Working For The Weekend

It's been an eventful couple weeks around here and guess what?  It's about to get crazier.  I'm heading to New Jersey tomorrow and New York next week to participate in a few fashion week activities, not the least of which is the Lucky Fabb conference.  Real talk: I'm gonna need all you fine folks to say a prayer for me over the next few days.  I'm so excited but also kind of nervous!  Can't wait to tell you guys all about it...I'm sure it's gonna be great.  Have the best weekend and enjoy the links!

I desperately want to try this.

Good ideas.

This is gonna be good.

Too lovely!

Oh...cute...

I just love this.

To try or not to try?

Pretty fun if I don't say so myself.

Going here ASAP.

Coolest series ever.

The Foodie Files

In celebration of our new look I had my brilliant mixologist-turned-surgeon friend, Brandon, create a signature Design Muse cocktail.  Since we wanted the drink to reflect the overall vibe of the blog, a brainstorming session ensued.  Should we go with a creamy drink?  Or one with mint?  What spirits should we use?  What did we definitely not want to use?  The whole process was really quite fun...if, by chance, you have a mixologist-turned-surgeon friend of your own you should definitely try it.  In the end, we decided to create a sparkling sangria cocktail with Asti (Italian white wine) as the drink's base.  From there we decided to add some of my favorite fruits (both the liquor and on-the-vine varieties) and juices (grapefruit!  mmMmm so good), as well as some downright lovely garnish.  The resulting drink was delicious, fresh with just the right amount of sweet...exactly what I'd love Design Muse to be!

Ingredients (for 4 drinks):

350 ml Asti sparkling Italian white wine (about 12 oz) 

80 ml raspberry vodka (about 3 oz) 

40 ml peach schnapps (about 1.5 oz) 

5.5 oz orange juice 

4 oz white grapefruit juice 

4 strawberries, diced 

16 blackberries

Garnish:
4 strawberries
1 peach, sliced into segments
4 wildflower sprigs

Place one sliced strawberry and four blackberries at the bottom of each glass.  Pour all liquid ingredients into a cocktail shaker and cover securely.  Shake gently for about five seconds (note: over-shaking will mess with the effervescence of the sparkling wine).  Pour mixture into glass, then garnish with remaining strawberries, peach slices and wildflower sprigs.  Salute!

Case Closed

So, I'm thinking about finally breaking down and getting an iPad.  While I've always loved the idea of owning one, I wasn't totally convinced it was something I needed or would even use since I work from home.  As our business continues to expand, however, it's looking like I may be able to justify buying one of these bad boys after all.  Score.  Now all that's left to do is tackle which case to pick!  I rounded up a few that caught my eye, though some are all kinds of aspirational.  Which to choose...which to choose...

1. Intrecciato Leather iPad Sleeve, Botegga Veneta $630  2. Rainspot iPad Sleeve, Kate Spade $50  3. Textured Leather iPad 2 Case, Mulberry $465  4. Gold Mirrored Sleeve Case, Juicy Couture $44.95  5. Baggu iPad Sleeve, Madewell $28  6. Solid Dark Walnut iPad2 Case, Wurkin Stiffs $135

Mirror, Mirror

I went all prima ballerina on you today!  This look is very Audrey Hepburn (classic shapes, pretty flats) meets Carrie Bradshaw (outside the box color combinations, obligatory tutu) to me.  Moral of the story: anytime you can combine class with a bit of edge...do it!

1. Fisherman's Pullover Sweater, American Apparel $78  2. Bonnie Fold Over Clutch, Diane Von Furstenberg $410  3. Crystal Circle Necklace, J. Crew $135  4. Tressie Full Skirt, Polyvore $135  5. French Connection Organic Bangle Set, Asos $30.65  6. Exaggerated Catseye Sunglasses, Topshop $32  7. Gold Flats, H&M $12.95

23 Madison Studio

Finding something you think is awesome is always a good time.  Finding something that combines three things you think are awesome is an unspeakably good time!  In this case, the party responsible is 23 Madison Studio and the three things in question are luxury items, adorable artwork and stationary.  Really, really cute stationary.  More incredible still, the artist behind this fabulous studio will create custom "what's in your bag" illustrations!  Is that not the neatest gift ever?  I've been brainstorming what mine would include ever since I discovered this cute little shop and so far I've got: my iPhone, Dior mascara, GaBees Lip balm, Rayban Wayfarers, Southwest peanuts, my Dad's old monogrammed business card case, a Dinner and a Suit CD and Chanel Coco Mademoiselle perfume.  What would you display in your "what's in your bag" illustration?

