Sunday began quietly and cozily. Daniel went back to bed, and I, already into my second cappuccino, was ready for some action. Stove action, that is!
When Daniel awoke, I was deep into preparing "oeufs en meurette," or, poached eggs with red wine sauce. Only mine had a few twists (of course!). I added chanterelles and Burgundian truffles. (We have a steady supply of truffles during the season, due to Daniel's addiction to them!), and to the sauce, which typically has a bit of veal demiglace, I used both my homemade veal glace, as well as some chicken hearts. Mmmm. We had that with some of our friends late disgorged coastal bubbles...
I then proceeded to a hike in the rain. Hiking in the rain is incredibly thereapeutic. The pitter patter of rain on the leaves and ground, the dense clouds rolling through you (literally), and the sound of your shoes on wet dirt, enveloped me in solitude, and getting outside allowed me to "get inside." I made it to the garden, unnoticed, and like a ghost, made off with a handful of fresh radishes and a bulb of kohlrabi. They became a delicious crudite later, along with some Andante diary cow's milk cheese and crostini. We sipped on reisling as Daniel prepared dinner.
He had a hankering for osso bucco. So, in my Pommes Anna antique copper pan, he seared off and put in the oven three lovely veal shanks. Three hours later, we enjoyed them over Anson Mills creamy white polenta with a bottle of 2004 J Davies Cabernet, which was drinking like velvet.
And such is life.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Monday, July 13, 2009
A Typical Weekend for Two Funky Gourmets
Saturday night was fun. We were invited to a BBQ at one of the most coveted vineyards in the Napa Valley, the "Herb Lamb" vineyard. The couple that invited us, who also own a coveted winery in the Valley, didn't give much detail, except that the dress was casual. It was fun not knowing what to expect, and even more fun was that the scene was so incredibly simple, and the antithesis of what some percieve Napa to be-snobby and overstated. Indeed, the wine that flowed would have made even the most well stocked cellar look pedestrian. As I toiled over which white wine to pour first, the first appetizer came around. Bacon. Yep-just nice, crispy, bacon. I was a bit puzzled-our friends are uber-gourmets. Then, the second app came along. Perfectly bbq'd pork shortribs. The perfect texture-not too soft, yet falling off the bone, and slathered properly in an equally balanced sweet/tart homemade sauce. Even the women in Manolo's dove into the ribs with abandon!
I meandered over to the bbq area, a well thought out, well equipped, unassuming array of cooking apparati made up a generous corner of an impressive wrap-around porch. A four foot high, open hearth fireplace, a sink, grill and best of all-a blackened from much use, sticky, yummy smelling smoker. Then I met Herb.
A soil scientist turned ag-supply store turned vineyard owner, this man at heart is really a bbq man. Over copious wine and cigars, Daniel and I well over stayed our visit by talking to Herb about raising animals, butchering animals and properly smoking them. All with a twist on how sustainable people really could be if they tried just a little bit. We closed the night agreeing we lived in a utopia, and that we wanted to smoke a goat together. I also vowed to achieve perfection on smoking salmon in Herb's smoker, a feat he gave up on after many failed attempts.
Sunday came, and as usual, Daniel and I indulged in sleeping in. Upon a lazy wakening, I decided to cook brunch. I headed to the garden and Daniel to the chicken coop. My fruitful journey provided the first two tomatoes of the season, as well as the first crooked neck squash-and some blossoms! Two, purple romas bulged with ripeness. Along with them I harvested an array of peppers, oregano, coriander flowers and arugula.
Daniel poured us a glass of our house bubbly-Point Reyes Vineyards Late Disgorged 1992 Blanc de Blanc. Our friends Steve and Sharon own this unassuming winery that doubles as a dairy cattle ranch right on Tomales bay. I began a frittata, so that Daniel would have extra to take for work. Simple and divine, the plate of frittata sat in the center, cut like a pie. Farm fresh eggs, laid that morning, with sauteed garden peppers, tomato, onion and squash, along with its blossoms. I made a fresh salsa and put it on the plate with some locally made cottage cheese, an arugula salad and a couple handmade white corn tortillas. I topped it all with the coriander flowers. After that, we adjurned to the pool and tried to cool off from the heat and catch a few rays.
Later, we settled to an equally scrumptious dinner. Daniel made his amazing marinated then grilled, custom cut extra thick veal chops and braised cannellinis with a basil parmesan broth. I went back to the garden and selected swiss chard to accompany the beans, as well as a beautiful array of salad greens-tsat zoi, baby bok choy, arugula, romaine and butterleaf. A simple vinaigrette of Napa Red Wine vinegar and Daniel's own sevillano olive oil, a few roasted marcona almonds, some apple slices, a few slices of the same yellow squash from that morning, and shaved parmesan made it the perfect accompaniment to his hearty summer plate. We moved an outside table into the living room, lit a single candle, and enjoyed some of Dave's Griffin's Lair Sonoma Coast pinot noir while watching NatGeo on polar bears.
What a life!
I meandered over to the bbq area, a well thought out, well equipped, unassuming array of cooking apparati made up a generous corner of an impressive wrap-around porch. A four foot high, open hearth fireplace, a sink, grill and best of all-a blackened from much use, sticky, yummy smelling smoker. Then I met Herb.
A soil scientist turned ag-supply store turned vineyard owner, this man at heart is really a bbq man. Over copious wine and cigars, Daniel and I well over stayed our visit by talking to Herb about raising animals, butchering animals and properly smoking them. All with a twist on how sustainable people really could be if they tried just a little bit. We closed the night agreeing we lived in a utopia, and that we wanted to smoke a goat together. I also vowed to achieve perfection on smoking salmon in Herb's smoker, a feat he gave up on after many failed attempts.
Sunday came, and as usual, Daniel and I indulged in sleeping in. Upon a lazy wakening, I decided to cook brunch. I headed to the garden and Daniel to the chicken coop. My fruitful journey provided the first two tomatoes of the season, as well as the first crooked neck squash-and some blossoms! Two, purple romas bulged with ripeness. Along with them I harvested an array of peppers, oregano, coriander flowers and arugula.
