I’m so happy to see you! xoxoxo I thought we wouldn’t make a big dinner tonight since it’s just the two of us… ♥ Maybe we’ll just snack come… stand here next to me while I unpack these paper bags. Let’s spread everything out on the counter, and see what we’ve got to work with….
foraging this place i trek parallels the spring run-off, churning to my left, its rumble demands and unsettles
I love the salad server. Is it a star fish on the handle? Lovely! And I read John’s post on dandelion leaves too. I’m not sure we can buy them here. I’ve certainly neither tried nor seen them. I do love mangoes in salads though and yes, they are great with a bit of chilli. And I make mine with avocado so we avocado oil in the dressing our salads are fairly similar! Love the images of spring and I hope the Farmer’s Market opens soon xx
This looks like a great salad. I know I need to add a lot more green things to my diet and this looks like a great way. Honestly, I used to think that fruit in salad was crazy (well… before I actually started eating salads with fruit in them), but I’ll admit I’m converted now. The mango in this salad looks seriously mouth-watering!
This post is a wonderful little vacation for the reader. I’m a big fan of your lovely, descriptive prose Barb. I get lost in wherever you’re writing about and I love it. 
The photos are beautiful too. Your dandelion greens salad sounds so refreshing! Thank you for sharing that!
This salad looks stunning my friend – fresh and green just like your beautiful poem and lovely photography – you keep me in touch with nature
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
That salad looks good! I know my friend Alain would love it.
What a beautiful escape, despite the rain. I love the idea of foraging – what a great way to be mindful about what you eat and cook! Thank you for this lvoely post.
The quality of these photographs is outstanding Smidge. Such delicate blooms. I love it (greens too!)
I had no idea one could eat dandelion leaves… I’d always been told they weren’t edible as a kid, but this is the second time I’ve seen someone use them recently… I’m really curious as to the flavour. I wonder where I can get some good, fresh greens from which haven’t been “sprinkled” by the plethora of dogs which are taken for walks in the forest next to my house! 
Looks delicious anyway – well worth a try
I need to get down to our olives and pick me some dandelion leaves! I love your poem, so vivid, and the photos are stunning. Thank you!
Beautiful photographs and writing… Great post. Thank you dear Barbara, with my love, nia
Dandelion greens are to big now over here for using in the salad … can see that the spring has arrived over there – love the “forget me not” – what a delicious little flower.
You’re a very talent woman in many ways … poem, cakes, salads, photography- stunning photos. Will try this salad – use baby spinach instead.
Sounds like a terrific long weekend, even though it rained. I agree that nostalgia can be a source of great inspiration. Love the flower pictures from the cabin.
I too took a break from the kitchen all last weekend. It was a nice respite as we party hopped, but nothing so tranquil as your walk or nutritious as your salad. Lovely.
Beautiful photos, Smidge, and wow, that salad! I love it. And the addition of mango just brings it all together.
Wonderful post Smidge. Fabulous photos. It is always a treat to visit your blog.
Regards Florence x
It is indeed lovely to get away a little bit; sorry that your weather isn’t quite a spring-like. We had amazing weather at our cabin up north, in fact, it was warmer up there than in Toronto! I even had a dip in the lake.
What a lovely salad, so fresh.
Well, for one thing, thanks to the rain there are loads of dandelions in the garden…. Brilliant post!
I will have to remember not to put “Weed be gone” on them! I will have to try them some time! Beautiful photos and poem!
Like my mom said many times over growing up; eat your greens. Beautiful post – thanks for sharing:) Have a Great Day!
Beautiful words and gorgeous photographs! But of course I’m not surprised, your blog is always amazing and awe-inspiring! Your salad looks wonderful. Our farmer’s markets have just opened but I didn’t bother to go last weekend because I thought…what could they possibly be selling? We’re still in the beginnings of our spring, but like you, I certainly look forward to fresh greens!
Lovely poem. Glad to hear you had a lovely few days respite – shame about the mixed weather.
This post was a pleasure to read, Barb. Your photographs of Spring’s blossoms were beautiful, each prettier than the one before. I’ll be heading back to Michigan in a couple days where, with luck, I’ll go foraging for enough dandelions for a salad for my Zia. I hope it’s not too late for picking. I do wish I could find some to buy. The only ones I ever see are quite large and not at all tender. Now, we may enjoy our dandelion salad but you’ve taken it to an entirely different level. It sounds delicious!
luv it! brings out my artistic side!
I’m a bit jealous Smidge. . . There is no way I could go foraging where I am currently. Do you get morels near you? That is the one think I really wanted to do while I lived in Michigan and just didn’t find time for (seriously, why did I spend all of that time studying?!). Apparently morels are everywhere after a summer rain in Michigan.
You are so fortunate to find dandelions just through foraging.. I’ve found a spot here where wild asparagus grows, supposedly, so I’m going to have to sneak out at night with my flashlight;) My dandelions were large, not tender.. And it was torture walking my dog past those that looked yummy but likely laced with pesticide. Take care!! Smidge
Hahaha.. My dog was happily “watering” the dandelions on our walk today. I had to resort to a grocers.. As even our yards feel unsafe these days… They were surprisingly pleasant. I tried blanching some as suggested in a recipe, but that just turned them to a soggy mess.. I think just a quick cooking in the wok was the best way to make a warm salad. Cheers, Smidge
Terrific salad and I so agree with you about food memories.
I know nostalgia spurs me on at least weekly in the kitchen. This sounds wonderful and refreshing.
We’ve been lashed with rain too Smidge after being seduced by the sun. Heartless Spring! You’ve used a few ingredients I’m not familiar with, but know enough of them (and know YOU well enough) to know this salad will be brilliantly good!! xoxox
Love the white flowers with the red flower background.
I’m glad you enjoyed this, today, Sarah:) I feel the same way when I visit your blog:) xoxo
Baby spinach will work for sure! Thanks for all of your compliments!
Oh.. our lake.. would have been brrrr!! Lucky you!
Hahahaha
I know, you’re right.. but I thought.. maybe a few little greens:) Or even some crafts.. but I got nothin’! Soon.. our blogs will be just overflowing with our haul from the market, eh?
I don’t know about morels.. I’d have to look that one up, now wouldn’t truffles be just awesome, lol, but only in France…
I think you’ve had your fair share of rain, spree.. that’s just not fair!! If spring gets here first, you should come stay here.. and use my kitchen:)
ps it hailed today:(
I love using dandelion greens in salads. Your salad looks delicious, thanks for sharing it with the Hearth and Soul Hop.
BTW, I didn’t see a link back to the Hearth and Soul Hop. Please add a link back to one of the hosts.
I am not sure I can find dandelions here but I love the idea of this salad and that serving spoon is just beautiful
That trail looks gorgeous! I would lovee to go there. Ataulfo mangos are so good. I just tried one for the first time about a month ago. This salad sounds delicious!
