Great Escapes
Planes, Trains and Camels

Earlier in the year, I was anticipating a very quiet summer. Little did I know I would end up on an inspirational adventure that would take me to Paris, Morocco and NYC. I had the pleasure of working with a phenominal photographer BJ Formento and his stylish, talented wife Richeille Formento. Together, with our wonderful models, we explored the sights and sounds of Paris and the hidden treasures of Morocco. There was constant visual stimulation and experiences. Within a 24 hour period I had worked with a lamb, monkey and camel, something I never thought I would write about.
What began as a simple photographic trip turned into a journey filled with inspiration, growth and friendships. I love that I experienced so many treasured moments that will always make me (and my camel) smile.
Watch the beautiful Marie Todd video shot and edited by BJ and Richeille Formento. http://bit.ly/VisionsofMarrakech
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Summer Grilling Recipe
I love grilling in the summer. Here’s one of my favorite go to recipes that’s quick and easy to do.

Grilled Shrimp on Rosemary Skewer
8 branches of rosemary, each about 8 to 12 inches long
1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon of minced garlic
3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 1/2 pounds of shrimp, peeled and deveined
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Combine the olive oil, lemon juice and garlic. Add the shrimp, coating evenly, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 1 hour (no longer than 3).
Preheat a charcoal or gas grill. Strip the leaves from the rosemary sprigs, leaving a few inches of leaves at the bottom. Trim a point at the other end of each branch to create a skewer.
When the grill is ready, remove the shrimp from the marinade and skewer the shrimp onto the rosemary branches. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste. Grill the shrimp about two minutes per side.
Serve it with a simple salad, crunchy french bread and your favorite white wine.

Downtime
I love traveling and or just finding places in my own backyard (LA) to have fun and unwind. Check back to follow my Great Escapes and feel free to send me suggestions of new places to go, restaurants to try or things to do.



