{In Case You Missed It}: 2015 Highlights

As I approach the end of another year (five years and running now for the blog), it has become clearer to me than ever that the love and sweat poured into D.M.R. Fine Foods is worth every ounce of effort.  Sharing my passions with you here and beyond, and getting to experience them in newer and more exciting ways during this past year, has made 2015 nothing short of phenomenal.  While you're always welcome (and encouraged) to devour the archives, I want to encapsulate the highlights that set 2015 apart for D.M.R. Fine Foods--and have us raring to go for an even greater 2016!

FOOD
Where to start? There was no shortage of great recipes that made for a delicious year from start to finish.  Favorites included Rustic Strawberry Jam Crostini, Chilled Red Pepper Soup, Strawberry-Basil Sorbet, Buffalo Hot Wings, Crispy Flatbread Pizza, Raspberry-Ricotta Cake and so much more! Visit our recipes page to see them all.

Beyond my own cooking and baking forays, were equally delicious restaurant tastings and brand openings, food festivals, including the Atlanta Food and Wine Festival and perennial Taste of Atlanta Festival.  Not to mention the thrill of my award of dinner for two at the Beard House in NYC from the James Beard Foundation and a share of this post on their Instagram feed. Swoon!

And last, but certainly not least, was the continuation of my beloved Pop-Up Cooking School and Holiday Pop-Up Shop.  

TRAVEL
I started the year with an enviable travel bucket list that combined long-standing favorites with new, yet to be seen, territory.  I'm elated to share that I made every place on the list (with an extra or two along the way)--with the exception of one due to a last minute downturn in weather.  You'll have to stick around in 2016 to learn which one that is because I won't let it get by me next year.   

What could be dreamier than starting my year in travel in Paris and London for a winter holiday?  It was followed by weekend getaways, R&R beach escapes, NYC, and finally Argentina and Uruguay.  Laden with beauty, great food, amazing people and cultures, adventure, shopping, art and more, as travel goes, it was phenomenal on all counts. I'll be sharing more in upcoming travel postcards, so wait to be inspired.

FASHION
A passion of mine since seemingly forever (just ask my mom), I loved bringing more of myself to the blog on this front.  From beach style, to Labor Day garb, to New York Fashion Week(!!!), 2015 served up some truly memorable moments in fashion.

LIFESTYLE INSPIRATION
From interiors to dining alfresco to makeup and beauty to simple pleasures, there was no shortage of lifestyle inspiration in 2015.    

MEDIA COLLABORATIONS
Beyond the festivals, restaurants, businesses and brands I was fortunate to work with this year, my collaborations as a contributing writer with Atlanta Tribune: The Magazine's For the Love of Food column and as a PopSugar Select Food member continued in full force.  I was also proud to add UPSCALE Magazine to the list as a contributor to their annual Luxury Hotel and Spa Guide in the June 2015 issue.

The biggest thrill of them all remains connecting with my readers, supporters and patrons through the blog, events, social media and beyond.  Thank you for the support and enthusiasm that makes it doubly fulfilling.  I hope you enjoyed all we had to share in 2015 and stay plugged in as the New Year unfolds.  (**Check out this quick video collage of some of the year's favorite moments.) 
 
Here's to the happiest of New Years--and may it be our best one yet!

Xx,
Dawn  
  

 

{Be Inspired!}: Leah Chase, Culinary and Cultural Pioneer

Leah Chase

At 91 years young, Leah Chase continues to stand strong in her culinary prowess and inspire the many who know something of her pioneering story and legacy.  A New Orleans based chef, restauranteur, author and television personality, known as the Queen of Creole, Ms. Chase's legacy is an inspiring fixture of black history--my history--in America. 

Her legendary family restaurant, Dooky Chase's, was a key gathering place for the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960's, as well as for music, entertainment and culture in New Orleans and has been lauded for its extensive gallery of African-American art.  Still considered to be the signature restaurant for Creole cuisine, I can't wait to visit (and indulge!) when I finally make my way to NOLA.  And if I'm really fortunate, I hope to meet this living legend in person.  

Her numerous achievements and honors speak for themselves, including a formidable restart after the destruction of Hurricane Katrina, and keep me inspired to continue pursuing and achieving my God-given dreams.  

