Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-21T17:37:00.016-05:00

With temperatures in the 70's all this week, it has been a little hard to get into the Christmas mode. Not really any point in decorating or baking as I've been here at the beach all on my lonesome for the last few weeks. I'll fly out on Friday to meet up with Jim and we will be spending this Christmas in Chicago with Jim's brother and his family. It has been far too long since we have seen them so we are looking forward to catching up. At any rate, I'll have to content myself with pictures from last year.

Our favorite place to spend Christmas, Bar None, is San Antonio, Texas. Last year was extra special because it was our first Christmas with our new grandchildren, Savannah & Talon.

I made a Prime Rib dinner on Christmas Eve, we opened presents and then went down to the River Walk to show the kids the tree at the Alamo and the lights along the river.
They are such great kids and we love them dearly. Little Heart Stealers!

While we really, really miss them this year, we are happy to announce that next Christmas we have even more cause for Christmas Joy as we will be celebrating with Talon, Savannah...........................................................................
our daughter Jasmine, son-in-law Jason and their new baby boy who is due in March!!! WE ARE OVER THE MOON HAPPY!!!!!
I hope everyone has a beautiful Christmas

Cheers!

Photos By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

VERO BEACH, PALM COAST & FERNANDINA

2011-12-16T09:06:00.011-05:00

On our way back to Savannah from Palm Beach, we checked out a few more places along the Florida coastline. We went through Vero Beach during a rainstorm, it was very beautiful. I could easily live there.
Came across some interesting architecture and beaches along the way..............................

to Palm Coast, were we spent a couple of nights.....................................
This lot was for sale on the Intercoastal Waterway........................................

On this street.........................across from this house............which I love............but it's NFS..........

On to Fernandina..............it has the sweetest historical downtown..........................

This lot looked promising.........................................and a bit like a jungle.......................
On this street.............................................
Not too far from this beach.............................................................
Cheers!

Jim & Ry

WHERE ARE YOU?

2011-12-05T10:49:00.019-05:00

I receive a lot of these queries in my inbox. Truth be told, sometimes when I wake up in the morning, I have to ask myself that same question. Where am I? Lately we have been living in three different places with numerous cross country road trips and plane flights in between. I'm either packing or unpacking.

When I started this blog, I thought it would be a great way to keep family and friends apprised of our whereabouts. Clearly, I have failed miserably! So, in an attempt to keep up, this is where we have been in the last couple of months:

Palm Beach Florida

We have been exploring the east coast of Florida to look for our own little spot in the tropical sun for the winter months. We love living by the ocean and are looking for the warmest climate we can on the mainland. That means Florida. After having lived along California coastline, we both agree, it's just not warm enough! We hadn't ever really considered buying in Florida, but now, with the price of real estate down so much, it's time to take a look.

A nice place to stay? The Breakers. Total Lux!

In many ways, Palm Beach reminded us of Montecito. Lush and tropical with beautiful Mediterranean style homes..........................................................................................

And, much to my frustration, just like Montecito, they are largely hidden behind gates and hedgerows.

The difference being that the water is warm enough here to actually swim in and there is less of a marine layer. More sunshine!

I've never seen so many empty boat slips in the Marina. A sign of the economic climate, no doubt.
My darling beach combing husband enjoying the warm white sand and turquoise sea.

Photos: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Fig Season

2011-09-01T10:25:00.018-04:00

Our fig tree is quite prolific and when I can manage to get to them before the raccoons make of f with the entire lot, we have them for lunch with Mascarpone Cheese, Tuscan Melons, Prosciutto and Green Grape Gazpacho Soup..
Inspiration came this morning by way of Monique's beautiful Blog for figs, goat cheese, rosemary and bacon crumbles. I used a bit of prosciutto in place of the bacon and will pop these under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp it up.

Green Grape Gazpacho

1 pound white seedless grapes, washed and stems removed

1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded and rough-chopped

1-1/2 cups plain yogurt

3 scallions, chopped, using the green and white parts

1/4 cup cream cheese

1 Tablespoons olive oil

3 to 4 Tablespoons white wine vinegar

1 tsp kosher salt

1/8 tsp white pepper

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

1 Tablespoon fresh dill

Sliced Almonds

Puree all ingredients except dill & almonds in a blender: strain through a coarse strainer.

Garnish with sliced Almonds, dill and some grape halves

Have a beautiful day!

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Beach Houses - Folly Beach

2011-08-26T11:56:00.015-04:00

As the outer bands of Hurricane Irene begin to knock at my door, I'm starting to rethink my obsession to find that oh so perfect beach house. Living at the beach comes with the reality of being washed out to sea if Mother Nature so decides.

Even so...................If one as beautiful as this one came along.........I could be tempted..................
Charleston Interior Designer Amelia Handegan's summer house at Folly Beach was featured in the July 2011 issue of Architectural Digest. I love the way she

combined a collection of textiles from around the world to bring in a global feel.
Sometime beach houses can seem a little "theme like". This one hits all the right notes.

Subtle.........but you still know that you are at the beach......................

Irene's knock is getting a bit louder and the ocean is not looking quite as calm as the photo below, so I'd better sign off and batten down the hatches.
Cheers!

Photos: Architectural Digest

TRAVELING SHOES - BACK AT THE BEACH

2011-08-20T08:50:00.013-04:00

The last year and a half has been a blur. Family commitments, work, the vineyard, winemaking, and the ongoing house renovation has left us in need of a long vacation. And while we still can't carve out time for that, we have lucked into the next best thing. A work assignment on the South Atlantic Coastline will give us the opportunity to explore the beaches and communities of South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. We left the kids in charge of the casa and headed East..................................
Found a nice little Pied-á-Terre with a cool beach vibe (and the all important screened in terrace) in Myrtle Beach, SC. ...............Plenty of beach for me and golf galore for Jim. Our furniture arrived after a lengthy stay in storage. I finally have my computer back and can blog again!
The Grand Strand has 60 miles of white sand beaches. Most days I'm out trying to cover as many of those as possible.
In early morning, people start to filter out on to the beach, some walking (like me)...........................
The more ambitious....running .................................................
Rows of beach umbrellas and empty chairs looking out to sea.............all of which will be occupied in a couple of hours..........................

Photographs By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Avocado Lime Tart

2011-05-23T08:20:00.008-04:00

I haven't been to my blog site in such a long time! Life has been so busy with work and travel that something had to give and I'm afraid it has been the blog site. I promised a few people that I would post a link for this yummy tart..... so here it is: Avocado Lime Pie from the pages of The Zenchilada. (page 123 in the Winter 2011 issue)

I'll be back soon...........................Miss, Miss, Miss everyone!!!!!

Christian Tortu - Design Inspiration

2010-12-17T11:14:00.003-05:00

Christian Tortu is one of the leading floral designers in France. His creative approach to decorating his house in Noves outside Avignon, is always an inspiration to me. He takes the Christmas tree to a new level by inserting fir boughs into a bay topiary and surrounding the base with oranges.
Olive branches and hand blown ornaments grace the table.
Presents are wrapped in beautiful paper and gorgeous ribbons in his library.

Doesn't this look like a lovely place to spend Christmas?
Images: House Beautiful

One day turns into two.....................

2010-07-06T19:15:00.007-04:00

A week melts into the next.........suddenly a month, then two have gone by. Summer brings friends and family - outdoor fun. The bathroom renovation has taken up more time than I could have imagined ..........and I'm not done yet! Right after I started the renovation, our shallow limestone well pump gave up the ghost. No big surprise as it had been giving us trouble for some time, usually turning off when a guest was in the shower. A nearby lightning strike and power surge finally did it in, along with the refrigerator and a few other things not plugged into a surge protectors. A friend of Jim's convinced him that we could replace the well pump ourselves, so we pulled the pump up 80 feet out of the ground and replaced it with a new one and new pipe. Back in the bathroom, I was able to resume the plastering and finished building the vanity base, mirror and stone countertop.

Here is a peek....................
I built the vanity base and mirror out of odd bits of moulding and trim that I have been collecting. The moulding came from my Mom and the more ornate piece came from a shop on State Street in Santa Barbara.
A crystal chandelier and sconces were found in two different antique shops.
All of the plumbing had to be either redone or moved along with new electrical wiring, walls and Sheetrock. It is starting to take shape and actually look like a bathroom (it had been gutted for five years). Next on to the shower. Visiting friends haven't seemed to mind using the outdoor shower. They even seemed to delight in it. So do I, but summer will be over before I know it and even though this house is a weekend house - the shower needs to be finished!
All the rest of my spare time is spent in the vineyard coaxing the vines along.

The lavender was ready to be harvested last week. Now if I could just find a little time to catch up on all my favorite blog sites, answer all those emails and maybe even spend a little time at the beach.....................................................
For all those fellow Foodies out there who have wondered if I've giving up cooking ...... Check out the new online magazine The Zenchilada (the first issue debuted yesterday) and you will see what I've been up to in the kitchen.

Cheers!

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

FIRST MOTHER'S DAY

2010-05-08T08:57:00.008-04:00

Happy Mother's Day! A couple of months ago I had the pleasure to photograph my beautiful friend Anna just weeks before she gave birth to Gunner Jude. When Gunner was two weeks old, I followed up with some newborn shots.
Seems like only yesterday that I photographed Rob & Anna getting married in the Cayman Islands. Now they have gone full circle with the addition of their sweet little one.
Happy First Mother's Day Anna!

