wine tasting notes ~ redtree petite sirah

“Our 2009 Petite Sirah displays aromas of dark fruits and strawberries, with a hint of herbs in the background. This medium-bodied wine provides a mouthful of blackberry flavors and more red fruits, finishing with soft but full tannins.” ~ from the redtree wine website We enjoyed this lovely petite sirah with our cheese, crackers, baguette…

tony’s green chile and pork stew

~ tony’s green chile and pork stew ~ Our friends Tracy and Tony invited us over to their home for a post-Christmas celebration. When we arrived I could smell this beautiful, spicy stew as soon as I stepped out of the car. Chock full of vegetables, chilies, beans, pork, hominy and spices with a whisper…

penelope’s rosemary-mint sugar & salt scrub

~ penelope’s  rosemary-mint sugar & salt scrub ~ I just love making homemade pampering products for family and friends. They add a personal touch to any gift basket, and you can let your imagination run wild while dreaming up new scents in your little kitchen “apothecary.” Today I decided to get the ingredients together to…

bacony black bean soup

~ bacony black bean soup ~ “As the days grow short, some faces grow long. But not mine. Every autumn, when the wind turns cold and the darkness comes early, I am suddenly happy. It’s time to start making soup again!” ~Leslie newman A hearty, smoky satisfying soup. Perfect for a casual, fireside supper with…