Posted: November 1st, 2012 | Author:Kate Michelle McCarthy | Filed under:Cheese, Food | Comments Off on Week 4+: American Cheese Month
Week 4+: American Cheese Month
Storified by Kate McCarthy · Wed, Oct 31 2012 20:39:19
A promotion of the American Cheese Society. With the Giants penant series followed immediately by the World Series, I had a hard time making timely posts. But, I didn’t have a hard time eating lots of cheese. I started Week 4 strong:
Day 22 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday). @CellarsatJH Weybridge. Rich earthiness w a nice tang. Bloomy rind. A winner.Kate McCarthy
Weybridge is a really delicious cheese, making me think that the Cellars at Jasper Hill are making some magic happen in Vermont.
Day 23 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday). @CypressGrovers Humboldt Fog: Happy 20th Anniversary! A longtime favorite go-to cheese.Kate McCarthy
Day 24 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday). @harleyfarms Monet. Beautiful chevre dressed in flowers. Tastes so fresh like it was made just today.Kate McCarthy
The Monet was a bit of a revelation–it was so fresh, the only other time I had cheese that tasted so fresh, I made it myself. Seriously. I have no idea how they do it.
Day 25 #AmCheeseMonth @OldChathamSheep Kinderhook Creek. All sheep’s milk! Bloomy rind, delicate earthiness amid luscious creaminess.Kate McCarthy
Day 26 #AmCheeseMonth. Nicasio Cheese’s super-fresh Foggy Mountain w basil & garlic. Lite notes of basil & garlic. Tangy like a chevre!Kate McCarthy
I accidentally got the flavored kind–I usually don’t like “stuff” in my cheese–and was pleasantly surprised! There was only a hint of basil and garlic, not at all overpowering. I heard a cheesemonger say once that he thought Foggy Mountain, a newer cheese from Nicasio, was “cheapened” with the flavors. But, it was such a delicate handling of flavoring, I’d disagree.
Day 27 #AmCheeseMonth. Garden Variety Black-Eyed Susan. Salty, tangy and crumbly dry sheep’s milk cheese. Pow!Kate McCarthy
Day 28 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday). Nancy’s Organic Lowfat Raspberry Kefir. One of my favorite ways to start the day.Kate McCarthy
While Kefir is not a cheese, exactly, I decided it could be included, based on the fact that the American Cheese Society (who is promoting American Cheese Month) includes Kefirs (and yogurts, sour creams and other cultured milk products) in their annual competition. So there you go. And that night I attended a class at the Cheese School called “American Cheese Society Winners: A Cheese Judge Tells All” taught by Rainbow Grocery Cheesemonger and Author, Gordon(zola) Edgar, so I was in the mood to play along with the Cheese Society Rules.
I actually almost didn’t make it to the class, thanks to the San Francisco Giants’ post-season excitement.
Query: Do I go to a cheese event the same night as world series game 5? Discuss.Kate McCarthy
But, luckily the San Francisco Giants won the World Series in four games (woot!) and while San Francisco was rioting in celebration, I signed up for the class.
So fickle: finally rsvp’d for that cheese event scheduled for same day as WS Game 5, since THAT won’t be happening!!! #GoGiantsKate McCarthy
cheese school w gordonzola! http://instagr.am/p/RY8zjhmtet/Kate McCarthy
Clockwise from the top (silver cup): Karoun Labne, Harley Farms Fromage Blanc, Hollands Cheese Foenegreek Marieke Gouda, Vermont Creamery Bonne Bouche, Sequatchie Cove Dancing Fern, Beecher’s Flagship Reserve, Achadinha Capricious, Uplands Cheese Pleasant Ridge Reserve, Roth Kase Grand Cru Gruyere Surchoix and Rogue River Blue.
Day 28 was the last day of Week 4, but we still had three days to finish the month, so I kept going:
Day 29 #AmCheeseMonth. "Best in Show" favorite at mock cheese competition w @gordonzola? @HollandsCheese Foenegreek Marieke Gouda!Kate McCarthy
Another cheese with stuff in it! I am not sure it was my favorite of the night, but attendees seemed in agreement that it was definitely one of the favorites. It was surprisingly delicious with salty-sweet butterscotch notes and some tanginess.
