15 Tips for Easy Summer Entertaining

Summertime and the Living is Easy...

All July we've been sharing our tips for simple and chic summer shindigs in our weekly newsletter Trocadero Tidbits . Check out our complete list of suggestions this week as we end our list.
15. Themes aren't just for children's birthday parties, but also for the detail-oriented individual. Choose a theme like "Mediterranean Soiree" and carry it out in everything from the decor to the invitations to the food. Sweet Myrtle & Bitter Honey: The Mediterranean Flavors of Sardinia by Efisio Farris is full of tasty, authentic dishes.
14. Utilize the great outdoors with a backyard bash. Just be sure to have both sunny and shady areas for your guests and if entertaining at dusk, be sure to take care of problems like bugs with a natural deterrent like a lavender candle from Diptyque or more traditionally with Tiki torches and candles with citronella.
13. Use bright splashes of color to create a fun and vibrant atmosphere. Kikkerland's "Sing Sing" plastic dinner trays add a unique touch to any setting and are the perfect indoor and outdoor buffet line plate.


12. Bring out your inner Ina Garten. Yeah, sure, some of the Barefoot Contessa's recipes look hard to replicate but we have this easy, light salad made with fennel and oranges that will impress your dining companions. Take 2-4 fennel bulbs and chop into bite-sized pieces. Peel 3 oranges and slice into slivers. Mix with 2 oz of arugula. Combine and whisk 1/4 cup olive oil, the juice of 2 lemons, kosher/sea salt and freshly ground pepper and pour the dressing over the salad and toss. Serves around 6.
11. Create a "Signature" Drink. Instead of having to play bartender (or hire one), fill pitchers with a summery cocktail for guests to serve themselves. Just be sure to have plenty of ice on hand. We love this recipe for Clementine Margaritas from chef Todd English and actress Eva Longoria. The cocktail reminds us of combining Bond No. 9's "Little Italy" with "Coney Island" -- yum!


10. Create instant conversation starters. Encourage dialogue and mingling by playing an after dinner game. Try writing hot topics on small pieces of paper and filling a large bowl with them, pass the bowl around the table and have each guest start off the discussion on a topic. This activity is sure to keep friends entertained long after the food is gone.
9. Here's a quick start to a first course. Use the bounty of the season, and serve a chilled soup. All you need is fresh fruit and herbs, heavy cream, and a blender, and you are set for a dish that is as refreshing as it is filling.
8. Let Your Stomach be Your Guide. Be resourceful by using items you already have around the house for table decor. Filling clear bowls or vases with fruit makes for a fail-proof centerpiece and an appetizing treat for the eyes.
7. Get to Know the Neighbors. Co-host a 5-course "block party" with your fellow homeowners/apartment dwellers. Start at home #1 for appetizers and move onto the next for soup, the third for salad and so forth. If you're a wine connoisseur, create special pairings with each course. Perhaps start with an Italian Prosecco and end with a French Muscat. And with no driving, it's not only safe but also eco-friendly. Eat, drink and be merry!
6. You've Got Mail. Email invites just got revolutionized by Paperless Post. These stylish and eco-friendly invites resemble fine stationery and are sent to your guests in a virtual envelope that even opens with a click of the mouse. Finally, the elegance of handwritten invitations is back and more convenient.


5. Bring the Ocean to your backyard. Create a beach theme in your home or backyard by decorating with items from the shoreline. Set the table with beach pails filled with condiments, silverware, or napkins, and decorate with picnic baskets and scattered seashells. To enhance the beachy atmosphere, burn a Diptyque Feu De Bois (firewood) or Essence of John Galliano candle (which has notes of Birchwood) to give the feel of a bonfire without the hastle of one.

4. One pot wonder. Nothing says summer on the beach like a New England clam bake. Since Omaha is a little far from the ocean, the traditional method of cooking it on the beach forms a challenge; so try an in-the-kitchen version like this one from Home By Design.
3. Spend a night overseas. Take a tour of the foreign beaches of St. Tropez or Biarritz with a menu of French seafood. Take a venture from the typical ocean cravings and try recipes from Eric Kayser's New French Recipes.

