Oct 1, 2012 |
Saturday was National Coffee Day. To celebrate this, and Second Daughter’s successful Mary Kay kick off party, we spontaneously drove down to Casey’s Cupcakes at the Mission Inn. It was close to 7pm before we even hit the road. But after the Mary Kay party, we were all dressed up with otherwise no place to go.
The Three Amigos: Dot, Me, Elisa
To The City at Twilight
I put in My Soundtrack, which is great for roadtrips. A few miles down the freeway, and Elisa squealed as The Partridge Family began to play. “Oh my gosh! I LOVE this song!” I quickly told her the story of how David Cassidy sang to me. We hadn’t even arrived at the Inn yet, and already we were laughing at great memories.
Dot and Elisa chatted throughout the drive, sang along, and took many photos. We each had our iPhones, and since we were all together, our photo albums are similar, if not identical.
Elisa had never been to the Inn before. Dot and I find great joy in introducing others to Our Favorite Place. While our intent was only to walk around and grab a cup o’ Joe at Casey’s Cupcakes, as usual it turned into so much more.
We began by parking a block away. Seems a lot of other people also were inspired to visit the Inn.
The Inn at Twilight
It was perfect walking weather. The humidity was low, the temperature was mild. At every corner we could smell either coffee or garlic.
Elisa at the Flowers
Outside Las Campanas
The Avenue
The low-lit neon signs signaled that most stores along the path were closed. All except the Mission Galleria: a four-story consignment store filled with antiques and wonderful treasures. This was our first stop, where The Dots tried on nearly every hat they could find, and a few for me too.
The Dots in Hats
And Hats…
And Hats!
When we realized the clock was ticking, we meandered back across the avenue and strolled the short distance to Casey’s. Detouring first, of course, through the halls of the Inn just in time to visit Napoleon and Josephine. Napoleon was quite friendly, but Josephine was feeling a little shy.
Friendly Napoleon
Bashful Josephine
There’s a corner where the Spa, the entrance to the gift shop, and one open-air pathway all connect. It is my favorite corner. Just standing there, surrounded by old brick and mosaics is a visual endorphin. Then the scent of fresh eucalyptus oils greets your nostrils, immediately soothing any stress still being held in the body. Just a short moment of standing there with eyes closed is all that’s needed to be transported away from the busyness of the world, and have a truly individual experience.
After this, we finally made it to Casey’s Cupcakes. The outdoor tables were vacant, which made it easy for us to get comfortable and enjoy our treats.
Happy National Coffee Day!
Dot, Me and Elisa at Casey’s Cupcakes
Of course, having heard about the exceptional Tiramisu at the Bella Trattoria next door, we stepped over for a second dessert. Since Dot isn’t a fan of coffee and had just eaten her sweet treat, she opted for a steaming bowl of Creamy Tomato Soup. The menu was so enticing, that Elisa and I followed her lead and shared both a bowl of Minestrone soup, and a Tiramisu.
Dot’s Favorite: Creamy Tomato Soup
Minestrone and Me
Our Tiramisu
Ambiance at the Bella Trattoria
After indulging our tastebuds, we meandered past the door leading to the Rotunda. Unfortunately, it’s closed to the public. Dot had jaunted to the nearest restroom, leaving Elisa and I to drool when a gentleman came up and used his key-card to unlock the door. I joked, “Oh, look! He has a magic card!” He turned and smiled. He told us that part of the Inn is generally off-limits… but if we promised not to jump over the railings, he’d let us in. Elisa and I tried to assure him we would behave, but our girlish giggles gave us away. He held the door open for us, and introduced himself. “If anyone stops you,” he said, “You tell ’em, Tony sent ya. Tell ’em I said it was okay.” To which I promised him, “You are so going to be named in my Blog!” So here you are, Tony. Thank you! Dot scurried up, and we ventured into the Magic Door.
We spent nearly half an hour climbing level after level of the Rotunda, photographing every angle and entrance. It was ethereal. Like being thrown back in time.
Looking Down on the Dots
Rotunda
The Fountain at the Rotunda
We found ourselves on Author’s Row overlooking the Reception Area. A wedding had taken place, and people were celebrating! There in the corner, we saw Tony! He was busy making sure everyone was having a wonderful time. We walked around the level, showing Elisa the doors to Ann Rice’s room, the Herb Garden, and other sights on the Fourth Floor. Then we took the elevator down and found ourselves mistakenly led to in front of the Chapel. We were unwitting party crashers, who quickly found our way back to where we were supposed to be.
Strolling through the Main Lobby, we stopped at the Front Desk to ask general questions about the Inn, about rates and reservations.
Helpful Chris
Dot’s 18th birthday is in six weeks. Can you imagine what she might be wanting?