Daniel poured us a glass of our house bubbly-Point Reyes Vineyards Late Disgorged 1992 Blanc de Blanc. Our friends Steve and Sharon own this unassuming winery that doubles as a dairy cattle ranch right on Tomales bay. I began a frittata, so that Daniel would have extra to take for work. Simple and divine, the plate of frittata sat in the center, cut like a pie. Farm fresh eggs, laid that morning, with sauteed garden peppers, tomato, onion and squash, along with its blossoms. I made a fresh salsa and put it on the plate with some locally made cottage cheese, an arugula salad and a couple handmade white corn tortillas. I topped it all with the coriander flowers. After that, we adjurned to the pool and tried to cool off from the heat and catch a few rays.
Later, we settled to an equally scrumptious dinner. Daniel made his amazing marinated then grilled, custom cut extra thick veal chops and braised cannellinis with a basil parmesan broth. I went back to the garden and selected swiss chard to accompany the beans, as well as a beautiful array of salad greens-tsat zoi, baby bok choy, arugula, romaine and butterleaf. A simple vinaigrette of Napa Red Wine vinegar and Daniel's own sevillano olive oil, a few roasted marcona almonds, some apple slices, a few slices of the same yellow squash from that morning, and shaved parmesan made it the perfect accompaniment to his hearty summer plate. We moved an outside table into the living room, lit a single candle, and enjoyed some of Dave's Griffin's Lair Sonoma Coast pinot noir while watching NatGeo on polar bears.
What a life!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Birthday, Vacations and General Catch Up
So much time has passed. Who knows where to start? Almost every night is worth writing about. I'll highlight a few.
Daniel butchered his first home-raised lamb. Barbados-dorset mix. 10 weeks old. Scrumptious. He took the utmost care and had much reverence for the little guy. We enjoyed the rack fresh with broccolini and roasted potatoes. We made stock from the bones and froze the rest. Maybe our special friends will enjoy a lamb dinner with us.
My birthday was something of a fantasy. Instructed to dress in a dress, I arrived at Daniel's to a half bottle of bubbly while he gave me a few trinkets. A limo arrived to take us to Yountville. Amazingly, the day was sunny, but along came a deep storm cloud. It seemed to want to follow us to Yountville. We raced, with Bocelli to salute the procession. Brilliant sun on one side, the cloud coming from the rear, soon the two met just above us, and rain drops fell as we arrived at the V Wine Cellar. Seemingly calm, I awaited the next move, but as the storm raced on, Daniel had to forget the trick, and off we went, with a stolen Bouchon umbrella, Northward. Saturated feet in heels and his hair damp, we graced the foyer of the French Laundry for a procession of gastronomic and servitude delight. Knowing most of the staff, we pleasantly cascaded through the hedonistic chef's menu. Three half bottles selected by the birthday girl were thoroughly enjoyed and married deliciously with the degustation. A Reisling, followed by a Puligny Montrachet, and then a Gevrey Chambertin. D had port and asked them to proffer cigars of which he selected three.
We smoked them on the way to Manchester, to visit Pauline at Victorian Gardens. He made us a most memorable feast, in honor of the late patriarch. Eggplant involtini with my garden tomato preserves and fresh chevre and basil leaves began the procession. Braised wild turkey with a simple white risotto and baby carrots followed. We ate it paired with a 2005 Far Niente Cabernet.
How could anyone top this? We set out the next morning for a hike to the ocean. It was to be the lowest tide of the year. We foraged beautiful mussles, hoping to take them for dinner. We got busted. Apparently, you need a fishing license to do such things. The rangers were nice enough. I guess they have enough experience to figure we were just ignorant gourmands, planning a transendental supper. Indeed.
So off to the trout farm we went. Daniel's friends (Mike and Stephanie) have a sustainable trout farm on the coast. We had a feast. We brought cheese and rillettes, and they made a once in a lifetime lunch of fresh abalone, pan fried with roasted potatoes. We made a fresh salad, and we all sat on their back deck, drinking Chardonnay and Asti until the sun began to wane.
Our lunch ended at 7:00 pm, and Daniel and I wandered into a B&B we had seen before in Elk. Much to our pleasant surprise, the rooms were lovely. We chose the oceanfront suite and decided to camp out. Dinner was included, so we went to the restaurant with a bottle of Kuleto Estate Danieli in tow. We shared with Luis, the multi-tasker of the night. Then, he opened a '97 Jordan. We took a couple glasses to the bedroom with us to take a tub in the huge claw foot bathtub. The room had a fireplace as well, so the evening caressed us with the sound of the ocean and the fireplace. In the morning, we hiked down to magical caves and reefs exposed with the low tide. It was as if we were 10 years old again.
Re-entry came with a bang, and upon arrival home we propped the hatch of the bus and took a nap with Dante at our feet. Going home was merciless solitude, as we had had such an energetic high, I knew not how to process the norm.
Since then, we've continued to live as we do. Chicken liver pate, frog legs, rillettes and local artisan cheese have graced our platter.
In the constant effort to balance the seemigly indulgent palate with appropriate physical exersion, I finally bought my mountain bike. It had been 16, yes 16 years, since I had ridden a bike! Wine country terrain and inhibitions rendered me timid as I clumsily faltered to gain agility. As I have practised, I notice immediately the lovely results of intense excersise. Muscle memory.
The biggest highlight, seeminly a lifetime passed, was mom and grandma coming to visit. I ended up working quite a bit, but their visit reminded me of the simplicity of the moment. Crystaline claririt of our DNA connection. Three generations of females. I so connected in a new way with my grandma. Maybe it;s my getting older. Daniel did his wild turkey breast, as mom always looks forward to, and we wiled away the days in conversation and living. We sipped champagne at the rim of the world, and we went to Nick's. But the true beauty of it all was that it was. And my mother reminded me of reisling again.
That's all I can remember for now.
My sweet nephew grows by the day, and my house is littered with his photos. Unbiasedly speaking, he is the perfect baby, and I can understand why. With a mother and father so doting and attentive, an infant grows without fear and insecurity. I am so proud of them. I can only hope he grows to know his crazy western relatives.
Bon Soir~
Daniel butchered his first home-raised lamb. Barbados-dorset mix. 10 weeks old. Scrumptious. He took the utmost care and had much reverence for the little guy. We enjoyed the rack fresh with broccolini and roasted potatoes. We made stock from the bones and froze the rest. Maybe our special friends will enjoy a lamb dinner with us.
