sitting right up front and was truly has the longest legs I have ever seen when she stood at about 6'3!

 

After an abundant farm breakfast including strong coffee and gooey pecan rolls, we hit The Nashville Country Store for caramel corn and fudge for the kids, we hopped in my sister's van and drove home listening to the country singer's original "hits". A great escape!
Shine your light, k

12 Books of Inspiration

I love love love books. Here is a list of books that are always on my bedside table for comfort and inspiration. They could be great gifts to you are anyone you hold dear.

1. SARK's New Creative Companion SARK is an artist that captures the magic of everyday inspiration. Just opening this book makes me smile.

2. The Blessings of a Skinned Knee by Wendy Mogel
This is great for moms/parents with young children. Lots of guidance and advice, but I mostly love the importance she puts on family traditions.

3. The Power of Intention by Dr. Wayne Dyer
He is one of my favorite self-help gurus. This book guides you on your journey to create and attract the life you desire. Read the last chapter first on Connectors. Inspirational!

4. Happy Yoga by Steve Ross
This is great for the yoga lover. He has a happy approach to life, yoga, and music.

5. 1000 Places To See Before You Die
I feel like I go on mini vacations when I open this book. I want to see them all!

6. Don't Sweat the Small Stuff for Women by Kristine Carlson
A great bedside book for daily inspiration. My favorite is her page on "Walk Through the Open Doors."

7. The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron
A total guide to discovering your inner artist. It is full of ways to become more creative in everyday life.

8. Grace Notes by Alexandra Stoddard
This book has been at my bedside for over ten years It's filled with daily quotes that are timeless and classic.

9. Girlfriend's Guide to Getting Your Groove Back by Vicki Iovine
Another good one for moms with young kids. I totally relate to her funny stories - especially never leaving the house without a diaper bag even though all your kids are potty trained.

10. Yeah Dave's Guide to Livin' the Moment: Getting to Ecstasy Through Wine, Chocolate and Your iPod Playlist by David Romanelli
You don't have to be a yoga lover to enjoy this book. He encourages us to enjoy a delicious moment, beautiful moment, and funny moment every day.

11. The Power by Rhonda Byrne
I love The Secret too. This one is all about the power of Love.

12. Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort of Joy by Sarah Ban Breathnach Another book I go back to time and time again. Great insight for simplicity amidst a busy life.
Happy Reading,
Kathy