Yet again, Tony walked by with a wave and a smile. Yet again, we giggled. It must be a prerequisite for employment at the Inn to be good looking. I mean… really good looking. Just sayin’…
After we took up enough of Chris’s time with questions and “What If’s”, Dot was thirsty enough to warrant us walking the short distance to the Presidential Lounge. The music of two wedding receptions nearby mixed with the sounds of the Piano Bar. Elisa and I opted to enjoy an Adult Beverage. As she first delivered bottled water to Dot waiting outside the Lounge, the Bartender made my night. He couldn’t figure out my relationship with Elisa. I had called her “Girlfriend” a few minutes earlier. We were both spunky and outgoing. Finally he pointed in her missing direction and asked, “Sister?” I laughed and said, “Daughter.” He was honestly astonished.
I know bartenders get paid to flirt and make conversation. But this was honest astonishment. And it felt great. Then I asked him to make a virgin drink for my underage daughter waiting in the Lobby. Her Shirley Temple was On The House.
From the Presidential Lounge
Yeah. I’m so going back there again.
The Presidential Lounge is a wonderful experience. Small, intimate, upscale. You needn’t be a guest of the Inn to enter. It feels like a higher class of CHEERS. And the entrances lead right into the Main Lobby. So even though Dot was sitting at a table in the Lobby, it took less than five minutes for us to rejoin her, drinks in hand. The Inn welcomes guests to stroll with their beverages; making it an even nicer experience. We weren’t limited to a corner barstool. We could sit, walk, talk, and enjoy. Which we did.
Then we strolled outside yet again. The streets are lit with low yellow-ambient lighting, and light strings in the trees. It’s not garish or bright or modern. “Strolling” is the perfect word. We weren’t in any rush to get anywhere. We ambled and danced our way up and down Orange Street.
Chainmail Jacket at Parrott’s
A band was playing at a corner bar, and we stopped just long enough to enjoy the music. And the pick-up lines. “Hey, girls! The party’s over here!” “Where ya going?” I pointed to Dot and yelled, “Underage! But thank you for asking!” Elisa fits right between us. Old enough to go out with adults, young enough to keep my teenager company and not feel like a babysitter. Of course, that’s what Family is. We blend well. Period.
Then it was time to get home.
We only showed Elisa the tip of the iceberg. In a few weeks, we’ll be back. Maybe on a Saturday morning. To experience the University Photography Museum. The Pizza Parlor. The Farmer’s Market.
Or maybe we’ll just save our money and give Dot the Birthday of a Lifetime. After all, isn’t that what Family is for?
If you get there before we do, tell Tony we said hi. And we’ll be back.
Ambient Avenue
And Frankly, My Dear… that’s all she wrote!
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Destination: Mission Inn, Riverside, CA
Jul 28, 2012 |
It’s no secret that the Mission Inn in Riverside, CA is one of my family’s favorite destinations. Whether it’s just for an afternoon of strolling or a weekend getaway, this beautiful and historic location has much to offer people of all ages.
Three of my favorite photos were taken by either myself or my daughter during a Three-Generation Stay in April, 2011. It was the first time my mother, myself, and my daughter were on the same vacation.
Peaceful Morning
Who I Am [Photo Credit: Hannah Realy]
Tiramisu at the Bella Trattoria
The Miller family bought the Glenwood Cottage in the 1870s. In 1880, young Frank Miller purchased it from his father with the intent to develop it into a fine retreat; an oasis in the middle of the California desert. What originally began as a boarding house would later become the historically renowned Mission Inn, now owned by Duane Roberts who invested much time and money in restoring the Inn.
In the beautiful Riverside area, the Mission Inn has blossomed into an internationally renowned retreat. The list of famous guests continues to this day. Many authors have stayed at, and written about, the Mission Inn. Last year, our stay included the “Of Love and Evil” package, featuring an autographed copy of Anne Rice’s book of the same title. Noted singers, performers, authors, actors, political persons and Presidents have signed their names to the proverbial Guest Book.
Our room was one of the Glenwood Suites on the Third Floor. Tucked into one of the corners, our view encompassed the Clock Tower, Author’s Row, and overlooked the Spanish Patio. [The above photo, “Peaceful Morning”, was taken from our doorway in the early morning.]
View of Author’s Row [Photo Credit: Hannah Realy]
Symbol of Riverside [Photo Credit: Hannah Realy]
Casey’s Cupcakes [Photo Credit: Hannah Realy]
But what I really appreciate about the Mission Inn is that I never feel like a tourist there. I feel valued. It doesn’t matter if I’m reserving the cheapest room or Keeper of the Inn Suite [not that I’ve yet had that privilege… I’m saving that for my Best Seller Celebration]: the Mission Inn staff is always courteous, smiling, friendly, helpful, and appreciative. The grounds are always clean. And the food is always memorable. From a small bite of room service to the Veal Lasagna at the Bella Trattoria on the corner to the sweet desserts of Casey’s Cupcakes to the individual Keurig coffee personally blended in our rooms.
