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Tempting Tempe
December 9, 2015
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Beer flights on the balcony
A quick weekend trip to Tempe to take in the sights and sounds of the Festival of the Arts was a perfect get away (but not very far away) for us last weekend. I found a great Air bnb apartment in the perfect location for walking to the action. We discovered new places to drink and dine, and purchased a few pieces of original jewelry at an artist’s booth. My parter Bob is a big beer fan, so we sat for a while overlooking the fair on the balcony of the famous landmark Gordon Biersch Brewery. The beer is okay. The view is fabulous.
Our favorite new spot for food drinks and a lively crowd is Culinary Dropout. We enjoyed wonderful service in a very jovial atmosphere there before we went to the fair. The menu was innovative bistro style food. It was tempting to eat all our meals there, but we wanted to do some investigating into other places. Tempe is full of bars and food offering of all kinds. If there is nothing you like to eat or drink there, you are just too picky.
Culinary Dropouts
Culinary Dropouts
appetizer Culinary Dropout
cocktail menu
Culinary Dropout
The Arts Festival turned the town into a large outdoor party with plenty of opportunity to people watch. We had such a good time we may just make a habit of visiting Tempe. There is much to discover.
art
art vendor
art
reflection
Chalk-A-Lot, Tempe Festival of the Arts
December 7, 2015
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Retro Toy Theme
family fun on the street
As part of the Tempe Festival of the Arts everyone was invited to draw on the street downtown. Participants in the professional art show covered large spaces and stuck to the theme “Retro Toys”. The creativity as well as the stunning artistry was very impressive. Watching the work evolve each day is a major part of the fun for us. The artists don’t mind a little visiting while they work. We left before the end to drive back to Tucson, but think I will stay until the end next year. All of the work is amazing considering the medium and the way they have to work. Many of the artists we met were from Tempe, but they came from all over to compete and make the street look extra special for the holiday.
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- my chalk art in progress
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- my chalk art with neighbors
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- my chalk art
The community participation was the best part. I purchased my chalk and joined the youngsters on the street. I had a very good time meeting my fellow artists on kneepads. I paid $5 to support the festival, and got to keep my chalk to take home and practice on my own driveway. I was pleased with the way my piece turned out, but after I packed up and left it occurred to me that I could have done more than one square..nobody would have stopped me. The way the community mosaic mural looked on Sunday morning was superb. All the styles went together very well to show a patchwork of visitor talent right next to the sidewalk. I am proud to leave my mark on Tempe, and thank that very artsy city for the opportunity to do so.
chalk mural artists
chalk mural artists
retro toy
chalk mural artists
artist on kneepad
retro toy
family fun on the street
artists on kneepads
family fun on the street
Ikebana in the Garden
November 29, 2015
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Ohara School
outdoor exhibit
outdoor exhibit
outdoor exhibit
indoor exhibit
Tomorrow is the last day of the annual Ikebana event at Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson. This delightful addition to the garden’s peaceful atmosphere is wonderfully worth a visit. The works are displayed in all parts of the gardens as well as in two interior galleries. There are well defined spaces that allow contemplation or mindfulness practice at Yume any time you visit. To see these adorned with Ikebana is a real invitation to deep meditation. The work itself is done as a meditative practice, finding the best way to use the plant materials to express art. The relatively short life of the materials is an element of the contemplative experience for me. Like sand mandala they will be discarded in the future, with less ceremony.
I was very lucky to be invited to the arranging pre party where I met artists and teachers working on the show. The universe of Ikebana was unknown to me, but it took a very enjoyable guided tour. It was clear to me that in the group situation some found it more difficult than others to be immersed in the creative process. I asked questions but did not want to get carried away and become a big distraction. Once I tuned in to what was happening it reminded me of yoga. The teacher comes around and gives assistance and guidance to to student while the work is in progress. There is a reverent attitude toward the plant materials, and quiet concentration. When I saw all the finished pieces in the show I was impressed with the work in all of them. They caught a seasonal natural harvest in whimsical harmony with the moment in which it was created. The curation of the show is done so that every piece looks natural and harmonious with the surroundings. For this Thanksgiving weekend Yume, which means dream, is one big flower arrangement containing many arrangements. It is the perfect place to be one with nature right in the center of the city of Tucson.