2. Take the party on the road. Lighten your load of responsibilities by taking advantage of festivities already going on in the community. Grab some friends, pack up a picnic basket and head to a summer music festival like Jazz on the Green to enjoy dinner and a show.

1. Create an instant dual purpose party-favor. Buy a dozen glass bowls and a dozen betta fish and use them as decorative touches on cocktail tables. Then at the end of the night, guests can choose a fish bowl to take home.

The Ten...er, Eleven...Tastiest Burgers You'll Find

Summer is my favorite season, no questions asked. Not only is the weather usually fantastic and school out, but also the food that comes with is by far the best. Being quite a 'foodie' myself (I watch the Food Network for fun and started cooking my family dinner at age 11), I've come to love the cuisine of summer more than any other. Amidst all the hearty barbeque and refreshing popsicles stands one of the most iconic, delicious, and American foods there is... the burger. The New York Times just wrote a story called "The Elements of an Ideal Burger" and we think it's perfect timing. For a quest that proves both entertaining and tasty, we at the Troc have decided to scope out what we think are the best burgers in Omaha. So, I'll start us off with Trocadero's number 10 pick...

# 10. King Kong's Double Cheeseburger - Even though most chain restaurants' burgers are below-average on the taste and appearance scale, King Kong has made a name for themselves with their awesome cheeseburgers. They're put on the grill the second you order them and cooked to perfection. Though it's served with standard toppings, this burger goes above and beyond Mickey D's any day. Various locations.

#9. The Mattress Factory's Bluejay Burger - This burger is made from 100% Black Angus Beef and is topped with 100% quality ingredients. From bleu cheese crumbles, to cracked black pepper, to caramelized onions, the Bluejay Burger is the closest thing to a delightful 'gourmet' burger you'll find downtown. 501 N 13th Street. Phone: 346-9116.

#8. Burger Star's Angus Star Burger - Despite the fact that this burger comes from another nation-wide restaurant, they only have one location in Omaha, so it isn't quite as common. The restaurant has a ton of fresh, free toppings that are available to the customers. Just ask for the Angus star, add the condiments you prefer, and in the time it takes you to say "Burger Star"... there's one tasty burger at your fingertips. 1222 S 71st Street. Phone: 333-7827.

#7. Applebee's Cowboy Burger - The Cowboy Burger at Applebee's stands out to us because it's topped with a crunchy onion ring and slathered in BBQ sauce. I wouldn't even begin to ask for more taste in a burger, but they provide it anyway. Cooked to your liking and served on a toasted bun, this burger satisfies way more than just cowboys. Various locations.

#6. M's Pub Lamb Burger - This juicy ground lamb burger with hints of rosemary and thyme served with a side of Dijon mustard is sure to please any palate. The unique spices and condiments inside this burger keep us coming back for more each time we venture down Howard Street to M's. 422 S 11th Street. Phone: 342-2550.

#5. The 801 Chophouse's Happy Hour Sliders - Move over, White Castle. For just one dollar each, these mini burgers are an excellent deal from 4-6, Monday thru Friday. Using the finest cut of meat with hand-crafted buns, they're the ultimate treat in a bite-size portion. So, order as many as you like. 1403 Farnam Street. Phone: 341-1222.

#4. Louie M's Burger Lust Burgers - As a recommendation from my Father, I trust that the burgers at Louie M's live up to high standards. These burgers are available with too many toppings to count, served in any style you want, and always made-to-order. Especially juicy, large, and appealing, I now know why it's Louie's true burger to lust for. 1718 Vinton Street. Phone: 449-9112.

And tied for the #4 spot, Dario's Brasserie Cheeseburger - The French aren't exactly known for their spectacular burgers, but French brasserie, Dario's, takes one heck of a shot. Their house cheeseburger impresses us with its full flavor and crispy bite. It's topped with pickles, lettuce, tomato and a special sauce that makes it tres magnifique. 4920 Underwood Avenue. Phone: 933-0799.

#3. Twisted Cork Burger - This locally owned bistro is run by ex-"Seattle-ites" and who knew their Pacific Northwest background would prepare them for a unique burger primed for an Omahan's appetite? With a combination of pork shoulder and flat iron steak with white cheddar and served on a brioche bun, this isn't your ordinary burger. Maybe that's why it was named on the Food Network's 50 Best Burgers in the U.S. by master restauranteur Bobby Flay. 10730 Pacific Street. Phone: 932-1300.