Day 30 #AmCheeseMonth. Grand Cru Gruyère Surchoix. Sweet Alpine-style cheese with nut butter notes, not too salty. Yum.Kate McCarthy
#AmCheeseMonth Day 31. Grand finale @missioncheese: Capriole’s O’Banon, Cooperstown’s Jersey Girl, von Trapp’s Oma http://instagr.am/p/RdyEsqmte3/Kate McCarthy
I finished American Cheese Month off right with a “Mongers Choice” plate from the amazing Mission Cheese. Here are the highlights from my American Cheese Month:
1. Rogue Creamery Caveman Blue: Personally, I think the Caveman Blue was better than this year’s Rogue River Blue.
Seven cheese highlights of American Cheese Month means you can have a delicious week of American cheeses! Thanks to the American Cheese Society for hosting this cheese promotion. By playing off the theme, I was able to explore cheeses for a whole month and learn much more about delicious cheeses, while supporting awesome American cheese makers. Thanks! And, yum! That was delicious.
Posted: October 30th, 2012 | Author:Kate Michelle McCarthy | Filed under:Elections, Kate Slate | Comments Off on How to Style Silver Chains for Every Occasion: From Work to Weekend
Silver chains are one of the most versatile accessories you can own. Their timeless appeal makes them perfect for nearly any setting, whether you’re heading to the office, enjoying a relaxed weekend, or attending a formal event. The key to maximizing their potential lies in knowing how to style them for different occasions. In this practical guide, we’ll explore how to wear silver chains from workdays to weekends, ensuring you always look effortlessly stylish.
Office Wear: Understated Yet Chic
When it comes to professional environments, subtlety is key. You want to make a statement without overwhelming your outfit or drawing too much attention away from your work. A simple, delicate silver chain can add just the right amount of sophistication to your office attire.
For a polished, professional look, opt for:
Short to medium-length silver chains: These sit close to your neck or just below the collarbone and pair beautifully with blouses or blazers.
Thin or minimalist designs: Styles such as the cable or box chain offer an elegant, understated look that won’t clash with other accessories or bold patterns.
You can also layer a dainty silver chain with a simple pendant for a bit more flair, as long as the design remains refined. Stick to small, geometric shapes or delicate charms to keep the look office-appropriate.
Transitioning Silver Chains From Day to Night
One of the great things about silver chains is their ability to transition effortlessly from day to night. After a day at work, you can easily transform your office look into something more glamorous for an evening out. Here’s how:
Add layers: If you wore a single chain during the day, layer additional necklaces of varying lengths for a more dramatic effect at night. Play with different textures, such as mixing a snake chain with a rope chain, to create a chic layered look.
Incorporate a statement piece: Switch out a simple pendant for a more eye-catching one, like a gemstone or a bold, oversized charm.
Pair with bolder earrings or bracelets: For the evening, go a little bigger with your other jewelry. Hoop earrings or statement bracelets can add a glamorous touch that complements your silver chain.
This quick transition can take you from the boardroom to cocktails without missing a beat.
Layering Silver Chains for a Boho or Glam Look
Layering is one of the hottest trends in jewelry, and silver chains are the perfect base for creating boho or glam styles. Whether you’re going for an effortless, laid-back vibe or full-on glam, layering allows for creative expression.
For a boho look:
Mix chains of different lengths and thicknesses. Start with a simple silver choker or short chain, followed by a medium-length chain, and finish with a long, flowing silver piece.
Add pendants with natural elements like feathers, stones, or beads to bring out that carefree, bohemian feel.
For a glam look:
Opt for chunky silver chains and pair them with more delicate ones to create contrast.
Incorporate bling, such as gemstone-encrusted pendants or sparkling crystals, to give your outfit an extra level of shine.
Remember, layering silver chains isn’t limited to necklaces—bracelets and anklets can also be layered for a cohesive, boho-glam aesthetic.
Pairing Silver Chains With Other Jewelry
A silver chain is not only a standalone statement piece—it’s also the perfect complement to other jewelry. When pairing it with rings, bracelets, or earrings, balance is essential to avoid overloading your look.