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

THE SUNKEN GARDENS

2010-05-04T15:57:00.001-04:00

Too much work and not enough play. I gave myself the day off and I went to check on the progress at the Japanese Tea Gardens in Brackenridge Park. The Tea Garden was developed in 1917 in an abandoned limestone quarry. Donicio Rodriquez, recognized as one of America's foremost Faux Bois sculptors, was commissioned to replicate a Japanese Torii gate. His work is featured throughout the park.
In 1926, the city of San Antonio invited Kimi Eizo Jingu, a Japanese-American artist, to help design and maintain the gardens. He and his wife Miyoshi opened the Bamboo Room, where light lunches and tea were served. Jingu was a representative of the Shizuoka Tea Association and was considered an expert in the tea business. He died in 1938. His wife and eight children continued to maintain the gardens and operate the Tea Room. In 1942, the family was evicted amid the rise of anti-Japanese sentiment of World War II. The name of the sunken garden was changed to the Chinese Tea Garden.

In 1984 it was returned to the original name of The Japanese Tea Garden in a ceremony attended by Jingu's children. I wonder if they will change the name back on the Torii gate?
Koi ponds lie at the bottom of the quarry.
Over the years, the Tea Gardens were neglected and became a target for graffiti and vandalism. In 2005, the City began the restoration process that is underway.

A waterfall cascades sixty feet to the Koi ponds below.
Scaffolding and metal fencing surround the original stone buildings. Perhaps by summer's end I'll be able to enjoy a Japanese Tea Ceremony and lunch at the gardens.

In the meantime, it's back to the pied-á-terre for a light lunch of European Smoked Salmon, cilantro and cream cheese finger sandwiches........................................................
Diane's Sugar Cookies (the only recipe I've found that works with my pineapple cookie stamp)

And tea - kept in a tea canister that my Mother gave me when I was 14....................
Served on a tray that my daughter made for me. Not a bad way to spend the day.

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Top Image: Unknown Artist - If anyone knows who this artist is - please let me know. I've had this image in my files for years .

SWEET SAVANNAH

2010-04-10T11:10:00.007-04:00

I feel as if I've been holding my breath for the last couple of months.

Our youngest daughter, her sweetheart and his two adorable children decided to relocate from Honolulu, Hawaii to Austin, Texas. We are thrilled to have her back on the mainland after almost 10 years away, but we were a little anxious about a major move in this economic climate. Both Jason and Jessie Jasmine gave up great jobs in Hawaii to relocate. Great jobs and health insurance! Jasmine has a childhood illness that requires regular EKG's and numerous other tests to monitor her heart. She also has to take antibiotic and B-12 injections every 30 days. My worries have been for naught. Both are talented in their respective fields. They hit the ground running and landed jobs right away. Jasmine is working as a therapist in a clinic for children with autism and will also be pursuing her Masters and then her PhD. Jason, a Musician, IT and Sound Engineer has fit right in with the Austin music scene. An added bonus is that we now have grandchildren! Thirteen year old Talon and nine year old Savannah have stolen our hearts.

Last weekend was Savannah's 9th birthday. We packed a picnic lunch and spent the afternoon at Barton Springs.
I baked a three layer vanilla cake, with and apricot glaze and cream cheese frosting.
The kids spent all afternoon swimming in the natural spring pool. The adults relaxed in the warm sun and sipped wine. Savannah said it was her best birthday ever.
The other day she looked up at me, smiled and said "You are my new Grandmother". I replied "Yes, I am". She seemed to think about that for a moment and then said "But you don't look like a Grandmother". Have I mentioned how smitten I am with this child?!

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

GARDENING BOOTS....SPRING BLOSSOMS

2010-03-13T11:31:00.010-05:00

Recent rains and temps reaching into the 80's have jump started spring here at the house in the hills. Flowering trees and bushes are exploding with blossoms. Time to prune the vines and revisit some of my photos from last year to determine what to add to the garden this time around.
One of the standouts from last season was the "Exotic Love Vine" that I planted from seed.
Mina Lobata "Exotic Love Vine" Renee's Garden

"A rare and vigorous vine with distinctive fleur-de-is shaped leaves and graceful sprays of entrancing blossoms bi-colored in warm coral to creamy yellow." I've had great success with seeds from Renee's Garden, and with names like "Exotic Love and Kiss Me Over The Garden Gate" - who could resist?
Tree Ferns - give a softness to the garden - but are not soft to the touch!
Mexican Heather provides color all season long as does bougainvillea...................
Always trying to attract the beneficial bees.............................................................

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Potato, Leek & Fennel Soup

2010-02-23T13:11:00.004-05:00

My on going bathroom renovation leaves for little time in the kitchen. This Potato, Leek & Fennel Soup is a variation of a recipe from Cruistot. A French restaurant in Palm Springs.
Add a loaf of crusty French Bread.............................................
A simple salad of fresh baby greens in a Parmesan Crisp..................................
And everyone is happy.................................................................................

Potato, Leek & Fennel Soup

2 tablespoons butter

2 cups sliced leeks (white and pale green parts only)

1 sliced fennel bulb, fronds reserved for garnish

1 box free-range chicken broth

1 pint half and half

2 pounds potatoes, peeled, cut into 1/2 inch pieces

Melt butter in large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add leeks and fennel and sauté until leeks are translucent. Add broth and potatoes - bring to a boil. Reduce heat to meduim-low. Simmer soup until potatoes are very tender, about 25 minutes. Working in batches, purée soup in blender. Return to same pot and season with salt and pepper and stir in Half & Half. Re-warm if necessary. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with reserved fennel fronds.

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Taking it back in time - The Bathroom Renovation

2010-02-11T09:05:00.010-05:00

For the last few weeks I've been consumed with bathroom renovations. I'm taking two bathrooms that were very outdated - even further back in time. These photos from Cote Sud are my inspiration. I'm doing all the finish work, plumbing, etc., which leaves little time for blogging or anything else for that matter.
Because we had already gutted the bathrooms and replaced walls etc., I thought I could whip out this reno in just a few weeks. Slipped my mind that I'm no longer 25! Everything is taking much longer and I'm exhausted at the end of the day. I'm not sure I will ever be able to get all the Sheetrock and plaster dust out of my hair.
This is the first project on one of our houses that I'm totally responsible for. Jim just doesn't have the time to deal with it and I've always wanted to do this. I've made plenty of mistakes hanging the drywall and taping it. American Clay Plaster will be the finish coat. It allows for a not so perfect finish on the drywall - which is the look I'm going for anyway.

I fell in love with this Botticelli Carrara Marble sink for the Master bathroom. That will have to wait.......................................
As will the polished nickel Bistro faucets from Restoration Hardware.......................
For the main bath - I'm going with this sink...........................
Snow Canyon Porcelina plaster on the walls, plaster floors, Farrow & Ball French Gray on the woodwork, stone counter tops and backsplash and Venetian Bronze fixtures.

Meanwhile - We make do with a half bath (of sorts) and an outdoor shower.

Good thing the house is in a moderate climate!

La CUCINA VIGNETO ....... LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE

2010-01-11T19:20:00.009-05:00

Each year I use the pomegranates left over from Christmas decorations to make "Chiles in Walnut Sauce". A recipe from the book "Like Water for Chocolate" by Laura Esquirel.
"Like Water for Chocolate" was the best selling book in Mexico in 1990. It was also made into a film. I loved both the book and the film. It is a romantic story about love that can never be and also about the joy of cooking for the people you love. The kitchen scenes - oooohhh la la! Each chapter gives a recipe at the beginning and then weaves it's way around to the art of cooking said recipe.
To follow up the Chiles in Walnut Sauce - I pulled out another of my favorite cookbooks, "Mexican Cookbook" by Erna Fergusson, published by The University of New Mexico Press, Albuquerque, New Mexico 1945. I found this cookbook in a thrift store - it was like finding gold. I paid 50 cents for it. There are handwritten notations on many of the pages.
So anyway - Natillas for dessert. Natillas are similar to Ile Flottante. I used Vanilla Bean Paste instead of Vanilla Extract. You can also add a little toasted coconut.
CHILES IN WALNUT SAUCE (CHILIES EN NOGADA)

25 chiles poblanas

8 pomegranates

100 cashew nuts

100 grams aged fresh cheese

1 kilo ground steak

100 grams raisins

1/4 kilo almonds

1/4 kilo walnuts

1/2 kilo tomatoes

2 medium onions

2 candied citrons

1 peach

1 apple

cumin

white pepper

salt

sugar

heavy cream

As you can see this serves a large group! I usually make it for 4 to 6 servings. The instructions take up an entire chapter including shelling the nuts and peeling the skins off the walnuts.

A shorter version:

Roast and peel the chiles - Remove seeds - set aside

Saute onions in a little bit of olive oil until translucent

Add the ground steak and spices. Cook until browned then add the raisins, chopped tomatoes, citrons, peach and apple.

Stuff the chiles with the steak mixture.

Walnut Sauce

Place the nuts in the food processor and pulse until they are finely ground.

Heat the heavy cream until just warm enough to melt the shredded cheese. Add the ground nuts to the sauce.

