Last night I kissed goodbye my 8 year old. Tucked in the sheets around him. Turned out the lights and finished my evening. This morning, I kissed hello my 9 year old. We talked about the wonderful memories we have of each age ... I realize how we die to each day, emerging anew with advancing experience.
So it is we celebrate with cupcakes! For this and any special occasion, I recommend Frost Me Sweet in Richland, Washington. Not only are the cakes delicious and delightful, but the company is environmentally conscientious. They are a green business with a sweet story!
On another occasion, you might enjoy the Bistro menu at Frost Me Sweet. It includes a variety of small plates and local wines! This is a perfect spot to visit after a stroll along the Parkway. Or before a show. The Richland Players are at it again. My Three Angels will entertain us in November.
Linger, laugh, live it up in Tri Cities.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Yummy Wine ... Better Defined
I am still ruminating over the education event ten of us attended at Goose Ridge Estates winery. Hosted by Steven Womack, we were guided through the winemaking process from seeds of the vines to bottling. Variations in the process for whites versus reds were outlined. And we got to taste Malbec grapes off the vine.
Then we sauntered indoors to gather around the barrels. Here Steven poured a splash of white wine for each of us, handing it over with the firm command "don't drink it yet." First we were told to look at the wine. The rim color if greenish for whites or purplish for reds will indicate younger wines versus golden amber or burgundy brown shades, respectively. Swirl the wine and watch the "legs" drip down the inside of the glass. These indicate alcohol levels - more legs, more alcohol.
Next we were instructed to take in the aroma. Swirl the wine to release molecules that provide the aroma or bouquet. And then, with your nose about 1/2 inch above the rim, sniff with mouth slightly open. This provides the fullest scent intake without overwhelming the senses to the point one cannot smell at all. Take a quick whiff for initial impressions and then a deeper smell before you sit back and evaluate. The flavors you find are from the grape, the barrels, and the fermentation process.
Now, we are finally ready to taste. We are looking for a balance between sweetness and acidity; agreeably proportionate fruit, acid, and wood flavors. Take an initial sip to awaken your senses. Taste it more fully; swish it in your mouth to cover taste buds. Draw in some air and consider the characteristics. And finally ponder the aftertaste - how long does the flavor last in your mouth? what are the flavors you recognize?
Declare your conclusions about quality and maturity. More importantly, tell us whether you liked the wine!
There are lots of opportunities to gather over wine for education, entertainment, or for pure enjoyment. Daily communion in Tri Cities.
Then we sauntered indoors to gather around the barrels. Here Steven poured a splash of white wine for each of us, handing it over with the firm command "don't drink it yet." First we were told to look at the wine. The rim color if greenish for whites or purplish for reds will indicate younger wines versus golden amber or burgundy brown shades, respectively. Swirl the wine and watch the "legs" drip down the inside of the glass. These indicate alcohol levels - more legs, more alcohol.
Next we were instructed to take in the aroma. Swirl the wine to release molecules that provide the aroma or bouquet. And then, with your nose about 1/2 inch above the rim, sniff with mouth slightly open. This provides the fullest scent intake without overwhelming the senses to the point one cannot smell at all. Take a quick whiff for initial impressions and then a deeper smell before you sit back and evaluate. The flavors you find are from the grape, the barrels, and the fermentation process.
Now, we are finally ready to taste. We are looking for a balance between sweetness and acidity; agreeably proportionate fruit, acid, and wood flavors. Take an initial sip to awaken your senses. Taste it more fully; swish it in your mouth to cover taste buds. Draw in some air and consider the characteristics. And finally ponder the aftertaste - how long does the flavor last in your mouth? what are the flavors you recognize?
Declare your conclusions about quality and maturity. More importantly, tell us whether you liked the wine!
There are lots of opportunities to gather over wine for education, entertainment, or for pure enjoyment. Daily communion in Tri Cities.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
What approach should Tri Cities take to Public Art?