Images Via: 23 Madison Studio

Get It Together: Man of the World

1. Armory Work Lamp, Jayson Home $875  2. Sefte Kimsa Throw, Terrain $460  3. Black Globe with Brown Wood Stand, World Market $59.99  4. Arteriors Calvin Black Chair, Zinc Door $1,896  5. Marina Votives, Jayson Home $12-$14  6. Clyde F. Seavey Graphite Study of a Young Man, 1stDibs

Design Musings

New Dawn, New Day, New Look!

Well, have a look around, ladies and gents.  I sure do hope you like what you see!  The last thing I want in any area of Design Muse is for things to feel stagnant, so you can imagine how delighted I was to breathe some new life into this space.   There were a few key players who really helped make this transformation happen so I hope you'll allow me a quick moment to brag on them.

Our new logo is the handiwork of Tracy Hetzel, a super talented lady I just can't say enough good things about.  The moment I discovered Tracy's Etsy shop it was like the clouds parted and angels started singing, "This is it!  This is the artist".  She was a delight to work with and I'm so thrilled with what she created for me.  I mean seriously, isn't it just beautiful?

Our re-designed layout was created by the Little Lollypop Shop's Claire Sawyer, a UK based graphic designer I also found on Etsy.  Claire, too, was heaven sent.  From the very first concept she sent, I knew we were on the same page.  At this point I'm just looking for an excuse to work with these two amazing ladies again.  If you're in the market for artwork or graphic and web design, I'd wholeheartedly recommend them.

Oh, and honorable mentions go to my roomie and pseudo-roomie, Courtney & Nina, for their unparalleled consulting skills.  They are, quite literally, the best.

Moving right along to our new and improved Editorial Calendar...while our day to day happenings will stay pretty consistent, we did introduce a couple brand new seasonal series.  Their debut posts will go live so soon...I'm seriously counting down the days 'til the first one launches (inside information: one of my countdowns ends a week from today).  Here's an Editorial Calendar overview, just so we're all on the same page.

Monday:
Design Musings- Our potent (and printable!) quote of the week.

Tuesday:
Get it Together- Original ideas for coordinating pieces in your home.

Wednesday:
Mirror, Mirror- All the ingredients for a head to toe, fully accessorized, traffic-stopping outfit.

Thursday:
The Foodie Files- Tried, tested and treasured recipes from the Beretta kitchen.

Friday:
Working for the Weekend- Ten links to keep you company 'til we meet again on Monday.

Seasonal Series:

Table for Twelve- Follow the adventures of a few of my favorite gal pals during our fabulous dinner parties. Each post showcases a different theme and comes complete with plenty of pictures and our all inclusive host guide.

All Set- Beautiful place settings and centerpieces from our own collections, styled by the Design Muse team.

Gift Guides- Our best present recommendations, produced to correspond with Christmas, Mother’s Day and other gift-centric holidays.

(NEW!) Best Day Ever- A window into not only my personal style, but the way I style my willing friends and family.  Always informative, always fun.

(NEW!) Pro-Pointers- Expert guest tutorials in hair, makeup, and a wealth of other interesting topics.

So there you have it!  Good heavens, am I excited.  What do you guys think?!

Working For The Weekend

I've got a super fun blog announcement for you...you ready?  The Design Muse site itself is getting a makeover!  Truth be told, the makeover is pretty much complete (I've been working on it for a few weeks now) but come this Monday we're going live.  I just can't wait for you to see the new look!  As if that wasn't enough, I've got a few fun editorial calendar announcements so standby for that news too.  It's gonna be an eventful day around these parts.  As for this weekend, I'm so thrilled to get to spend it in Shreveport, Louisiana with some of my favorite people on the planet.  Needless to say, I'm just loving life at the moment.  Hope your weekend is all kinds of incredible.  Enjoy the links!

Let kids be kids?  Yes.  But also dress them in couture every so often...

This reminds me of summer camp and I love it.

My favorites.