With rings: A simple silver chain pairs beautifully with silver or gemstone rings. For a sleek, minimalist style, opt for thin, dainty rings. If you’re aiming for a bolder look, go for statement rings and keep your chain simple.
With bracelets: Silver bangles or a cuff bracelet can enhance the elegance of a silver chain. Stack delicate bracelets on the same wrist for a modern, coordinated look.
With earrings: When wearing a silver chain, you can either go bold or keep it subtle. For everyday wear, small studs or hoop earrings offer a chic and balanced look. For evening events, opt for chandelier earrings or statement pieces that coordinate with your necklace without overshadowing it.
Special Occasions: Weddings and Parties
Silver chains are an elegant choice for special occasions, whether you’re attending a wedding, party, or formal event. For such occasions, you want to elevate your style without overwhelming your outfit.
For weddings: A delicate silver chain with a classic pendant, such as a pearl or diamond, adds a touch of elegance to any wedding attire. Consider pairing it with a matching bracelet or earrings for a cohesive look.
For parties: Silver chains with bold, eye-catching pendants, such as oversized charms or intricate designs, can instantly elevate your outfit. If the event calls for extra glam, consider layering multiple silver chains of varying lengths, adding just the right amount of sparkle.
The key to special occasions is balance—choose one statement piece and let it shine, while keeping the rest of your accessories subtle.
Casual Styling: From Basic Tees to Oversized Sweaters
Casual outfits don’t have to be boring, and silver chains can help you elevate your weekend look. Whether you’re pairing them with a basic tee or an oversized sweater, silver chains add just the right amount of style to laid-back outfits.
With basic tees: A silver rope chain can take a plain T-shirt to the next level. Opt for a medium-length chain for a classic, simple look, or layer two to three chains of different lengths to create dimension. For a cool, street-style vibe, pair with a pendant or charm.
With oversized sweaters: Longer silver chains are the perfect accessory for chunky, oversized sweaters. The length adds contrast to the bulkiness of the sweater, creating a balanced and stylish look. Consider adding a bold pendant for an extra touch of personality.
For more relaxed weekends, don’t be afraid to experiment with mixing silver chains with other metals, like gold or rose gold, for a trendy, mixed-metal look.
Conclusion
Silver chains are an essential accessory for any jewelry collection due to their incredible versatility. Whether you’re styling them for a professional setting, a casual weekend, or a glamorous night out, silver chains provide the perfect balance of understated elegance and bold style. From layering to pairing with other jewelry, these chains can transform your look in countless ways, ensuring you’re always ready for any occasion.
Posted: October 23rd, 2012 | Author:Kate Michelle McCarthy | Filed under:Cheese | Comments Off on Week 3: American Cheese Month
Week 3: American Cheese Month
Chronicling my first year celebrating American Cheese Month, a promotion of the American Cheese Society.
Storified by Kate McCarthy · Tue, Oct 30 2012 12:05:25
Chronicling my first year celebrating American Cheese Month, a promotion of the American Cheese Society.
Day 15 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday). APB: @ROGUE_CREAMERY River Blue available now! Seasonal: equinox to equinox aging. Sweetest blue ever.Kate McCarthy
Seriously, get your hands on this cheese.
Day 16 #AmCheeseMonth. Bent River Camembert. Grassy farmyard creamy broccolish w lingering caramel-y aftertaste. Dangerous.Kate McCarthy
oops almost forgot to post! Day 17 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday). weirauch’s rumpel: tangy and smooth creaminess.Kate McCarthy
Day 18 #AmCheeseMonth. From @CowgirlCreamery’s Sidekick, Wagon Wheel and Browning Gold grilled cheese w onions. Rich gooey-ness.Kate McCarthy
Day 19 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday). Woah pepper! Detroit Street Brick goat cheese w peppercorn tangy, rich and peppery. Did I mention pepper?Kate McCarthy
Day 21 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday). Pleasant Ridge Reserve. Easy to know why it’s one of America’s most celebrated cheeses. Flavor country.Kate McCarthy
Posted: October 16th, 2012 | Author:Kate Michelle McCarthy | Filed under:Cheese, Food | Comments Off on Week 2: American Cheese Month
Week 2: American Cheese Month
Chronicling my first year celebrating American Cheese Month, a promotion of the American Cheese Society.
