BOOK CLUB: THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is one of my favourite books that I read this summer. Set in the aftermath of World War II, the book follows a writer and her new friendships with members of a unique book club on the island of Guernsey. Through their letters, we learn about the effects of the war on both London and Guernsey, the human spirit and lasting friendships. It really is a sweet read.

THE CROOKIE

Have you heard of The Crookie? It's a decadent treat that has made international headlines. Created and found at Clafouti, our local patisserie, The Crookie is a mash up between an Oreo cookie and a croissant. I had my first one today, and yes, it really is decadent. I think I have had my sugar quota for the entire week ... if only I had had enough restraint to wait and share it with my husband.

RECIPE: SUMMER POTATO SALAD

Every summer I seem to have a go-to potato salad. Last summer it was a potato salad with grape tomatoes, and this year I'm gravitating towards a more tangy version with roasted garlic, sundried tomatoes, capers and Dijon mustard. Try it -- it's perfect for a BBQ or park picnic.

Ingredients:
2 pounds red potatoes, washed and cut in half
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup whole grain Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon roasted garlic paste
1 tablespoon capers, drained
2 tablespoons sundried tomatoes, drained and coarsely chopped
4 stalks of celery, finely diced
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh dill, coarsely chopped

Directions:
In a large saucepan with salted water, boil potatoes for 10-15 minutes until they are tender (but not overcooked). Drain and transfer to large bowl.

Add mayonnaise, mustard, garlic paste, capers and sundried tomatoes. Mix gently to combine. Add celery, salt and pepper and toss until combined. Garnish with fresh dill.

This potato salad can be served warm or chilled. Enjoy!

(Image)

DESIGN INSPIRATION: OPEN KITCHEN SHELVING

Even though a kitchen renovation is on the (very distant) horizon for us, I've started to search for inspiration to improve upon the functionality and design of our kitchen. One trend I'm noticing is open shelving. My initial thought was no way since I'd never be able to maintain a clean, clutter-free look. But, the idea is starting to grow on me -- it would be a handy way to access our everyday white dishes. What do you think about open shelving?

Here are a few photos in case you're looking for design inspiration too ...

(Image 1 / Image 2 / Image 3 / Image 4 / Image 5 / Image 6 / Image 7)

BEST NON-MATERNITY, MATERNITY WEAR: T BY ALEXANDER WANG

My favourite t-shirts are currently from T by Alexander Wang. The loose fit and super soft fabrics make them a comfortable, simple choice for a growing belly at every stage. My go-to basics are the classic t-shirt and the long sleeve tee.

And, here's another one of my favourite non-maternity, maternity wear brands.

THE BIG BOY ROOM

Monkey made the transition to a 'big boy' bed a few months ago and we took the opportunity to redecorate his room to give it a 'big boy' boost.  To involve him in the process and make it feel like his own room, I brought Monkey along for all the purchases and he even picked out his own red quilt and colourful sheets all by himself. Here are the results ...

And, how did the actual transition from a crib to bed go? Well, it only took a few sleepless nights for us all, but Monkey soon found that his new room, and especially his big boy bed, are the best ever!