Spoon the Walnut Sauce over the stuffed chiles and garnish with Pomegranate seeds.

NATILLAS

5 eggs

5 tablespoons granulated sugar

4 cups scalded milk

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

3 tablespoons powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

Beat the yolks of the 5 eggs, and the whites of 2 eggs slightly. add the granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon and slowly pour in the scalded milk. Cook in a double boiler, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and coats the spoon. Add the vanilla. Pour in a deep dish or custard cups.

Beat very stiff the whites of the remaining eggs. Add powdered sugar. Drop by spoonfuls on a pan of boiling water and steam until firm. Top the custard with meringue and dust with cinnamon.

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Feliz Navidad..................San Antonio

2009-12-27T18:33:00.016-05:00

Christmas in San Antonio is about as good as it gets in my book. Steeped in culture and rich in history. It was warm and balmy on the 23rd when we took a stroll along the beautifully lit River Walk. At 10:30 we were still at the outdoor bar at the Westin having a glass of wine. By 11:00 the rain started to fall - we retreated inside.

The next two days were a little more chilly. More suited to a hot toddy in front of the fire.
Jim baked his family recipe for Brötchen (yeast rolls) and I made a traditional holiday dinner.
The day after Christmas was bright and beautiful, so we went to see "The Arts of the Missions of Northern New Spain" exhibit at The San Antonio Art Museum. After that, on to brunch at the Liberty Bar. Today has been another stellar day - so it was off for a marathon visit to the Missions of San Antonio this afternoon.
When Texas was "New Spain" the Franciscans and Spaniards established the first mission in San Antonio in 1718. There are five in all. The Alamo (top photo - with the Christmas tree). Mission San Jose (above) is the largest of the missions.
Mariachis entertained the crowds at Mission San Jose.

San Jose, like all the missions, was built with local materials in an interesting mix of architectural styles.
Ornate carvings surround the doors and windows. Frescos were painted inside and out.

Mission San Juan is just down the road. Much smaller in scale and set amid the live oaks, it is known for las campanas (the bells).
Mission Espada (below) is also small in scale, surrounded by acequias. These gravity fed irrigation ditches were key to supplying the crops, vineyards and orchards with water in this hot climate.
Mission Concepción (below) may be my favorite of all. It is currently under renovation. They are restoring the Frescos in the main chapel.

I love this partictular room - every time I see it I think "Wine Cellar"!

I hope your holiday was a lovely one.

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Traveling Shoes....Vieux Carré

2009-12-21T11:13:00.025-05:00

This month we found ourselves in New Orleans on a business/pleasure trip. It is "Photo" month in The Big Easy for Photo Nola. We have been to New Orleans a few times, but this was the first time since Katrina. In the Vieux Carré, not much had changed, a few empty shops and some of the restaurants we have previously gone to were no longer there. It was a bit cold and rainy the entire time, but there was still plenty to see and do.
Jackson Square and the French Quarter...............................................

While there is a great deal of shopping that can be done in New Orleans, only one place held my attention. "Antiques de Provence" owned by the very elegant Cynthia W. Nunez, who has impeccable taste in French Interiurs and Jardins.

Her three stores are filled with beautiful French antiques, mirrors, lighting, olive jars and garden furniture.

Where to stay? We have stayed at a few different hotels in New Orleans. My only request this time when Jim made the reservations was: "I don't want a room with floral linens!" That's what I look for these days in a hotel. White sheets and a duvet that is washed daily. This proved a little challenging but Jim came up with a great hotel at a great rate. The Omni hotel is in the center of the French Quarter on Royal Street.

The lobby was elegant and tasteful..............................................
With terrific views in all directions................................................
Our room - small, but charming with 10 foot ceilings and tall windows that opened up to the courtyard below.
And for Princess and the Pea here - a comfortable bed and white linens.

Where to eat? You can't go to New Orleans without stopping in at Cafe du Monde for beignets and coffee.
A standout place for lunch was "Chochon Butcher" where Chef Donald Link and partners Chef Stephen Stryjewski and Chef Warren Stephens specialize in house made artisan meats and sausages made on premise. Located in the Warehouse District they also offer up an eclectic list of wines selected by wine buyer Joe Briand.
We had a couple of glasses of a Sparkling Thevenet Blanc de Blancs, Burgundy, France, to go along with some of the best sandwiches we have ever tasted. I highly recommend this restaurant.

I also liked "Stanley" on Jackson Square for breakfast.

And the Napoleon Bar, located just across the street from the Omni Hotel.
What to do? There is plenty to do at night with all the great venues for music. I like to wander around the Garden District during the day and admire the architecture..........................

There was a Christmas house tour in the Garden District that I would loved to have gone to, just didn't have the time.

Oh, to get behind those garden gates! Maybe next time.
Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

MODERN MEXICAN

2009-12-09T14:25:00.013-05:00

A few of you sent emails after my October post on Santa Fe, requesting that I do a post on the house that we had there. Well we had a few. Le Husband (below) is a Designer-Builder and built custom homes in Santa Fe for over 20 years. Most of the houses that he designed and built were in the traditional style of Pueblo, Territorial or Northern New Mexican. The first house that we built together was Pueblo Style. Both being big fans of Modern Mexican Architects, Ricardo Legorreta and Luis Barragan, we decided to build our last two houses there in the Modern Mexican style.
Double adobe walls and radiant heat in the concrete floors throughout. These houses were very comfortable in winter or summer. Hand troweled plaster tinted with pigments from Italy gave a beautiful finish to the walls. I really didn't want to hang anything on them.

This house was built in the Hacienda style. All of the rooms opened up into a central enclosed courtyard. We dined outside most of the time.

The entry worked well as a mini gallery. Jim is somewhat of a purist and would have like to have kept both of these houses minimally furnished. I, on the other hand, much to his dismay, kept bringing in more stuff! But still, compared to our house now, this seems austere.

This next house was our last house in Santa Fe. The kids had all left home so we built a small house with a detached guest house. We had intended to add on at a future date, but ended up selling the house as it was and moving to California.
Tired of the traditional brown that is everywhere in Santa Fe - we went with bolder colors on the exterior. This house sat on twelve acres next to a tree lined arroyo off Tano Road.
The property had a small old adobe one room house on it when we bought it. I turned it into a little art studio.
Never had a chance to really establish a garden there - just a few California Poppies and some Siberian Iris.
As you can see - this house was similar to the previous one. Very clean lines.
A great kitchen to cook in - Thermador Range, Sub Zero fridge and two islands.
If you click on the photo to enlarge - you can see a stream of water coming out of the ceiling to fill the tub in the bathroom. I loved the idea of it and it solved the problem of where to put the spigot - but was really not very practical - as water splashed everywhere!
Concrete sinks in the bathroom............................
The adobe ruin had one wall of exposed adobes, which I left as they were and white plaster on the other walls and interior. I color washed the plaster with Italian pigment and painted the door blue.
I also added these doors from Mexico on one side.................
Jim acquired this painting in Zihuantanejo, Mexico - she moves with us from house to house...........
As do the terra cotta planters I bought at an estate sale............................

Photography by: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

TRAVELING SHOES.... PRETTY HORSES

2009-12-07T07:40:00.011-05:00

I've been absent from my blog for a while. Got a little lost in transition. Winter was on it's way and it was time for me to head North and spend time with my family before the snow started to fly. Time to celebrate another trip around the sun for my Mom, catch up with my brother and my Dad.
My youngest brother Brett, is a Petroleum Engineer by day and a cowboy, well, all the time. Born in Texas, he came of age in Montana, graduated from high school there and attended the University of Montana in Missoula. I have five brothers and all of them have horses. "When was the last time you sat a horse?" Brett asked. "Well let's see...........I think the last time I was on a horse was in Tucson a few years back." He put me on his tamest horse - the one he lets his girls ride.
Brett out on the range........................................
His wife Jacquelyn and our nephew Cody. Jacquelyn is an artist and has her own Gallery.
Daughters - Lakyn Jasmine and Kaydence.
Horses were always around when we were growing up. My parents with my sister and me on our first ponies in Colorado.
My brother Richard at the ranch. Our teenage neighbor took this photo.
My sister with the same horse.
My Grandmother, as a child riding bareback with one of her brothers. The kids on the slide are her other brothers and sister.

The horses were curious as to which ones would be saddled up.

Brett and Jacquelyn are animal lovers and have all sorts of creatures on their ranch.
The cow dog is a recent arrival. They stopped at a welding shop in Chama, New Mexico on their way to Colorado a couple of months ago. She had been hanging around this shop for a couple of weeks. Homeless - poor little thing. She jumped in the truck and is now the happiest of cow dogs. They named her Chama.
They also have Bull Mastiffs - sweet dogs - but huge!
And a few cats...............................
We went over to The Flying W Ranch where they have their own faithful cow dog.

We talked four year old Lakyn into riding the mechanical bull.
They put it on the slowest speed - perfect for little cowgirls.

The all important boot. I loved my brother's orange boots...........................
And Kadence's pink ones..........
On my way back South, I met up with my good friend Susie near the Four Sixes Ranch where they run hundreds and hundreds of pretty horses.
Now - back to the city........................................

