Every year I celebrate a Generic Christmas Party with women my Mom went to college with and knew in the salad-days of her 20′s. Since my Mom died a long time ago, these women provide loads of important things I need in my life – stability, wisdom, guidance, support and love. Oh, and food. Lots [...]
Our last weekly TGIF block party was last Friday, and I brought three seasonal (sort of) appetizers to share: Cherry tomatoes (from the garden) Basil leaf (from the garden) Cucumber Feta or Mozzarella Cheese Kalamata Olive (pitted) Skewer in any combination you desire. Drizzle with a lemony vinaigrette. Next time, I will use smaller toothpicks [...]
Last week I was invited to play tennis with the ladies, and unfortunately, managed to smack two of them with my serve during our match. The rule is, if you hit someone with a tennis ball, you have to buy them a drink. So I invited the tennis group over for our Friday TGIF and [...]
Last September, we overhauled the front yard and planted lots of food-type items. Blueberries, Fuyu persimmons, Blenheim apricots, rhubarb, herbs and more. Many times, I thought about taking a photo or two, but alas, it never happened. Fortunately, all the plants have overwintered well and spring is bringing up all sorts of treasures. One of [...]
Shrimp/Crab Spread was one of my Mom’s favorite party recipes – I remember she would bring it out on almost any occasion. Even though we can find good crab in California, she always made it with shrimp. One of her best parties was in 1987, and she pulled out all the stops. I remember helping [...]
Last week, I made the first harvest from my vegetable garden – beautiful French breakfast radishes (and no, I don’t think you are supposed to eat them for breakfast, although I may be wrong!). The radishes were so lovely, and tasty, that I decided to create a simple appetizer to share with my friends Sue [...]
With an old-fashioned recipe box in my collection, I have loads of vintage recipes to post. This week’s recipe is from the appetizer section, and not only does it look quick and simple, it gives me proof that my interest in entertaining is in my genes! Pennies from Heaven 1/2 pound cheddar cheese, grated 1/2 [...]
Figs with goat cheese and honey Actually, this could also be a lovely dessert. The figs are gorgeous this time of year, and I could not resist picking up a basket at the store. However, since I am the only one in my house who eats figs, I made up a couple plates to take [...]