Ikebana in the garden
Ikebana in the garden
Make sure you take a look around all the corners because there are arrangements tucked into the gardens like a treasure hunt. The indoor galleries are also very well curated to show a range of styles. I am a happy newcomer to this exciting form of art and meditation.
indoor gallery
indoor gallery
indoor gallery
Ikebana Sneak Preview
November 26, 2015
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I was lucky to catch up with Patricia Deridder at the Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson as she prepares for this weekend’s big Ikebana exhibit. She is the founder of the gardens, a teacher, and still a student, of Ikebana. She has organized a group of masters who will show their work over the weekend in the gardens. This very special treat will give the public an idea of the different schools of Ikebana and the individuals who live here and practice these special arts. There are monks in Japan who do this practice as meditation. Anyone involved in this way of looking at flower arranging will discover elements of mediation or merging with nature.
I am thrilled to have this artful peaceful alternative to Black Friday shopping offered in my neighborhood. If you happen to be in Tucson this event is offered with the regular entry fee, or to members as part of our membership. This is a wonderful opportunity to be immersed in nature carefully and beautifully crafted by artists. I am excited to learn more and enjoy the show. The three pieces I watched in progress all came out beautifully.
flower show in progress
freestyle
formal arrangement
flower show in progress
flower show in progress
Patricia does a final edit
freestyle
flower show in progress
Ermanos for Gourmet Tasting
November 22, 2015
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- bar
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- skylight
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- fun space
We tried a new brunch place yesterday and have found a new favorite business in Tucson. Ermanos on 4th Avenue serves brunch on the weekend, which is when we like to go out to eat. We arrived early before the crowds which was lucky because I convinced the chef to make me an off the menu food sampler. She created a wonderful cauliflower creamed soup that had butter but no cream in the ingredients. This rich and luscious starter was accented with an herbal oil, green and brightly basil scented. I was really surprised when she told me there were no potatoes or cream in the smooth rich dish. She happily shared her recipe so I can knock it off at home. This is one main reason I dine in restaurants (finding new recipes to make), so I am especially pleased when there is no resistance to sharing recipes. Chef Claire was gracious s well as creative in her approach. She took very good care of me and my tastebuds.
cauliflower soup
My tasting board included black eyed pea hummus to die for, some perfect home style corn tortilla chips adorned with fresh pico de gallo, a seasoned cubed pear, and some fried avocado with sauce. The flavors were very exciting, each bite a contrasting taste sensation. I enjoyed this flight of food while sipping my flight of wine. It was an explosion of tasty thrills.
vegetarian ceviche
bites with flights
The hip, cool setting and the vast selection of wine, beer and fresh food on the menu attracted us in the first place. They feature local musicians often, and hold special events for beer releases, etc. They run the kind of local business we like to support. The reason we have instantly become loyal customers is the exceptional service. Our server Alberto Noeggerath is knowledgeable and very helpful. Since I rarely drink wine these days I was happy to put myself in his capable hands when selecting three reds to taste in my flight. I also tasted a cava sparkling that rounded out the flavor party at my place setting. All the wines were to my liking, but the zinfandel from Wilcox that came highly recommended was the star of the flight. I would almost order a glass of that next time if it were not for the fun of flighting. The option of tasting and trying new gastronomy with attentive, happy help from the staff makes Ermanos a great dining destination for us. We plan to return often in the future.
Regular customers were arriving as we finished, and we spoke to a couple who were as enthusiastic as we are about the place. We are big fans who recommend Ermanos for party time, gourmet time, or homestyle, homegrown down home downtown Tucson time. This place is perfect for everyone who likes eating and drinking.
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- excellent menu
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- Bob and the beer menu
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- to go
Bob loves beer, and I love dining. We both love fabulous service.
chef Claire Ferguson
server Alberto Noeggerath
Bob ate biscuits and gravy and four beers in a flight.
biscuits and gravy
beer and wine flights
We had to try the beer float for dessert. Loved it!
beer float
Tucson Village Farm Harvest Festival
November 15, 2015
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Today we enjoyed the beautiful weather for family fun at the Tucson Village Farm Harvest Festival. This wonderful working and teaching farm regularly hosts kids on field trips and in special camps. Kids as young as toddlers come with parents to learn about gardening through educational programs designed for them. Food to eat from the site is always included and is often a hands on part of the kids’ experience. I have been to the garden when kids were in a class. The reaction of the students was unanimously delighted. The environment is perfectly created to make the educational impact young students need to improve diets and maybe even the health practices of the entire family. Today many families came out to be part of the festivities which were delightfully focused on farming fun.