I would love to go foraging but we don’t have many edible wild plants where we live. The salad sounds delicious
I would just love to forage anywhere even close to where you took me today! Lovely–so inviting and restful. I just enjoyed it as a little mental break, Smidge! The salad sounds devine. I love avocado oil, and don’t use it often! I seem to forget about it…and I’m not familiar with macha rosettes or atalfo mango, but I’ll do a little local homework. I could live on salads like this…I really could! Debra
Such a lovely post….beautiful photos, beautiful writing, beautiful food…love this! Really wish I had that salad for lunch today. xx
I love your photos of your mother’s garden! You have inspired me to try taking some of my own when we head to my parent’s lakeside cottage this weekend. Like you, I usually spend time helping them in the garden and setting up the lawn furniture this time of year. I enjoy the camaraderie as well. It’s wonderful to work together in the sunshine (or the rain).
Oh my goodness, Smidge. From the poetry to the photos of those gorgeous flowers to that amazing sounding salad (I, too, hold treasured memories of mango, lime and chile from Mexico)…I’m inspired.
Sounds so fresh and tasty, Smidge. Sorry your market wasn’t open yet, but soon, right? And to spend time at the cabin gardening sounds heavenly to me. The flowers you show are gorgeous!
Please do! I never tire of looking at flower photos.. I live vicariously until my own garden gets done. I’ve been tempted to plant.. but we had torrential hail yesterday!! Where is your cottage??
I hope it’s soon.. we have one in Calgary, but it’s just not the same…
Your walk took me back to my French Alpine walks, particularly around the time of the melt – your words “my heels, crushing pestles on the pine ” were music to my ears. Thank you!
And to go foraging, how beautiful, I’ve only just learnt about Ramps from John’s blog. and your salad – YES please, my problem here is in finding ripe mangoes, the shops sell mangoes but so often they are un ripe or never ripen. Humph, I WILL find them as this sounds like a perfect pairing – sweet mango and crunchy tangy greens.
Ah, now you’ve answered a query of mine, Smidge: a French foodie indicated that dandelion leaves were edible and I couldn’t quite believe it. But a salad! I must try it!
Wonderful pictures! I love the forget me nots – and the colors! My grandma used to make dandylion salads…I’ve never eaten them, though!
I love the idea of foraging! Would be handy to have the tips on what to pick and what not to, I’d be the person who’d pick the poisonous mushrooms otherwise haha. Stunning pictures as always Smidge, thanks for taking us on your vacation!
Plymouth, Massachusetts. Many swans swam around our cove while I was there (about 9), but they wouldn’t let me get close enough to take a good picture. Because of the northern climate, the garden wasn’t in full swing yet, but mom’s peonies looked lovely, and she has so many pretty vignettes inside the house. I’m still ruminating about what to say (along with the photos). I plan to post a new entry later this week.
My Mother’s Day long weekend (they should always last longer than a regular weekend!) was perfect… slow and simple: ♥book club and a cute crab-cup appie ♥a favorite banana bread recipe for my friends at the hospice
The wonton cups look super!
Thanks.. they’re yummy!
Sounds like you had a good day – Mother’s day is so much bigger there than it is here. That’s a wonderful looking loaf cake bread thingy
Oh no, now I think I need to do some blog housekeeping too. Your top menu makes me so envious. And I’m hungry for banana bread now and not a banana in the house. Or crabmeat. Those look deliciousssssssss. I love the bouquet your family gave you. White hydrangea—lovely!
Your kind of projects are my kind of projects, smidge. So glad you had a nice weekend. I am on Atkins just now, or else I would try both of those recipes! Happy week to you!
What a beautiful mothers day my friend – filled with tribute foods and awesome people and lovely flowers
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Oh my you have been busy and your weekend sounded wonderful. Love those little won tons…will have to see how I can improvise!
Looks and sounds as if you had a wonderful Mother’s Day! The crab wontons…oh how my heart aches…Ha!
Hi! Just came upon your lovely blog! So many good things, I don’t even know what to start with! Love the indoor herb garden tins, that banana bread sounds/looks delicious (and one can never have too many banana bread recipes!),… and that rose petal cake?? whoa! so impressive and beautiful!
Glad you had a lovely Mother’s Day weekend.
Snap! I started a herb windowsill garden a couple of months ago. I took so many photos every time they dared grow a new leaf nearly!! I kept meaning to post some of my pics but still haven’t got round to it. I have loads of parsley and a few chives but unfortunately my thyme died. But I’ve got some more seeds and some basil to try next. I do so love watering them just before I go to bed. There’s something very soothing about the ritual of it at that time of day.
I really love the look of that banana bread. Lovely photos, as always.
It sounds like you had a lovely weekend and some lovely recipes to boot! The crab wontons sound really tasty, perfect for finger foods.
Yummy, my mother is watering…but no carbs for me…will save the banana bread recipe though because my girls and grandsons love it…have been making one with chocolate chips for years…and your photography is wonderful…do you use just natural light or any special lenses for them?
2 lovely recipes to try! Happy Mother’s Day!
I am fuming! The email of a new blog post from you went to my spam folder and I found it by complete accident. Can you imagine?
good thing I come here regardless of the email feed, but still….
Loved the herb garden in old tea cans (which of course, I’ve been trashing for years, silly Sally)
mouth…lol
Your weekend sounds positively busy but lovely! And now I know what to do with the wonton wrappers I bought the other week and put in the freezer as I was lacking in inspiration. And all the way through I was wondering, what the book was, we just read Julian Barnes, The Sense Of An Ending to much debate
That’s interesting.. I would have thought it was big almost everywhere?? Well, mom’s are loved no matter what:)
Thanks! It took a while, but now it’s done and I’m glad:) I love hydrangea, can’t wait til they grow in my garden!
Good luck with Atkins!
These are the best weekends..
I’ll just bet you make something fantastic:)
Ahhhh:)
I am sooo lazy.. I started with a bigger plant, lol!
They were yummy!
Thanks!
WordPress is driving me crazy!! Crazy!!! Anyway.. I just posted, so no worries:)
Hahaha.. it felt slow because Sunday was quieter.. but you’re right, it wasn’t really quiet, was it:D Always stuff to do around here it seems!! Now I’d better go do a few more chores! Thanks for stopping by!
Wow, Barb! Yours was an event-filled Mother’s Day, to be sure. Those crab wonton cups sound tasty with just the right amount of crunch from the crispy wontons. Now I need to find an excuse to serve them. When are you coming for a visit?
I wish I had more time to follow your work… You rock!
The wonton cups look so wonderfully brown and crispy. The herb garden looks nice, too, but how do you keep your tins from rotting out from the water? Do you punch holes in them? I didn’t see any drip trays. I’m asking because I’ve saved old tea tins and might want to try this.
It is, but I don’t think us British go for things quite as much.
Happy Mother’s Day for Sunday Sounds like you had a great day! I did my filial duty back in March (mother’s day in the UK is back in March!)
