Welcome to the bistro!

And, another fine week it has been even with the crazy weather. I thought I was seeing things with the sky flashing and booming on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. Really, thunderstorms in January?  And the winds. My yard looks like a tornado went through there are so many branches down. One nice thing with all the rain I have flowers in January scattered through the woodland beds. 

​​It has been especially tough with the wet weather on my pups and horses. It is impossible to ride with the wind whipping and roaring, and at times to wet to let the horses out to pasture. And the little ones, Niki and Pico, go out only because I make them although they are very tired of not getting their exercise. Pico does his “crazy dog” routine on a daily basis. All of a sudden his ears perk up, his tail straightens out and he’s off…running like a banshee throughout the house. Nik and I just watch in wonder as he burns off the pent up energy.
 
Sunday, January 15, is Martin Luther King’s birthday which is celebrated on Monday. He was the chief spokesman for non-violent activism in the Civil Rights Movement and assassinated because of his beliefs in 1968.  His famous “I Have A Dream Speech” was delivered August 28, 1963 to 250 thousand civil rights supporters on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. He called for an end of racism in the United States. It was a defining moment for the Civil Rights Movement. This speech has been ranked one of the top American speeches of the 20th century.  With his single phrase of “I Have a Dream,” delivered numerous times throughout this oration, he joined the ranks of Lincoln and Jefferson and other men who shaped America.  Monday is a federal holiday to honor Dr. King. Ronald Regan signed the bill in 1983 and it is always celebrated on the third Monday in January. Although all federal offices, banks and some schools are closed it is of note to remember that the day is one of being “on” not “off.” Thousands will honor his memory by volunteering a day of service on Monday. We all can. No matter how busy, a smile, handshake or phone call to someone lonely or in need will further his teachings.
 
Last Sunday was “girl’s day out” and I, along with good friends and sister’s, 10 in all, went to the Fisher Theater to see “Beautiful” The Carole King Musical.  We started at Grey Ghost for brunch which was thoroughly enjoyed. Then off to the show. It doesn’t matter how many times I’m in the Fisher Building and Theater each one of them I’m star-struck with its beauty. Our seats were awesome and Carole King’s story and music amazing. We all commented on the ride home at how many songs she wrote for other artists, which is how she began her career, became hits. What a great way to spend a day: good friends, family, great food and a wonderful play. Thanks for the music memories Carole.
 
Sharon and crew have some great Chalk Board Features Per Se! My ALL TIME favorite Seafood Bouillabaisse is Chock Full of Lobster, Scallops and Mussels in a  White Wine and Tomato Broth with Fennel and a Lemon Aioli Crostini; Pretzel Crusted Rainbow Trout is Roasted and Presented with a Wedge of Potato Cheddar Pie and a Dollop of Tabasco Hollandaise; a Slowly Braised Falling-Off-The-Bone Tender Duroc Pork Shank is Served Over Parmesan Polenta and Korean Fried Chicken Tacos are White Flour Tortillas Stuffed with Marinated and Fried Chicken Tossed With Sweet & Spicy Sauce and a Cilantro, Orange & Onion Slaw. For Dessert: Warm “Banana Fosters” Bread Pudding Topped with Gurnsey’ Vanilla Ice Cream and a Drizzle of Rum Caramel Sauce. YUM!!!
 
 I wish you a Million Dollar Day. Believe and it will Be!
 
We all look forward to seeing you at the Bistro!
 
XO, Mary