University of Arizona students on the farm staff were on hand today selling produce, directing traffic, and being helpful and informative. They were clearly enjoying this day of celebration with the public. The ratio of very young children to adults was high, and the youngsters were all having a real blast. Special activities such as popcorn shucking were ongoing during the day to give families a chance to do some farming/playing with the kids. I believe the farm always does a good job of fulfilling the important educational mission they undertake. This party went above and beyond the everyday excellence. Staff and volunteers did an excellent job of planning and executing a wonderful public event.
entrance
pomegranate
queen’s wreath
teaching garden
rose with bee
student volunteer
garden
student volunteers
student farmers
garden
student farmer
popcorn
garden activities
Transformation Time, New Moon
November 11, 2015
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Tucson Racquet Club
Today there is a new moon. When the moon is obscured each month the heavens create a new canvass on which to paint, a new field in which to plant. I like to notice and honor each new moon because it allows me to recommit to goals on which I have slacked and create new ones. Now I am working on a new routine for my fitness and creative life. I am going to classes at my health club in order to develop a habit for the future. I have found enough excellent classes taught by highly competent teachers to keep me busy, but have to manage to create a new schedule for myself. Although I am a big fan of the classes I am also a bigger fan of a liberated life. There is a little struggle going on between the sensible analysis that clearly appreciates and supports the value of movement classes and the free spirit who is challenged by any organized regime. This is not my inner child per se putting up objections, but my inner slacker. I am reminded of a phrase one of my favorite yoga teachers always used. He says, “Practice is the root of transformation.” I have been freewheeling for years, moving when and where I felt like doing it. I mix weights, yoga, Pilates, walking, dancing, and water work as my heart desires. It is a fine way to be, but now I will shape a new pattern and make it my continuous practice.
Looking back on skills I have learned I see it does take practice to work talents into strengths. I also notice I am drawn to creative and unseen projects and people. Invisible is my favorite way to exist. I like to maintain a certain woman of mystery status. This new moon falls in the sign of Scorpio, a ruler of transformation as well as mystery. I went to postural fitness class this morning and met a new teacher I think is grand. The time of day suits me and her personality is exactly what I like. I plan to harness this intention this month to get completely into the practice of taking at least 4 classes a week in different disciplines. There is no demerit for failure, but I plan to succeed in this effort. Everything is working in my favor, so I need to apply some attention.
Between now and the next new moon I dedicate my concentration to:
- Patience- there is no rush
- Gratitude- it is fortunate to have so many excellent choices
- Beginner’s Mind- I may be jaded from having spent too much time in spa universe
This new habit will serve me well for years to come, and is worth the investment to establish it. Do you have any transformational plans for this special month, gentle reader? It is a most propitious time to go for something new. By the time January rolls around I plan to be firmly established in my new routine.
K-9 Cuties of the Tucson Police Department
November 9, 2015
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not real dogs
At the Cops and Rodders Car Show citizens have the chance to meet the police force. At the top of the popularity list are the canine cops. They attract everyone’s attention, from small children to senior citizens. I met Officer Evo last year and discovered that K-9 cops can have very sweet and social personalities. I am sure he would prefer to be riding in his car on the way to a case because he loves to do his regular job. But when his work includes posing for the camera or generally charming the crowd he fulfills his duty with personality and style.
strike a pose with Evo
strike a pose with Evo
strike a pose with Evo
center of attention
Officer Evo himself
charming the crowd
Officer Evo himself
Officer Evo Charms the Crowd
A new dog was making her first appearance at the car show this year. Officer Cookie is a Labrador Retriever who is a specialist working for the bomb squad. She is in training to learn many thousands of different explosive components by scent. She is only two years old, so she exhibits puppy enthusiasm al the time. She had some trouble containing herself during the national anthem to everyone’s delight. Since bomb dogs work in crowds her friendly attitude is essential to her job performance. She has less general and more specific training as a cop. She will not learn to do many of the things Evo does because she is all about explosives.