My birthday was something of a fantasy. Instructed to dress in a dress, I arrived at Daniel's to a half bottle of bubbly while he gave me a few trinkets. A limo arrived to take us to Yountville. Amazingly, the day was sunny, but along came a deep storm cloud. It seemed to want to follow us to Yountville. We raced, with Bocelli to salute the procession. Brilliant sun on one side, the cloud coming from the rear, soon the two met just above us, and rain drops fell as we arrived at the V Wine Cellar. Seemingly calm, I awaited the next move, but as the storm raced on, Daniel had to forget the trick, and off we went, with a stolen Bouchon umbrella, Northward. Saturated feet in heels and his hair damp, we graced the foyer of the French Laundry for a procession of gastronomic and servitude delight. Knowing most of the staff, we pleasantly cascaded through the hedonistic chef's menu. Three half bottles selected by the birthday girl were thoroughly enjoyed and married deliciously with the degustation. A Reisling, followed by a Puligny Montrachet, and then a Gevrey Chambertin. D had port and asked them to proffer cigars of which he selected three.
We smoked them on the way to Manchester, to visit Pauline at Victorian Gardens. He made us a most memorable feast, in honor of the late patriarch. Eggplant involtini with my garden tomato preserves and fresh chevre and basil leaves began the procession. Braised wild turkey with a simple white risotto and baby carrots followed. We ate it paired with a 2005 Far Niente Cabernet.
How could anyone top this? We set out the next morning for a hike to the ocean. It was to be the lowest tide of the year. We foraged beautiful mussles, hoping to take them for dinner. We got busted. Apparently, you need a fishing license to do such things. The rangers were nice enough. I guess they have enough experience to figure we were just ignorant gourmands, planning a transendental supper. Indeed.
So off to the trout farm we went. Daniel's friends (Mike and Stephanie) have a sustainable trout farm on the coast. We had a feast. We brought cheese and rillettes, and they made a once in a lifetime lunch of fresh abalone, pan fried with roasted potatoes. We made a fresh salad, and we all sat on their back deck, drinking Chardonnay and Asti until the sun began to wane.
Our lunch ended at 7:00 pm, and Daniel and I wandered into a B&B we had seen before in Elk. Much to our pleasant surprise, the rooms were lovely. We chose the oceanfront suite and decided to camp out. Dinner was included, so we went to the restaurant with a bottle of Kuleto Estate Danieli in tow. We shared with Luis, the multi-tasker of the night. Then, he opened a '97 Jordan. We took a couple glasses to the bedroom with us to take a tub in the huge claw foot bathtub. The room had a fireplace as well, so the evening caressed us with the sound of the ocean and the fireplace. In the morning, we hiked down to magical caves and reefs exposed with the low tide. It was as if we were 10 years old again.
Re-entry came with a bang, and upon arrival home we propped the hatch of the bus and took a nap with Dante at our feet. Going home was merciless solitude, as we had had such an energetic high, I knew not how to process the norm.
Since then, we've continued to live as we do. Chicken liver pate, frog legs, rillettes and local artisan cheese have graced our platter.
In the constant effort to balance the seemigly indulgent palate with appropriate physical exersion, I finally bought my mountain bike. It had been 16, yes 16 years, since I had ridden a bike! Wine country terrain and inhibitions rendered me timid as I clumsily faltered to gain agility. As I have practised, I notice immediately the lovely results of intense excersise. Muscle memory.
The biggest highlight, seeminly a lifetime passed, was mom and grandma coming to visit. I ended up working quite a bit, but their visit reminded me of the simplicity of the moment. Crystaline claririt of our DNA connection. Three generations of females. I so connected in a new way with my grandma. Maybe it;s my getting older. Daniel did his wild turkey breast, as mom always looks forward to, and we wiled away the days in conversation and living. We sipped champagne at the rim of the world, and we went to Nick's. But the true beauty of it all was that it was. And my mother reminded me of reisling again.
That's all I can remember for now.
My sweet nephew grows by the day, and my house is littered with his photos. Unbiasedly speaking, he is the perfect baby, and I can understand why. With a mother and father so doting and attentive, an infant grows without fear and insecurity. I am so proud of them. I can only hope he grows to know his crazy western relatives.
Bon Soir~
Monday, March 16, 2009
Lessons from Daisy
Daisy didn't make it. She died last night, after the most valient attempt to stay alive.
I never imagined how amazingly strong the life force can be, until I witnessed this sweet little lamb, but five days old, struggling to get every last breath. It taught Daniel and me a lot.
It taught me that tenacity is relative. I saw a will to live without expectation, pretence or judgement, that I will carry with me forever. It showed me what a little love and affection can do for another creature. Love really transcends all boundaries. Daisy bonded with a human. Up until her very last breaths, you could see her try to respond to Daniel's voice. It was amazingly touching and beautiful. There was not a fragment of negativity in this little creature. She radiated love, affection, and gratitude--and I am not being anthropomorphic!
Upon her death I wished every human could possess a moment with her to learn her lessons.
Of Daniel was the most sweet and loving strength to keep her alive. He really tried. He was so sad to see her not make it, but also learned a great deal.
Our friend Pauline said to us the first time we stayed with her that she had tried so many times to rescue little lambs from their non-maternal mothers, but to no avail if they couldn't be administered the mother's milk within the first 24 hours. And so it is.
She also said there is nothing so sweet as a newborn lamb.
And so we learned a lot from sweet little Daisy. We know she knew we gave it our all.
She "slept" again last night in the claw foot tub, as we were not ready to accept she had passed. Today Daniel buried her and we shall plant daisies there.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Loving Daisy
The sheep have been busy, and most all of their kid's arrivals have been easy and well received by their mamas, save a couple instances. Daniel awoke to find a small little gal, (a ewe), alone in the corner of the sheep pen, still wet from birth. Mama didn't care to clean her, let alone feed her.
I guess it's true that some women just don't have the "motherly instinct." I can't imagine leaving such a helpless, precious little one alone to die, but indeed, that's what happens, both in the sheep pen and in the human pen. So, Daniel forced the ewe to let the little one feed, at least long enough to get the immune boosting milk produced in the first 48 hours.