Fun, fun, fun!

Perhaps I shall buy these.

Being 'in the know' is the best...

Oh, this kitchen.

How...cool...is this!

We should all do this, for real.

Want this belt so bad...

The Foodie Files

Bad news, Nashville...one of our most delightful restaurants is closing!  If you live in our area and you've never checked out Rumba, put it on your before-September-30th to do list.  It's always a bummer when inventive places like Rumba close their doors but I was especially disappointed to part ways with one of their signature small plates: The BCBG flatbread.  It's kind of famous around these parts and especially famous in the hearts and minds of my cousin Nikki and I.  So I did what I had to do and test kitchen-ed the living daylights out of the dish.  Turns out, Rumba did most of the work for me by pairing the flavors.  The ingredients are an outside the box combo that might confuse you at first but- I promise you- you'll be hooked after one bite.  

Ingredients (per pizza):

1/4 cup blue cheese

1/4 cup sliced grapes

1 oz diced pancetta

1 tsp honey 

flatbread

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Saute pancetta over medium high heat until it browns lightly, about 5-7 minutes.  Slice grapes in half.

Layer cheese, pancetta and grapes on flatbread.  Drizzle with honey.

Bake for 5 minutes and serve warm.  I know, this makes you nervous.  It made me nervous too, but I need you to trust me on this one!  It's delicious!

Mirror, Mirror

Late summer can be a tricky time to navigate fashion wise (it's hot, but no one is talking about summer clothes anymore)...this look would carry you well until the chill set in.  It's got some fall textures and shapes, but just enough bright to make it warm weather appropriate.  Also, I'm pretty sure I'd wear that necklace every day for the rest of my life...summer, fall, winter, spring...it's gorgeous! 

1. Low Rise Courduroy Jeans, Current/Elliott $220 2. Sleeveless Boucle Peplum Top, Topshop $50  3. Humbug Clutch, Kurt Geiger £75  4. Wild Side Skinny Bangle, J. Crew $58  5. Tiger Wedge, Zara $159  6. Archipelago Necklace, J. Crew $165

Oh, Lolly Lollypop

What do creme brulee, blackberry merlot mulled wine, vanilla honey with figs, chocolate cupcakes, grapefruit rosemary and baklava have in common?  They're all available (and then some) in lollypop form from The Groovy Baker!  Best news you've heard all day, right?  Seven 2 inch lollypops will run you about $10, so I'm only letting myself order two flavors (okay, probably three).  If you want to check out their inventory and weigh in on this very important decision, please do.  I'll let you know how they taste in due time, but if the shop owner's resume is any indication of what to expect (she's an experienced, professionally trained chef in NYC who's worked for the Ritz Carlton, etc) I'm thinking they'll be every bit as scrumptious as they look!

From top to bottom: Blackberry Buttercream, Peaches and Cream,

  Blackberry Merlot Mulled Wine, Mimosa, Lavender Honey

Get It Together: Dessert in Dreamland

1. Lascala Green Chandelier, Layla Grace $1,478  2. The Dragon by Kim Piotrowski, Bazaar $225  3. - 5. Natural World Dessert Plates, Anthropologie $18 each  6. Avalon Glasses, Home Decorators Club $44 for 4  7. Jonathan Adler Hans Pedestal Side Table, Zinc Door $1,250  8. Almoco Flatware, Design Within Reach $50  9. Ribbon Rose Pink Sugar Bowl, World Market $15  10. Set of 4 Napkins, One Kings Lane

Design Musings

Working For The Weekend

I'm one week into my 27th year and I've gotta say...so far, so good.  The next few weeks are gonna be bu-sy, but I kind of like it that way.  It's better than a lot of the alternatives, that's for sure.  Oh, and while I'm thinking of it...I've got a super fun blog related announcement to make next week!  It's gonna be awesome...just like all our weekends (fingers crossed).  Enjoy the links and I'll see you Monday!

Yesterday would've been Julia Child's 100th birthday!

Look at that TREE in the KITCHEN...amazing...

Aw...this is sweet.

Great little store.

What a wedding...

Neat.

Writing advice from the greats.

H&M's fall preview!

Is this gonna be a must see or what?

This just cracks me up.