Thank you, Ms. Chase, for inspiring me and countless others, and for being a beautiful reflection of Black History.

Happy Eating...and Inspired Living!
Photo Credit

{Be Inspired}: Hope Is In The Air

Yesterday marked the inauguration of the 46th President of the United States of America.  And with it came a renewed hope for the journey ahead as a country--and as a black woman in this country.  "So much from one day?," you may be asking.  And my answer is a resolute yes.

Let me explain.

Witnessing Kamala Harris, who is the first woman, and a Black and Southeast Asian woman, in fact, become the Vice President of the United States was historic and reaffirming at once.  Why? Because it emphasized something we all know: representation matters.  Seeing a woman who looks like me, and who has undoubtedly encountered (and overcome) the challenges that other women, and Black women, in particular, face, is the ultimate affirmation that it (whatever 'it' may be) can happen for me, too.  It's no exaggeration when I say that countless girls and women of all backgrounds felt the same.  To see it is to aspire to it; to know its possibility turned reality.

 

It's why, I imagine, President Joe Biden recounts telling his high school mates that he believed he would be President someday.  He saw, administration over administration, white males, who looked like him, hold the most prestigious and powerful position in the world.  Not a far stretch in his mind, therefore.

Hope lives in the believing that a dream, however audacious and ambitious, can become reality.  Hope lives in being able to "see" before you see.  And that's why representation matters.  It's why recreating more moments like yesterday's, on the big and small stages of life, matters.  From the White House, to the Clergy, to the Boardroom, to the University, to the Military, and so much more, it's what we need now more than ever.  

Opportunity. Hope. Big Dreams. Dreams Fulfilled. Repeat. 

If 2021 needed a booster shot (and it did, even in its short tenure so far), yesterday was the super dose of hope that I believe revived our expectations for better, brighter days ahead.  And I pray you experienced at least a small taste of it, too.

Here's to more Happy (Inspired) Living! 

{Be Inspired}: Dreamy Tablescapes

I love being inspired and typically my inspiration comes in many shapes and forms.  But the one thing that remains constant is that wherever and however I find it, it always moves, awakens--and, yes--inspires me.  

With that being said, I'm excited to introduce my BeInspired! Series here on DMRFF!  Beyond my regular doses of food, travel, entertaining, and other yummy tidbits, occasionally I'll share the things, people, places and experiences that inspire me most in my day-to-day living, dreaming and being.  

And it doesn't stop there, because I look forward to you joining the BeInspired! conversation and sharing your inspirations with me!  To begin, keep reading and let's get started with my first installment.

*****

As a girl who loves a gorgeous tablescape, I was immensely inspired by these beautiful works of table art!  If you're into dreamy and over-the-top fabulous decor, then you'll probably love this healthy dose of inspiration as much as I do.  

P.S....I can see some serious entertaining and dinner parties taking place around these tables!

Here's to Happy Eating...and Inspired Living!

Photo Credits: 1, 2, 3, 4

{TASTES OF THE SEASON}: D.M.R. FINE FOODS FALL & HOLIDAY POP-UP SHOP!

What's Fall and the holiday season without seasonal and festive goodies to eat, drink and make merry?  I asked myself the same question over the last while and couldn't resist answering with a delicious Pop-Up Shop to savor some of the season's best tastes.

I'm thrilled to be teaming up with the fabulous Westside Market once again to present an afternoon of fall and holiday inspired fare for tasting, savoring--and yes, shopping! It will be the perfect opportunity to grab delicacies, star ingredients, and more, in time for the holiday season that's around the corner. 

And did I mention that this year's Pop-Up Shop will be amidst Westside Market's Holiday Baazar?  Translation: there will be other artisans available for you to browse and shop for your holiday gifting and decor needs.

Mark your calendars for next Saturday, November 21st from 12 - 4p.m. EST, and make plans to drop in and kick start your holiday season with our goodies that are perfect for your kitchen, as hostess gifts, and more!  From warm spices, to hearty herbs, to bright citrus, sweet confections, and more, there will be something for everyone--and every taste.  It promises to be a deliciously fun afternoon, as always--and I can't wait to see you there!

Happy Holidays and Happy Eating!