#2. Dinker's Single Patty with Cheese - From the outside (and the inside for that matter), it looks like any other dive bar. But who knew, except for the large sign outside that states "Omaha's Best Burger," that a specialty of the house is indeed the various kinds of hamburgers and cheeseburgers. A nice, sized cut of beef flavored by the griddle has a perfect combo of juicy bits with some grease (the best part). Some of us thinks it is indeed Omaha's best burger. 2368 S. 29th Street. Phone: 342-9742.

#1. Stella's Bacon Cheeseburger with Fried Egg - When we heard about this joint in Bellevue that claimed to be one of the best burgers in Omaha, we were ready to take it to the test. While we expected a dive bar, it was in fact a cute little eatery that served up its pride and joy...on a paper napkin. No plate necessary, as you'll quickly gobble up your burger with all its fixin's. With excellent onion rings and french fries (and RC Cola), you'll truly have one most memorable meal. 106 S. Galvin Rd. Phone: 291-6088.

6 Smart Packing Tips for Summer Getaways

In this week's Trocadero Tidbits newsletter, we featured several tips and tricks to ease packing stress and make the most of your luggage-space. Here is our full list of tips to help lighten your load.

6. Neutral basics are key foundation pieces to be worn 2-3 times. Solid shirts, shorts, skirts and a pair of dark wash jeans serve as staples.

5. Add a few pieces that pop like a vest,a patterned or print shirt or a lightweight cardigan or blazer to liven up your neutral pieces.

4. Accessories finish the look. Pack lightweight scarves, statement necklaces and bangles, and a few pairs of sunglasses to transform your outfits from afternoon stroll to evening out-on-the-town.

3. Make the most of convertible pieces. A spaghetti strap evening dress can be worn with a blouse and a waist belt for a daytime ensemble. Satin sleeveless tops that can be worn casually with jeans or a pencil skirt and a blazer for a business lunch are also perfect for those busy, event-filled trips.

2. Be sure to pack a pair of cute and comfortable flats or sandals to wear in your down time. Flip flops are great at the poolside or at the beach, but investing in a cute comfy sandal or ballet or open toed flat really polishes a look, especially in "city" vacations.

1. Travel size beauty kits like Malin + Goetz 1 oz. essential kit, available at Trocadero, are both space and airline friendly. Also, try packing an empty spray bottle. If you are land-locked, fill it with water and salt, and use it in the hair for perfect beachy waves.

All of us here at the Troc wish you a safe, happy, and stylish summer travel season. Don't forget our summer travel tips when packing your bags, and keep Trocadero in mind for all of your accessory needs. Bon voyage!

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Getting the most bang out of your buck

In this week's upcoming issue of Trocadero Tidbits we mention a couple tips on how to make the most of bargain shopping. Some of our tips come from our new summer interns at the Troc. Coming soon: a meet and greet of our bright, new team members. In the meantime, here are our 5 Thrifty Tips:
5. Don't be afraid to rummage. The other night Sarah was wearing some fabulous crystal earrings (the size of gumballs) that she got for $5 from Second Chance located at 1116 Jackson Street. Another customer of mine came in recently with the perfect black motorcycle jacket (the item of the coming season) that she had scored from Bellwether Boutique, located around the corner from Trocadero on the corner of 12th and Howard. This unique vintage and local designer clothing store has an eclectic mix of items for men and women and again, it might take some time to go through it all but it's totally worth it if you find a total gem.
4. New intern Jared recommends seeing the potential in items not in your size and finding a good tailor. Cygne, another new intern, and her mom swear by Connie at Jack's Tailors at 10110 Maple Street (571-7411). Another tailor we love is Tina over at Countryside Village(391-0027) who expertly fixed Alice's torn Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti dress.

3. I've always found some great key items at Kohl's in the Simply Vera Vera Wang section. I'm not sure if her pieces are always 30% off but it seems like every time I go to Kohl's, everything I want is on sale. The trick is to try everything on and the best items tend to be the printed pieces that can seasonly update and liven up a pair of jeans or a khaki skirt you already own. Ikat prints or tie-dye are trends to enjoy now...and for little money. Save your big purchases for great basics that you'll use over and over again. I just bought myself a great "investment" circle skirt in ecru cotton poplin that will be in my closet for years and years (unless I spill red wine on it!). Thankfully it was an investment piece that wasn't an investment price (it was on sale almost 90% off!!! at She-la in Countryside Village)...which brings me to my next point...

