Hello spring sunshine!

I made assorted cupcakes to celebrate the arrival of our friends Curtis and Jennifer’s little Blake. The flavors were cocoa almond (Trader Joe’s answer to Nutella), tiramisu, and strawberry jam.

Our seed farm is looking good!

Brunch last Sunday at Kenny and Zuke’s. Salmon hash with poached eggs.

Mulder at a recent trip to Hondo Dog Park. Lately he has not been enjoying the park as much as before. After 10 minutes he stands by the door like this. I think he likes road trips more.

How was your weekend?

Better late than never. Summer arrived late this season but our garden is finally in full swing.

Yummy raspberries. We have four different kinds.

Blueberries are next.

Peppers are slow but with warmer weather, they should be blooming soon.

Pumpkins are getting ready for a fall harvest.

Sweet peas. We made a tasty Thai Red Curry with them. Excellent flavor!

How is your garden doing this year?

Yesterday we spent the day in Portland with a friend, Chad. Starting from the PSU farmers market, we made several culinary stops and ended the day at my favorite place Alotto Gelato. It rained most of the day but like true Portlanders, we did not let that stop us. Here are some highlights:

The market table at PSU

The band

Beautiful colors

A dunk tank for good measure…

Buckwheat crépe with pork confit, greens, apple butter, and caramelized onions from Ce’st Si Bon!

Pork Tamale from Salvador Molly’s

You can bring your lunch up the stairs in the PSU lounge and watch the market from the big picture windows. A good place to stay dry…

After lunch coffee at Coffee Time where I smuggled in some treats from Two Tarts Bakery

Stopped at City Market for a dog treat

Walked by a Japanese-style crépe place on NW 23rd

Afternoon beer at New Old Lompoc Bar

Chad and Marcel at Alotto Gelato

Strawberry, Yellow Cake, and Pistachio

Mulder enjoyed the real pig ear from City Market