D.M.R. Fine Foods Fall & Holiday Pop-Up Shop
Venue Details:
Westside Market
1530 Ellsworth Ind. Blvd.
Atlanta, Ga 30318
404.941.3466
www.westsidemarketatl.com

{Be Inspired}: Dreams Do Come True!

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and beyond the eating, drinking, and making merry, I'm reflecting heavily on the many blessings that continue to flood my life--and how so very thankful I am for each and every one.  

Not too long ago, one such blessing (which had formerly existed in dream form), came true for me as I embarked on a press trip with a group of fellow travel journalists to cover the many splendored offerings of beautiful Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.  It was everything I expected it to be--and truly so much more.  I look forward to sharing my journey, discoveries and experiences with you in the days ahead, so stay tuned for that!

In the meantime, continue to count your blessings, be ever thankful, and expect your dreams to come true.  It's inspired living at its absolute best!

Happy Thanksgiving!

{Be Inspired!}: Fall Beauty Is Here

"Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself." ~Coco Chanel

For me, the allure of Fall extends well beyond the captivating foilage and invigorating weather into the world of beauty.  Rich hues for nails and lips are especially gorgeous and seem to match the cozier elements of the season with a natural flair.

Also not to be forgotten are the earthy tones that lend warmth and a subtler punch, but read equally beautiful.

So whether you prefer bold, or less so, Fall is the season to let your inspiration lead the way into a more beautiful you.  For more beauty-liciousness, go here.

Happy Inspired and Beautiful Living!

{Be Inspired!}: Spring Fling

Although today began on a rainy note, I'm counting on the old adage, "April showers bring May flowers", to prove truer than ever.  I'm anticipating the growth, life, renewal, beauty and full on 'bloom' that Spring represents, as new beginnings and a healthy dose of inspiration beckon me to embrace the gift of life like never before. 

I'm having a fling with Spring--and sharing some of my favorite seasonal inspirations ala my favorite go-to to help you do the same.  As you might have guessed, my girly girl sentiments shine through. :)

I'd like to know how you're embracing the season and staying inspired.  Share with me and let's inspire one another!

Here's to...Happy Inspired Living!

{Be Inspired!}: A Power Manifesto

It's amazing to realize that we're almost through the first month of 2014; my how time flies!  As I thought of this, I began to think about how grateful I am to live the life I live and about how much more expectancy I am carrying forward into the months, weeks, and days ahead.

I discovered a manifesto early in the new year that immediately struck a chord with me and my aspirations for a life well lived.  And while life will present its share of highs and lows and ups and downs, we can choose to embrace it in its fullness and remain full of hope, faith, joy, love--and inspiration.

I want to share this manifesto with you in hopes that it will boost your expectancy for more inspired living!

Happy Inspired Living!
P.S. What inspires you? 

Image Source

{Be Inspired!}: Simple Pleasures

Photo Credit: The New York Times

I'll admit that I love the grand, OMG, wow moments that punctuate our lives.  But the reality is that those punctuation points are intermixed with the more tempered--and more frequent--normalcy of our everyday lives and routines.  Routine isn't a bad thing, however--especially when sprinkled (or showered) with simple pleasures. 

If you've never thought of simplicity and pleasure as likely bedfellows, I assure you they are.  A favorite song.  A talk with a good friend.  A thought-provoking read.  A motivating quote.  Fresh flowers.  An unforgettable meal.  A great dress or shoe sale. :)  A lingering sunset.  The list becomes virtually endless when I take the time to pause and reflect and embrace the joy of everyday living. 

So today's inspiration is all about sharing a few of the simple, but nonetheless special, pleasures that brought laughter, satiation, and the joie de vivre to my life this week.  

A new recipe for my weeknight repertoire --  I discovered a "fried" chicken like dish that came together on a sheet pan in my oven.  The results? Delicious crispy-skinned, moist chicken legs that are still as good the next day (without the added cleanup or calories of its fried counterpart.)   See the easy recipe, courtesy of New York Times, here.

Farm-to-table meets the runway at Paris Fashion Week -- It sounds strange, I know.  And it is.  Except that we're talking jokes and fun and the quirky approach Valentino lended to its Autumn-Winter '15 runway show this week.  I love fashion--and intermixed with a bit of Zoolander humor brought a welcomed laugh.  Lighten up with this fun video parody.  