2. It pays to be patient and thorough. Most people I know don't have the eye to go through the sale racks or to pick out items that are true finds. Trocadero offers a Closet Consultation Service for our customers who would like someone to assist in editing their closet and figure out what items are needed to complete your wardrobe. In addition to accompanying you shopping, we'll also create looks from your own closet so that you know what to put with what. It's personal styling for the regular person. By figuring out what's needed in your closet, you avoid making more purchases of clothing and styles that are either not appropriate for your body type or are going to sit in your closet unworn. Make an appointment and ask about our rates by contacting us via email at shoptrocadero@mac.com

1.  Sign up for a subscription to DailyCandy.com where often you'll get tips on when certain sales are taking place nationwide. Or check out Gilt Group, a private on-line shopping site of discounted designer clothing. There's a wait list but it's the closest someone can get to insider sample sale information if you're not someone in the industry.

Five hold-overs

We've talked about shopping your own closet a lot here on Troc Talk and in our weekly Trocadero Tidbits newsletter, so I've had it on my mind. As I go through my purchases from the previous summer in my own closet, I've found a few things that I know I'll be rocking all summer long (as well as a few things I plan to donate to my local consignment shop.) It just so happens that a lot of the items on my list are things we carry at Trocadero, so if you didn't pick up an ec0-chic tote or a pair of gladiator sandals last summer, you're still in luck. 

Here's my list of the top five holdover looks for the impending Omaha heat. 

1. Strappy Gladiator Sandals. Whether you opt for a comfortable flat style for everyday wear or a sexier high heeled number, last summer's Greek-inspired sandals are my top pick for what to hold on to or to invest in now. At Trocadero, we have lots to choose from: Matt Bernson's studded red "Barracuda," L.A.M.B.'s "Fuji" with its fetching triangular heel (pictured at left) or a metallic gladiator by Bettye Muller or DV Dolce Vita. I tried the "Fuji" on last weekend and can't get it out of my head. 

2. Oversized Clutches. For day or night, or day-to-night style, an oversized clutch is both chic and sensible. 

I have a number of vintage numbers at home, but if I were going to invest in a new one, my number one choice would be Anya Hindmarch's "Large Pipkin" clutch, pictured at right. It's perfect for day or night, neutral enough to be worn with everything but has gorgeous detail on the front clasp. It's an investment piece, to be sure, but one that you'd pass down to your daughters or neices without fail. I also love Kara Ross clutches, in both gold and burlap with python details, and the L.A.M.B "Ahndra Bala" clutch that Gwen herself recently carried. 

3. Eco-chic gear. We all know how important it is to be friendly to Mother Earth, and Trocadero helps us do it stylishly. I'm still planning to rock my Anya "I'm not a Plastic Bag" tote this summer, but if you missed out on that trend, you can check out her latest foray into eco-chic with the much-blogged about Fruit and Veg, Meat or Dairy totes. You can also pick up a canvas tote screened right here in Omaha by artist Miss Cake; we have a few in stock. New this summer is BC Footwear's "Danke" sandal, pictured above, which boldly advertises what it used to be: a rice bag. These comfy flip flops are not only eco-friendly, they're super cute. What's more is that beacuse they're made of old rice bags, each pair is singular, with subtle details that differ from pair to pair. Alice also carries a super cute phone or mp3 player case, also made from colorful recycled rice bags. 

4. Cross body bags (for day or night). Though I usually carry an

oversized bag stuffed to the gills with odds and ends, I'm totally into the idea of downsizing for the summer. I'd love to do it with Botkier's soft green "Moto" clutch, which is a petite sister to my white Botkier "Trigger" bag (that, coincidentally, Alice has too!) I prefer this beauty in green, though Trocadero also has it in black. If you're looking for a vegan style, we have a number of cross body bags in canvas and nylon by Harajuku Lovers. Botkier's "Marcel" is made for hot city nights with its long chain strap and woven gold detail on its sides. 

