Splendid Saturday

A mostly relaxing day! I got to sleep in till 10am. I was planning to do some gardening but decided I needed to rest up for the evening's Willy Wonka performance. Instead, I spent the day catching up on some cook book reading and houseplant care. I was excited to receive my recent selections from Amazon.com yesterday and I am really looking forward to baking a few new pastries in the next couple of weeks.

 

I was particularly delighted to discover that "Baked" bakery has a location in Charleston, SC in addition to the one in New York. I am looking forward to eating there next time I visit Charleston. The first recipe on my shortlist to bake will be the dark chocolate madeleines from the Essential Baker book.  I have yet to bake a chocolate madeleine that is memorable, I am hoping this is it.

 

 

The four "bulldog" type Paphiopedilum or Lady Slipper orchids I got form the orchid show last weekend have begun to open up nicely. The buds always remind me of "Audrey II" from "Little shop of Horrors". Luckily they are not carnivorous.

I decided I needed a jolt of cafeine before showtime tonight and stopped by Gallery Row Coffeehouse for an ice coffee on my way to the Cultural Arts center. I was delighted to find out they now carry Elmwood Inn tea. To read more about Elmwood Inn, click the link below:

Elmwood Inn fine teas

After another successful Willy Wonka performance , I decided a little tea time would be perfect while doing laundry and watching the so called "Super Moon" we were experiencing this evening.

 

 

March Madness!

It has been quite the week!!

Monday to Thursday, I cooked lunch & dinner for 17
Monday and Tuesday evening , I played piano at Willy Wonka dress rehearsals
Wednesday, accompanied at the my regular St Andrew choir practice
Thursday:Willy Wonka opening night!

Today, I spent the day accompanying a choral class followed by another successful performance at Willy Wonka.

To say I am tired would be an understatement! I am looking forward to a leisurely Saturday.. at least till Willy Wonka in the evening. but since I did not get to blog for almost a week, here are a few photo highlights:

Fresh Asian pears, Almond praline

The makings of slaw

Quinoa with parsley

Edamame with Shiso

 

This was my favorite side dish of the week, avocados tossed with cilantro, lemon juice, sea salt and olive oil

chicken and white bean stew

I also found time to bake macarons for one of the week's desserts and it was perfect because they happen to be wheat and dairy free!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pumpkin Pecan & Green Tea Chestnut

I am looking forward to spending some time in the garden tomorrow, perfect spring weather is expected!

 

 

 

Good Night and Happy Weekend!