Love the wonton cups… well, the banana bread looks fab too, but the little crispy cups are especially stealing my heart right now
The magazine I used said to line with plastic wrap, so that’s what I’ve done.. I’m suspicious that it’s not good because the roots could get a little saturated without some sort of system.. If this doesn’t work, I’m going to do plastic.. a few pebbles or marbles then soil and plant.. I’ll let you know how this one does!
I think we’re inundated with Hallmark commercials.. it plants the seeds of guilt and remorse if we don’t do something..
They really were good.. I’m thinking of different variations as well..
Wonderful post dear Barbara… I loved to read you and also your amazing recipes… Thank you, with my love, nia
Haha! I usually just send my mum a card
You have been busy .. bee there – Wonton Cups & Banana bread. Like the looks of both – when I think I will struggle with finding wonton wrappers – but the banana bread .. I will try. So into the file with an other.
These pre-made wonton wrappers are in the fresh produce section of most grocery stores.. Thanks for stopping by:)
Doubt I will find them over here …
What a great day!! You definitely deserved it. I love the addition of the bran flakes in the bread, that looks delicious!!
Hahaha… I’m due for a trip:D
Thanks!!!
Thank you nia.. I’m always happy to read yours:)
I am going to try the banana bread out on the kids here at Cal-Wood.
Sounds like you had a really terrific Mother’s Day weekend. Hope this book turns out to be a good one. I’m reading “Pillars of the Earth” (which was recommended by a friend) and really enjoying it. Have you read it? I also read Russian Winter and the The Twelfth Tale because they were on your reading list — both were great!
Looks like a wonderful Mother’s day weekend. And you’re right, mother’s day weekends should always be longer. You are so blessed to be surrounded by so much love.
What a beautiful weekend, and I love the way you have used the tins!
Hi Smidge. Sounds like you had a wonderful Mothers day. I brought a tear to my eye when I saw the card in the flowers….. Arrrrr! How lovely. Fabulous recipes tfs.
Have a wonderful day.
Regards Florence x
What a beautiful, love filled weekend you enjoyed Smidge. I love the way you are using your tea tins – so clever! As for those crab wonton cups – scrumity!
Mandy
You gave me a fright there, Barbara! For a minute, I thought I had missed Mother’s Day. Then I remembered we had ours in March this year… PHEW! Sounds like you had a great weekend!
Q. Can I substitute butter for shortening in the Banana Bread?
Very lovely flowers, it does look like your family appreciates you.
Another creative use of the wonton wrappers, Barb. And it’s so nice that you put a high brow filling in them like crab. I really love this and will likely make it on the weekend for our cocktails at the cottage. Have a great week.
Oh… So sorry about that! I did read somewhere earlier that you Mother’s Day is in March, so much more civilized I think;)
I believe butter would be fantastic.. I’m not “pro” but I always think butter/margarine are interchangable.. In fact I used margarine (shhhh)
I am a lucky gal:) And they know I adore flowers.. So I am easy to please..
Yes.. They were at our cottage the first time and would be perfect at yours.. Photos please of your cottage when you go… I think we are going to ours this weekend.. Just to help “open it up”. Xo Smidge
It sounds like you weekend was really productive. You certainly ate well . I hope you have a great day. Blessings…Mary
Haha, that didn’t seem slow and simple, it looks like someone was busy!!
This all looks delicious!!
Your blogg taste delicious! Thanks!
Two, TWO recipes in one post! And they both look so good. I’m so glad to hear you had a wonderful Mother’s Day weekend – I know you deserved it.
Oh dear. I’m not getting emails of your new posts Smidge….actually I’m not getting them for several blogs. This makes me sad….
But the crab wonton cups have cheered me right up! Ohhhhh, those sound sooooooo good. Must. make. ASAP. I love what you wrote about your weekend, it sounds like it was busy, but fun! Your flowers are breathtaking!
And I love your herb garden idea too, that’s adorable Barb! Great idea. One I just might have to copy
Happy week to you dear!
Oh, my . . . your blog is beautiful! I instantly adored your header and knew this was a place I could likely spend hours perusing.
Your mother’s day celebrations sound lovely. I can imagine the food and decor were decadent and delicious! We kept things simple around here, ordering pizza from a local restaurant and a few home-made desserts.
Ah, the series finale season . . . Is it terrible to admit that this time of year actually saddens me for that reason alone. I feel as if these friends, these lives I’ve invested in for the better part of 3 months just leave me high-and-dry. And not only that, it’s as if they’ve picked up the phone, announced their pregnant or dying, or both, and then hung up! LOL. Terrible . . . Hopefully you will find another show or hobby to occupy your time while Desperate Housewives is on hiatus.
These wanton cups and banana bread recipes look much too good not to try. Thank you for sharing them!
Blessings,
~ Cara
What wonderful recipes! The crab wontons look amazing, and the banana bread does too! So healthy, and definitely a unique recipe with the added bran.
That banana bread looks delectable
Those crab wonton cups look delicious.
Smidge, what a productive weekend you had! And what beautiful flowers! The crab cups look very yummy.. x
Glad you had such a nice Mother’s Day, beautiful flowers, and kudos to you for your blog house cleaning! I’m loving this banana bread recipe and will have to try it out. Seems like I always have overripe bananas left at the end of the week! The crab wontons look pretty special, too. Bookmarked!
I have in mind to plant some of the green-tinged hydrangea this year. All of mine are white. There are new blue strains that can stand the winters, I may have to try one of those too.
I would have loved to try this banana bread in our quest last year. I may still try it anyway – it looks so different than any I’ve made. I’m definitely hungry now! Glad you had a great Mother’s Day weekend!
Amazing recipes, especially the wontons! It’s nice knowing you had a great mother’s day!
That would have been fun! If I had it I would have sent it to you:) I think it’s the orange zest that makes it different.. And you can’t beat a healthy version with less fat and bran;)
How did you like Sweeney Todd? When my son auditions for music theatre roles he often sings a song from Sweeney Todd – it’s the one about his knives being his special friends. He loves that musical. It sounds like you had a busy but productive weekend. I need to do some blog sorting too. Lovely baking Smidge xx
Your blog is always beautiful…And I don’t know how you make time to do any cleaning up! I’d love to spend a little more time going through your blog roll, and I’m sure I will…I’m almost afraid I’ll find more that I love, and I don’t know how much more creativity I can take! I must have that banana bread, Smidge! It looks just delicious. Sounds like your Mother’s Day was perfect, indeed! Debra
Wow, Miss Smidge! That was one crazy, busy weekend for you. So glad to see it was the smiley kind of busy! ~Ruth
The crab wonton cups look amazing. Perfect appetizer (that I’m sure everyone will love) I just might have to try sometime soon.
Love the look of those little wontons Smidge! Am thinking those will have to be served at our open house party this summer! You’ll be here right? Like your spring-cleaning efforts too. One day next winter I may get around to it too! xoxo!
[...] Just a Smidgen – Smidge has so many awards, and she deserves every one of them. Her posts are always the [...]