5. Wearing SPF every day. What's more important than our skin? I've long been a devotee of strong sunscreen, and I think its become more than a trend. It's a necessity. Luckily, lots of skin care lines are aware of the importance of skin protection, and Alice, is too: all of the face creams at Trocadero include an SPF. Korres makes both a lightweight pomegranate moisturizer and a wild rose moisturizer (at left) with SPF 6, as well as a watermelon moisturizer with SPF 30 (for pale girls like me.) Ole Henriksen has two SPF 15 moisturizers, one for normal skin and one for dry/sensitive skin. Malin+Goetz makes a SPF 30 moisturizer that we have in the store, and finally, for your little ones, pick up a tube of Susan Brown's Baby SPF 30.

Now that I've reviewed my list of summer hold-overs, tell us, what do you plan to hold on to or purchase before it gets hot in Omaha? 

45 Tips to Gear Up for Summer

If you get our weekly newsletter, Trocadero Tidbits, then you know that we're counting down the days to the "unofficial first day of summer" on Memorial Day, which falls on May 25th this year. We've been revealing 5 tips a week, trying to make the slow progress more bearable. If you've missed tips  45-26 look no further. 

Spring Break Fever 

45. Incorporate Bright Colors Start with a light scarf, colorful nails or a bright bag or skirt with your tights and cardigan...before you know it, it will be Arnold Palmer and summer dress season

44. Change up Your Fragrance We think that heavier muskier scents like Bond no. 9's Andy Warhol Lexington Avenue works better in the winter, while lighter floral or citrus fragrances are favored for spring. Time to break out Bond no. 9's Coney Island which has hints of margarita mix and guava. 

43. Get a Pedicure Get your toes ready for exposure with a soak and professional paint job. Our favorite pedicure spot is Nail-Tek on 78th street between Dodge and Cass. The technicians are quick and thorough and offer some of the lowest prices in the city. 

42. Buy Fresh Flowers It's probably too early to start planting your summer garden, so compromise and purchase some fresh flowers next time you're at the grocery store. The smell and colors will improve your home and your mood immediately. 

41. Take Your Lunch Outside Take a 20 minute mini-retreat at lunch. Eat your sandwich or salad outside on your front porch or on the grassy hill outside of work while soaking in the sun. Breathe in some fresh air before it's back inside to cleaning or the computer. 

Out and About

40. Exercise Sparky Take that cooped up pooch on walk or to the park for a brisk jog. SIngle? Better yet! Dog owners are really friendly people, and you already have one thing in common...man's best friend. Just don't forget a plastic bag!

39. Protect your look One of the worst things about spring is that you never know when rain will ruin your hair or shoes, and your umbrella is always in the car or hall closet. Thanks to this website, you can enter your location and the website will text or e-mail you if you'll need your umbrella that day. Tut tut, looks like rain. 

38. 'I' is for Ice Cream Once it gets warm enough to open the door at Trocadero, we can't help but crave ice cream. Nothing says carefree, like a double scoop waffle cone. Our favorite ice cream is from Ted and Wally's, on the corner of 12th and Jackson, which features wacky, homemade flavors daily. Try the lemon ginger; we swear it doesn't taste like body wash. 
37. Channel your Inner Child You don't have to be a kid to paint a picture, make a collage...or see a puppet show. Tony-award winning musical Avenue Q is in town at the Orpheum Theater through Sunday. Just don't bring the little ones to this one...it's for mature audiences only. 
36. Visit the Zoo You've seen the jungle, aquarium and even the desert dome a thousand times, but have you visited the Insect and Butterfly Pavillion at the Henry Doorly Zoo? It opened last May, but hummingbirds were just added last month.