Storified by Kate McCarthy · Tue, Oct 30 2012 12:03:28
Chronicling my first year celebrating American Cheese Month, a promotion of the American Cheese Society.
Day 8 #AmCheeseMonth: @BellwetherFarms Cow’s Milk Ricotta. Amped up the deliciousness of pasta with homegrown summer squash in tomato sauceKate McCarthy
Day 9 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday): CO takes the cheese plate w @AvalancheCheese’s Lamborn Bloomer, @MoucoCheese’s Ashley.Kate McCarthy
Note: Though some might argue it is unfair to compare, Mouco’s Ashley was more memorable. The plate favorite.
Day 10 #AmCheeseMonth: Sierra Nevada Cheese Co’s Chèvre in homegrown beet risotto w beet greens. Creamy and tangy.Kate McCarthy
I’ll be revisiting this chevre–great price for the yumminess. Super smooth texture.
Day 11 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday): cottage cheese battle: @coverstornetta 4% milkfat v Nancy’s Cultures lowfat. Not really fair.Kate McCarthy
I looked to see if Nancy’s Cultures has full fatty goodness cottage cheese and was surprised to find they didn’t. Their sour cream is my favorite.
Day 12 #AmCheeseMonth (Friday, off grid): Weirauch Farm’s Carabiner. Simple and lovely raw cow’s milk mountain cheese. A new-ish fave.Kate McCarthy
Day 13 #AmCheeseMonth (Saturday, off grid): Central Coast Creamery’s Goat Gouda: A more-salty-than-sweet tangy Gouda.Kate McCarthy
Day 14 #AmCheeseMonth: @CellarsatJH Harbison, the most AMAZING bloomy rind, bark-wrapped cheese. Oozy creaminess w mustardy notes.Kate McCarthy
Seriously. Harbison?! If you have access to this cheese EAT IT! It is amazing. One of my favorite discoveries of the year! I got mine at Mission Cheese.
Posted: October 9th, 2012 | Author:Kate Michelle McCarthy | Filed under:Cheese, Food | Comments Off on Week 1: American Cheese Month
Week 1: American Cheese Month
My first week of delicious American cheeses.
Storified by Kate McCarthy · Mon, Oct 15 2012 20:51:23
The first week of American Cheese Week, a promotion of the American Cheese Society was delicious! And, I got to enjoy a cheese tasting at one of my favorite hometown events, the Sonoma County Harvest Fair, with some of the best cheeses from the county I grew up in! Win-win! Here is the recap:
Day 1 #AmCheeseMonth (from yesterday): Vella Dry Jack. My go-to camping cheese bc it fairs well w/o refrigeration. Flavor country!Kate McCarthy
Day 2 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday): standby @tillamookcheese Extra Sharp Cheddar. Lovely on nachos with homemade guacamole.Kate McCarthy
Day 3 #AmCheeseMonth: Corner store pick @Sartori_Cheese Reserve Bellavitano Gold. Surprisingly lush, nutty and creamy. Debate snack.Kate McCarthy
Day 4 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday): Caveman Blue from my favorite blue cheese maker @ROGUE_CREAMERY! rich, creamy, buttery, perfect.Kate McCarthy
Day 5 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday): River’s Edge Chèvre-Up in Smoke. Chèvre delicately smoked in maple leaves. Glam-campfire. Delicious!Kate McCarthy
Day 6 #AmCheeseMonth: Local triple cream favorite @CowgirlCreamery’s Mt. Tam. Perfect creaminess, flavor and texture.Kate McCarthy
This is also the day I had the tasting at the Harvest Fair with Lagunitas and “The Beer Chef” Bruce Paton. So…I ate a lot of cheese that day.
cheese and beer tasting platekateatyrownrisk
confession: mt. tam was 7th #AmCheeseMonth cheese I had today: cottage cheese, hwy 1, estero gold, carmody, san andreas, aged white cheddarKate McCarthy
Day 7 #AmCheeseMonth (yesterday): Highway One from Valley Ford Cheese Co. Mild, creamy fontina-inspired cheese. Great for snacking.Kate McCarthy