I start relaxing as soon as we drive over the bridge onto Long Beach Island. In my mind, I'm already planning the menus and activities we'll enjoy with our guests that visit throughout the summer. I love to share the joy of our summers on LBI. This book was inspired by our beach house lifestyle – our experiences, gatherings and special moments we've had here.

I created this book for the beach house families, their guests, the weekly renters, and the day trippers. It's for everyone that comes to this special place I call home. In this book, I combine recipes for delicious casual dining with iconic gatherings on Long Beach island. Whether it's grilling filets for our annual Fourth of July crowd, or whipping up little neck clams as a quick appetizer, keeping it simple and casual is what it's all about. Inside, you'll will find my go-to recipes using fresh, local ingredients from local farm markets and merchants. You'll experience LBI living at its best, from bayside concerts, boating and bike-riding, to enjoying a picture- perfect sunset. My menus are simple and flexible now, and my parties mostly spur-of-the- moment. Every dish honors the delicious flavors of summer- where the atmosphere is casual and family, friends and children are always welcome. This is how we celebrate life on LBI. This is how we gather well.

My love of Long Beach Island began as a child, spending time and creating lifelong memories with my family. When I met my husband Chris, a native of LBI, we dreamed of having our own beach house – and before long we bought our first summer home in Surf City, NJ. Chris introduced me to the north side of the island, which would become our happy place for years to come. We raised our four children on a vacation island that we all call home. And we became part of the thriving island community that's at the heart of Surf City.