Mariel’s Ultimate Mykonos Travel Guide

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Mykonos was our third and final stop in Greece. We reached the island by ferry from Santorini, a comfortable two-hour ride on SeaJets. Ferry travel is the only direct option from Santorini to Mykonos, as there are no regular direct flights. The crossing itself was pleasant, but the port experience deserves a few tips. Tip … Read more

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Slow-Braised Beef Cheeks Recipe

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Slow‑braised beef cheeks are a real treat: a tough cut made meltingly tender by long, gentle cooking. The meat becomes so soft it almost falls apart, and the rich gravy that results is perfect spooned over creamy mashed potatoes or steamed rice. This dish is comforting, surprisingly simple to prepare, and ideal for serving when … Read more

Gluten-Free Vanilla Cupcakes Recipe for Moist, Fluffy Results

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These gluten free vanilla cupcakes are tender, moist, and full of classic vanilla flavor. With a soft crumb and a bakery-style texture, they’re ideal for birthdays, weddings, baby showers, or any celebration where everyone should enjoy the same delicious treat. Bring a batch to a party and nobody has to settle—these cupcakes are crowd-pleasers whether … Read more

Gladd Family Vacation 2014 — Wrightsville Beach, NC Photos

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Every other year our family spends a week at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. We love this stretch of coast and return for the relaxed vibe, easy beach access, and family-friendly activities. If you’re planning a summer getaway to Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, here are our favorite things to do and places to eat in the immediate Wrightsville Beach area. This is part one of a two-part series — next week I’ll share more recommendations for Wilmington itself.

We’re fortunate to stay in a beach house owned by family, but there are many vacation rentals in the area through VRBO, Airbnb, and other sites. When choosing a rental, look for a layout that gives everyone space — our favorite house has three master bedrooms, two kids’ rooms with bunks, and a bonus room with a sleeper sofa. Separate sleeping spaces for children make it much easier for parents to relax and recharge.

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Wellington on a Plate: New Zealand’s Premier Food Festival

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I’m ashamed to admit that after all the years I’ve travelled to New Zealand, I had never visited Wellington until recently. Better late than never — my short stay more than made up for lost time. Three fellow food bloggers and I crossed the Tasman to be in Wellington for the opening weekend of the … Read more

Garlic-Sautéed Spaghetti Squash with Crispy Herb Breadcrumbs

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A large bowl of warm pasta is one of the ultimate comfort foods, especially on a chilly, hectic day. But if you’re watching carbohydrates or simply want a lighter alternative, spaghetti squash is a satisfying and flavorful option. Rather than trying to pass spaghetti squash off as a direct noodle replacement, I prefer to embrace … Read more

Crispy Roasted Buckwheat & Toasted Coconut Granola Recipe

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Homemade granola is one of life’s simple pleasures: nutritious, delicious and easy to make in large batches. Far superior to many shop-bought varieties, this roasted buckwheat and coconut granola is crunchy, nutty and deeply toasted, with bright sweet-and-tart pops from dried berries. It pairs beautifully with coconut yoghurt, fresh berries and a drizzle of coconut … Read more

Chocolate Rose Cake with Vanilla Whipped Cream Recipe

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This Chocolate Rose Cake is rich, deeply chocolatey, and as romantic as a dessert can be. Layers of dark chocolate cake are scented with rose in two ways: brewed rose tea from dried petals and a splash of rosewater. A light vanilla bean whipped cream softens the intense chocolate and ganache, creating a balanced, elegant … Read more

Lemon Crème Brûlée Recipe: Silky Citrus Custard with Caramelized Top

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Lemon crème brûlée — a perfect Mother’s Day dessert for two. May brings Mother’s Day, tulips, daffodils and fresh spring air. It’s a lovely time to celebrate mothers — whether you’re treating your mom or being celebrated yourself. This lemon crème brûlée is delicate, bright and elegant in a little ramekin. It’s an ideal spring … Read more