Since then, she's been enjoying her bottled meals in the comfort of Daniel's home, on the couch and by the light of the fire. She sleeps contented in the claw foot tub, upon towels and blankets, and makes not a whimper, full from engorging on the vitamin rich Kefir.
Daniel calls her Daisy, and she knows only his love and affection, and she follows him everywhere!
Love knows no boundaries and is such a beautiful thing.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Dinner on the Block
On Monday, my (usual) day off, during which I always hike to the garden for my dinner, I did the same ritual, filling my basket to the brim, making it cumbersome to get home. Winter vegetables are really gratifying to me, their wholesomeness and flavor, as satisfying as meat. I loaded my basket with Savoy spinach, kale, a head of romanesco and one of cauliflower, some spring onions and a few daffodils and a single rose (the day before pruning) for my bedside vase.
Daniel moved his chickens, new laying pullets, I should say, down to the sheep pen. They are so excited to roam and graze, plucking through the dung-laden hay, for grubs. This summer they should make a great dent in the fly population, and in turn return us the favor of flavorful, fertile eggs. Old Man Red, the short-tempered and very territorial rooster who regularly pokes at Daniel's boots (and his hens), jabbing with his razor sharp daggered feet, is still a viril male and looks after his new pullets with great affection and zeal.
Daniel brought me a little basket full of eggs the other night. The eggs are small and brown. I was excited to try them, as we awaited their arrival for many months.
So, to the point of my story. The beauty of simplicity. The unique and fully satisfying experience of a meal completely sourced from within your immediate surroundings. You couldn't get it anywhere-but right here.
I sauteed some kale with ample shallot. Two farm fresh eggs went into the pan to be returned, perfectly basted. The flavor of the eggs was incredible. I doubt I've ever tasted such an egg, and I eat them from the pen, fresh-laid, regularly. Both were lubed up with Sevillano olive oil from Daniel's trees at Nickel & Nickel. I popped open a bottle brought to me during a recent visit from Alexandra, the perpetual wanderer-currently residing in Spain. Her 2004 Pinot Noir shiner was perfect for the occasion. Alone, by candlelight, I savored the simplicity of the concoction. I wondered if anyone would ever understand how intensly flavorful and satisfying my simple meal of sauteed garden greens and two basted fresh laid eggs with Dago red could be. I still wonder.
How lucky we are. Cheers to the new pullets, having arrived at the Maiden stage, and thanks to the Red Rooster for granting them more fertile flavor. Thanks to the sheep for attracting the bugs that make the eggs so flavorful. Most of all, thanks to the man who lets the birds out and puts them safely in at night, so as not to let the sneaky, hungry cats in to feast as they did earlier this year. Thanks to Alex for her raw, uninhibited and unpretentious style, exemplified in her life and her wine. And thanks to Pat for building Casa Paloma and letting me live in the safety of her womb. I have enjoyed many a dinner of this sort alone here, by the light of the wood stove glow.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Blissful Romance
Daniel never ceases to amaze me. He keeps me smiling, loving, and always challenges me to look at things in different ways. I am greatful to have such an amazing partner. Our relationship is one that is timeless and well traveled, as I imagine we have been united throughout our souls' journeys. Today, after a weekend of bliss, I can only revel in the sea of selfless love my partner bestowes upon me.
After the aforementioned trying week, I began a Saturday with a surprising shift of perspective and inertia that propelled me through to today. I cleaned out 4 1/2 years worth of computer dis-organization at work! I accomplished so much in record time that I would have never believed it possible! I had a rescheduled massage appointment from the day mentioned below. When I arrived, my therapist informed me of two lovely things: in regret for her having missed our Thursday appointment, she had a gift certificate for a half session waiting for me, and, Daniel had been there the previous day and had treated me to my appointment! Wow! I proceeded to enjoy yet another transcendental, 2 1/2 hour massage. Fabulous.
When I left, I stumbled upon a message left on my cell phone. My sweet love had informed me that no matter how I felt, how I looked, or what I had planned, I should drop it all and meet him at Auberge, our regular "neighborhood bar and grill," Relais~Chateau style. And so I did. With a pleasantly radiant greasy face and body, and in my jumpsuit, I applied a little MAC liner and lips and sauntered through the bar to meet him at the deck. A beautiful night it was, stars out, twinkling in the oddly warm January splendor. Always reading my mind, a half bottle of bubbly was being cradled in the bucket alongside the table. Nicolas Feiullatte, a special selection of which I cannot reiterate, was poured into my glass. Its noble and yeasty bouquet met with the pre-orderd oysters on the half shell and tuna tartare with a splendid affinity. Sneaky, sneaky, man!
He toted with him a bottle procured on our recent trip to Oregon; a 2006 Archery Summit Premier Cuvee. To show it in its best light, we ordered our favorite gnocchi with wild mushrooms and parmesan nage. Next was delivered a new york steak with more mushrooms and thinly chiffonaded brussels sprouts. Perfect.
Off we went. It was still early. Any thought of going home to collect my "necessities" rolled away with the previous week's tribulations, and we entered his house to continue enjoying one another's company. We opened a fun, unassuming standby, Graham's Six Grapes, and he played for me some old Enigma while we took a hot tub. I'll allow you to surmise your own conclusions for the rest of the evening!
The morning greeted us with equal enthusiasm, and we headed right back to the Auberge to enjoy an unseasonable warm Sunday morning on the very same deck. With another bottle of Feuillatte, a glass of Billicart-Salmon, the day was already off to an amazing start. He read the paper,and my mind traveled in its usual, deeply inquisitive ways.
We opted for a four wheeler ride, and I continued drinking champagne as I read The Mists of Avalon on his sun filled deck.
Later, I made braised Chicken with mushrooms and homemade fettucini. We enjoyed a bottle of Dave's wine, a 2004 Craven Lattin Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. Yum.
Tonight I made a good ol' standby with left over braised pork shoulder...split pea soup with generous chunks of full moon butchered estate pork.
This morning I came home to a magnificent holiday of spring welcome. And, in a decision to start a blog to which Daniel does not have to feel responsible, I created a new blog. For those who enjoy my crazy rantings, you may access it at the link provided...
Bon Soir!