Spring Cleaning 

35. Eat Asparagus This yummy, green vegetable is now in season! Asparagus is a great source of antioxidants and a great detoxifier, but did you know that the stalky vegetable is a diuretic and a good source of folic acid...perfect for those looking to conceive! Intern Christine recommends asparagus with a simple penne, fresh ground black pepper, red pepper flakes and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Our stomachs are already grumbling!
34. Donate Old Clothes It's that time of year when half your closet holds wool sweaters and long pants while the other half is filled with sun dresses and lighter cardigans.Take an hour to go through that mess and set aside anything that you haven't worn in a year...like those gaucho pants. Donate your old duds to the Salvation Army or Goodwill, and if the clothing is business appropriate send it to the YWCA Career Clothing Closet, one ofTrocadero's favorite charities. 
33. Clean Makeup Brushes Cleaning your makeup brushes is often times a forgotten beauty task, but now that winter's over stop dusting dead skin cells over your face. At least once a month, wash your makeup brushes with a gentle shampoo and lay out to dry overnight. If that's too much work, try Clinique's new Quick Blush Brush that's finished with anti-bacterial technology.   
32. Wear Patent Leather Don't ruin your new leather bag in April showers (or ugh, snows). Instead opt for patent leather which is virtually waterproof, and nice and shiny as an added bonus. Don't have any patent leather? Trocadero has two black patent Botkier convertible hobos (favored by Angelina Jolie and Rihanna) and one hunter green patent Anya Hindmarch duffle on sale, plus a nice selection of red patent Rafe bags and patent-trimmed Anya Hindmarch totes and clutches new for spring! Shoes more your thing? Pick from Marc by Marc Jacobs' Miss Marc ballet or Giuseppe Zanotti's lust-worthy rocker heels in blush and black patent.
31. Prevent Allergies 
Finally a no needle, drug free way to combat allergies. Advanced Allergy Therapeutics (AAT) is a digital, non-invasive treatment with roots in acupuncture. Learn more about ATT from Dr. Thomas Triba at Triba Chiropractic Clinic (2720 S. 114th Street), one of only 58 centers in the country to offer this technique.

So Fresh and So Clean 

30. Come Fly With Me While flights are still relatively cheap, take advantage and book your summer destinations now...before gas prices become unfriendly. Travelocity is our favorite travel planning site but also check out the special $49 one-way flights on Southwest.
29. Strike a Pose We know you say you're not flexible but we'd like to try to bend you the other way...by getting onto the yoga bandwagon. It will not only limber you up but will also strengthen your back and alleviate a natural-stress area. Try the Omaha Yoga School's Hyp-Yoga class or if you're a little more experienced sweat it out with a Bikram class at One Tree Yoga. Namaste.
28. Lose pounds with a new 'Do
There's nothing like feeling ten pounds lighter when you chop your locks. Especially if you've got 8 inches or more to cut off like Alice did a couple years ago. She donated her locks to Pantene's "Beautiful Lengths" program that provides wigs for cancer survivors. If your hair (or you) are not ready for a chop, why not experiment with some color with a Today Show regular Louis Licari-trained local colorist, Christi Clark over at Hair Tech in Rockbrook Village. We love Christi for her perfect L.A.-blonde highlights but at Omaha prices.

27. Lick your Lips Easter is right around the corner and it's hard to resist eating all sorts of candy such as intern Sabrina's favorite Cadbury mini eggs and Christine's fave Peeps. Click here to see what our other staff favorites are and let us know what candy you want in your Easter basket. But if you're like some of us and either gave up sugar for Lent or are on a spring diet, we've found the Easter Bunny cure for you: Peeps lip balm. 

26. Recycle the Unthinkable Intern Drew can't help but recycle glass, even if Omaha makes it rather inconvenient and Sarah regularly recycles her Diet Coke cans at work. You might recycle your milk cartons, cardboard boxes, and don't even think about ever taking a plastic bag...but what about your makeup containers? Thankfully, Origins cosmetics is now accepting empty cosmetic containers, tubes and jars at their makeup counters, regardless of brand, for recycling and energy recovery. Which brings us to our next point: what is your eco-ritual? Check out our blog to see more of our eco-tips as we celebrate Earth Day this month and let us know what you do to keep our environment green and ecologically safe. We'll post some of our favorite customer tips in an upcoming Trocadero Tidbits.

Stop and Smell the Flowers

25. Experiment with an Elixir The fermented Chinese tonic, kombucha, promises to rejuvenate, restore, revitalize, replenish and regenerate, so expect high energy and clear thinking. But beware...kombucha is not for the faint of heart. If raw strands of culture in your tea freaks you out, then this is not the drink for you. But it might change your life...and is now available at Cubby's in the Old Market in addition to Whole Foods out west.  