Public Art is planned and executed with the specific intention of being sited or staged in a certain area … Thus, Public Art should be pursued proactively alongside the plan(s) for Tri Cities development.
Like other cities, 1% of construction costs could be set aside for art. Thus, public areas and commercial developments would be peppered with public art so to perhaps secure a more unique presence and recognition for the site. Recreation funds could be allocated to art that offers participation and interactive possibilities … such as the hydraulaphone in Ontario Canada or the Battenkill urban oasis in Thomas Paine Park, Manhattan.
Balance sustainable art such as restoring the architecture of downtown Kennewick or creating parks with attractions such as gardens and labyrinths; and performance art such as street theatre, dance, or curbside music; and memorial art that reflects the history of Tri Cities – Lewis & Clark, Kennewick Man, various native tribal customs, current customs ~ with expressive art in all of its forms.
Art attracts an audience. Art can distinguish this area - and it can differentiate the many facets of Tri Cities. Art reflects life and provides an opportunity for reflection on life.
Consider the impact art has on the world:
Barcelona & Gaudi
Statuesque D.C.
NYC's Statue of Liberty
Gateway to the West in St Louis
Fingernail at Howard Ammon Park
What do you remember from where you’ve been?
And, it can provide work for the local creative force, craftspersons, and artists.
Like other cities, 1% of construction costs could be set aside for art. Thus, public areas and commercial developments would be peppered with public art so to perhaps secure a more unique presence and recognition for the site. Recreation funds could be allocated to art that offers participation and interactive possibilities … such as the hydraulaphone in Ontario Canada or the Battenkill urban oasis in Thomas Paine Park, Manhattan.
Balance sustainable art such as restoring the architecture of downtown Kennewick or creating parks with attractions such as gardens and labyrinths; and performance art such as street theatre, dance, or curbside music; and memorial art that reflects the history of Tri Cities – Lewis & Clark, Kennewick Man, various native tribal customs, current customs ~ with expressive art in all of its forms.
Art attracts an audience. Art can distinguish this area - and it can differentiate the many facets of Tri Cities. Art reflects life and provides an opportunity for reflection on life.
Consider the impact art has on the world:
Barcelona & Gaudi
Statuesque D.C.
NYC's Statue of Liberty
Gateway to the West in St Louis
Fingernail at Howard Ammon Park
What do you remember from where you’ve been?
And, it can provide work for the local creative force, craftspersons, and artists.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Recipe - Jicama Ahi Tacos
With the warm weather, it is time to "lighten up" and do some summer cooking! I shared this recipe with Cañon de Sol winery for their eNewsletter, Enjoy. Any time you serve them, these tacos are refreshing and tasty.
Slice 2 cups jicama super thin with a 3mm mandolin blade.
Cut 1 lb ahi tuna into about 1-inch by 1-inch by 4-inches. Coat liberally with pepper and a little salt. Heat a sauté pan until very hot; add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and the sear tuna on all sides for about 15 seconds per side. Make sure to just sear outside of tuna and not allow inside to cook. Remove from heat and refrigerate promptly. Once cooled, slice into 1/8-inch thick slices.
Prepare the toppings: 1 red onion thinly sliced, shred 1/2 head romaine lettuce, and cut 1 medium avocado into small chunks.
Plan on 3-4 tiny tacos per person. Top each piece of raw jicama with a couple pieces of ahi, a few chunks of avocado, onion, romaine, a dollop of sour cream and some tomato salsa. Add a sprig of cilantro.
And of course, pair with Cañon de Sol Viogner or your favorite local wine.
Slice 2 cups jicama super thin with a 3mm mandolin blade.
Cut 1 lb ahi tuna into about 1-inch by 1-inch by 4-inches. Coat liberally with pepper and a little salt. Heat a sauté pan until very hot; add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and the sear tuna on all sides for about 15 seconds per side. Make sure to just sear outside of tuna and not allow inside to cook. Remove from heat and refrigerate promptly. Once cooled, slice into 1/8-inch thick slices.