After the aforementioned trying week, I began a Saturday with a surprising shift of perspective and inertia that propelled me through to today. I cleaned out 4 1/2 years worth of computer dis-organization at work! I accomplished so much in record time that I would have never believed it possible! I had a rescheduled massage appointment from the day mentioned below. When I arrived, my therapist informed me of two lovely things: in regret for her having missed our Thursday appointment, she had a gift certificate for a half session waiting for me, and, Daniel had been there the previous day and had treated me to my appointment! Wow! I proceeded to enjoy yet another transcendental, 2 1/2 hour massage. Fabulous.
When I left, I stumbled upon a message left on my cell phone. My sweet love had informed me that no matter how I felt, how I looked, or what I had planned, I should drop it all and meet him at Auberge, our regular "neighborhood bar and grill," Relais~Chateau style. And so I did. With a pleasantly radiant greasy face and body, and in my jumpsuit, I applied a little MAC liner and lips and sauntered through the bar to meet him at the deck. A beautiful night it was, stars out, twinkling in the oddly warm January splendor. Always reading my mind, a half bottle of bubbly was being cradled in the bucket alongside the table. Nicolas Feiullatte, a special selection of which I cannot reiterate, was poured into my glass. Its noble and yeasty bouquet met with the pre-orderd oysters on the half shell and tuna tartare with a splendid affinity. Sneaky, sneaky, man!
He toted with him a bottle procured on our recent trip to Oregon; a 2006 Archery Summit Premier Cuvee. To show it in its best light, we ordered our favorite gnocchi with wild mushrooms and parmesan nage. Next was delivered a new york steak with more mushrooms and thinly chiffonaded brussels sprouts. Perfect.
Off we went. It was still early. Any thought of going home to collect my "necessities" rolled away with the previous week's tribulations, and we entered his house to continue enjoying one another's company. We opened a fun, unassuming standby, Graham's Six Grapes, and he played for me some old Enigma while we took a hot tub. I'll allow you to surmise your own conclusions for the rest of the evening!
The morning greeted us with equal enthusiasm, and we headed right back to the Auberge to enjoy an unseasonable warm Sunday morning on the very same deck. With another bottle of Feuillatte, a glass of Billicart-Salmon, the day was already off to an amazing start. He read the paper,and my mind traveled in its usual, deeply inquisitive ways.
We opted for a four wheeler ride, and I continued drinking champagne as I read The Mists of Avalon on his sun filled deck.
Later, I made braised Chicken with mushrooms and homemade fettucini. We enjoyed a bottle of Dave's wine, a 2004 Craven Lattin Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. Yum.
Tonight I made a good ol' standby with left over braised pork shoulder...split pea soup with generous chunks of full moon butchered estate pork.
This morning I came home to a magnificent holiday of spring welcome. And, in a decision to start a blog to which Daniel does not have to feel responsible, I created a new blog. For those who enjoy my crazy rantings, you may access it at the link provided...
Bon Soir!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Contemplating Compassion
Over the course of two weeks, there have been 8 additions to the homestead at Daniel's. One of which, a sure stud, Daniel delivered himself! Markedly different from the other lambs, this little guy's legs are abnormally large for his body. He is very agile and momma likes to be very protective of him. I guess that's how mother's are, especially when they know they have a future stud on their hands! Daniel says he sucks the tip of his nose. So cute! Now, of course, the moonchild has even more need to stay home and not have to venture up the narrow dirt road to Venus' house. That little caniver...
Animal activity is no less apparent here. If it isn't the local raccoon gang waking me up at 4:30-6:00 in the morning, making their pilgrimage from the north end of the house to the east, then it's the ballsy bobcat, using my roof as a playground, leaping from the ground, to the trees, and back on to the roof again.
It occured to me today, though, that although the animals' timing is annoying, their intentions are not maligned. Humans, you'd think, with their "consciousness," would be able to rise above their personal microcosms to the collective, and therefore bring forethought and compassion to their actions. I know, the optomist in me is forever put to the test.
After a couple days of feeling under the weather due to some medical difficulties lately, I embarked to the lab to get some tests. After waiting two and a half hours for the doctor's office to call me back with regard to the lab scrip, with no response, I set out anyway. Of course, it was noon by then and I had been fasting for the bloodwork.
Later, I came to a four way stop on a sleepy afternoon in St. Helena. As a truck passed through the intersection, I went to make my right hand turn. A lady from the opposite lane was already half way into her left hand turn. I smiled in concession, but was too far ahead of her to offer her the lane. Her unkind and aggravated face made her mood quite clear. I thought how awful for her to have her face in such a grimace. So, regardless of who was in the right or wrong, I mouthed an "I'm sorry." As I then missed my immediate right hand turn into the hardware store's parking lot, I put my right hand blinker on to turn around. As I slowed, I realized there was room to make a u-turn. So, I changed the blinker to the left one, and proceeded to begin in the other direction. Unbeknownst to me, the lady with the grimace had gone to illegally pass me on the left. Imagine her face after I went to turn left! This time I looked at her with the thoughts that were in my head, on my face, wondering why her driving had to be so presumptious and rash.
She took the time to stop, in the lane of oncoming traffic nonetheless, and tell me that I almost caused two accidents. Feeling both perplexed at her audaciousness and repelled by her obviously frequent grimace, I only wanted her out of my presence. All I said to her was, "I apoligized to you already. What more would you like from me?" As she sped off in her BMW, obviously unaware of her part to play in the near misses, I was saddened by what I see frequently in peoples' unkindness and self -absorbed behavior.
I think of it often when I see young people fail to heed to an elderly person, or offer them help. I think of it when I see young men sit while a pregnant lady stands. I think of it as I approach someone in a grocery store, and rather than connect with one another and smile, the person looks down and acts as if we are not two human beings crossing paths. All day, everyday, there are many examples.
So, I later fled back up the hill, eager to get back to the minor annoyances of the local raccoon gang, or the rogue bobcat, perhaps the infrequent but occasional homily opossom. At least their irreverence for my human sleep schedule is unintentional.
I see there's a trout following us now! I like the free-spirited trout. We don't see him as often as we'd like. Maybe we should go fishing soon.
Every day, I make it a point to be compassionate. It is part of my daily mantra. I try to understand that we are all on a path, and that it is important to be respectful and even helpful of that path, whether a stranger or not. I try to smile, in hope that a moment of positivity can come of a split second. Every day I am put to the test.