The Dress Rehearsal ♥ ever constant, she waited in the wings enduring years of performances successes and failures missed lines and arias
This looks delicious! While I feel your pain when you discovered the cake wasn’t cooked through; it’s nice to know I’m not the only one these things happen to!
I’m glad that re-baking saved the day. I made a tangerine cake over the weekend (aka “Scary Cake”) on someone’s request: it rose beautifully and then fell like a fallen souffle. I called it tangerine pudding and served it with a spoon.
I’ve sooooo been there too. The important thing is that the concert went off without a hitch! Congrats Barb. So pleased your bestest cousin popped by for a visit on your special weekend.
Looks totally nummy and congrats on such a special weekend
Congratulations on your successful concert and suprise guests! What a wonderful weekend! (And so glad your coffee cake was saved – that would’ve been a tragedy had it not been!) (Again, a little crazy with tthe exclamation points.
Congratulations on the success of your weekend Smidge!
Your berry desserts are always so wonderfully done. And I bet you were the only one that noticed you missing a beat.
and you are my shining star cuz! xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Brava! What a fantastic weekend you had! How wonderful that your cousin came to see your performance. Truly, that something only one’s “Firstest and Bestest cousin” would do. Congratulations on your performance, Barb, and I hope you two cousins don’t have to wait so long before your next visit.
Congratulations on the concert! The coffee cake looks UH-MAZING despite the troubles it caused you – I am a total sucker for rhubarb and crumbs
Well done on a successful concert and I’m really happy for you that you got to see someone you love so much. Good thing the cake finished baking
I’m so pleased the concert went well. Where is the audio for this post??? And how fabulous that your cousin drove to Calgary to be with you. What a wonderful weekend you must have had. Love the gorgeous photo! And the cake looks fabulous. I’d never known it was ‘twice cooked’ – a bit like the confit duck I just posted! xx
This looks fantastic! I am glad your concert went well.
Have you ever tried oatmeal instead of cornstarch? I added it to my last rhubarb pie and it turned out great!
Congratulations on your concert, Smidge! And what joy to share the weekend with your dear cousin. Such treasure to have each other in your corners. That crumb cake is making my mouth water. That and a glass of milk would be just the thing to put me to bed right now. And get me out of bed in the morning.
Your coffee cake looks totally delicious and delicate. You are the queen of desserts!
Congra
Sorry about my spastic computer – what I was saying was congrats on such a successful concert
I am so glad your favourite cousin could be there as well!
As for this cake – when god gives fresh rhubarb you cannot ignore it 
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
My goodness baking and a concert. So so pleased it all went beautifully. Oh and I love the name of the is “Big Crumb”, I can assure you big or otherwise there would be no crumbs left on my plate
Congratulations on a great concert – bet you were the only one who noticed the missed beat. How special to see your cousin and well done on getting the cake/crumble baked.
Mandy
So pleased for you Smidge, what a lovely weekend, near-cake-disaster and all!
RHUBARB – wonderful ….. when my mum was pregnant with me was she craving for raw rhubarbs – so I think I got my addiction from there. Wonderful photos. Glad that the concert went well and you got nice surprises. A great weekend is never wrong.
What an amazing week you´ve had – so glad they everything turned out fine int he end (the music, the visit, the crumble!). And save me some of that crumble topping – I don´t mind whatever is underneath but I adore the topping!
I am so glad the concert went off well hon. Stunning shots as usual and now I am hungry again. Shame on you! LOL! One of these days you will find me on your doorstep, screaming : “Feed me, Feed me!” Whahahahaha!
*big hugs*
sounds like quite a tumultuous time…good to know you can stick something back in the oven after freezing it…and refreshing to hear how good cooks recover from disasters…:)
That looks delicious, and you made it work in the end! Which I think always gives you an extra sense of accomplishment, even after a few stressful moments in the kitchen . It does look pretty ‘cakey’ though so something that would take a while to bake through!
I never met a big crumb I didn’t love!
So pleased for you that your concert went so well and for the reunion with your cousin! I have family like that, it takes me back to precious memories when we are together. Your RHUBARB “BIG CRUMB” COFFEE CAKE looks delightful, amazing that it finished baking, that is a rare thing. Crumb topping freezes well, now all you have to do is plan how to use it — shucks, right?!
Oh, noooo, once again I didn’t catch your concert on time!!!!!
Congratulations dear Barbara… I really wished to be there and to watch and to listen to this concert… Maybe someone loaded to Youtube, please let me know…
How nice meeting with your cousin and her husband… I can imagine how great for you all… I loved this little Barbara, she seems so lovely and so busy… doesn’t look at the camera…
And my amazing friend, what a delicious recipe again… I want to taste it now… Is there any left?
Thank you, have a nice and enjoyable day,
with my love, nia
What a wonderful surprise that your cousin drove all the way just to see you! And that your concert went off without a hitch is great news, even though there was a teeny tiny little blip in the rehearsal…but as you said, that is just what rehearsals are for.
Well, even though it was raw in the centre, the final outcome looked amazing and probably much appreciated, after all. And with the weather you’ve been having in Calgary, it was probably fantastic right out of the oven, hot and steamy!
I’m so glad to hear that your concert went off without a hitch, Smidge, and you’re right, the purpose of rehearsals! And I am very close to my three cousins–the two “boys” are probably closer to my brother, and my one female cousin and I were practically raised like sisters. I love her to bits! And she’s my cheerleader, as I hope I am hers. So I’m so glad you had their interest and support and love for your big event. Wonderful! And my dad has been ill and would enjoy this recipe immensely. I now that rhubarb pie is one of his favorites, so this is way beyond that in my mind! He loves rhubarb, and I love anything that has “big crumb” in the title! I’m clearly going to print this one out! Maybe make it for him this weekend. Debra
Yay for concerts without glitches! Bravo, Smidge! I wish I could have seen and heard it.
Your poem is sooooo dramatic and wonderful. I just love it. I could feel my heart race a little while I was reading it. In a good way of course. I relate to what you wrote about I guess, and it brings back memories. So happy your concert was a success!
Oh dear, I’m gonna have to hide Hubby from this post until the weekend somehow. One look at the Rhubarb Coffee Cake and he’ll want it pronto. I have to get a few things done before then though. Thank you for sharing your gorgeous photos and the recipe. The picture of the “mini” you and your family is adorable!
Have a great week Smidge!
Cooked or not cooked… I probably still would have stuffed my face. It looks delicious!
Delicious, Smidge! I keep crumb topping in the freezer – makes it easy to pull out an instant dessert. And I’m so pleased to hear the concert went well! As an orchestra mum (Big Boy plays French horn and Small Man plays the trumpet), I understand (vicariously, of course) all the build up that goes into the big performances. Enjoy having your family there! xx
PS. Clever lady, how did you get your system to default so that “notify me of comments” box isn’t automatically checked? Yours is the only blog I visit that seems to have managed to do so!
So glad the concert went well (I had no doubts) and what a wonderful surprise to have a visit from your cousin! It sounds like a great weekend. This rhubarb cake looks divine!
