Shower Power!

Jeff and Michelle are having a baby (they beat me to it).  I felt privileged to attend one of their baby showers last weekend -- and not just because the food served there was excellent.



But it was.







The party was held in the back room of, and catered by, a charming local bar called The Richardson.  They laid out a great spread of grilled sandwiches/panini, veggies, pickles, cheese, deviled eggs, pretzels, and meats.



I believe I ate quite a bit. 





Seriously intense, moist, and attractive cupcakes (chocolate, vanilla, red velvet, and carrot cake) were provided by another local favorite shop, The Blue Stove.

Congratulations, Jeff and Michelle!  And thanks (also to Jeff's mom, who hosted) for the party!

How to Greet Your Guests

When we arrived in Pittsburgh, around 9pm, we were in serious need of a late supper before going to bed.  Luckily, we were staying with Dan's parents, who are great hosts under pressure -- especially when it comes to food.  Together, we made a lovely late night meal.



I'd brought a few "CSA leftovers" -- cherries, carrots, and radishes -- with me on the plane, so those were easy to wash and plate.  I didn't even peel the carrots; they were that fresh and good.



To this, Jim and Martha added juicy tomatoes with basil and mozzarella, as well as sliced bread.



Dan had also picked up some mortadella in Brooklyn, which added to the repast.  It turns out cured meat can be a good host/hostess gift if you don't have too far to travel.
 
P.S. Don't overlook my open-faced radish and butter sandwich.  It was simply delicious.

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