Now I think I'll head down to my "other" home in the hills, where the moonchild may have a consoling glass of wine and an open ear, not to mention a beautiful presence. He's good like that.
Animal activity is no less apparent here. If it isn't the local raccoon gang waking me up at 4:30-6:00 in the morning, making their pilgrimage from the north end of the house to the east, then it's the ballsy bobcat, using my roof as a playground, leaping from the ground, to the trees, and back on to the roof again.
It occured to me today, though, that although the animals' timing is annoying, their intentions are not maligned. Humans, you'd think, with their "consciousness," would be able to rise above their personal microcosms to the collective, and therefore bring forethought and compassion to their actions. I know, the optomist in me is forever put to the test.
After a couple days of feeling under the weather due to some medical difficulties lately, I embarked to the lab to get some tests. After waiting two and a half hours for the doctor's office to call me back with regard to the lab scrip, with no response, I set out anyway. Of course, it was noon by then and I had been fasting for the bloodwork.
Later, I came to a four way stop on a sleepy afternoon in St. Helena. As a truck passed through the intersection, I went to make my right hand turn. A lady from the opposite lane was already half way into her left hand turn. I smiled in concession, but was too far ahead of her to offer her the lane. Her unkind and aggravated face made her mood quite clear. I thought how awful for her to have her face in such a grimace. So, regardless of who was in the right or wrong, I mouthed an "I'm sorry." As I then missed my immediate right hand turn into the hardware store's parking lot, I put my right hand blinker on to turn around. As I slowed, I realized there was room to make a u-turn. So, I changed the blinker to the left one, and proceeded to begin in the other direction. Unbeknownst to me, the lady with the grimace had gone to illegally pass me on the left. Imagine her face after I went to turn left! This time I looked at her with the thoughts that were in my head, on my face, wondering why her driving had to be so presumptious and rash.
She took the time to stop, in the lane of oncoming traffic nonetheless, and tell me that I almost caused two accidents. Feeling both perplexed at her audaciousness and repelled by her obviously frequent grimace, I only wanted her out of my presence. All I said to her was, "I apoligized to you already. What more would you like from me?" As she sped off in her BMW, obviously unaware of her part to play in the near misses, I was saddened by what I see frequently in peoples' unkindness and self -absorbed behavior.
I think of it often when I see young people fail to heed to an elderly person, or offer them help. I think of it when I see young men sit while a pregnant lady stands. I think of it as I approach someone in a grocery store, and rather than connect with one another and smile, the person looks down and acts as if we are not two human beings crossing paths. All day, everyday, there are many examples.
So, I later fled back up the hill, eager to get back to the minor annoyances of the local raccoon gang, or the rogue bobcat, perhaps the infrequent but occasional homily opossom. At least their irreverence for my human sleep schedule is unintentional.
I see there's a trout following us now! I like the free-spirited trout. We don't see him as often as we'd like. Maybe we should go fishing soon.
Every day, I make it a point to be compassionate. It is part of my daily mantra. I try to understand that we are all on a path, and that it is important to be respectful and even helpful of that path, whether a stranger or not. I try to smile, in hope that a moment of positivity can come of a split second. Every day I am put to the test.
Now I think I'll head down to my "other" home in the hills, where the moonchild may have a consoling glass of wine and an open ear, not to mention a beautiful presence. He's good like that.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Full Moon Feast and Fever
The full moon on Saturday was well thought out, with a visit from Lisa from Mendocino and several hand chosen ladies. The order of the evening was to relish each other's female energy at the height of the full moon in Cancer. The house was cozy with a fire crackling, candles were lit and I began with a Patchouli and Musk bubblebath to soak off my day of work.
Lisa and I spent the time before everyone else's arrival catching up. The first bottle of bubbly was opened, a gift from my boss. I opened it with the intention to toast positive energy between us. Given my enjoyment of the light golden elixer, I deduced my desire would be fulfilled. The J 20, so named to commemorate their 20th year of making sparkling wine, was to me, a success.
The other ladies arrived, bearing their sweet spirits and special bottles to share. We proceeded to chatter the night away, and in the meantime afforded ourselves dinner and an incredible midnight moonlit hike. Dinner was simple, but fitting and as filling as a lady would like. Red wine braised ranch turkey leg with a ragout of butternut squash gnocchi, roasted chestnuts, garden kale, baby shitakes and cippolini onions was the entree. A fresh picked garden salad was there to brighten things up a bit. Of course, before that even transpired, we had some incredible cheeses. Local Andante Dairy Quattro Staggione, leaking all over the place with its gooey goodness, Humboldt Fog, Epoisses, Comte, and the ringer-James' truffle brie (again-we can't get enough of this stuff-when in season!). Along with some smoked salmon deviled eggs, these were the precursors to our meal. I made Calendula panna cotta with walnut cookies and muscat syrup for dessert. We finished the night over copious pots of osmanthus oolong and wildflower honey with ginger thins. Those not slumbering at my home had left. With Kimberly long since passed on the couch, in her pink jammies and flannel sheets, and Lisa in the chair, I puttered away in the kitchen so as to awake with a sence of order and cleanliness. And so it was. At 2:00am I turned off my light and snoozed until 9:00.
Over a pot of black tea, Lisa and I said our farewell, and the unseasonably warm day beckoned me to hike with my yoga bag to the Rim of the World. And so it went, a coupel hours of beautiful outdoor yoga in weather seeming of summer. Although nice, it's a bit scary as we all need rain. The animals, birds and plants are confused, as are we. The biological clock is off, and I'm not sure what will transpire. For now, I'll enjoy the sunshine and water my plants. My Hunter mucks sit in the closet, covered in dust. I should have bought the cheapies.
I proceeded to Daniel's where we enjoyed the rest of the night in comfortable, simple luxury, with the remnants of some incredible bottles and flavorful nibbles. The wine list from the evening follows.
J Winery Cuvee "20"
2001 Iron Horse Brut
1996 Iron Horse Late Disgorged Blanc de Blanc (our special ladies' bottle. mmmmm...)
1990 Mumm DVX
Andre et Mireille Tissot Cremant du Jura
2002 Chateau Loudenne Bordeaux Blanc
2004 Jean Marc Brocard , Montee de Tonnerre Premier Cru Chablis
2002 Kelly Magee Meritage, Napa Valley
2004 Kuleto Estate Cab Franc
Lisa and I spent the time before everyone else's arrival catching up. The first bottle of bubbly was opened, a gift from my boss. I opened it with the intention to toast positive energy between us. Given my enjoyment of the light golden elixer, I deduced my desire would be fulfilled. The J 20, so named to commemorate their 20th year of making sparkling wine, was to me, a success.
