How Mini Burgers Does It Take?

I can't think of a more appealing form of protein than the mini burger. My favorite chef, also known as Dad, has recently perfected the art form. The secret? Hanger steak. Hanger steak is a cut of meat known for it's flavor. It's sometimes referred to as the "butcher's steak" because butchers are known to keep the cut for themselves. While it's more popular in Europe, hanger steak is slowly infiltrating American cuisine, and what better display of this than the hamburger? So get to know your butcher and discover the cure for your carnivorous hankerings. Serve them up with fries and a root beer, and you've got perfection.

A Natural Beauty

Warm weather means exposed limbs, which in my case means it's time to moisturize. After keeping my legs hidden under jeans all winter, it's time for the grand reveal, and Green by Nature is the perfect aid in my beauty preparation. The New York-based company makes all of their products with at least 90 percent natural ingredients, and they donate one percent of annual sales to environmental groups. Aside from all the eco-friendly perks, the products are affordable and smell wonderful (almond cocoa is my favorite). With scrubs, lotions, body butters and creams, you'll be ready to show off those gams again. Green by Nature products are available for sale at Urban Outfitters and online.

A Style Gap

I'll admit it. I shop at the Gap way too often. I know their clothes aren't particularly fashion forward or distinct, but whenever I'm bored with my wardrobe, I can always walk into Gap and find something I like. And by the look of their latest styles, it's time for another visit. From this bold knit top to this flirty, tropical dress, throw in a tote and a pair of sandals, and I'll be set for summer. Of course, what would it all amount to without a pair of jeans? Am I right, Neil Diamond?

Lovin' Spoonful

When it comes to eating ice cream, I have long held the belief that the cold treat is best enjoyed with a plastic spoon. I once heard that metal spoons conduct cold which can numb your taste buds, thereby dulling the flavor of your ice cream. To be honest I have no idea if this is true, but it sounds true, right? Regardless of taste bud science, these spoons are adorable.
The utensils, made from melamine, are creations from Zak! Designs and are available for sale online. They're fun, they fit hands perfectly, and they're dishwasher safe. Zak! Designs has created all kinds of durable and brightly-colored products, including bowls, cups, plates, colanders and more. The cheery designs are a perfect dinnerware solution for picnics and outdoor parties, and they just might help you enjoy that next bowl of ice cream.

Something's Brewing

Every southerner knows how to stir up a batch of sweet tea. It's easy stuff, basic brewing with Luzianne or Lipton and a lot, I do mean a lot, of sugar. It's brilliant in its simplicity. But if you're looking for something a little more exotic, check out this iced tea collection from Harney & Sons. A colorful tote comes packed with two tumblers, two silver stirring spoons, a tube of Key lime cookies and four iced tea blends, including herbal raspberry, passion fruit, organic green and organic peach. It's a summery solution for tea fans and another gift idea for Mom's Day.

The Pie That Must Not Be Named

This Saturday marks the 134th Kentucky Derby. If you think you don't care, just remember, the event is about much more than horses. For me, the draw is all the classic southernness, ranging from mint juleps to wild hats. There's also a pie associated with the event ...a very controversial pie.

You see, I was raised on what has always been referred to in my family as Derby Pie, but apparently we have been eating dangerously close to the edge. The name Derby Pie is trademarked by Kern's Kitchen, the company/family who created the "secret" recipe. No one else, not even Bon Appétit magazine who lost a court battle to Kern's Kitchen, is authorized to label a recipe as Derby Pie.

Today, there are all sorts of variations of the dessert, some with walnuts, some with pecans, some with bourbon, some with butterscotch. Whatever you want to call it, this pie is simple, deadly sweet and ooey-gooey good. It's best served warm with a glass of milk or next to a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Chocolate and Pecan (Not Derby) Pie

1 stick of butter, melted and cooled
1/4 cup flour
1 cup sugar (combine flour with sugar)
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup of chopped pecans

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients. Pour mixture into unbaked pie crust and bake for 40-45 minutes.

Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme

There's something about people who have herb gardens that really impresses me. It just seems so industrious. If you happen to be so inclined, there's a slew of merchandise to make the whole process easier. For a start, this iron caddy and set of pots from Crate and Barrel can house your plants either indoors or out. Crate and Barrel even sells kits that contain everything you need to grow your own basil, mini tomatoes or oregano. Of course, you'll need herb snips to harvest your tiny crops and my new favorite gadget, a rolling mincer, to chop up all the leafy goodness before cooking. I'm actually quite motivated to give it a try, but for now I'll just eat from these herb-inspired bowls ...and listen to Simon and Garfunkel.