Photo Credit: Fashonista.com

   
A birthday party for me! -- So, Anthropologie just happens to be one of my favorite stores for everything from home and kitchen decor, to clothing, jewelry and more; we go way back.  And I received a sweet surprise from them this week: an invitation to a birthday party for me (not a private party, but a party all the same!--a spring fashion show, sips and snacks, etc.).  So a little shopping and celebrating are in order for this March birthday girl.  


What are some of the simple pleasures that brighten your days?

May we all embrace more of them...along with Happy, Inspired Living!

{Be Inspired!}: Kitchen Envy

I am among those who consider the kitchen to be the "heart" of the home.  In my case it relates largely to the fact that much of the gathering, sharing, sustenance and memories stem from moments spent in the kitchen.  And then there's that thing that I have for cooking, baking--and eating. :)

All of that can definitely make it exciting (most days, anyway) to create a space that's true to your personal aesthetic and utility purposes.  Whether you're working with a large area, a galley space, or somewhere in between, kitchen's are magic!  From lighting, to fixtures, appliances, furniture, counter tops, flooring, cookware, art and beyond, there's seemingly no limit to what your space can reflect and inspire.

And speaking of inspiration, I'm constantly feeding my kitchen fantasies with loads of it, like the scenes included here.  If you're looking for even more (and who isn't?!), head over to my Homes/Interiors board on Pinterest for more of everything you love to love.

Happy Inspired Living!

Photo Credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

{Be Inspired!}: My New Published Book

 

Throughout the years, I’ve shared the importance of my faith with my DMRFF family. And now I’m thrilled to build on that sharing with an ode to what faith and purpose have made possible in my life, in the way of my new book, Words of Life: Power Devotionals for Successful Living.

Just as I celebrate all the things that represent the good life to me, from cuisine, to culture, to community, to travel, lifestyle topics and more, I had to let you in on the celebration for this wonderful accomplishment and milestone in my ministry journey.

After decades of writing, including ghost writing book manuscripts for others, the time finally came to realize one of my greatest dreams: becoming a published author.  And beyond the goal of becoming an author, is the greater aspiration of imparting the faith, hope, encouragement, wisdom, lessons, and so much more, that have carried me through every season of life in stride with God and His goodness.

I’m so excited for this volume to be out in the world and available to all who will partake of the truths packaged in the 80 devotional messages and companion affirmations (a.k.a. power confessions).  And if that’s you, I’m thrilled for the blessing it will add to your spiritual and personal growth journeys.

I more than welcome you to grab your copy and enjoy loads of…

Happy, Inspiring, Uplifting, Impactful Reading!

*Also available online at Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Walmart and more!

Postcard From Bentonville: A Guide to the Top Sights, Scenes and Tastes

Imagine my delight upon arriving in Bentonville, Arkansas and discovering that it was more (much more, to be exact) than the Walmart capital of the world.  My discoveries traversed art, culture, inspiring insights into the Walmart legacy, and, without question, scrumptious cuisine.  To say my time there was anything other than indulgent would be to grossly under-represent how, from start to finish, this booming destination wowed me again and again.

The star in the North, Bentonville showcases its bucket list-worthiness across multiple spectrums, and today's postcard installment from my recent travels in Arkansas delivers my guide on what to see, do and taste, to ensure you experience the best of what the Natural State's Northwest has to offer.

See and Do

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
After a morning drive in from Little Rock, I landed at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art for an afternoon immersed in art, architecture and exploration--nestled on 120 acres of Ozark landscape.  And if you're anything like me, and known to spend half, or even full, days in a museum, then you can imagine my excitement around it all.  Founded by Alice Walton, her vision and philanthropy ensure the doors to this premier art museum are open to all and admission is complimentary.

Lunch Views

After a welcome lunch (more on that later), we embarked on a tour of the Bachman-Wilson House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, tucked away along one of the several nature trails.  From there, we returned to the main museum grounds enjoying self-guided tours of the Crystals in Art exhibition and, gasp, Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrored Room.  It's fair to say that my visit was made then and there, having recouped the opportunity to take in this amazing artist's work after missing her exhibit in Atlanta.

From the Crystals in Art Exhibit

Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrored Room

And just when I thought it couldn't get any better, a personalized, docent-led tour rounded out the visit and revealed another favorite installation by Kehinde Wiley, of Presidential National Portraiture acclaim and beyond. Without question, a day and/or night at this museum is a must-see and do.  Learn more and plan your visit here.