The Foodie Files

I put a little spin on a classic treat last night and whipped up a batch of cinnamon roll muffins.  Why mess with the sanctity of the original cinnamon roll, you may ask?  Valid question.  1) Cinnamon rolls are messy.  This is not a criticism, it's merely a fact.  While a little bit of messy food never hurt anyone, sometimes it's nice to have an alternative.  2) My favorite part of a cinnamon roll is the very center.  I think we can all agree that nothing but good can come from an attempt at capturing that level of deliciousness.  Whatever you do, try your best to eat these suckers while they're still warm...they'll melt in your mouth!

Ingredients:

1 1/4 cups flour

1 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 cup sugar

1/3 cup butter, softened
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
2/3 cup milk

For Glaze:
1 cup confectioner's sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
3 tablespoons milk

For Garnish:
2 TBS cinnamon sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and fill a muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners.  Before you start pouring anything, know you'll use three bowls...two medium sized and one large mixing bowl (it's a necessary evil).  Mix together flour, baking powder and salt in one of the medium bowls and set aside.  In the second medium bowl, mix together brown sugar, sugar and cinnamon (but not the cinnamon sugar for garnish).  Put butter in your mixing bowl and beat on high speed until fluffy, about 30 seconds.  Reduce speed to medium and slowly pour in sugar, scraping down the sides of the mixer as needed.  Beat for about 2 minutes.  Add egg, beating well, followed by vanilla.  Reduce speed to low and alternately add flour mixture and milk in about 3 stages.

Spoon one tablespoon batter into each muffin cup.  Top with about 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon sugar. Spoon an additional tablespoon of batter onto of each muffin, then top with another generous sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Bake for about 20 minutes then allow to cool on a rack.  To make the glaze, mix sugar, cinnamon, vanilla and milk in a small bowl until smooth.  Using a pastry brush, coat the top of each muffin.  

Mirror, Mirror

I'm not the slightest bit ready to say goodbye to summer.  I know, the heat was particularly oppressive this year and the humidity was through the roof and there were lots of draughts and all that crazy nonsense but I don't care...summer is awesome.  That being said, I am excited about the wave of fall fashion that's about to crash.  While I'm determined to make the most of every last bit of heat, I went ahead and snuck in a few upcoming trends into today's Mirror, Mirror.  They're warm weather appropriate and they hit on both the floral baroque and leather looks that are about to blow up.  Win, win!  

1. Contrast Floral Print Top, Ted Baker $180  2. Robyn Sunglasses, House of Harlow £55  3. Vintage Tassel Earrings, Chanel  4. Black Python Panel Eartha Top Handle, Zac Posen $495  5. Gold Necklace, Oscar de la Renta £164  6. Curved Heel, Jeffrey Campbell $150  7. Cartell Leather Mini Skirt, Paul & Joe Sister $485

The Catbird Seat

Oh my heavens...I had- legitimately- one of the best experiences of my life this past weekend.  I can not stress this enough.  It was just beyond.  I finally made it to The Catbird Seat, which remains the most intriguing restaurant in Nashville for a variety of reasons.

First of all, it's pretty much impossible to get into which is kind of a phenomenon for our dining scene.  Two hour waits...those we have.  Months of trying to get on a waiting list?  Now, that's new.  Forgive me for letting my inner snob show here but that just creates whole new levels of excitement, does it not?  I mean, we're talking months months of buildup here...the expectation level is so high, what can hold up to that kind of pressure?  Due to a bit of local star power (thanks Nikki) and a fortuitous reservation canceling, we were able to find out last Saturday.  Turns out the answer is watermelon compressed with aquavit, creme fraiche, dill and smoked steelhead roe...that holds up to pressure.  Hot chicken skin with dill, spice and Wonder Bread puree does too...as does egg custard, bourbon barrel aged maple syrup, bacon and thyme.  And I could go on and on and on because every bit of the nine course tasting menu was sublime...like nothing I've ever tasted or imagined in my life.  It was spectacular.  I snapped pictures of a few of the courses to share with you, though obviously no amount of photography could quite do the experience justice.  Honestly, it was one of the best nights of my life (due to both the food and the exceptional company...I can't remember the last time I laughed that hard or genuinely enjoyed myself so much)...one of those memories you know you'll treasure forever.  If you ever, ever, ever have a chance to go I beg of you to snatch it up.