Congrats! You deserve all the best!
You are a STAR!!! hope you had tons of fun! because you are such a talented woman and a good cook to boot> I BET there are not many musicians who are also great cooks! Bet you! c
All’s well that ends well, including your crumb, which judging from the picture, I would have never guessed had a problem! Glad your weekend was a good one!
Hahaha.. Yes.. You’re not the only one:) My mom was the smart one, I would have chucked it out!!
Sharyn.. That’s the smartest thing I’ve heard yet.. Just renaming it and serving it up saves the day. Although I’m not sure anyone would eat raw cake dough. Will you be posting your Scary Cake? Look forward to it!
Thanks, Barb!
Thank you:D
Thanks, Carolyn!!
Hahaha.. I think the conductor sure did:) But that’s life!!
Thanks so much, John! It definitely won’t take as long this time.. It was just the best to see her!! They recorded and videotaped.. So I’ll likely post the performance… The one where I didn’t mess up:D
Thanks, Tandy! I was so thrilled to see my cousin…
Well.. It’s on it’s way! The recording has my “missing pages” errors on it.. But the video of the actual concert should be good.. I’ll be posting when we get our copies:) It should be hilarious seeing myself play!! Yes.. I should have named it Twice-Cooked Cake!! Or Too-Baked Cake, lol!
No!!! But I’m def going to next time! I love oatmeal, plus it’s healthier and it makes sense that it would pull things together better!! Thanks, Susie!!
It sure was.. She left me a little inspirational voicemail..I’m sure that helped!
Thanks, Misk.. I love baking:)
Hahaha.. No prob.. I knew what you meant, but I thought it was the cool, young hip way to say congrats, lol!
Yes… Picking up crumbs as I type…:D
I certainly hope so. Def the conductor did.. But if I was quiet enough, you couldn’t hear the pages madly turning when I looked for my spot!!
Yes!! Never give up, eh??
True.. I suspect it’s just crumble topping with a little cake as a means of conveyance!
Thanks, Viveka.. I love rhubarb as well!
Sonel.. You make me laugh.. That’s all I can say!!
It’s weird how that worked. I would have thought the ingredients to make it rise wouldn’t “activate”.. But that would be a scientific question…
Hahaha.. Me neither.. Well, maybe:)
Hahaha.. That’s right.. I’m thinking about cupcakes.. Even french toast:D
No worries nia.. They videotaped it, so I’ll post it for you.. Or a portion of it anyway:) It was the best concert ever, nia.. I loved ever minute, even though I was nervous. And I’m learning to get over disappointment like with the cake.. And not be upset that it wasn’t “perfect”… Xo Smidge
You’re right, Eva.. It was great out of the oven. I wanted to give some away since we had so much, but my son wouldn’t let me.. He loves this cake:) Our weather has finally turned.. Sunny for two whole days!! Yay!!
I hope he likes it Debra.. Check out Smitten Kitchen for extra photos of the different steps? I think it’s great that you would bake that for your Dad. I hope he feels better soon?! You got me thinking.. Because I was an only girl, having a female cousin was absolutely like having a sister:) xo Smidge
Hahaha, thanks, Sarah!! Believe me, my heart was racing and not in a good way. I felt sick after the recording/rehearsal.. But that actually motivated me to prove I could do it the next day… So all went well! I look forward to seeing what you have baking in your kitchen!! Xo Smidge
Hahaha.. We sorta did.. Munching on the edges before we baked it again:D
Well.. You’re right about the build up. There’s an incredible amount of time that goes into practicing for these events! You know, I’ve discovered if I’ve unclicked a blog’s “notify me of comments” box… It stays unclicked forever after!! So you must have “unclicked” me already!! Xo Smidge
Thanks!
celi.. You make me feel like a star!!! Thanks for your kind words and support!! I bet you’re right;) xo Smidge
Now that’s a line I should have used.. Yes, all’s well that ends well.. But we have a performance in Medicine Hat at the end of the month.. So the practicing continues;)
“Scary Cake” made its debut some time ago. You probably read it at the time. I think it was in January or February.
hehehehe…good!
*hugs*
I look forward to seeing them. I bet you were wonderful!
Very pleased for you that the concert went off without a hitch – well done. Waving from Ireland and *applauding loudly*.
Dear Barbara, you are so nice. Thank you for your nice words on my emotional poem post. I can’t find a word to express how you made me happy… But you don’t know anything behind these poetical words…Not as you supposed… so tragic and unbelievable… I had a mother but also I hadn’t… Maybe in my poem I wrote to a mother in my dreams… My real Mom never wanted me and loved me. Can you imagine how hit me in times… Sorry for dropping here, but I wanted to share with you, how I wished all your words would be as you felt or thought… You are so nice and I love you dear Barbara, with you creative works, recipes, and with your music that even I haven’t heard it yet, but more than all, with your beautiful heart… Blessing and Happiness, with my love, nia
Beautiful post! One of your all-time best!
This LOOKS fabulous Barb. I am so glad it eventually worked out for you. Personally, I don’t believe the cake flour had anything to do with it. Not sure if freezing it did thought. Hmmmm. So sweet of your hubby to come to your rescue.
The poem is just beautiful as usual. Your talent in so many arenas just astounds me. What an amazing woman you are!
Congratulations – sound like you have been having a wonderful time! I have sometimes done the Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall thing with crumble mix where he spreads it out on a tray and bakes it, tossing and turning it a couple of times while it browns and crisps. Then he puts it in a tub in the fridge and uses it through the week on other desserts, yoghurt etc. Worked for me
Hahaha.. I can hear you clapping all the way here!!
Your mom must have had so many problems.. And perhaps this has somehow made you the more loving one:) No one has a bigger heart than you, nia…xoxo Barb
Hey thanks.. You should see what I’ve got tomorrow, lol:)
It’s good to get your input.. Then it just must not have been cooked through when I took it out..
Thanks so much, Geni!! xoxo
Oh.. Now that’s the plan.. Yogurt and crumble for breakfast:)
Thank you dear Barbara, my grandmother always found me incredible in this family… I was almost different. But as you said the God wanted me to be like that maybe… Means a lot your words to me dearest. Love, nia
So glad you had a nice surprise, Smidge. What a wonderful reunion.
That crumble looks wonderful…
What a grand cake. Rhubarb has just hit the shelves of our farm stands so your recipe comes at a great time and will shortly be moving from your kitchen to mine. I hope you have a great day. Blessings…Mary.
Your crumble looks delicious.
Awwww!! I love you <3
Thanks Korena.. it was a lot of fun…
You’re right.. I guess I thought it was cooked but didn’t give it enough time to set!
Thanks Kristy! It was so fun!!
Thanks, Kate! It was so fantastic to see Marilee and George!
It’s so awesome to go to the market and see new produce, isn’t it!?
Thanks!
Congratulations on the concert! Were you nervous? Maybe it helped having some special loved ones join you on your event. If you would not have mentioned us that your crumble with a little less cooked no one would have even noticed. Just tell them you planned it that way so that it was hot out of the oven…
Having my family and friends there made all the difference for sure!