La CUCINA VIGNETO ....... MEDITERRANEAN

2009-11-04T07:39:00.004-05:00

After weeks of hotels and dining out I'm finally able to get back in the kitchen. Simple meals in the Mediterranean style are the ones we love best. Lamb Chops coated with fresh herbs from the garden and grilled over oak, roasted red potatoes with garlic and rosemary. A side of Tzatziki, made with Greek Yogurt, cucumbers and a squeeze of lemon, served over a tomato slice. Crusty French bread - hot from the oven..........................................................
One of my favorite cookbooks......................................love the cover..............

Paired with a bottle of Malbec.................................. Salute!

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS

2009-11-02T12:36:00.009-05:00

Today is the last day of Dia de los Muertos. The primary focus is to honor loved ones who have passed on. It truly is a beautiful celebration. The cemeteries are cleaned and thousands of flowers are brought in to decorate the graves. I took these photos in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

I would have missed Halloween altogether this year - had my friends Kristina and Gina not invited me to spend the day with them, Gina's Mom, Ginger and their two little ones, Asher and Ellie at the local Pumpkin Patch.

The kids had a ball with pumpkins to play on and paint.....................................
There was a petting zoo.......................................................
Asher and Ellie were a little apprehensive about holding the poultry................
Ellie warmed up to the little chick......................................................
This little girl could not figure out what these two creatures were.................
Hay bales to play in.........................................
Got a kick out of this shirt - WILL TRADE SISTER FOR CANDY
The kids had snow cones.............................

Ellie's was blue.........................................
Hope you had a wonderful weekend!

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

IN TRANSITION

2009-10-26T10:25:00.011-04:00

Sadly, our time in Houston is up and we have to bid "Adieu" to our little Pied-á-Terre overlooking the water. For the last three weeks, we have been at our new location, staying at the Marriott during the week and spending the weekends at Sotto Il Monte. I miss checking in on my favorite blog sites! As of yet - I've not mastered the art of blogging from my Black Berry.

Hotel living? - Not so much fun - that is unless of course - I was staying at La Villa Gallici!
I could order room service or dine out on the tranquil terrace.....................................

Located in Aix en Provence, La Villa Gallici offers up a quintessential Provencal experience. This cozy room would make me feel pampered................................................

As long as it was attached to this bathroom....................................Ooh la la...........
This one would work as well....................................

I can always dream...................................................Adieu!

Photograhy: La Gallici Villa

MONARCH BUTTERFLY MIGRATION

2009-10-16T13:33:00.006-04:00

The Monarch Butterflies are on their way to the Transvolcanic Range in Mexico. Monarchs are like birds in that they migrate to a warmer climate in the winter. They are the only insects that can fly 2500 miles and they follow the same migration patterns every year. The Latitude of my house is 28.30N - more or less - so I'm expecting them any day now. They usually stop by and spend the night. Thousands of them flutter down and settle on my crepe myrtle tree. The first time I experienced this, I was out in the garden, towards dusk, and they floated down all around me. It was magical - there is just no other word for it.
Due to recent rains - the crepe myrtle is in full bloom and awaits their arrival.

TRAVELING SHOES.....SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO

2009-10-01T10:41:00.019-04:00

September has been a month of travel for Moi. No sooner do my feet touch the ground in one location then I'm off to another. This past week I found myself in Santa Fe covering the Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta. A perfect pairing for me - Wine & Photography. Can't show those images though - as they await publication. I always look forward to this event and the opportunity to spend time with some of my dear friends. I lived and worked in Santa Fe for 18 years and have taken thousands of photographs there. These images are just a scratch on the surface.
Above - Cover image I shot for this years Wine & Chile magazine published by The Santa Fe New Mexican. I always have a great time at the SF Wine and Chile Fiesta. Not only do I get to sample some great wines, but the food is phenomenal! Santa Fe has some of the best restaurants in the country and some of the most talented chefs. The 3,000 tickets to the event sold out in the first week they were available. Vintner's Dinners and numerous other wine and food events take place in the days before the Grand Tasting.
Gate & lilacs on Camino del Monte Sol. The weather was perfect for this time of year. Warm days and cool crisp nights. The foliage up on the mountains is just starting to turn.
Creating a beautiful tapestry against the deep blue sky.
New Mexico is a land of mesas,mountains, and rivers that cut through the valley floors.

Summer time invites alfresco dining..................................
Even the Hotel food is amazing - Wild Boar - from The Inn of the Anasazi
The architecture in New Mexico is like none other. Unique in design and always a fireplace to burn pinon in on chilly nights.

The people there are proud of their heritage - and tradition takes precedence.................

And of course the art - Santa Fe is all about art.............................

Fashion is whatever you feel like wearing. No one ever blinks an eye.................

So wear anything you want - and don't forget to take your boots.............................
Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Shopping Houston

2009-09-16T09:41:00.011-04:00

Two weeks of sitting in front of my computer - editing photos for upcoming magazine publications has left me with eye strain and an aching shoulder and right arm. The landscapers are here with their leaf blowers, mowers and trimmers making a racket outside of my open window. I need a break. So I'm off to explore a shop or two that I haven't been to and a couple of my favorites. This is work related (that's what I tell myself) for some H&G articles I'm working on. Inspiration is never far away in the city of Houston, where Interior Design is taken very seriously.
These photos are from the website of Meredith O'Donnell, whose shop I've been wanting to check out for some time. Love the clean lines and soothing colors.
A pop of blue/green/grey contrasts nicely with the white................................
After that I'll cruise over to - Indulge. - always a great place for beautiful things.
Indulge carries my favorite lines in furniture, linens and tabletop goodies.

They also design their own line of furniture and headboards - like the one below.
This next one is Blanc d'Ivoire
I've collected Juliska for years.
Now and then, I'll add a new piece to my collection. Juliska is hand blown and oh so thin and delicate.
Arte Italica - I would love to have a few pieces of that.

Juliska serving pieces. They also carry Match and Vietri.
A couple of hours at these shops and I'll want to come home and re-arrange everything in my house.
Top Photos - Meredith O'Donnell

Bottom Photos - Indulge

RATHER SWEET

2009-09-10T12:43:00.011-04:00

When we are at our country house in the Texas Hill Country, we make a point to take a drive over to Fredericksburg and have breakfast or lunch at Rather Sweet Bakery & Cafe.

Last weekend, we were at the pied á terre in Houston and I had a craving for some of Rebecca's brunch fare, so I tried my hand at the Créme Brulée French Toast and the Individual Baked Omelets.
Rebecca's cookbook "The Pastry Queen" is full of recipes that I want to try. The next one will have to be The "Texas Big Hairs Lemon-Lime Meringue Tarts" featured on the cover.
If you are ever in Fredericksburg, Texas - make sure and stop in to sample some of the delectable goodies. Rather Sweet is tucked back into a beautiful little courtyard and has both indoor and outdoor dining.
Central Market had just roasted up a batch of Hatch New Mexico Green Chile. There are those that would say you haven't lived until you've tasted a Hatch Green Chile, still warm from being roasted over an open fire. I don't know if I'd go that far - but they are delicious. I chopped them up and put them in the individual omelets, along with tomatoes, chives, potatoes and apple smoked bacon.

I added blueberries and a blackberry reduction to the French Toast. You can either make the it in a baking pan or do like I did and make elegant individual ones in 4-inch ramekins.
The individual omelets are baked in muffin tins, but I think next time I would try them in a 3 inch ramekin. Sort of like a mini soufflé.
I often have a group over for brunch and these will be on the menu next time. Both can be made a few hours ahead. The ingredients in the omelets can be varied as can the toppings for the French Toast. A carafe of coffee along with Champagne and everyone is happy.
The French Toast recipe calls for 3/4 cup sugar. As a rule - I always cut the sugar in half - so I reduced the sugar to 2 tablespoons and did not add the sugar topping. The blueberries and the blackberry reduction added plenty of sweetness. Next time - I will skip the sugar altogether. Crunchy on the outside and creamy in the middle - this may be the best French Toast I've ever had.

The Recipes:

INDIVIDUAL BAKED OMELETS

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 medium russet or red-skinned potato, peeled and cut in 1/2 inch dice

1 small yellow onion, diced

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and diced

4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped into small pieces

a fresh tomato, seeded and finely chopped

6 large eggs

1/2 cup heavy whipping cream or half-and-half

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Dash of hot pepper sauce, such as Tabasco (optional)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Generously butter 6 Texas-size (3 1/2 inches in diameter and 2 inches deep) muffin cups or line them with muffin wrappers. Melt the butter in a medium skillet set over medium heat. Add the potato, onion, and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt; sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the red pepper and sauté for 15 minutes longer, continuing to stir occasionally. Taste to make sure the potato is cooked through; if not, cook for a few minutes longer, until the potato is fully cooked but not mushy. Remove the vegetable mixture from the heat and stir in the bacon and tomato.

Whisk the eggs, cream, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, the pepper, and hot sauce together in a large bowl. Stir in the vegetable mixture. Pour the egg mixture evenly into the muffin cups. (The egg mixture may almost reach to top, which is okay.) bake for 20 to 30 minutes. Lightly shake the pan; if the omelets look or feel runny in the middle, bake for 5 minutes longer, until firm. Serve warm. Yield - 6 omelets

Créme Brulée French Toast

1 large loaf of challah bread

8 large egg yolks

4 cups heavy whipping cream or half-and-half

3/4 cup plus 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup vanilla extract

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Grease a 2 1/2 - quart oven-safe casserole or soufflé dish. Slice the challah into 1/2-inch slices, then into cubes. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cream, 3/4 cup sugar, salt, vanilla, and butter. Put a quarter of the bread cubes in the casserole dish. Pour in enough of the cream mixture to cover the bread. Using a spoon, press the cream mixture into the bread so that it is thoroughly soaked. Continue layering in the same way until all the bread is soaked with the cream mixture. Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate at least 1 hour, or overnight.