Can't wait to tell you about the rest of my birthday weekend and all the extraordinary people and events that made it so amazing.  Stay tuned!

Get It Together: Patterned Paradise

1. Seychelles Chandelier, Serena & Lily $1,500  2. Tuttle Bird, Jennifer Ament $595  3. Bone Inlay Frame, Serena & Lily $28  4. Gold Zigzag Picture Frame, Museum Facsimiles $30  5. Braided Console Basket, West Elm $24  6. Fleur Tealight, Z Gallerie $9.95  7. Gold Hammered Brass Bowl, Zinc Door $90  8. Black and White Sofa, Wisteria

Design Musings

Working For The Weekend

Today is my 27th birthday.  And while I haven't accomplished everything I hoped I would by this age, I'm actually feeling kind of great.  And the reason is simple.  If life is measured by how much money you make, I'm in trouble.  If it's measured by how many employees report to you or by how many serious relationships you've been in then I'm in even bigger trouble.  But if you get to measure your life in love...well...I'm in tip top shape.  Case in point: my parents adjusted their work schedules, hopped on a plane and flew some 800 miles to surprise me last night.  That's love.  After we grabbed dinner, we stopped by my aunt's house where I was immediately ushered upstairs.  Turns out a big group of my cousins spent their whole night decorating for the birthday party they're throwing me and didn't want me to see the room until tonight.  That's love.  When I came home from my aunt's, I discovered my roommate put Happy Birthday signs and balloons all over our living room.  That's love.  It pours into my life all year long with "just cause I know this will make you laugh" texts from Shreveport, Louisiana and encouraging words from Miami, Florida and invitations to grab coffee from my favorite guys just down the street.  It's behind every corner all year long.  How can you be disappointed in a life like that?  Good heavens, you can't.  If 27 is the year for big things, I'm all for it.  Bring it on.  But regardless of what I do or don't accomplish in this next year, I can go into it knowing so much of the truly important stuff is already in place.  I have more than money can buy, more than power can achieve and more than influence can provide.  I have more.  No wonder it's such a happy birthday. :)

Almost forgot the links!

This kind of stuff is always good to know...

...as is this.

Philly!  This one's for you!

I'm a sucker for stuff with a story.

Cutest baby gift ever.

Fan-cy...

This probably tastes awesome.

Great website.

Love this...fun fact: you can buy it here.

This branding = terrific

Shark Week!

If you love Air Jaws and Sharkzilla as much as I do (and don't even say it if you don't or I'll be forced to pass serious judgement upon you), then you'll be thrilled to know that this year is the 25th anniversary of Shark Week!  It's gonna be awesome.  Now somebody cue the music from Jaws, stat.

1. Shark Cookie Cutter, Etsy $2.45  2. Shark Print, Happy Menocal $100  3. Edible Shark Toppers, Etsy $9.95  4. Atelier Minyon Shark Tooth Ring, Max & Chloe $1,780  5. Shark Bookends, Etsy $44.99

The Foodie Files

I can't take too much credit for this week's Foodie Files since my roommate found the original recipe, test-kitchened it a few months ago and made it this time around.  I took the pictures...that counts for something, right?  For some reason making salmon totally stresses me out (I just don't want it to taste fishy!) but Court assured me she had a simple recipe that wasn't scary at all.  And, of course, St. Courtney was telling the truth.  It was pretty perfect.  

Ingredients:

2 lemons

2 salmon filets (4-6oz each)

1-2 TBS butter (depending on preference)

Salt and pepper to taste

Aluminum foil

Preheat oven to 300 degrees.  Cut two 1'x1' pieces of foil.  Slice one and a half lemons (which should give you about 10 slices).  Divide the slices evenly amongst the two pieces of foil and arrange like so:

Skin salmon and place on top of lemons.  Season with salt and pepper and top with butter.

Bring foil ends together and fold down tightly, leaving no openings but some room for salmon to steam.  Bake for 25-30 minutes.  

Sprinkle with leftover lemon and serve.   

Mirror, Mirror

Sometimes I wear slouchy shirts and oversized sunglasses and pretend I'm an Olsen.  These are my confessions.

