A trip to Eugene with my son was a busy, exhausting, and resorative weekend that ended all to soon. While I enjoyed much happiness and togetherness with the fam, the only soul searching was the discovery that I should not be allowed to book my own flights. Oh well. We flew direct even if it was the middle of the night. And Miles won the award for Best Toddler Ever by going so well with the flow.
Once at home, it was a pleasure to watch Miles and his cousin tromping around Mom and Dad's back yard. I'm often impressed by the extent of Miles' appetite, but I think that he could win a blueberry eating contest hands down.
The purpose of the trip was the wedding of a longtime family friend at Dorris Ranch.
It was a very personal afternoon affair. The bride and groom entered the ceremony arm in arm behind a traditional bagpiper and drummer, leading their wedding party, parents, siblings, and the groom's daughter (also the maid of honor.) It was an emotional and impactful parade. I was impressed by their poise and the bride's vivid smile and spot-on posture. Their happiness was
simply contagious.
Afterwards guests refreshed with mason jars full of local micro brews, and a buffet of smoked salmon, dolmas, fruit salad and a gorgeous cheese platter, all of which was laid out inside the barn.
I enjoyed the simplicity of an afternoon wedding. It felt very old-fashioned and picnic-like.
Alas, the problem with vacations, however long or short, is that they must end. So I've returned to work after a busy day at home on Monday. I spent a fortune at Ralph's and Trader Joe's in order to have food for the week. I am beginning to cook my way through Mark Bittman's list of 101 easy dinners recently published in the NY Times. That guy is my hero. I also made a batch of stuffed shells with arugula and marinara to take over to Mike and Ruthie's - so I didn't feel so guilty cuddling their new baby the day they returned home from the hospital. Lord, I love that big little guy already.
And, as I type, I'm sipping a Hot Pink raspberry vodka martini made with my parents' homemade raspberry infused vodka. This particular libation's recipe follows the principles of an excellent margarita: 1 oz vodka, 1/2 oz triple sec, the juice of one very fresh lemon. Shake. Strain and serve up in a martini glass. Heaven.
Of course, if you were one of my brothers you'd be drinking the vodka simple, over ice. True, it really is that good.
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