Still Life with Squash Blossoms

 

Every now and then in this messed up world, I see something and my heart just aches with an overload of beauty.

Well, this photo I took this morning of fresh squash blossoms from the garden is really doing it for me. Almost inspiring me to get back into food photography once again.

Hope you enjoy it too.

The Yearly Pilgrimage — Tartine

Ooh baby. I've said it before, but if you are ever in San Francisco, might I suggest a visit to heaven on earth, AKA, Tartine Bakery? I really think it's one of the high points for a foodie spending time in SF.

If you go, know that there will be a line out the door. And know making it through that line will be well worth the wait. From the croque monsieur, to the bread pudding, to the meringues, to the ever-so-delicate lemon tart, it is seriously all good.

And consider yourself lucky if you can catch a glimpse into the kitchen. The hero chefs are all players in a controlled symphony of baking, frosting and dolloping. Enjoy the show!

Mustard Magic

Last spring when I was out running around eastern France, I was surprised to come across softly rolling hills covered with fields and fields of zappity bright yellow mustard farms. It was astounding and enchanting to see cultivated mustard, as I had only really seen mustard grow wild over here in California. I suspect we don't value the humble mustard seed as much as the French, but we should. A good mustard is the core of everything that is right with the world. Ok, well, maybe not that, but it really can be the best part of a sandwich, or a salad dressing or a meal. Viva flavor! Viva mustard!