1. V Neck Asymmetrical Tee, Bona Drag $100  2. Fairfax Sunglasses, Elizabeth and James $185  3. Gramercy Watch, Kate Spade $225  4. Modern Deco Collar Necklace, Kenneth Cole New York $58  5. Bethany Sandal, Steve Madden $59.50  6. Sunday Market Tote, ModCloth $55.99  7. Structured Wool Bland Shorts, Carven $380

Get It Together

1. Noir Birdcage Pendant, Zinc Door $444  2. Manchester Jugs, Home Decorators $229  3. Decorative Sewing Machine, Home Decorators $59  4. Modern Pillow, Zinc Door $360  5. Rustic Wood Wine Crate, Home Decorators $59  6. Atelier Chesterfield, Anthropologie $5,998

Bonnilu

I can't decide what I like most about Bonnie Cheng's adorable Etsy shop, Bonnilu...the bold simplicity of her earrings, her killer prices (nothing over $8!), or the fact that she's a loud and proud Downton Abbey fan.  All I know is those mint green triangles are probably gonna have to come live with me soon.  Cute, cute, cute.

Images Via: Bonnilu

Design Musings

Working For The Weekend

You know how sometimes life gets a little monotonous?  You know what I'm talking about...when you go days and weeks and months with the same routine and you all but convince yourself that this is how it's gonna be forever.  Same position in your job.  Same relationship issues or status.  Same frustration.  Same, same, same.  I've been there...heck, I'm there all the time, but let me be the first to tell you about that 'this is the rest of your life' voice.  That voice is lying to you.  Things do change, they will change...sometimes all at once and boom, your life is different.  But sometimes...most of the time...change sneaks up on you.  And it takes a really intentional moment to say 'pump the brakes...I'm not where I want to be but look how far I've come'.  I had one of those moments today.  I haven't figured it all out by any stretch of the imagination but I'm getting closer to meeting my goals and preparing myself for whatever lies ahead.  I don't know about you, but I'm thankful for progress today! I hope you get a chance to take a good look at whatever feels stale in your life at the moment.  If there's even one ray of sunshine hiding in your situation, I hope you find it.  And when it comes to the stuff that still leaves you feeling dissapointed?  Start today.  Start right now.  You can do it.  Whatever it is, be encouraged.  Have a wonderful weekend and enjoy the links!

Halfway through this book and loving it.

Why do I think this is so adorable?  Cause I have issues...that's why.

Such a sweet way to spend your birthday.

This person is as psyched about the Olympics as I am!

Aww...

Is this real??

Plan A) Actually get a good night's rest.  Plan B) Check this out.

What happens when creative people fall in love.

This is darling.

I have no interest in this program...but find me one that promises to remove any and all references to Chick-Fila from my newsfeed?  I'd pay top dollar for that.

The Foodie Files

Oh my goodness, we have got to talk about the USA women's gymnastic team right now.  Did anyone else tear up when they saw Aly Raisman's expression at the end of her final routine (when she realized she clinched the team gold)?  Cause if you didn't, your heart may be made of stone...it was my favorite Olympic moment thus far.  Speaking of the Olympics, we've been in celebration mode over here since the Opening Ceremony.  While the intensity of our celebration hasn't quite matched last Friday night's (I can't make exclusively American food for 17 days...I'm sorry.  I love this country, but no), it's been loads of fun cheering Team USA on to victory.  Here's a few snapshots from our Opening Ceremony dinner...

...and here's the recipe for the centerpiece of our All-American menu: delicious corn dogs.

Ingredients
3 cups Pancake Mix
1 cups Yellow Corn Meal
2 whole Eggs, Slightly Beaten
2 cups Water (More If Needed To Thin Batter)
Hot Dogs
Chopsticks
Canola Oil, For Frying

In a large bowl, combine pancake mix and cornmeal.

Add eggs and water, adding more water as needed for the batter to become slightly thick.  Start out by adding 2 cups.

Heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Drop in a bit of batter to see if it's ready: the batter should immediately start to sizzle but should not immediately brown or burn.  Insert sticks into hot dogs so that they're 2/3 of the way through.  Dip the hot dogs into the batter and allow excess to drip off for a couple of seconds.

Carefully drop into the oil (stick and all).  Flip with tongs to ensure even browning, and remove from oil when the outside is deep golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes.  Simple, delicious, patriotic, county-fair-like...all good things.