A New Restaurant in Dallas: Rise 1

Hedda Dowd and partner have opened a "Salon de Souffle" and it is a WOW on my list. I took a friend to lunch (pics above) and was so impressed with the authenticity of the French cooking (or so I thought) that I took Charles to get a second opinion. Yep...real French food and a charming spot. From Salad Nicoise to Chocolate Souffle, it is a charmer. Yummmm...just thought I would pass it on.

This Just In: Paris Collections....

From Messrs. Givenchy and Lacroix, I am getting the message that coordinating legs are going to be hot this Fall...pass it on, girlfriend!

Fourth of July in the Big, Big City.....

What's a girl to do in New York City over the Fourth of July, when her friend visits from Washington? Why, it's Alysa and Francine on the town...Coney Island for the infamous hot dog eating contest and a trip to Dylan's Candy for a sugar shock....sweet!!!

See you soon, Peggy.....

It was hard to say goodbye to Galleria Mall Manager Peggy Weaver who "retired" from her position after 19 years. I put the retired in quotes, because I believe that Peggy will morph into some other powerhouse, just too young to formally retire. So here's to you Peggy, and the next chapter of your career...
We at Ylang 23 have appreciated everything that you have done for us.

PS. Happy June 23rd...

Did you know that the perfect 1 ounce serving of almonds is 23? And that Jake left from gate 23 for summer camp? Everywhere I turn, there's a lucky 23 around the corner. If you need something lucky from Ylang 23, just give us a toll free call at 866.ylang23 (naturally)

New Sydney Evan....

We are in love with the new Sydney Evan bracelets with new beads and diamond charms. How about those big ole angel wings?

New Treasures from Ten Thousand Things....

What is FLYING out the door this week? Why, it's David and Ron's (yes the brilliants behind Ten Thousand Things) new organic treatures with the coolest stones. A great self-indulgence for summer!

Happy Fathers Day 2008....

It's been a crazed week, with Alysa home, only to repack and leave for NYC, and Jake off to summer camp. This makes year 6 that his departure is on Father's Day, but we are used to it by now. OK, don't tell Camp that he did a little "off the list shopping" for camp. We will just deny having anything to do with the sugar and snacks. For the rest of you, trust you had a great Fathers Day!

Sushi Samba Going Away Luncheon....

I have mentioned it before, but it is worth mentioning again: Sushi Samba Galleria (yes, close to our front door) is amazing. This feather light tempura was mine, Alysa dug into tuna rolls, and there was enough "normal" food (burgers, fries, etc) for Charles to pick from. In all, a great lunch, so stop on by to see them (and don't forget to drop in to see us too!)

A Rippin' Great Time in Little Rock....

It seemed like all of Little Rock, Arkansas turned out to roast and toast Coach Charles Ripley, with the proceeds benefiting Arkansas Baptist College. Charles & I had a blast, declaring the Bar-b-que amazing, topped only by the down home (yes, Arkansas was MY home) hospitality of our hosts and everyone we met. For those of you who have never heard of Coach Rip, he has dedicated his life to coaching, including legends Derek Fisher (Los Angeles Lakers), Houston Nutt (U. of Mississippi head football coach), and Sidney Moncrief, NBA assistant coach. Including a great live and silent auction (and what would an auction be without a pair of puppies?), we had a wonderful time. Might we suggest, when you stay in Little Rock, you pamper yourself at the Capital Hotel....wow! I want the recipe for those home baked soda crackers, y'all!