Manic Monday

Let's do a catch up.

The first batch of cashew brittle ended up in the trash. Like I mentioned, it's fickle. This stove is a little different and the batch turned out kinda sticky. Don't want to pull a crown off. However, the second batch turned out great.

Sunday morning we headed off to Bechler's Bakery in Pacific Grove. It's just over the hill from Carmel-by-the-sea. Carmel-by-the-sea then Pebble Beach then Pacific Grove then Monterey and Seaside. They really just run from one to the next with no natural demarcation.

Bechler's is one of the fine bakeries in the area. It tops any bakery in Houston, and in the area it is one of several great bakeries. We love their ham and cheese quiche. It is superb. A definite for anyone who visits the area. We tried to have a slice last week when we went to the Carmel Valley Roasting Company (they carry it), but they were out!!!!

The remainder of the day was taken up with Jame's fiftieth birthday celebration. His actual birthday is tomorrow, but the party was yesterday. James lives with his partner Scott (our massage therapist) and his 92 year old mother. James grew up in Carmel and still has many close friends from his youth. To me this is a little foreign, but I guess if Rex and I had stayed in Nebraska, we too would see old friends.

The party was a lot of fun. Scott had pulled together a nice spread. Friends and family kept the party going well past our departure in the early evening. If you watch the video, Scott is holding the cake and Barbara (James mother is in the opening shot).

We got home, played with the dogs and watched a "True Blood".

Today went by quickly. Monday is massage day. We had early massages today because Scott's birthday present to James was a trip to Tassajara (including Barbara). Tasshara is a zen hot springs retreat way up in the hills of Carmel Valley. They will be spending two nights there. We had never heard of the place before, but it seems to be well known. You can check it out on the web.