Delights and creations

Seagull Flight by Alex Mendez.

The days have passed and somehow I’ve managed to keep busy with many projects at home and with a business endeavor in the works. Some of these projects involve the kitchen and delicious food concoctions, others involve sitting at a desk with canvas and paint. One project in particular is an online boutique that I am close to launching. This last project has captured most of my time and heart. It’s been something I’ve talked and dreamed about having for years and soon I’ll have the opportunity to share with you. Meanwhile here is a visual snippet of those other projects, the  sweet delights and imaginary creations that have enraptured me. Plus an outing to relish the day. This was a little escape to a dock, to enjoy the Northwest Sound.

The Vista on the Sound by Alex Mendez, Des Moines, WA.

I find Ina Garten’s recipes delicious and easy to make at home.  This Summer Fruit Crostata was fun to bake and eat. My mouth waters just thinking about it.

Summer Fruit Crostata, part one, by Alex Mendez.

Summer Fruit Crostata, Part two by Alex Mendez

You can find her recipe in this book that I own and love, Barefoot Contessa at Home: Everyday Recipes You’ll Make Over and Over Again or http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/summer-fruit-crostata-recipe/index.html.

Trees Pink Background, by Alex Mendez

And lastly some of my time has been invested in painting and creating. This painting has soft subtle hues of metallic pink tones in the background. Using mixed media, collage and India ink, I’ve been experimenting, enjoying the process and outcome and finding more balance to my compositions.

Embracing Autumn

I fully enjoy this time of year, Autumn. It brings a renewed palette to our eyes as well as many other changes around us. Our daily menu becomes heartier with root vegetables, soups and other nourishing meals. We change our wardrobe to cozier more snugly attire and we find ways to celebrate and be with friends and family.

Here are some of my experiences and vistas from this fall. I’d like to also see your posts on your Autumn adventures or scenery.

The view from my work-space onto the valley of Woodinville, WA framed by the Cascade mountains.

On cold mornings I’m inspired to make my family a plentiful breakfast. One of the local culinary destinations has a delicious French Bakery {ww.atthevineyard.com}. Here we found the perfect bread for making Banana Walnut French Toast.

One of my closest friends had a “Día de los Muertos” celebration. We shared music, tamales and dance.

Mostly this time of year I love the contrast from the colorful hues of leaves against the shadowy backdrop that a cooler overcast day brings.

And of course the spectrum of warm tones all round us has inspired my paintings.