Prepare the toppings: 1 red onion thinly sliced, shred 1/2 head romaine lettuce, and cut 1 medium avocado into small chunks.
Plan on 3-4 tiny tacos per person. Top each piece of raw jicama with a couple pieces of ahi, a few chunks of avocado, onion, romaine, a dollop of sour cream and some tomato salsa. Add a sprig of cilantro.
And of course, pair with Cañon de Sol Viogner or your favorite local wine.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Art draws people
Public Art is planned and executed with the specific intention of being sited or staged in a certain area ... Thus, Public Art should be pursued proactively alongside the plan(s) for Tri-Cities development.
Like other cities, 1 percent of construction costs could be set aside for art. Thus, public areas and commercial developments would be peppered with public art so to perhaps secure a more unique presence and recognition for the site. Recreation funds could be allocated to art that offers participation and interactive possibilities ... such as the hydraulaphone in Ontario Canada or the Battenkill urban oasis in Thomas Paine Park, Manhattan.
Balance sustainable art such as restoring the architecture of downtown Kennewick or creating parks with attractions such as gardens and labyrinths; and performance art such as street theatre, dance or curbside music; and memorial art that reflects the history of Tri Cities - Lewis & Clark, Kennewick Man, various native tribal customs, current customs -- with expressive art in all of its forms.
Like other cities, 1 percent of construction costs could be set aside for art. Thus, public areas and commercial developments would be peppered with public art so to perhaps secure a more unique presence and recognition for the site. Recreation funds could be allocated to art that offers participation and interactive possibilities ... such as the hydraulaphone in Ontario Canada or the Battenkill urban oasis in Thomas Paine Park, Manhattan.
Balance sustainable art such as restoring the architecture of downtown Kennewick or creating parks with attractions such as gardens and labyrinths; and performance art such as street theatre, dance or curbside music; and memorial art that reflects the history of Tri Cities - Lewis & Clark, Kennewick Man, various native tribal customs, current customs -- with expressive art in all of its forms.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
The 4F's ~ Fun, Food, Fashion, & Flair
A fave is to gather for lunch with a girlfriend to catch up on all the venting, gossip, and shared advice one can handle over a Portabella Road mushroom pizza at Atomic Ale. Oh, and desert ~ Plutonium Porter Chocolate Containment Cake ~ don't ask, just indulge. Afterward, it is necessary to shop off the extra calories (though, calories consumed among friends are priceless).
First, a stop at Greenies to select some organic goodies for the pantry while eyeing the tee's. Ooh, and a great time to get a gift for that upcoming birthday!
Then, on to another part of town where Malania welcomes you with a live, indoor palm tree plus chic selections to help one express one's fashion sense. And, a few days after making my purchase, I received a hand written thank you not in the mail. Nice touch!
Well that is as much as one could squeeze in between appointments this afternoon. Lots to catch up with you in the current of Tri Cities.
First, a stop at Greenies to select some organic goodies for the pantry while eyeing the tee's. Ooh, and a great time to get a gift for that upcoming birthday!
Then, on to another part of town where Malania welcomes you with a live, indoor palm tree plus chic selections to help one express one's fashion sense. And, a few days after making my purchase, I received a hand written thank you not in the mail. Nice touch!
Well that is as much as one could squeeze in between appointments this afternoon. Lots to catch up with you in the current of Tri Cities.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Say CHEESE!
Reading has branched out to be a great social activity. Just join a book club.The Glam Girls Book Club meets monthly to compare reactions and ruminations over the Southern Vampire Mysteries by Charlaine Harris ~ Sookie Stackhouse 8-copy Boxed Set (Sookie Stackhouse/True Blood) .
The latest gathering was hosted at Cheese Louise in Richland. Whatever your reason, Cheese Louise is a warm and open venue for nibbling cheeses and topas style munchies while sipping wine (bring your own for $5 corking fee or select from the house menu), water, or sparkling juice. You can even order goodies for get-togethers at your home or office! The platters are spectacular.
Nibble, bite, suck ... flow with the current in Tri Cities.
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