Culver City Farmer's Market

Although I've perused the Culver City Farmer's Market in the past, it was always quick trips; not really being able to take in the sights (funky people), sounds (homeless musicians) or taste (too many to list). Today was the first day it really felt like summer and it was the perfect day to explore the market. To be honest, I was really craving Carmela's Ice Cream but they were no where to be found! If you are ever lucky enough to run into them, there are two flavors you should try - cucumber (it may not sound appealing but it was clean, fresh and sweet) and the salted caramel. Oh my! Anyway, the produce today looked and smelled as if we hit that first perfect day of summer so I ended up buying a few heirloom tomatoes, white peaches, strawberries and even a mango-flavored nectarine (still a mystery). And tonight I came home and made myself a really simple Insalata Caprese. Although I almost ate the tomato alone. It was hands down, the best and sweetest tomato I've ever had.

June Anti-Gloom

June has felt like fall this year...a bit cold and overcast, but I have to say I kind of like it probably because I don't feel ready for summer yet. This morning was perfect. Clean, crisp sheets to lounge around in with a cool morning breeze sweeping through the room; the kind of morning that you don't ever want to leave. After a warm cup of coffee, I looked in the fridge and realized I had a bunch of blueberries and raspberries feeling neglected wondering if they would ever have any use in this life. So I decided to whip up a batch of muffins. It was a new recipe that I hadn't tried yet, simple and to the point. No fussy ingredients that I needed to leave my house for (i.e. buttermilk or sour cream) which was key on a morning like today. The result? Buttery, moist on the inside and slightly crisp on top. Quite a delightful Sunday morning start.

What?! It's been a year?

Time flies when you're counting sheep. Yes, it's been over a year since the last post and my excuse? Primarily a wedding. Last November, Monte and Marlene tied the knot in Hawaii and although the planning is over it was nice to kick it into cruise control for a bit, to just relax and soak in the normalcy of life. No details to worry about, colors to pick or family drama. Also took a trip to Italy (post to come soon). But I'm back, this year is about now and I'm looking forward to it (even if I am starting in June).