24. Support a Fashion Indie Help bring a fashion legend to town...on the big screen. Valentino: The Last Emperor is a behind-the-scenes look at the world of fashion from the legendary designer himself. The movie is now playing in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and San Francisco but expands its release starting April 17th. The film that Time calls "flawless" and The New York Post calls "pure movie magic" isn't on its way to Omaha yet...but it could be. Click here to see where it's playing now and in wider release as well as to find out how to get it to your town. Sounds like a perfect movie to screen at Omaha's Dundee Theater or Film Streams...

23. Ban Rays Invest in a pair of dark, high quality shades. They'll last you years, we swear.  We are grooving on these styles from Marc Jacobs (left) Selima Optique (center) and Marni (right) and like the selection at local sunglass shop Robert Max in Countryside Village. But we like to mix it up sometimes and suggest amping up your sunglass wardrobe with a pair of Blublockers, a fun pair of tinted aviators, or a crazy pair of unique vintage frames.  

22. Rice, Rice Baby  With Earth Day a week away, why not support the environment with a quirky, new take on recycled goods? BC Footwear's "I used to be a rice bag" flip flops and iPhone/Blackberry holder are made of recycled rice bags and available now in limited quantities at Trocadero. These cheeky but comfy sandals ($35) and durable phone covers ($18) make great gifts for both your carnivore and vegan friends! Check out our blog post on them here. Speaking of rice, we're always on the lookout for great Asian eats in Omaha.  We have recently been tipped off from Amanda at Jackson Street Booksellers (the best used book store in America according to Omaha native, best selling author and NPR host Kurt Andersen) that India Garden at 125th and Center has an amazing lunch buffet. Alice went for dinner and said that both the Chicken Makhani and the Aloo Gobi were 'so flavorful and spicy.' And don't miss Mother India on 35th and Leavenworth for takeout Vindaloo. Hmmm do those rice bag shoes come with a free meal?

21. Embrace the Greek Life With Greek Orthdox Easter on Sunday, our minds can't help but wander to the blue skies and waters of Santorini. Thank God for the just newly arrived Miroslav Sasek illustrated book: This is Greeceto sweep us away...visually. Or feel like a goddess and slip on a pair of Matt Bernson's "Talaria" gladiators. "Talaria" actually means winged sandal, and is the footwear of choice for Hermes, the Greek messenger god. See how we style the shoe by checking out our post at Troc Talk.

Back to Basics

20. Hit the Pavement Spring is the perfect time to start thinking about getting healthy, and the Omaha Health, Wellness and Fitness Expocomes just in time for seasonal detox. This year's event, slated for April 24-25th at the Civic Auditorium, will feature more than 250 exhibitors showing their wares! Click here for more information on the walk and bike ride to benefit the American Lung Association and officially kick off the season to exercise outdoors. Best part: admission is free! 

19. Make the Old New Again If you've purchased Frugalista, Rescue Beauty Lounge's sparkly nail polish from Trocadero, and still haven't embraced the lifestyle...then it's time to try the Recessionista Project. Lindsey Baker, the City Weekly's style editor and the sister of our own Sarah Baker, started the movement on her blog: Only Style Remains the Same. The only requirement is that "new" items must be vintage or thrifted, and the rest of your look must come from shopping your own closet.Check out our blog, Troc Talk, for outfit photos and to find out how to submit your own Recessionista looks. But if you must shop for new wares, check out Loomstate, Target's newest GO International line featuring 100% certified organic cotton.

18. Wrap it Up Our love of scarves is no secret and we're thrilled that our newest shipment from TDM Designs are perfect for Earth Day festivities.Not only are they tie-dyed (so granola-chic!) but they are made of 100 percent bamboo and create sustainable income for Nepalese women to combat poverty and to support themselves and others. Our other Trocaderoeco-picks are Alex and Ani expandable bracelets made from recycled metals and Red Flower's line of organic products including candles, body care and perfumes. (Alex and Ani photo courtesy of Alex and Ani) 

17. Let Loose This weekend's earth day festivities at Elmwood Park should be on your to-do list for Saturday. Events and booths will run from noon-6 p.m. and nosh on food from yummy restaurants like McFosters and the Pizza Shoppe starting at noon. Even if you don't want to do Tai Chi or recycle your used electronics, stop by and listen to some live music and chill out in the beer garden.       