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Put the casserole in a larger baking pan and set it in the oven. Pour enough boiling water into the larger pan to reach halfway up the sides of the casserole. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, until the top is light brown and set.

Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar over the top in an even layer. Use a broiler set on high or a kitchen torch to cook the topping until the sugar becomes brown and liquefies. (It will harden as it cools) Serve warm or at room temperature.

Yield - 8 to 10 servings

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

ARTISANS -THE BEADED PILLOW

2009-09-05T11:12:00.015-04:00

I celebrated my 50th birthday in July and received a very special gift from a very special friend.

"The Beaded Pillow" My friend Susie worked on this pillow for two years before presenting it to me. She lives in Europe and called me while she was on a layover to Amsterdam. "Where did you put the pillow?" First I put it on the little French chair that once belonged another good friend, Stephanie.
Then I tried it on the white linen sofa. (Please ignore the unfinished walls, floors and the stack of windows and doors behind the sofa - story of my life) It really brightened up the room. Susie spent a few hundred hours working on this pillow, it is very intricate with hundreds and hundreds of beads. (Click on the photo below for detail) When she gave it to me - she said "Every time I worked on this pillow, I thought of you." She has a heart of gold - always giving - I feel blessed to have her as a friend.
Next - I tried it in the library. Certainly added life to my vintage leather club chairs. One of which used to reside in Susie's house. We were antiquing one day about 15 years ago and spotted these chairs. I dearly wanted them both - but it just wasn't in my budget. Susie said "You buy one and I'll buy the other." She didn't need the chair and it didn't really work with her decor - but she knew that they should not be split up. She held on to the chair for a few months and then said "This chair doesn't work at my house - you should have it." That had been her intention all along.
Even the back of the pillow is beautiful with a silk stripe and confetti trim.
Back on the sofa.................................
But the pillow really belongs on the little French chair. Susie is a world traveler, last week she was in Tunisia next week Thailand, this pillow has been more places than I have. She would take it with her and work on it during long flights and layovers. This delicate chair used to belong to Stephanie's Mother who lived in France. I treasure this petite chair. Jim is a tall drink of water at 6'3" and I can almost look him in the eye when I have heels on - so this pint sized chair doesn't get much use from the two of us. It is however, a perfect spot for the pillow. I wouldn't want to place the pillow where it would receive wear and tear. It is a true work of art and I will always cherish it - the pillow makes me smile every time I see it - and every time I look at that pillow - I think of Susie.
Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

LA CUCINA VIGNETO ....... SUMMER FARE

2009-08-27T11:33:00.017-04:00

Between work and travel, I haven't been able to spend any time in blog land lately. Not much time in the kitchen either. We eat fairly light - so I can get by with putting together a plate of some wonderful Tuscan Melon, Prosciutto, Figs from my fig tree, grapes and some nice cheese and crackers. Pair it with a crisp glass of wine and we are good to go.
Dessert might be one of these Tortas de Aceite from Spain. Does anyone have a recipe (Lala maybe) for these? They are made with olive oil and anise.
Last night I made a salad that is a standby for me.

Fresh Greens, Bosc Pear, Dried Cranberries, Dulce Gorgonzola, Toasted Walnuts and either grilled steak or chicken.
We like to have a cheese course for dessert more often than not. Le Délice De Bourgongne triple créme from France, figs drizzled with local honey, french bread, paired with a Sauternes.
Here's to sweet summertime .................................................
Cheers!

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

TRAVELING SHOES .... ALAMOS, MEXICO

2009-08-17T14:44:00.021-04:00

Set back into the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains, among the Tropical Deciduous Forest, you will find one of the most pristine Spanish Colonial Villages in all of Mexico. Alamos is over three hundred and seventy years old . The colonial mansions were built by prospering silver barons as it was once a mining town. - These days it is a lovely and perfectly preserved retreat for those who are fortunate enough to live there.

It's a place that always draws us back - I've lost count of how many times we have been.
Sometimes we go alone. Twice we have taken Jasmine. One year our friends Michael and Diane joined us there.................................
They arrived in the evening and tracked us down at the cantina in the Hotel Casa De Los Tersoro. (below)
Vines and flowers cover the walls that surround the courtyards........................

We have stayed at a few different hotels and B&B's. Our favorite is Solipaso, owned by the McKay's.

They rent out three rooms and have a casita that we are particularly fond of.

Operated by David and Jen McKay it has a small cafe on the premises. David and Jen also give Eco tours and have a retreat a few miles out of town called - El Pedregal Nature Lodge and Retreat Center.
You can usually find Jim in the courtyard of the Casita catching up on his reading.
The Casita and courtyard are so beautiful - sometimes it's hard to leave.
The main house - Solipaso - used to be the armory where all of the silver was kept and guarded.

The three rooms in the main house have private bathrooms and open out onto the courtyard.

Michael and Jim try their hand at bargaining with a street vendor............

You know I love it when Diane is along on a trip - she is very photogenic and has a fantastic collection of vintage clothes which she wears beautifully - usually with her cowboy boots or sometimes, high top sneakers.

Alamos is a great place to go when you truly want to get away from it all. Serene and quiet during the day and more active in the evenings when people come out from behind the walls of these colonial casas to socialize. The plaza comes alive with music and food vendors. Music is quite important to the village of Alamos and festivals are held throughout the year. Jim and Jasmine had a great time one evening following the "La Estudiantina" procession. Students dressed in the clothing of Spain of the 11th to 13th centuries join to sing and play instruments while leading processions through the winding cobblestone streets. Much to my regret, I don't have a photo of the procession. I stayed in that evening. Maybe next time........................................

Michael and Diane in front of La Puerta Roja Inn owned and operated by Teri Arnold. A wonderful B&B not far from the main plaza.
IF YOU GO: Alamos is off the beaten path. We usually drive down through Tucson, Arizona, south through the border town of Nogales and then wind our way down along the coastline of the Sea of Cortez to Navojoa. Alamos is 35 miles east of Navojoa. Michael and Diane flew down to Guymas, rented a car and drove the rest of the way to Alamos. After spending several days in Alamos - we usually head further south to Mazatlan for a little beach time.

WHERE TO STAY: I would recommend any of the three places listed above and also:

Hotel Hacienda De Los Santos Resort & Spa

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

APPLE - MELA - POMME - MANZANA

2009-08-08T10:46:00.006-04:00

The apple orchard near our country house is ready for harvest. I usually find myself with more apples than I know what to do with. I can't resist buying local fruit in season.
I associate apples with cooler temps and the coming of Fall. Butternut Squash and Apple soup, etc. The temperatures here in the south are still in the 90's to 100's. In order to take advantage of the fresh apples, I've pulled out a couple of recipes that are appealing even in record heat.
This recipe for: Striped Bass with Garlic Granny-Smith Mashed Potatoes is from the restaurant:

Fuego at La Posada - Santa Fe, New Mexico

For each serving:

2 (3 ounce) portions striped bass

3 ounces Garlic-Granny Smith Mashed Potatoes

2 ounces roasted fennel

1 ounce nicoise olives

1 ounce fresh tomatoes, peeled and seeded

4 ounces fish stock

1 tablespoon butter

1 tablespoon sherry wine vinegar

Sauté fish, skin side down, until the skin is crispy and the fish is cooked through. place a hot portion of garlic-Granny Smith Potatoes on plate and top with fish. Place fennel, olives, tomatoes, fish stock and butter in pan in which fish was cooked. Simmer until sauce is thick and pour over fish.

Garlic-Granny Smith Mashed Potatoes

Serves 4

12 potatoes, well scrubbed

3 cups heavy cream

3 heads garlic, cut in half

1/4 pound unsalted butter

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup Granny Smith apples, diced fine

Boil potatoes in salted water until soft. In saucepan, combine cream, garlic and butter. Reduce until thick - a little less than half. Remove garlic. Put cooked potatoes through a food mill into a mixing bowl. Add as much cream mixture as needed to reach desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in Granny Smith Apples.

Another recipe that I love is the Apple Crostata from Barefoot Contessa
Apple Crostata

Pastry (2 tarts)

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated or superfine sugar

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 pound very cold unsalted butter, diced

Filling (1 Tart)

11/2 pounds McIntosh, Macon, or Empire apples

1/4 teaspoon grated orange zest

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated or superfine sugar

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground allspice

4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (1/2 stick), diced

For the pastry, place the flour, sugar and salt in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a steel blade. Pulse a few times to combine. Add the butter and toss quickly with your fingers to coat each cube of butter with the flour. Pulse 12 to 15 times, or until the butter is the size of peas. with the motor running, add the 1/4 cup ice water all at once through the feed tube. Keep hitting the pulse button to combine, but stop the machine just before the dough comes together. turn the dough out onto a well-floured board and form into 2 disks. Wrap with plastic and refrigerate one of the disks for at least an hour. Freeze the rest of the pastry.