I’d love to see you in concernt Smidge! If I could wish for a talent it would be to play an instrument well. My lack luster attempts at the guitar and piano never quite caught on. Haha!
The crumble looks mouth watering delicious and I agree with Rufus, your berry desserts are so wonderfully done, as is everything you post! Delicious wishes for a beautiful week.
One of the chief benefits of becoming an adult, is that by now we have accumulated a vast archive of life experience upon which to draw, so that we can dispense a little advice whenever needed. ♥
Can you believe I had never heard of jello shooters until I moved to this country for good about 18 years ago? Yeah, which planet was I hiding?
Those look innocent… I would risk having a couple… well, maybe at 95 pounds that could be a mistake, right?
I’m learning lots today – yuckaflux, Bermuda Shorts Day and Jello Jigglers : ) I have come across jelly-vodkas before, they are popular at festivals. On a last note, like mother like daughter……
This I had a couple of times … can’t say they are my favorite, but at a good party anything goes. Not very fond of jelly .. so really dangerous have they never been for me. Brilliant story – some things we can only learn one way … the hard!!!
Hey you can bring them to the Use Me and Abuse Me Party! Dangerous!!!
We had Wapatuli parties back in the day…
Sounds like a fun but dangerous treat! Have never heard of yukkaflax but I´m glad your girlfriends looked out for you. I had (and still have) some best friends who looked out for me and me for them! I have to confess to never having had a vodka jelly shot 
Hahaha! Ok must be a Canadian thing this yuckaflex! Not that we didn’t have our own state-side version, but I wasn’t into cooking OR chemistry in those days so the name & formula eludes me. So funny where our mind goes – I read Bermuda shorts day & jello jigglers simultaneously and saw them in the same picture – first shorts of the season and those jiggling whitish jello-ish legs peeking out beneath. not pretty and certainly nothing to write about, and even less an image to tempt readers with. My brain is in need of a SERIOUS overhaul. And you may have just provided the remedy! Fun post Smidge! Thanks! xoxo
Will pass it along to my daughters…wouldn’t have done so just a few years ago…so much easier this way…:)
Yuckaflux wasn’t around in my day — or, if it was, I didn’t know about it. Tequila shots were big back then, but I have never been a drinker or a party girl.
Ohhhh, Jello shots! Dangerous stuff…
Haha I did not realise there was a Bermuda shorts day – you teach me much about culture and jelly jigglers my friend
Awesome posts!
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Powerful stuff. I just drink obscene amount of cider and anything else… oops. I am rather larger than you lot I’d imagine, being a chap and all. Nice post, I rather enjoyed reading it, Smidge.
You know I believe they had something like that yukka stuff when I was in college but cannot recall the name of it now – ahem – and yeah! for jello shots! I still like those 0:-)
Oh jeez, I saw “shorts” and “jiggles” and thought of jiggly thighs in shorts. Lmao. Don’t ask, I’m self conscious haha. I made jello shots like that before – dangerous indeed!
DOWN South we call that PJ ( and the fruit is amazing after it soaks in all that alcohol!), and as for those shooter…..hard lessons learned, but the class is oh so fun….except for the morning after! Thanks so much for the return of wonderful memories and a true ” feel good” moment! Another delightful visit, as always.
The Bermuda Shorts Day sounds like great fun and the thing is, you could keep swallowing down those jelly hearts before you realise how much vodka you’ve consumed – but I guess that’s the idea! And I remember the days of lying in the sun, not eating but drinking plenty – amazing we all survived! Very funny post Smidge xx
I dunno, Barb. You tweet 1 pic of a crocus in bloom and, next thing I know, you’re bogging Bermuda shorts and jello shots. Are you re-living Spring Break? Well, I’m glad your daughter is there to keep an eye on you. I don’t want to be watching late night TV and see you in a “Bloggers Gone Wild” video.
This is so funny, Barb, and your description of Yukka Flux (definitely think it’s a Canadian name, but what a great name for the traditional collegiate punch) and the antics surrounding…who knew? I’ve never tried a jello shooter, as they’re called here…but yours look deceptively sweet and I’m beginning to sense a new side to you that hasn’t been revealed in these award posts!
I just recently heard of this tradition when we were in Calgary last June. I’m not sure it is something here in Ontario, but then again, I was a pretty square university student. Fret not, though, I’ve loosened up in my old age. Now, I’d love to try one of them jigglers.
Eva http://kitcheninspirations.wordpress.com
I think it’s a “regional” thing.. I think 1 would mellow.. 2 might be my limit these days! 95 pounds.. you’re a wee little thing!:) Cute!
Yup.. usually they’re in a cup to drink.. these were a little more portable I guess.. yes.. the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree;)
Jello.. well, it’s certainly food for kids, but all that food dye.. Sharyn would cringe at these:)
These would be perfect for that occasion.. Wapatuli, what’s with all our strange languages back then, eh?
Oh.. look at that wee little sad face.. we’ll have to remedy that:) Yes.. still today, my daughter’s friends and son’s friends all look after each other, it’s so awesome!
Arrghh.. I’d almost forgotten about Chemistry.. that was not fun! Oh, dear.. white jiggly legs.. hilarious, spree, you’re killin’ me here!!! Yes, you need a wee overhaul.. perhaps you have “baby brain”.. that happens to us too you know! xoxo
Yes.. I shudder to think of drinking or eating this sort of thing.. well, maybe just one;)
I could tell you about the last time I had jello shooters, but I can’t remember
Great post!
Feedback says it maybe a Canadian thing.. maybe our lame version of Sangria? I did have fun in my day, but was and still am a “light-weight” when it comes to these things.. a glass or two now and then is more than enough for me:)
Nice big grin there, Misky:D
Hahaha.. I’m not sure you could call BSD day a cultural experience… too funny!
Cider.. yes, for me these days it’s just wine or a beer now and then.. If you had too much of something else.. you’d have required the entire group of girls to assist you I think;) Glad you enjoyed this one..
Oh.. memory slips for those sorts of events, doesn’t it;) I’ve got to try a jello shot now that I’ve done a jiggler..
Yes.. the fruit is delicious! I seem to recall girlfriends saying that was the dangerous part of the drink, but I’m not sure why? What does the PJ stand for??
Yes.. they are dangerous for a “sweet tooth” like me.. same with those sweet shooters I guess, though:) Yes.. we survived and I’m not sure my parents knew much about what went on.. that’s how they survived, lol!
This one made me burst out laughing.. I can only imagine what a “Bloggers Gone Wild” show would look like for the rest of the world who don’t understand the “blogging” universe. I’d be the first to watch it though.. John, I am definitely reliving life through my kids.. second-hand, mind you, wouldn’t want to do those years again!!