The other ladies arrived, bearing their sweet spirits and special bottles to share. We proceeded to chatter the night away, and in the meantime afforded ourselves dinner and an incredible midnight moonlit hike. Dinner was simple, but fitting and as filling as a lady would like. Red wine braised ranch turkey leg with a ragout of butternut squash gnocchi, roasted chestnuts, garden kale, baby shitakes and cippolini onions was the entree. A fresh picked garden salad was there to brighten things up a bit. Of course, before that even transpired, we had some incredible cheeses. Local Andante Dairy Quattro Staggione, leaking all over the place with its gooey goodness, Humboldt Fog, Epoisses, Comte, and the ringer-James' truffle brie (again-we can't get enough of this stuff-when in season!). Along with some smoked salmon deviled eggs, these were the precursors to our meal. I made Calendula panna cotta with walnut cookies and muscat syrup for dessert. We finished the night over copious pots of osmanthus oolong and wildflower honey with ginger thins. Those not slumbering at my home had left. With Kimberly long since passed on the couch, in her pink jammies and flannel sheets, and Lisa in the chair, I puttered away in the kitchen so as to awake with a sence of order and cleanliness. And so it was. At 2:00am I turned off my light and snoozed until 9:00.
Over a pot of black tea, Lisa and I said our farewell, and the unseasonably warm day beckoned me to hike with my yoga bag to the Rim of the World. And so it went, a coupel hours of beautiful outdoor yoga in weather seeming of summer. Although nice, it's a bit scary as we all need rain. The animals, birds and plants are confused, as are we. The biological clock is off, and I'm not sure what will transpire. For now, I'll enjoy the sunshine and water my plants. My Hunter mucks sit in the closet, covered in dust. I should have bought the cheapies.
I proceeded to Daniel's where we enjoyed the rest of the night in comfortable, simple luxury, with the remnants of some incredible bottles and flavorful nibbles. The wine list from the evening follows.
J Winery Cuvee "20"
2001 Iron Horse Brut
1996 Iron Horse Late Disgorged Blanc de Blanc (our special ladies' bottle. mmmmm...)
1990 Mumm DVX
Andre et Mireille Tissot Cremant du Jura
2002 Chateau Loudenne Bordeaux Blanc
2004 Jean Marc Brocard , Montee de Tonnerre Premier Cru Chablis
2002 Kelly Magee Meritage, Napa Valley
2004 Kuleto Estate Cab Franc
Monday, January 5, 2009
A New Year's Week at Casa Paloma
What a crazed, lovely week transpired between Christmas and the New Year. I considered December 26th to be the start of the New Year, because that is when the new energy began for me. Out with the old, in with the new. Remember, the hiking 'til my epiphany came? (along with the sore knees and back!) All was wired for the next few days after that. I could hardly sleep for the next two days, as intensely good and positive thoughts came streaming in.
New Year's Eve was spent at Casa Paloma. David (my sous chef) and his gal, Flip, and their new 7-week old German Shepherd pooch named Ace (David is an avid poker player) came over. Weezie, my old roomie and dear friend, came from Healdsburg as well, with J rose bubbles and brie in tow. David made his grandma's recipe three cheese ravioli and meatballs for dinner, using the tomato sauce we made from up here at the ranch. I made a salad of greens from the garden. A perfect contrast. The night ended early, as we settled into bed at just before midnight. The fog had already set in.
New Years Day was nice. We always plan a hike, but we ended up staying in for the morning. The thick fog that set in the night before still lingered, so we cozied by the fire with cappuccinos. Weezie and I jumped into a quick cleaning project (I always rope her into a "project"!). I then began to prep the evening's dinner, as we were to have a second set of guests that night. Everyone left, and I nested in the kitchen, getting everything together as the opera played softly and the fire rolled gently. Looking out the window, I couldn't even see the slope across the canyon! I felt completely hidden from the world, and it was nice. With no one around, I opted to steal a mid-day bubblebath! I soaked in the claw foot tub laden with generous rose scented bubbles. Then, I geared up for my New Year's Day hike. Daniel bailed on the idea, so I clammered over to his house with a big cup of Nettle and Dandelion tea. Going through the vineyards with visibility of only 10 feet or so was so eerily cozy. The cool moist air was invigorating. It was a perfect hike. When I arrived to Daniel's, he informed me there had been a mix-up of plans, and we were solo that night. So-we ended up at the Villa for dinner. It was nice.
The next day came. In preparation for a grand scale celebration dinner the next night at the Villa, we aptly named "Duck, Duck, Goose," I spent the day in my winery kitchen abuzz with activity. From 9:00 until 7:45 I hustled and bustled to get as much done as possible, for the following day would prove short with such a detailed menu. Upon arrival home, I jumped in the tub again, only this time with a glass of Champagne, to rearrange my mind from prep to dinner guests. Luckily, everything was ready from the day before, so I only had to fire up the oven! Rich and Kara arrived, bringing some stunning wines. The heaviness of my day's burdens left me as we lulled into a great meal with some great conversation. We had foie gras mousse and Epoisses for appetizers with rose Bubbles generously left by Weezie. Then, we had a bottle of 2005 Vacheron Sancerre "Les Romains" with our salad. Of course, we toasted our good friend who makes that wine, Jean-Laurent Vacheron, and hoped life is well for him all the way over in the Loire. For dinner, a seared rare hangar steak with carmelized brussels, James' foraged matsutakes, and a cauliflower gratin, made with black truffle brie, and a smattering of fresh shaved Perigord truffles was enjoyed with a bottle from Rich's dad cellar-a 1990 Chateau de la Tour, Clos-Vougeot. If that wasn't enough, we finished with a bottle of Ice wine from Washington, Kiona. The boys built a fire outside to smoke their cigars, and we girls made tea and I showed off some recent food shots on the computer. We ended the lovely evening at 1:45am, and my alarm was to come early-6:00am.