Kehinde Wiley's Signature Is Unmistakeable

Thaden Fieldhouse
How often does your day begin in the middle of a hangar, admiring a collection of helicopters and planes that will make you swoon and contemplate enrolling in the onsite flight school?  Probably not often, but a visit to Bentonville will change that when you take in a tour at Thaden Fieldhouse.  I couldn't resist a photo op inside the 'chopper before leaving.  I mean a girl needs proof of the awesomeness, no?!

The Clubhouse

Museum of Native American History
Culture runs deep at the Museum of Native American History where Indian history, spanning five different periods, is on full display in exhibit rooms designed in chronological order.  The gorgeous artifacts, and audio wands providing narration throughout the self-guided tour, brought this essential history to life in a powerful way that is not to be missed.  Admission is complimentary.

Walmart Museum
If you thought you knew most of what there is to know about Sam Walton, Walmart, and the Walton legacy, think again.  A morning touring the Walmart Museum not only astounded me regarding the phenomenal business empire that is now the number one retailer, Walmart, but the equally humble beginnings of founder, Sam Walton.  This legacy was brought to life with interactive exhibits and ended on a high note at the original Walton dime store, where ice cream, a 50s-style soda fountain, and more, give you the full 'way back when' aura of the early days.  Situated in the heart of downtown Bentonville, this family-friendly museum is worth exploring.

Special mention goes to The Scott Family Amazeum, perfect for kids--and kids-at-heart--and the 8th Street Market, a community-focused food hub in the heart of the Market District.

Taste
All that seeing and doing was punctuated by some of the best eats you could hope to get your taste buds around.

Eleven at Crystal Bridges
My arrival to Bentonville and the Crystal Bridges Museum began on the high note of lunch at the resident restaurant, Eleven at Crystal Bridges.  Labeled as High South cuisine, or elevated Southern home cooking, the dining experience at Eleven will satiate those home-cooked cravings, and the gorgeous, accompanying views will astound.

  
The Hive
Refined country cuisine is what's on the menu at The Hive.  Situated within the 21c Museum Hotel, the cuisine and beehive decor make for memorable dining. Executive Chef Matthew McClure has been acclaimed by FOOD + WINE and is a six-time James Beard Foundation Best Chef semifinalist (translation: you're in good phenomenal culinary hands.)  And if you know a great photo op when you see one, you won't miss the chance to get up close and personal with the green penguins hanging around. 

Louise Cafe

As if indulging my aviation dreams wasn't enough, my morning at Thaden Fieldhouse was made all the more special with breakfast at the in-house Louise Cafe, a modern all-day cafe that serves diner-style breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.  With both indoor and outdoor seating facing the runway, Louise Cafe provides incredible views of planes taking off and landing as you enjoy a great meal and dining experience.  The restaurant is named in honor of Iris Louise McPhetridge Thaden; a proud Arkansan and one of the greatest aviators of her time. 

The Preacher's Son
Inevitably there's always a favorite in the bunch and The Preacher's Son was it for this seasoned foodie. As much for the gluten-free, sustainable and supremely delicious cuisine (I'm talking the best cornbread ever), the story behind this restaurant is equally endearing. As it goes, inspired by Chef Matthew Cooper’s background – as the son of a preacher, the restaurant is located in a beautifully restored, historic church, across the street from where Chef Matt’s father taught his first sermons over 40 years ago.  And during his visit with our party, Chef Cooper elaborated on his commitment to the farmers and other food purveyors that supply his restaurant and the broader food community.  Good eats + good deeds + gorgeous interiors make this restaurant a hallmark on the Arkansas dining scene and not to be missed when in Bentonville.

Special mention goes to Tusk & Trotter, where you'll find the best pork rinds and good BBQ in abundance; The Holler for cheers and games; and Undercroft (the speakeasy counterpart to The Preacher's Son) for an after dinner wind down with mellow vibes.

After my stay, it's clear that Bentonville is a destination filled with depth, commitment to the arts and history, a no-brainer playground for the outdoors lover, and a culinary bastion.  I trust you'll find my discoveries--and your own--to be more than worth the trip.

Happy Travels!