They’re sweet.. I think the shooter would be cool to try.. maybe just one though;)
Hahaha, Eva.. I’m glad you’ve “loosened up”.. you’ll have to join the rest of us in John’s “Blogger’s Gone Wild” video. Although a bunch of us giggling and sipping wine while baking/cooking together in a kitchen may not be a top hit!
Ahhh, and I think some memories are best kept that way. There are a few eager friends who like to fill me in, now and then..
PJ stands for “Party Juice”…we would cut up fruit to put in there to add to the flavor, but the truth is, that the alcohol gets sucked up by the fruit. So every fruity bite is packed with the purest of the alcohol (very little chaser or mix), so those little pieces of fruit pack more of a whallop that the drink itself. Of course, it takes time for that to happen, so we usually added the fruit right after the alcohol and let it set for a little bit! If you see someone who put extra fruit in thier cup of PJ, they usually were already aware of this and wanted to get the most out of thier visit to the PJ container (large cooler, trach can lined with a plastic bag, whatever we could find to mix it in). wow, this post really brough back some fun times!
Ahhh…memories. I remember all two well that mixture of fruit and alcohol. In the US it’s called a Spodie party. I think I was hungover for three days after the one and only one I’ve ever been to in high school.
You know, sometimes it’s just best if they learn these lessons on their own! I just recently learned from one of the younger people on my Face Book page that you can also soak Gummi Bears, Gummi Worms, Gummi Lifesavers…pretty much any Gummi candy in hard alcohol for a week. It seems to be a pretty big deal at parties nowadays. I’m getting old, because all I could think of was, “Yuck.” LOL
Yay! Jello shots and jungle juice (that’s what we called Yukka Flux around here). Oh to be young again! ~Ruth
hahaha…Never heard of it. YakaFlux. Sounds like our fireman’s punch! Fruit in alcohol is dated way back to the 1800s in the South and it was thought of by the women since it was not considered lady-like to drink alcohol..hehehe It was usually pears in whiskey though, no big tub of mixing. Never put it past a woman to find a way to get what she wants.
Oh we had yuckaflux as well…although we called it wap. I have a similar memory – or lack there of involving it as well. And very funny – we had our version of a beach party too. You’re right – thank goodness for friends looking out for each other.
Aha! I knew there was a “chemistry” answer to my fruit question!! Very cool!!
I have seen those recipes on the internet.. it struck me as “gross” as well.. apparently it gets really cloudy at first… but you leave it alone and they absorb all the liquid.. I may just have to try that one!
Jungle Juice.. I’m sure hearing so many different names for this one!! Love it! Yes.. to be young, but not enough to actually go there again, lol!
I love that!! Of course women figured this one out!! That’s awesome! And the men thought they were eating pears on their ice cream.. lol!
What an hilarious post. Oh yes I’m sure everyone has had great ideas like yours haha but could we ever be told otherwise at the time? Never!! Your daughters jellos are the prettiest shots I’ve seen that’s for sure!
Only a prairie girl would try to simulate the “beach” on grass between two apartment buildings.. desperate times called for desperate measures..
You’re right.. I learned a few things the hard way! It’s so much harder watching it though.. aargh!! She did an awesome job!
hehehe, now that sounds like it’s going to be quite a party!
*hugs*
I like this wild side! I have a week of freedom, and I think you may have just taught me a lesson on fun! I will have to follow in suit.
I have never heard of Yukka Flux but it sound very much like Punch. I do remember sampling some way to alcoholic concoctions at parties back in my student days. I know for sure that there was never anything as pretty as your daughter’s BSD Jigglers on offer at any of the parties I went to.
Yukka Flux huh? That’s new to me! And I’ll bet I’d love it. The jigglers are so pretty! I could use one or two right now
Have a great week Smidge!
It was.. They had tons of fun!
We sometimes forget to have fun.. Have an awesome week!!!
I’m learning every country pretty much has the same thing (why wouldn’t they;) Thanks.. She had fun making them!
If I made that now.. It would have very little vodka, I think.. And more fruit juices and fruit:)
haha how fun!! I haven’t had these since my uni days either brings back good memories.
My very favorite kind of Jello Jiggler! Once a month or so my girlfriends and I get together for some “therapy” and we indulge in these lovely little darlings in flavors of cucumber, ginger and sake.
Hah – I was wondering if those were jello shots! I, perhaps, have had moments like yours, but I don’t remember them too well…probably a good thing – though I do remember the aftermath. And I”ve never hear of Yukka Flux, though we had something very similar. Ahhhh, the good old days.
We’ve all had our shares of crazy, teen stuff, I guess I loved your daughter’s jello jigglers! I drink very rare and only wine or champagne, but in University I’ve tried all of them drinks, funny or nasty
A funny apple and tree story.
Now those sound gourmet for sure!!
Ohhhh good old Jell-O shots! I used to love Jell-O, but now I can’t eat it without gagging… pretty unfortunate, huh? Love how you call them jello jigglers though. Much more fun name.
Oh, but they look so innocent! Haha, happy BSD to your daughter. I have seen many a facebook picture of this legendary day…
Ohh this is great!!! I loveee jello jigglers. YUM!
Yukka juice parties are always dangerous. Been there-done that, however I do not have much recall about the incidents. Jello jigglers are a fun and cool way of bringing in a little spring- a little less dangerous. Just don’t mix up the kids version with the adult version. Have fun! BAM
Yep. She’s mommy’s girl, alright… You made me laugh – I saw “Bermuda Shorts” and “Jello Jigglers” and I thought “cellulite”…
I love jigglers! Great post!
Have to say, I was on the same page with Spree thinking about bermuda’s and jiggly thighs… or muffin top in my case!
Last time I indulged in jello shots was celebrating my 40th- I made margarita jello cubes… they go down easy. And I’ll leave it at that.
Yes, looks like Cork and Spoon and I speak the same college language. Jungle Juice it was in my college days, too. I innocently tried a few pieces of fruit in the concoction. Oooh, yummy. Followed by, oh my word, why is this room spinning? Fun post, Smidge. I do love how you mix things up.
Hahaha.. yes.. the fruit is the dangerous part and now I know why. So glad to be in this place I am at right now!
Not my era, but I have heard of these, are they called jelly shoots as well? I have one searing memory of getting blind drunk, which I did just to see what it felt like, and it involved a large quantity of vodka and orange (the fruit theme again!) a brief period of feeling invincible, a saunter to the pub down the road, two pints of best bitter please barman, and falling down at my own front door (having returned home under the patron guardianship of the saint who looks after drunks) unable to put the key in the lock…. it was over thirty years ago… so forgive me if I shudder slightly at the thought of the jello
Hahaha.. I forgot about that patron saint… maybe that’s who looked after me as well.. Have an awesome day!!
Well now, these look like fun!
Hahaha… They were, for her!! Me.. One was enough, I’m a light-weight!
They do sound like particularly impressive flavors. I’ve wondered, when hearing about jello/jelly shots before, whether using sparkling wine or champagne would retain any of its fizz . . .