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees

Roll the pastry into an 11 inch circle on a lightly floured surface.

Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

For the filling, peel, core, and quarter the apples. cut each quarter into 3 chunks. toss the chunks with the orange zest. Cover the tart dough with the apple chunks, leaving a 1 12/ inch border.

Combine the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and allspice in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a steel blade. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture is crumbly. Pour into a bowl and rub it with your fingers until it starts holding together. Sprinkle evenly on the apples. Gently fold the border over the apples, pleating it to make a circle.

Bake the crostata for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender. Let the tart cool for 5 minutes, then use 2 large spatulas to transfer it to a wire rack.

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

A TYPICAL SATURDAY

2009-08-02T11:33:00.015-04:00

A typical Saturday - when we are not at the beach - consists of visiting some of our favorite spots in Houston. Starting with the Farmers Market. It is pretty small - not nearly the size of the Farmers Market that we were used to in Santa Barbara - but it has everything we need.

Fresh flowers..................................................................
Grass fed beef, fresh seafood from the Gulf of Mexico, tasty Indian food.......................................................
Freshly baked breads...............................................
Locally grown fruits and vegetables..........................................
After that, we went a few short blocks over to Chateau Dominque to look for inspiration for the casa...........................................

Plenty to be found here..............................................
I would love both of these tall, marble topped tables .... great for rolling out pastry....
And this one too.............................................................
Still looking for the perfect front doors for the casa - they have plenty to choose from.............
I'll take this set of Limoges............................(Wishful thinking)

Jim was interested in this pair of Olive Oil pots ..... He was decidedly less enthusiastic when I told him they were $12,000.00 for the pair.

Beautiful stone urns, columns and caps.............................................
Fireplaces of all shapes and sizes..............some so large you would need a castle......................
Rich patina and detail..................................................
After spending considerable time in Chateau Dominque we went across the street and had lunch at Tiny Boxwood's Cafe.......................................
Which is connected to my favorite plant store Thompson & Hanson, so I had to take a little walk through..............................................................

Then over to Indulge - right next door. Indulge deserves a blog post all it's own - so I'll save for later.

Hope you had a beautiful weekend too...................................Cheers!

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

THE HOUSE IN MY HEAD

2009-07-24T09:39:00.013-04:00

Le husband has designed and built dozens of custom homes and we have built a few homes for ourselves along the way. We both believe that it is important to build within the vernacular. Our first house together in Santa Fe, New Mexico, was in the Pueblo style. The following houses there were designed as Modern Hacienda abodes. The house we are currently working on is in a Mediterranean climate and warrants a design to match. This is a house that will be years in the making as we are only able to go there in between our other work. There isn't a deadline or even a timeline. A constant slide shows goes round in my head about how I want this house to look. An entry courtyard with a stone wall and fountain.....................................
Elegant but simple rooms. A table made from local cypress and linen covered chairs............
This range in the kitchen........................dream on, dream on....................
Monochromatic inside..............................................................
Layers of color outside...............with iron gates leading to gardens............................................................
Filled with lavender, santolina, rosemary and wild roses..............................................
Olive trees..............................................................

Limestone walls and steps lined with blue marguerite and pittosporums..............................
And grape vines.......................................................................................
The grape vines, lavender, rosemary, stone walls and olive tree are already there .... the casa - a work-in-progress.........................

but someday.............................................it will look like the house in my head..........................
Photographs: Maisons Cote Sud

LA CUCINA VIGNETO ....... SUNDAY BRUNCH

2009-07-21T08:32:00.008-04:00

Brunch on Sunday is by far - my favorite meal. Sometimes it is inspired by local fresh produce. The Sandia Man is selling watermelons down the road from our country house, so we picked one out and sliced it up for brunch and even soaked some in the champagne. It was sweet as honey. Nothing tastes quite like ice cold watermelon on a hot summer day.

I try and make something different each Sunday. A Cheese Souffle, Herbed French-Style Potato Salad and Asparagus with Sauce Marquis pair quite well with Mango Mimosas.

Asparagus with Sauce Marquis

1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter

3 large egg yolks, well beaten, 4 teaspoons lemon juice

Dash each of salt and Cayenne pepper

1 ounce black caviar

8 to 16 asparagus spears - cooked until barely tender

Make the basic Hollandaise sauce:

Break butter into three pieces. Put one piece into the top of a double boiler - set over hot (not boiling) water. Add egg yolks and lemon juice. Beat with a wire whisk until butter is melted. Add the second piece of butter and continue beating and cooking until the mixture thickens, never allowing the water to boil. Then add the last piece of butter. Stir and cook until sauce has thickened. Remove from heat and stir in salt and cayenne.

Add caviar to the cooled Hollandaise and Voila! You have Sauce Marquis. Drizzle sauce on cooked asparagus.

Herbed French Style Potato Salad

1 pound small red potatoes

1/8 to 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots

1/2 garlic clove, finely chopped

1 tablespoon chopped chives

2 tablespoons chopped parsley

1 tablespoon chopped dill

1/4 cup white wine

2 tablespoons mild-flavored oil (Olive or Grapeseed)

1/2 to 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Freshly ground pepper to taste

Cover potatoes with cold water in medium pot and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer until done.

While potatoes are cooking, prepare marinade. In medium bowl, combine shallots, garlic, hers, wine, oil, salt and pepper.

When potatoes are cooked, drain them and let them sit until just cool enough to handle. Cut potatoes into quarters and drop into bowl of marinade. Toss gently and refrigerate for at least an hour or two while potatoes absorb the dressing.

Cheese Soufflé

4 eggs

2 cups shredded cheese (Chévre, Havarti or Cheddar)

2 teaspoons snipped fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup flour

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 cup milk

Separate eggs and cover both bowls with plastic wrap. Set aside at room temp for 30 minutes. Toss shredded cheese with thyme, cover and set aside.

In medium sauce pan, melt butter, stir in flour and pepper. Add milk. Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubble. remove from heat. Add cheese mixture a little at a time until melted. beat egg yolks until smooth. Gradually stir cheese sauce into yolks. Set aside to cool. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold about half of the beaten egg whites into the cheese mixture to lighten it, then fold in the remaining egg whites. Pour into an ungreased 1 1/2 quart souffle dish and bake for 40 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean.

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

THE FLORA AND THE FAUNA

2009-07-15T14:32:00.014-04:00

Last year was The Year of the Frog. OK - well maybe just at my house. During the summer and anytime that weather allows, we throw open the French doors, let in the breeze and allow the domestic creatures to wander in and out as they please. I have a water feature in the courtyard that attracts frogs. The frogs decided that if the cat was allowed to come and go in the house, then surely they must be welcome as well. Nothing like getting up in the middle of the night and nearly stepping on a frog! Ugggh

Our casa has a wide Zaguán (entry hall) that bisects the house - running from the front door all the way to the back and out into the courtyard. One day I was sitting in the library with a friend and a huge toad come hopping down the hallway, no doubt trying to take a short cut through the house to get to the other side. To my friend's credit, she didn't shriek, just raised an eyebrow as I ushered the frog out the door. Nearly every other day or so, I would have to don the rubber gloves and relocate one of these unwelcome guests back into the fountain. The cat, Micia, is useless. I saw her leisurely stroll after a small frog in the kitchen. It went under the refrigerator. "Great, could you not have stopped it Micia?" She looked at me with that disdainful look that cats have perfected as if to say "I'm not touching that slimy thing. This is your problem!"
Another creature that has taken up residence is this Armadillo. He digs around in the garden beds. He appears to be looking for slugs, but more often than not he digs up my plants in the process, so I have to give chase. These little alien looking guys are amazingly fast. I just hope he stays out of the house!

Despite the Armadillo - the flora lives on................................................................

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

VENDEMMIA............TEXAS STYLE

2009-07-14T09:40:00.023-04:00

In Italy there are over 1.1 million vineyards. Most of them small 4 - 5 acre family vineyards.

Every year at the Vendemmia - or grape harvest - family, neighbors and friends help gather the grapes at the smaller vineyards. In Texas - at least at some of the vineyards - this is the tradition as well. A time for people to gather, pick the grapes and celebrate the harvest. It is already harvest time for vineyards along the Gulf Coast. Jim and I went to help with the harvest at Haak Winery on Saturday. Texas has the second largest American Viticulture Area in the United States and is the fifth largest wine producing state. The wine industry started in Texas in the 1600s when Spanish missionaries cultivated grapes for wine for the missions. By the early 1900s, wineries were thriving. Prohibition put an end to that when most wineries in Texas were forced to close. The wine industry in Texas has made huge strides in the last 10-15 years.
Raymond and Gladys Haak own and operate Haak Winery. Their signature wine is Blanc du Bois, a varietal developed in Florida to withstand heat, humidity and is very disease resistant.

Before each harvest, the Haak vineyard is blessed................................................
Jared, the Haak's great nephew, was my picking buddy for the day. Jared's claim to fame in the Haak family is that he eats more of the grapes than he picks! Gladys has named him the official grape taster.

There were around 100 people at this harvest. Breakfast was served before the harvest and local cheeses and Haak wine were sampled after. Other Texas wineries participated as well. We sampled wines from: Llano Estacado, Flat Creek Estate, Circle S Vineyards and Enoch's Stomp.
There were quite a few kiddos helping out. This sweet child came with her grandparents.

