Weekend Favorites

IMG_3475 IMG_3480{Wildfire a Chicago style steakhouse at Tyson’s Galleria in McLean Virginia, where we had a bit of salmon and scallops along with gin martini’s before the filet mignon’s were served}

There is nothing like enjoying the weekend with family and friends after a hectic workweek; making time for dinner and a movie on Friday evening, leisurely perusal at the farmers market for fresh fruits and vegetables to make a tasty meal on Saturday and then popping into the National Portrait Gallery for a bit of art is always a great way to relax on Sunday.

IMG_3358 IMG_3483{Asian cucumbers piled high at the market and fresh collard greens only 89 cents a pound on the stove made with ham-hock and neck bones were cooked for dinner}

Fresh fruits and vegetables from the farmers market early Saturday morning made for a great pairing of delicious fried chicken with drop biscuits last night.

IMG_3429 IMG_3441{Spike Lee b. 1957 in Atlanta, Georgia is a provocative filmmaker with no fear of confronting issues of race or class in his documentaries or films, along with Mary Cassatt 1844-1926 b. in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania was a most prolific Impressionistic painter. Edgar Degas who was a good friend of Cassatt’s did this painting}

On Sunday afternoon, time is carved out for popping into the National Portrait Gallery on 8th and F Streets, NW in Washington, DC; and instead of reading about each person portrayed within the gallery one can peruse each floor to examine how the artist is depicting people within a painting, photograph or sculpture.

Pamper yourself stylishly,
K

Something Sweet!

IMG_3447{Heart-shaped shortbread cookies with raspberry filling from la Madeleine at the Reston Town Center}

Lately when running errands I always seem to be walking up to a bakery window to see what wondrous confections have been assembled for my review, even grocery stores are displaying tasty treats for you to toss into your carts.

IMG_3396 IMG_3406{The double chocolate, three-layer cake from the Amphora Bakery in Vienna, VA. This is definitely going on my list of go to cakes}

Recently a family friend recommended a bakery located in the next town called Amphora so, after work the other day I drove over to see what sort of baked goods were on display. Immediately upon entering, delicious aromas wafted throughout the shop from layered cakes, latticed designed pies, braided breads and cookies piled high with nuts, chocolate or fruit; and for the pièce de résistance, an espresso bar located behind the main display case had the most tantalizing smell of freshly brewed coffee…does it get any better!

IMG_3464In the past week I have been into three patisseries to savor a delicacy made with the freshest ingredients and to enjoy an espresso or dark roast coffee. But, yesterday while in Trader Joe’s I found these cocoa dusted truffles with toffee bits, just waiting to be brought home and savored in a private moment.

Bon appétit and Happy Valentine’s Day!
K