This was such a fun post! I, too, am new to the name Yukka Flux (an excellent one, I may say), though I’ve heard of Jungle Juice and a couple of other variants. And as you can see from my Tuesday post, I’m not above a lightweight Sangria offering, myself–though lately it tends to be more on the fruit-and-juice side with wine and not much hard liquor. Still, fruit is madly booze-friendly and a good macerated treat is almost never amiss. Especially in the safe BSD environs of good friends!!
by Barbara Bamber | justasmidgen
Absolutely wonderful! I want to eat this every day please.
Honey, we need some Blue Cheese!
Never forget the wine! This is a great post, made me feel right at home.
Why thank you so much! I don’t even like tomatoes, but this looks divine!
I think burrata is still the “it” cheese. Would loved to have been there tasting all your goodies.
I would never think of doing that! Piling everything on top of a crosini looks Delish or my new word “hideous!” = awesome! Hahaha! I am going to try that this weekend. Thanks Barbara!
Great conversation and great food!
I love grey sea salt and pink peppercorns! Of course, what you sprinkled it on it AMAZING and it’s a good thing you didn’t forget the wine.
Absolutely delightful Smidge. Beautiful from beginning to end. Close call on nearly forgetting the wine though…
Mandy
This …. is me – in the summer. Thank you so much – baked my own loaf yesterday with pear and walnuts in – should try it. Stunning bread. http://wp.me/p293Pw-2u8 – Stunning photo again, brilliant … so now we are printing out – brilliant set up – that you provide printable recipes. So thankful *smile
Everything looks delicious! I have to try this avocado oil
I wish I had been there…I´d happily have spooned, and drizzled and taken things out of wrappers for you! That cheese looks amazing…we haven´t got it here
As we used to say just after we got married, ‘c’est bon, merveilleuse,incroyable!’ That was about the food, and your food!
Oh my goodness! Delicious!
Yum..funny just read about Burata in memoir Blood Bones and Butter by owner of Prune in NYC… I’m also late to trends
..and love the photography..would love to watch you shoot sometime…
So simple and elegant. Nice to show how it can be done. Will put that cheese on my list.
Wow, Smidge! Just plain wow! This was a most inviting and delightful conversation, and such a beautiful spread…Simplicity, yet with an elegance that just calls to inviting friends to sit and enjoy a summer afternoon. I’m so glad I planted more tomato vines than I really thought reasonable. I’m not familiar with the cheese, but I know right where to go to find some
Lovely! Debra
Delicious!!!
I can eat this everyday…
Really nice read…
This sure looks pretty.
I adore roasting tomatoes. Wonderful photos and crostini ideas – they look very cozy, if that makes sense, and absolutely delectable!
What a beautiful story, Smidge. And thank you for showing the Burrata, I’ve been seeing it on menus and wondered what it was. I’m definitely ordering it in NYC this weekend!
?
That menu is exactly what I would want when I’m snacking with a friend. How could you possibly forget the wine
You are amazing! This all looks absolutely divine!
So pretty, Smidge! I’ve never had avocado oil – I want! Roasted tomatoes are pretty much the best things ever
I can always count on you to tickle my love for words… “comestibles” is a new for me in English, in my native language we do have “comestiveis” – goes to show how it all falls in a nice place.
having never heard it before, I know that I created it in my mind, and almost spoke it in that funny way that foreigners play with a new language without meaning to do so.
words aside, this whole series of pictures got me drooling, and I had lunch not too long ago. but I didn’t eat anything remotely like what you showed us here
Very lovely. Your pictures are amazing. Those tomatoes are stunning.
Oh Smidge, I’d love to come and eat with you. You make it seem so easy.
This looks beautiful my friend
– I love the post layout and could actually imagine the conversation in a kitchen 
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
I’d go shopping let alone help you unpack if this is what is on the menu
And hmmm Blue D’Auvergne, you know since I came back from France I haven’t touched any cheese other than parmesan on my pasta. Withdrawl symptoms just kicked in!!
Your place is the place to eat – love the Mama and Baby Cheese – thanks for sharing! Have a Great Day:)
Goodness, you’ve made me so hungry! Love every flavour! The burrata is a great find, isn’t it? The Italians around here cook their pasta with red sauce, then simply open a burrata over the top of it, so the sauce becomes all creamy and cheesy..
xx
Whoever you’re having dinner with is one lucky person! (And I’ve never heard of that cheese, so it shows how behind I am on food trends.)
Roasted cherry tomatoes are one of my favourite things to pop in the oven when I need something quick as accompaniment. I have never heard of the cheese it sounds yummy and it looks very pretty sprinkled with the crushed pink peppercorns and nestling amongst the cherry tomatoes.
These are some of my favorite meals. It’s when creativity truly gets to shine!
Looks delicious!! I love crostini: D Pear walnut loaf sounds great.
I need to keep this one away from the Mrs – she’d love it! But I can’t do pretty things like this I’m all meat and potatoes….
Wow… sooooo beautifulllllllll…. Thank you, dear Barbara, love, nia
That’s sinfully pretty!
This looks like a wonderfully romantic meal for two! I love it. And a great summer on the patio meal.
Oh, so beautiful. I want to come for a visit! This is just the best way to eat with friends .. .preparing simple, fresh, beautiful food together and enjoying it in style. Lovely!
*swoon* I want to come to your house!
I think my invitation got lost! I could devour this divine meal
Wow, I became so hungry reading through this post! This is perfect on our (finally) hot spring days here.
Gorgeous! What a wonderful post and photos to go with it… the next time have someone at hand with the corkscrew and wine on the ready
Truly lovely
If I ask nicely, and promise to behave, may I PLEASE come to THAT party Smidge?
I would do many a task for some of that Burrata cheese, roasted tomatoes and OH MY that Crostini. Yessiree…what I would do for those. Dreaming….what a gorgeous, fabulous, mouth watering post.
Ohh my gosh, this looks divine..DI-VINE! YUM! That cheese..ohhh that cheese.
Lovely food, my favorite way to dine. Thanks for the invitations!
Beautiful, delicious, delightful, marvelous–and your cookery is, too!
xoxo
Beautiful – loving the look of those tomatoes and cheese especially… sounds absolutely amazing!
There’s nothing about your post that I didn’t like. Yum!
That is too funny! I was planning to do a post on Burrata cheese because I hadn’t seen anyone mention it before. We had it at a barbeque last weekend and it is SO good. I love the way it oozes out of the ball so easily. Your pictures are beautiful and I particularly lke the spontaneity of your cooking with a good friend.
Beautiful!! I am seeing a lot of cheese!! Marvellous!! Mama cheese and baby cheese? That’s so cute!! Oh and that bakery looks lovely! Calgary eh? I’ll remember it when I drive eastwards some day!
I’d love to be your dinner companion. This looks like a perfect light dish for the summer. Don’t forget the white wine
[...] Now before this year, I had not heard of burrata cheese, but then I saw it on Barbara Banters Just a Smidgin site and was intrigued. When I saw it on this menu I had to try it. Reader alert, OMG!!! This is [...]