Officer Cookie makes friends
Officer Cookie makes friends
While Officer Evo handled his adoring fans I had a chance to talk to Officer Rumsley, his trainer and partner, about the work they do. Evo is a Belgian Malinois, also sometimes called a Belgian Shepard. He was born in Czech Republic where the breed is raised for sport. He was trained by Officer Rumsley and goes home at night to live at the Rumsley home. He does not play with other dogs out in the world but he has a canine friend at home. When they go searching together they look for drugs or people, one at a time. When Evo gets as close as he can get to the source of the scent he scratches in the case of drugs or barks when he finds people. He does communicate clearly, but Officer Rumsley always initiates everything they do. Evo does not, like Lassie, ever say to Officer Rumsley “Timmy has fallen in the well. Come quickly!” They work as a team with Officer Rumsley making all the decisions. This seems like the best format because underneath his extensive discipline and training he is still a dog. It is always a treat to get to see him.
Officer Rumsley
Souped Up Law Enforcement Vehicles, 2015
November 8, 2015
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Maximum Migramobile
The Tucson Police Foundation holds a giant car show every November that is very popular with the public. I enjoy seeing all the well cared for vehicles as well as the cops of various kinds on display. The Border Patrol was on hand with a truly amazing vehicle they souped up as a hyper dune buggy. It has a Corvette engine and looks like Road Warrior. I am sure it scares those it chases. I am scared by the latest intelligence the Border Patrol agent laid on me. The farmers in Sonora are all switching to growing poppies because the weed market is no longer profitable. This is terrible news for the US, now trending heavily into heroin as our current drug darling. He said only two thirds of the drugs that enter the US travel through here. When I asked how he knew that without busting them all he replied that they have their ways of knowing. This is all pretty creepy, but the vehicle is impressive. Tempe Police Department entered for the first time this year with a confiscated very hot car they took form a drug dealer who used it for work. This special police car in use for “crime prevention”. This makes me laugh. Tempe police are saying we will drive your car after we bust you. I bet it does do some crime prevention.
Tempe’s crime prevention car
Tempe’s crime prevention car
It is fun to talk to the helicopter pilots who hover over our neighborhood so often in the night. They land the helicopter at the park so they can show it off to the citizens all day. There are many great examples of antique law enforcement vehicles every year too. The show brings together love for cars and history creating a time the public interact with the cops in an informal (not enforcement) atmosphere. It is my favorite thing the cops do in my city. My favorite cop in the city, canine Officer Evo was present, hamming it up for the cameras and winning hearts and minds.
antique cop car
TPD helicopter
The next post here will be devoted to Officer Evo and a new canine officer on the scene this year, Officer Cookie of the bomb squad, a lab who loves to party. The canine cops both fascinate and thrill me. They are very professional, but underneath it all they are dogs. Stay tuned to learn more about dogs in law enforcement and the cops who love them.
Officer Evo, TPD
Nuts for November
November 6, 2015
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I had a fire in the wood stove last night, officially welcoming the winter to our house. This week we welcomed the nutcracker and some mixed nuts to the kitchen. I am not sure why I feel so much satisfaction in nut cracking, but I do. It slows down the process and makes me appreciate the taste of my nutty prize when I manage to crack the shell and extract it. This time of year we start to eat nuts more often because they are featured in seasonal fall dishes as part of a healthy harvest. Arizona grows wonderful pecans and pistachios, two of my favorite crops. Both are healthy and add rich flavor to all kinds of dishes.
We are big fans of cheese and pear combinations, so this month I will make us a pear pecan roquefort cheesecake. That has to be a winner with those ingredients. Brussels sprouts have arrived on the stalk as a favorite vegetable, so we will try the pistachio cranberry sprouts as a savory treat as well. Nuts always make appearances in cookies and sweets, but this year I want to try the extravagant pumpkin pecan cobbler. This will be right up our alley for dessert, and a new way to use both November favorites, pumpkin and pecans.
This weekend we have a neighborhood potluck party. I plan to take some soup, but this pineapple cream cheese spread covered with pecans is so cute I think I will make one of those for the party too. It is simple, but looks really festive.
Trader Joe’s brings out small cans of exotic nut oils this time of year which I enjoy using to add rich flavor to all kinds of dishes. Using walnut or pistachio oils for roasting vegetables delivers fabulous punch. Gravy based in nut oil is lovely and mysteriously rich. I still like butter, but like to variations that nut oils can bring to the fall table. Evidence keeps piling in about the benefits of including nuts in the diet. While I do believe the research I am nuts for nuts because they taste so great. Do you have a favorite nut, gentle reader?
fall harvest
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