Swell Sip: Trail Blazer

With Jenna away on vacation and my indoor camping birthday fete tomorrow (a bit early as I turn a year older on August 9), I got behind the bar to create a SWELL SIP fit for toasting with after a long hike. With a swizzle of Midnight Moon, Lemon Peel & Ginger Root Mash and a sprig of rosemary, this is sure to both refresh and relax your senses after a day exploring. I imagine sitting in a safari tent at El Capitan Canyon (the definition of glamping) with a few fellow hikers, a round of these and a vintage set of dice. A proper excursion for the end of summer, don't you think?




7. Urban Outfitters Sahara Wayfarers 8. Madewell Acorn Necklace 9. Steven Alan Erin Shorts 10. Madewell Sun Fade Sketch Tank 11. Thoro Craft Shop Hudson Boots 12. Herschel Supply Company Survey

Gift Guide: Crafty Camper

1. Bug Serum 2. Walnut Wenger Utility Knife 3. Toast Storm Lantern 4. Soulpad 5. DWR Wood Carrier 6. Kelly Kettle 7. Pendleton Leather Blanket Carrier 8. A Happy Camper Dutch Oven 9. Terrain Hickory Coaster Set 10. Not on the High Street Glamper Set 11.Toast Enamel Mug

Space Monkey: Far Meadow Log Cabin

Going back to being blind as a bat. . . it connects to my feelings about camping. When I was young, camping meant dirt in my eyes (and if you have contacts, you know how this goes). It meant going to sleep cold and waking up hot (and blind). It meant having to pee on a tree (while finding my way through the dark). But somehow as I've gotten older, I've always romanticized the idea of camping. The s'mores! The wool blankets! The trek through the forest with a sweet little lantern! And while no true camper dislikes the dirt and the work of roughing it in the woods, for the rest of us there is the Far Meadow log cabin, a bucolic hideaway complete with the comforts of home—a French press, bicycles, running water–all under a classic tin roof in the heart of the Sierra National Forest. You can call me a wimp, but this is my kind of getting in touch with nature.

Space Monkey: El Cosmico

Somewhere in the dry landscape of West Texas, there is a tiny artist community of Marfa. And outside of this dot on the map is El Cosmico, a rustic retreat where you can bunk up in vintage trailers, rest peacefully in bright yurts or fall asleep under the beams of a Sioux teepee. Come morning, take an art workshop, soak in a Dutch hot tub, hang from the elms in a hammock or picnic it up. Whatever you choose, this is a nomad's summer dream.

Happy Camper

The idea of camping always sounds fun. You pack up your gear, call a few pals and head out into the wilderness in search of more than 10 night stars and a bit of quiet. If only it was so easy. Around these parts, you also have to consider if you made a reservation and what the traffic will be. Who owns a tent? Anyone have a sleeping bag? By the time you get there it's already dark, you're fumbling with tent poles, and the charm of no running water quickly wears off. And then it hits you: You're more like Phyllis Nefler then you thought--love the idea, hate the fuss. I get it. But fear not, Ms. Beverly Hills, for you too can have all the charms of camping without the trouble. You just need a bit of creativity and some willing buddies. A backyard is also a plus, but isn't required.

Backyard Camping

Outdoor Fire Pit
Sherry and John Petersik of Young House Love came up with this brilliant idea to spruce up their patio. All you'll need is 4-6 paver stones for the base, some edging stones for the outside and some firewood. At about $28, it's an easy and affordable way for "camping" anytime!

Blankets
Just grab some old blankets and lay them out. Hey, the point is to get the best of camping so going back inside to sleep in your bed is completely acceptable.

Indoor Camping

If you haven't got a yard, no worries! These brilliant items will bring nature to you. 

Campfire

You seen it for the holidays and it's so simple (don't we all wish we thought of it first?), but this virtual flames DVD is a kitschy way to get the fire indoors. Plus, you can choose from a rustic campfire,  a beach bonfire or a fireplace. 

Trees

With a simple light of the wick, you can have a forest of trees. 

Seating

If you have the funds and really want to go all out, these organic fir stump stools or these brilliant rock pillows called livingstones are the closest thing you'll find to nature's chairs. 

Camping Recipes

Chicken Potato Stew

Served up in small bowls or mugs, this is hearty and complete meal. If you don't have much time the night of your camp out, just make it the day before. 

4 cups cooked, cubed chicken breast meat 2/3 cup sliced fresh mushrooms 1 cup chopped onion, sauteed in butter 1 1/2 cups chopped carrots 6 cups chicken stock 1 teaspoon dried sage 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves 1 teaspoon garlic salt 1 teaspoon dried parsley 1 (10 ounce) package frozen mixed vegetables, thawed 3 cups cooked, diced red potatoes 1/2 cup chopped celery 1/8 cup all-purpose flour Combine chicken, mushrooms, onion, carrots and stock in a large saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until carrots are tender, about 10 minutes.  Stir in sage, basil, garlic salt, parsley, mixed vegetables, potatoes and celery and cook until heated through. Stir in flour to thicken sauce, then serve.

Brioche S'Mores:
While Sylvester Graham's cracker is classic, this version is delicious and flaky. You'll find the ingredients at Whole Foods and you can adjust for any amount of guests. Simply whip them up like traditional s'mores.

Vanilla Bean Marshmallows (Whole Foods makes their own), toasted
Mini croissants sliced in half
Chocolate (they have something for everyone)

Hot Chocolate Toddy
What is camping without hot chocolate? This grown-up version is terrific for a Saturday night camp out. 

6 oz. hot milk 
2 teaspoons hot chocolate mix
1 oz. brewed espresso
1 oz irish creme
1 oz. vanilla or regular vodka

Stir all of the ingredients into a mug. Top with a dollop of whip cream or a few marshmallows.

Camping Alternative

If you have no yard, no living room and not enough mugs for a crowd, don't worry for there is always The Woods. Hands down one of the friendliest bars in LA, The Woods (1533 N. La Brea Ave) transports you to the wilderness complete with stars on the ceiling and antler chandeliers. It gets a bit busy on the weekends, so try and go on a weeknight and get yourself a spot at the cute wood tables.