Jim hands over the grapes he has picked to Peter (son-in-law of Raymond & Gladys) who will weigh the grapes.........................
After each tub of grapes was weighed, Peter would place them in the larger bins....................
This was a happy day for Raymond - the day that a Vintner waits for the entire year.
The bins were then taken by tractor to the winery. Raymond loaded the bins on a forklift and dumped the grapes into a stainless steel tank. The grapes were then augured up into the press.................................

A great deal of work comes down to this day. The day the grapes are harvested and the art of wine making can begin.

Cheers!

For more information on Texas Wines please visit Go Texan or Vintage Texas

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

The Real Mint Julep: How to make 'em, how to drink 'em

2009-07-10T18:30:00.008-04:00

EXTREME HEAT...That's the forecast for all of us down here on the Gulf of Mexico. Calls for extreme measures..........................like a Mint Julep in hand.
I've carried around a tattered recipe on newsprint since 1994 for these Mint Juleps.

The recipe is from Suzanne Hamlin/The New York Times. I love her description of a true Mint Julep: "A mint julep, at its purest and grandest, is simply the best bourbon, a little sugar and mint and water, a lot of crushed ice and the heady aroma of a generous sprig of spearmint.

A real mint julep made in a Kentucky home is almost invariably served in a small, frosted silver julep cup, a cup so cold it paralyzes your hand in place.

When it's right, a mint julep smells and tastes like Kentucky, like the bluegrass that covers the horse farms of Lexington, like the magnolias and dogwood in bloom right now, like the white linen suits that men used to wear and, most of all, like Kentucky bourbon, the complex, earth, caramel brown, smoky, sweet, rich spirit that has, in no small part, fueled the economic history of the state."

The Mint Julep

1 bunch fresh spearmint, washed, dried, stems on

1 cup sugar

1 cup water

6 teaspoons chopped mint, optional

6 heaping cups crushed (not shaved) ice

1 1/2 cups Kentucky bourbon

6 large mint sprigs for garnish

1. Put the bunch of spearmint into a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, bring the sugar and water to a boil without stirring, and let boil for 2 or 3 minutes until it becomes a thick syrup (238 degrees on a candy thermometer.) Immediately pour the syrup over the spearmint, and let steep until cool. Cover and refrigerate overnight. The next day, strain out the mint and discard. (The well-sealed syrup will keep, refrigerated, for up to a week.)

3. Put a teaspoon of the optional chopped mint in the bottom of each chilled cup with 2 tablespoons of mint syrup. Fill the cups to the brim with crushed ice. Pour 3/4 cup of bourbon in each. Taste, adding another tablespoon of syrup if desired. Add more crushed ice. Garnish with a mint sprig, and serve immediately.

So it's Mint Juleps out on the terrace tonight followed by Green Grape Gazpacho, Grilled Lamb Chops, roasted rosemary potatoes and asparagus.

Green Grape Gazpacho

1 lb. white seedless grapes, washed and stems removed

1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded and rough-chopped

8 oz. whole milk

1 1/2 cups Greek yogurt

1/4 cup cream cheese

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 tablespoons white wine vinegar

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/8 teaspoon white pepper

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Puree all ingredients in a blender; strain through a coarse strainer and garnish with chives, almonds and grape slices.
Cheers!

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

TERRA COTTA WARRIORS - GUARDIANS OF CHINA'S FIRST EMPEROR

2009-07-08T09:40:00.016-04:00

I've been waiting for this exhibit to come to Houston for months! I was finally was able to go last week and loved it. This tour is the first time that the Terra Cotta Warriors exhibit, which includes one hundred artifacts and fourteen life-size figures, has been exhibited in the United States...........................Houston is the third stop on the tour...........................................
These figures and artifacts are so beautiful and have been painstakingly pieced back together.
The patina of a clay object dating back to the Qin dynasty (221-206 B.C.) is just incredible.

Limestone tile armor - too heavy to wear - used only to ward off evil spirits in the underground world................................
There have been about a thousand warriors excavated to date. It is estimated that another six thousand are still buried...............................
Quite a few bronze pieces are included in the collection.......................................
The exhibit has been at the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, California and The High Museum of Art in Atlanta, Georgia. It is currently at the Houston Museum of Natural Science from May 18, 2009 until October 16, 2009. The last stop will be the National Geographic Museum in Washington, D.C.

November 19, 2009 - March 31, 2010

Photo Credit: O. Louis Mazzetenta and Wang Da-Gang

Head to the Beach

2009-07-02T09:52:00.009-04:00

It has been blazing hot lately. Luckily, I'm just a short drive from the beach. So that's where you will find me these days.................................................
Hot days require lighter food. Gazpacho and Crab Towers were on the menu last night. The Crab Towers are very easy to make and as for the Gazpacho - tomatoes, cucumber, roasted red, yellow and orange peppers all tossed in the blender, topped with a little olive oil.

Los Vascos Sauvignon was a perfect pairing. Crisp with a little grapefruit on the finish.

Shrimp and Crab Tower with Tangerine

Serves 6

From Chef Frank Stitt

Bottega Restaurant

For Sherry Vinaigrette

1 medium shallot, peeled and finely chopped

1 sprig fresh thyme, finely minced

1/3 cup sherry vinegar

1 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon honey

juice of 1 lemon

salt and freshly ground black pepper

Mix shallot, thyme and vinegar together: set aside at least one hour. Whisk olive oil and honey with vinegar mixture to combine. Add lemon juice, salt and pepper. Set aside.

For Crab Towers:

1 tablespoon chopped chives, tarragon or flat-leaf parsley

3/4 pound jumbo lump crab meat, picked free of shells and cartilage

2 tangerines, peeled and cut into 1/4" dice

1/4 pound medium shrimp boiled, peeled, deveined and cut into 1/4' dice

juice of 1/2 lemon

1 heaping tablespoon lemon mayonnaise

2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, cut into 1/4" cubes and tossed with a little lemon juice

In small bowl, dress chopped herbs with 1 tablespoon Sherry Vinaigrette. Add crab meat and 1 tablespoon vinaigrette and gently toss with chopped herbs: set aside. in second small bowl, combine tangerines with 1 teaspoon vinaigrette: set aside, reserving remaining vinaigrette. in third bowl, toss shrimp with lemon mayonnaise and lemon juice: set aside.

Place 2 1/2" round-by-3"-high mold in center of large plate. Fill with 2 tablespoons crabmeat mixture and 2 tablespoons avocado, packing down tightly with back of small spoon. Repeat layering with 2 tablespoons each crab meat, avocado and tangerine, then finish with shrimp, pressing each layer down firmly as before. Unmold on serving plate by gently lifting ring while pressing down on top of tower.

Note: chef Stitt uses 2 1/2" PVC tubing cut into 3" lengths for his molds.

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

LA CUCINA VIGNETO ....... Piatto a Base di Maiale e Fagioli

2009-06-29T10:40:00.013-04:00

Occasionally I'll receive a photo assignment where I am required to prepare and photograph the food. This was one such assignment. The food editor has a great sense of humor and she emailed me - "Can you do a food shot on short notice? It is an upscale version of Pork & Beans!" What? But I said that I would - not knowing I would have to jump through a few hoops and fast to obtain the ingredients for this dish. The article was to be about Paul Kahan, Executive Chef/Partner of Blackbird, a very upscale restaurant in Chicago. Kahan was the winner of the James Beard Best Chef of the Midwest 2004 and a 2007 nominee for the James Beard Outstanding Chef.

The Recipe? Braised Pork Belly with Fresh Shell Bean Ragout. "Braised Pork Belly!" Now that just sounds awful doesn't it? Not easy to find either. You usually have to order it from Slagel Family Farms or Niman Ranch.
At any rate, I was able to track down the ingredients and prepare and photograph this dish in time for publication. I was very skeptical until I actually tasted this. It was incredibly good.

When I serve it at my house it's "Piatto a Base di Maiale e Fagioli" - just sounds so much better!
Braised Pork Belly with Fresh Shell Bean Ragout

Blackbird Executive Chef Paul Kahan

Braised Pork Belly:

Pork Belly, approximately five pounds

1 tablespoon grapeseed oil

1 tablespoon coriander seed

1 tablespoon fennel seed

1/2 teaspoon cumin seed

8 heads finely chopped garlic

1 onion, diced

2 celery, diced

2 medium carrots, dices

1 cup white wine

3 cups chicken stock

1 large sprig of thyme

The night before, trim all but one inch fat off the pork. Score fat. Separately, lightly toast all the seeds and coarsely grind. Cover the pork on the top and bottom with seeds.

the next day, scrape the seeds off the fat side of the pork. Season well with salt and pepper.

Heat a large, heavy bottom saucepan over medium heat and add the pork, fat-side down. When the fat is a nice brown color, remove pork to a roasting pan, fat side up.

bring chicken stock to a boil.

Pour off most of the fat and add the mirepoix. Saute mirepoix until just tender, season and add wine. Reduce wine to au sec.

Pour vegetable mixture over the pork, add chicken stock and thyme and season so the braising liquid is just salty.