The day ahead of me was a bit daunting-and I already knew it would be long. The excitment of the menu was the light that kept me going. Guests were to arrive to the Villa at dusk. The guest list was lovely-some of Pat's closest friends, and people I have known for years. The menu is to follow-you'll see that Perigord Truffles are a main focus!
New Year's Eve was spent at Casa Paloma. David (my sous chef) and his gal, Flip, and their new 7-week old German Shepherd pooch named Ace (David is an avid poker player) came over. Weezie, my old roomie and dear friend, came from Healdsburg as well, with J rose bubbles and brie in tow. David made his grandma's recipe three cheese ravioli and meatballs for dinner, using the tomato sauce we made from up here at the ranch. I made a salad of greens from the garden. A perfect contrast. The night ended early, as we settled into bed at just before midnight. The fog had already set in.
New Years Day was nice. We always plan a hike, but we ended up staying in for the morning. The thick fog that set in the night before still lingered, so we cozied by the fire with cappuccinos. Weezie and I jumped into a quick cleaning project (I always rope her into a "project"!). I then began to prep the evening's dinner, as we were to have a second set of guests that night. Everyone left, and I nested in the kitchen, getting everything together as the opera played softly and the fire rolled gently. Looking out the window, I couldn't even see the slope across the canyon! I felt completely hidden from the world, and it was nice. With no one around, I opted to steal a mid-day bubblebath! I soaked in the claw foot tub laden with generous rose scented bubbles. Then, I geared up for my New Year's Day hike. Daniel bailed on the idea, so I clammered over to his house with a big cup of Nettle and Dandelion tea. Going through the vineyards with visibility of only 10 feet or so was so eerily cozy. The cool moist air was invigorating. It was a perfect hike. When I arrived to Daniel's, he informed me there had been a mix-up of plans, and we were solo that night. So-we ended up at the Villa for dinner. It was nice.
The next day came. In preparation for a grand scale celebration dinner the next night at the Villa, we aptly named "Duck, Duck, Goose," I spent the day in my winery kitchen abuzz with activity. From 9:00 until 7:45 I hustled and bustled to get as much done as possible, for the following day would prove short with such a detailed menu. Upon arrival home, I jumped in the tub again, only this time with a glass of Champagne, to rearrange my mind from prep to dinner guests. Luckily, everything was ready from the day before, so I only had to fire up the oven! Rich and Kara arrived, bringing some stunning wines. The heaviness of my day's burdens left me as we lulled into a great meal with some great conversation. We had foie gras mousse and Epoisses for appetizers with rose Bubbles generously left by Weezie. Then, we had a bottle of 2005 Vacheron Sancerre "Les Romains" with our salad. Of course, we toasted our good friend who makes that wine, Jean-Laurent Vacheron, and hoped life is well for him all the way over in the Loire. For dinner, a seared rare hangar steak with carmelized brussels, James' foraged matsutakes, and a cauliflower gratin, made with black truffle brie, and a smattering of fresh shaved Perigord truffles was enjoyed with a bottle from Rich's dad cellar-a 1990 Chateau de la Tour, Clos-Vougeot. If that wasn't enough, we finished with a bottle of Ice wine from Washington, Kiona. The boys built a fire outside to smoke their cigars, and we girls made tea and I showed off some recent food shots on the computer. We ended the lovely evening at 1:45am, and my alarm was to come early-6:00am.
The day ahead of me was a bit daunting-and I already knew it would be long. The excitment of the menu was the light that kept me going. Guests were to arrive to the Villa at dusk. The guest list was lovely-some of Pat's closest friends, and people I have known for years. The menu is to follow-you'll see that Perigord Truffles are a main focus!
Appetizers
Duck Confit Pizza with Truffle Bechamel, Quail Eggs and Arugula, Shaved Black Truffles
Roasted French Fingerling Potatoes with Bellwether Farms Creme Fraiche and Smoked Trout
Housemade Pork Rillettes
Two local cheeses: Andante Dairy Quattro Staggione and Humbolt Fog
First Course
Wild (shot by Pat) Duck Breat, Served Rare, atop a Risotto of Black Trumpet Mushrooms and Black Truffles (of course!)(the risotto was made with roasted duck stock, of course!)
2004 Kuleto Estate Pinot Noir
A Bounty of Wines made by Brian (Pat's good friend)
Second Course
A Cleansing Garden Salad of Bitter Greens, Pickled Devil's Blood Beets, Cara Cara Orange Segments and Bucheron, with a Citrus Vinaigrette
Third Course
Seared Rare Goose Breast atop Garden Tuscan Kale, Turnip and Potato Gratin, Foraged Chanterelles, and a Boudin of Goose Leg, Pork, and Coriander, and an intense Roasted Goose Reduction, (and more truffles!)
2004 Danielli
1989 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon (brought by Bo and Heidi Barrett)
Dessert
Cinnamon Buttermilk Panna Cotta with Muscat Calendula Syrup, Preserved Ranch White Peaches and Walnut Cookies
Muscat Love
By the end of the night, I was feeling the pain. I looked forward to the next couple days off, but to my despair I awoke the next day to more pain and torture. Alas, I am getting too old for 18 hour days. I spent the day in bed, nursing my muscle aches. My sweet Daniel came to the rescue with the massage table. He arrived at dark (when I could finally open my eyes), drew me a bath, made me some tea, and massaged me for two hours. Then, he warmed me some turkey noodle soup (from the freezer-where I always have a stash for moments just like this!). I went back to bed and slept 'til 10:00 this morning.
Now, I sit here, sipping some tea, still in my robe. It's noon. Maybe I'll take a walk in the rain. Maybe I'll go to town for a meal.
Now, begins mine and Daniel's three month cleanse. No wine during the week. The meals will be lots of greens, veggies, and fruit in the mornings. Less meat, more fish. I usually cleanse in October for a month, but this year did not feel the timing was right. Now, with all of this great energy for the new, it seems right. Cleansing is good and feels great. It is a welcome and refreshing change. We'll still enjoy our bubbles and cheeses on Sundays...Maybe I'll have mroe time to post the Oregon trip!
I was thinking the other day, as I prepped that dinner, what an interesting person it takes to be a chef. All those countless hours, spent laboring away, with no one to know the intense effort, on a work of art that is to be consumed within a few hours. It's a curious phenomenon.
I wouldn't trade it for the world.
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