16. Buy Paper, Not Plastic The Benson stationery store and art gallery,Pulp, has picked up its roots and re-planted them in the Old Market passageway. The new location is celebrating with Sprout, a show featuring a crop of emerging artists that continues through May 11th. 

High Rollers and Good Eats

15. Win the Clean Plate Award Finally a reason to get out of bed on Saturday morning: the Omaha Farmer's Market! Get your hands on the freshest produce and local goods on Saturdays in the Old Market from 8 am. to 12:30 p.m. or at Village Pointe from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Both markets run through October 3rd.    

14. Smell Sweet and Sour Our newest Bond no. 9 fragrances for spring and summer are Little Italy with top notes of grapefruit and mandarin and Astor Place with top notes of violet, freesia and poppy. If you prefer something more woodsy, be sure to check out Brooklyn...it has hints of juniper (read: gin & tonic) and leather. Lately we've been experimenting to find out which Bond fragrances complement each other. Visit our blog to check out our favorite combinations. 

13. Eat Your Art Out The Bemis Center's latest exhibit, which opens this Friday, gives viewers a legitimate chance to play with food. Paul Renner's exhibit, The Omaha Diner, is a presentation where food is the sculpture, and environment and experience are the backdrop. For more information or to make reservations for one of the two artist-orchestrated meals, in collaboration with the Boiler Room's executive chef Paul Kulik, click here. 

12. Be a Fruit Does your moisturizer have sunscreen? If not, we've got you covered with Korres pomegranate balancing moisturizer with spf 6 or Korres watermelon face cream with spf 30.Not into food on your face? Try Malin + Goetz's sunscreen with spf 30. 

11. I Scream You Scream I don't know about you, but we never turn down free ice cream. If you're a Berkshire shareholder make sure to stop by the Dairy Queen on 114th and Dodge Friday, May 1st for a free ice cream cone. Cold-inducing headaches will be served from 8:30-10 p.m.

Do What Your Mama Taught Ya

10. Savor the Day  If the thought of breakfast (and crumbs) in bed gives you a headache,take the time to indulge in a lazy Sunday brunch with mom. Think beyond the typical country club buffet and try The French Cafe for elegant French-inspired dining or Granite City for a classy twist on the buffet, featuring several exclusive Mother's Day entrees. Make sure to make reservations wherever you go.     
9. Scrub Between Your Toes As a kid, your mother always insisted on cleaning those inconspicuous places like your bellybutton and behind your ears. Reward her nit-pickings and treat her to an Ashiatsu massage, a technique that uses the practitioner's feet, from Lisa Christensen at the Omaha Healing Arts Center. 
8. Pick and Choose Didn't find the right bauble at Borsheim's during BRK weekend? Check out this online jewelry concierge service that does all the work for you. If you need to see your jewelry in person, stop by Trocadero to see our selections from Candace Ang, Pade by Pade Vavra (earrings shown), Alex and Ani, Ileana Makri (necklace shown), Alexis Bittar, Kara by Kara Ross (bracelet shown), Patch NYC, Lee Angel, Ginette NY and Helen Ficalora.

7. Hit the Drive Thru Flowers are an obvious Mother's Day staple and thankfully down in the Old Market we have some wonderful choices such as Garden Flowers and Habitat. Or pick up a fresh bouquet from the Farmer's Market on Saturday, head over to Trocadero and pick out a Normann Copenhagen grass bud vase, an Anne Black ceramic one or a modern glass vase from Roost and there's a perfect two-in-one gift for her to enjoy both now and later. Out west? Try Stemsin Countryside Village or Bloom's over at Rockbrook...but if you're in a rush, hit up Piccolo's drive-thru floral shop, just south of Dodge on 72nd, for a single rose or a mixed bouquet.
6. Rectify those Wicked Years  Were you a teenage witch? Make up for the wrinkles you caused by taking your mother to see the Grammy and Tony award-winning Broadway show, Wicked, at the Orpheum through May 31st, about the friendship that formed between the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda, the Good Witch...long before Dorothy stumbled down the yellow brick road.

Stay tuned...