Cook, uncovered, in 325 degree oven for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until it is extremely tender when pierced. Let cool in liquid.

when mixture is cool, remove pork, divide into four pieces and set aside. Skim fat off the top of the braising liquid and strain through a fine-mesh strainer, pushing just gently.

Fresh Shell Bean Ragout:

1/4 pound pancetta, medium dice

1 teaspoon olive oil

5 shallots, sliced thinly

5 cloves garlic, sliced thinly

2 1/2 cups fresh cranberry beans, shelled

2 cups braising juice (from pork belly)

1/2 teaspoon herbs de Provence

salt and pepper

Render pancetta in saute pan until just crisp. if needed, add a bit of water to facilitate rendering.

Add olive oil, heat briefly and add shallots and garlic, sweating them until just tender.

Add beans, braising liquid, herbs de Provence and simmer until beans are soft (not toothsome).

Red cabbage and Parsley Salad:

1/2 cup very thinly shaved red cabbage

1/2 cup chopped Italian parsley

2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil

Splash champagne vinegar

Combine all ingredients and season to taste.

Assembly:

In a black steel saucepan, render the fat side of the pork over medium-high heat.

When nicely browned, reduce heat to medium and brown remaining sides.

Spoon 1/4 cup shell bean ragout, with juice, into the center of a plate.

Top with pork belly, fat-side up, and top with cabbage and parsley salad.

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

A COUPLE OF DAYS IN THE GARDEN

2009-06-26T09:40:00.009-04:00

I fully intended to try and live up to my Lovely Blog Award by posting a witty and creative entry yesterday. Normally, I'm thinking about photos that I want to take or photos that I must take for assignments. I sat down at the computer early yesterday morning (I rise at 5:30 most days) to work on a post. A sort of blankness started creeping in. I stared at the screen and realized "I've got nothing!" Couldn't think of a thing - even though I have folders full of ideas and photographs. "Maybe I need another cup of tea." That didn't work. Perhaps I should check my email. And there it was - along with some sweet messages from friends - My Horoscope for the Day.

Horoscope for June 25

"Today your creative impulses could seem totally blocked, Ryannan. You might be trying to reach a deadline, whether it's one of your own or one imposed by someone else. You feel the need to get some work done, but your muse seems to have gone on vacation. If your deadline is official, phone whoever's in charge and ask for an extension. if you force yourself to work today, you won't be happy with the results." That was all the encouragement I needed. Far be it from me to argue with the stars. I went back to bed and pulled the sheets up over my head.
Today is not much better. My thoughts are still in the garden where I've just spent the last couple of days.

I love finding these fossils in the vineyard.
Random vignette from the casa.......................................................

The Gardenia and Arabian Jasmine are in full bloom and incredibly fragrant. One Gardenia blossom will perfume an entire room.
The lavender was ready for a first cutting..................................................

Micia follows me around the garden and keeps me company...............................
Cheers!

Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Lovely Blog Award

2009-06-25T09:18:00.006-04:00

I've been away for a few days - off checking on vines, pets and houses. All fine and thriving. What a sweet surprise to come back to the blog site and find the One Lovely Blog Award from Ingrid at Vita Lenta Nel Bel Paese. Grazie Mille Ingrid! Having a blog site - is well - work! But more fun. I've met so many people with such incredible artistic talent and am so happy that they are able to express their creativity on blog sites. It will bring me pleasure to pass this award along to some of those beautiful people.

Cheers!

Father's Day 2009

2009-06-22T15:31:00.010-04:00

Father's Day was pretty relaxed here at the pied-a-terre. We started the morning with croissants and tea out on the terrace overlooking Oyster Creek..............................
With it's odd assortment of ducks, turtles and sea birds...............................................
Went poolside with Mimosas for a couple of hours..........................................
I made Lemon Ricotta Hotcakes for brunch .............the kiddos called to wish Jim a Happy Father's Day. Jim is such a wonderful Dad - our kids are crazy about him...Me too!
Siesta time on this hot sultry day - later - tea and chocolates.........................................

Happy Father's Day!

Lemone Ricotta Hotcakes

6 large eggs, separated

1 1/2 cups Ricotta cheese

1/2 cup melted butter, cooled

1/2 cup all purpose flour

4 tbls sugar

1/2 tsp salt

6 tbls lemon zest

confectioners' sugar

1 cup fresh berries

Mix egg yolks, ricotta cheese, and butter in a large bowl. Set aside. combine flour, sugar, salt and 2 tablespoons lemon zest in a bowl. Slowly add dry ingredients to the egg mixture and mix well. Set aside. Beat egg whites in a bowl with an electric mixer until firm peaks form. Carefully fold egg whites into batter. Lightly grease a griddle or non stick pan and place over medium heat for one minute. Ladle about 1/4 cup batter on griddle for each cake. cook cakes for several minutes on each side until golden. Serve with a sprinkling of confectioners' sugar, remaining lemon zest and berries.

Photos By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Palm Springs - Mid Century Modern

2009-06-19T08:40:00.018-04:00

During the last 25 years I've photographed more houses than I care to count. I've always been interested in architecture and interior design so I look forward to seeing what's out there and what is cutting edge in design. Now, I'm not crazy about Mid-Century Modern, so when I received this magazine assignment in Palm Springs, I wasn't all that excited. These houses changed my opinion. Developed by Mark Bodon of Contempo Homes along with the architectural firm - O'Donnell & Escalante, the Alexander Estates houses give a fresh new look to Mid Century Modern.
Alexander Estates was named with a nod towards the Father/Son team George and Robert Alexander who built more than 2,000 modern houses in Palm Springs between 1955 and 1965. Both died, along with their wives, in a plane crash in November 1965. The Alexander's developed a neighborhood now known as Las Palmas. Las Palmas became the weekend get-a-way choice for the "New Hollywood" crowd. Dianah Shore, Dean Martin, Marilyn Monroe and Peter Lawford each owned an "Alexander" there.
Most of these new houses are also weekend getaways. My first impression was that "These houses are built for parties!" Walls of glass that open up to the outside, Terrazzo floors that hold up to wet feet from the swimming pool and are impervious to spilled wine. Each house has an indoor/outdoor feel.
The weather in Palm Springs can be intense to say the least. I've never known a city where a large portion of the restaurants and shops completely close down during the summer months.

Working there in the summer is difficult. On some days (most) the wind is relentless - shade and protected spaces are a must.
Winter is the best time to visit Palm Springs. The days are pleasant but nights can be a little chilly. The outdoor fireplaces were an important feature in these homes.
Tall ceilings and open spaces make these single story homes feel larger.

All the tile was a bit much for me. I felt like I would go blind after a while in this kitchen.

But, I have to say, I loved the outdoor spaces - Would I buy one? Well no, still not my kind of thing. Did they sell? Yes, most all of them on the very first weekend they were available for purchase.
Photography By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

LA CUCINA VIGNETO ....... PESCADO MOJO DE AJO

2009-06-17T08:27:00.008-04:00

I keep blackboards in each of our kitchens. One is for inspiration - recipes that I want to try and on another the menu for the week. Our youngest daughter calls "What should I cook for dinner Mom? I need some ideas. What's on the chalkboard?" She often calls for wine recommendations as well. Our son does the same. "What's on the chalkboard?" Not that he has any intention of cooking any of these sometimes elaborate meals. Seems to be comforting to him just to hear the weeks menu. After having been away for a month this is the chalkboard that I have come back to............................................
Oh my................................. Le husband can clearly not be left alone! Whole Foods had fresh red snapper, a favorite of Jim's. I baked it with lemons, thyme, butter and garlic...........................................................................................
A crisp salad and black beans on the side.............................................................

And a key lime tart from Whole Foods................................................................
Photos By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

The Daniel Pearl Music Foundation

2009-06-15T13:20:00.010-04:00

I've been gone for a month - feels like six! No Internet, television or cell phone service. So much catching up to do.

I've been attending a month long music festival in the Texas Hill Country. Lots of great music and late nights! The highlight of the music festival for me was a surprise group called The Fire Ants out of Austin, Texas. A group of teenagers that came on for a 20 minute set. I was standing up on the hillside talking with a friend - when this group started playing my ears perked up - I had to get closer!

Ian Stewart, far left, a 17 year old senior at West Lake High School in Austin, heads up this band.

Stewart is the 2008 recipient of the Daniel Pearl Music Foundation Violin. Most of us know Daniel Pearl as the Wall Street Journal reporter who was kidnapped and murdered in Pakistan. He was also a gifted musician. Jonathan Cooper, a well respected violin maker from Maine wanted to honor Pearl's memory by starting a foundation in his name. Jon crafted a fine violin, the Daniel Pearl Memorial Violin, and presented it to Mark O'Connor at a Boston concert in honor of Daniel. Each summer at the Mark O'Connor Strings Conference, an exceptional violinist is presented with the violin to play for one year.

Ian Stewart - "I am so honored and humbled by being this year's recipient of the Daniel Pearl Memorial Violin. This symbol of unity and peace has so much meaning and power behind it and what better way to keep Daniel's message alive than through this mission of connecting people through music. The Daniel Pearl Violin is simple and profound and I hope to transmit that idea whenever and wherever I play this beautiful instrument."

He did that and more - these kids rocked the house! Everyone was dancing!

Including me!

Sotto Il Monte Vineyards

Photos By: Ryannan Bryer de Hickman