No morsel is mundane. No view is ordinary. No visit is just a memory. Each is an experience to be savored and shared. And, as much as possible, repeated.
Presidential Suite Patio
Architecture
The Turret
Dot on the Fourth Floor
Rooftop Herb Garden
Refreshing Fountains
Rooftop Herbs
Perimeter [Photo Credit: Hannah Realy]
Festival of Lights [Photo Credit: Hannah Realy]
Author’s Row at Evening [Photo Credit: Hannah Realy]
Ambient Fountain
Find the Mission Inn on the web:
MissionInn.com
On Facebook: The Mission Inn
On twitter: @MissionInnHotel
And Frankly, My Dear… that’s all she wrote!
This post is linked up with Frankly, My Dear’s… Destination Station!
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Jun 16, 2012 |
My friend Mary lives in Canada. Which is prob’ly a good thing.
We’re both Chocoholics, and if she lived any closer to me we’d most likely be at each others’ door every day sharing the dark sweets in its various forms.
That doesn’t stop us from still encouraging one another to indulge without the other one present. Thank goodness we know our limits. So we’re actually more apt to post pictures on each others’ Facebook wall. Most of the time.
Beautiful, lovely, delicious looking chocolate pictures.
My friend Del introduced me to this website, Foodimentary.com. It’s a fun blog that tells you what foods to celebrate each day. Each. Day.
Seriously, Del?! I owe you the biggest plate of baked goods evvver.
So. Yeah. I finally checked out the blog and discovered that June 16th is National Fudge Day. How awesome is that?
I’m betting you can guess what I’ll be doing after the morning housecleaning, right?! Yup. I’m gonna try my hand at making fudge.
I’m so happy I could cry chocolate tears.
Now, I don’t have any photos of fudge since I haven’t made it yet, but I do have some great photos of my past delicious chocolate goodies.
I hope they inspire you to try your own hand at making some wonderful treats. Enjoy!
The Tiramisu at Bella Trattoria, Mission Inn in Riverside, CA. The coffee was also delectably delicious.
My date with Bocelli.
These donuts will be great when dipped in my ganache.
I made this batch when I wrote my blog review of “Julie & Julia.”
Homemade donuts. Yum!
I didn’t make this great Cheesecake, but it was the finishing touch to my Bunco at Tiffany’s party.
Authentic NYC Junior’s Cheesecake
This is some of the best baking chocolate ever.
Direct from New York!
My Scharffen Berger Prize Package
And it makes a really great holiday drink.
Chocolate Martini made with Scharffen Berger Chocolate.
I use my Wilton Cake Decorating Kit
for more than just icing.
Best Cake Kit
This great ganache was used as a topping
and also a soft chocolate candy.
Making Ganache
These chocolate-covered pretzels are my current
favorite
homemade treat.
Chocolate Covered Pretzels
I hope by now you’re drooling and making out your grocery list. Go on, now! It’s time to make some fudge!
And Frankly, My Dear… that’s all she wrote!
Aug 29, 2011 |
by Molly Jo Realy @MollyJoRealy
Some years ago, I was having a conversation with my friend, Jenny. We were comparing our concerns and To-Do Lists when she noted, “Boy. You really have a lot on your plate!” To which I quickly replied, “Yes, but it’s not mine, and I’m being force-fed!”
Humanity is in the business of catering, but sometimes we overload ourselves. Do you ever feel that you’re carrying too much on your plate? I’m not talking about stacking spinners five plates high… all that does is turn you into a circus act. I’m talking about adding more to your one plate than what you can [should] healthily manage.
We’re all trained caterers in life. From a very early age, we learn to make other people happy, to be selfless and give more. We give our time, money, attention, emotions, and sometimes, parts of ourselves that we shouldn’t give away. It’s very fulfilling to help others. And sometimes that means taking things off their plate.
But what happens when others take advantage of that? Skooch those veggies over, time to make room for someone else’s share. They heap it on; more on your plate, less on theirs. And when word gets out that you’re a polite eater, the next thing you know, you’re eating three kinds of pie with homemade whipped cream, and you can’t even see the roast beef that you selected.
Catering to others is a good business, but like all businesses, you have to have a plan for success, or else you’ll sink.
It’s not selfish to say no to those extra sweets that just pack on the pounds. These are the people who talk so nicely to you and sugar you up, just to get what they want. The ones who manipulate you into thinking it’s all good, when deep down inside you know too much of a good thing is… just too much.
I personally don’t like beets. Beets are those bitter bleeders that seep and discolor the other food on your plate. I can manage them in tiny doses, but any more than that and … no thank you. Funny how they usually appear around the holidays. Beet People are those who slowly take over and bring their brand of flavoring to other foods. It’s always all about them. Those creamy mashed potatoes and gravy? A tad red now, a tad sharp.
Then there’s the Salad People. These are the people who know how to maintain a very healthy lifestyle and aren’t afraid of telling you what you’re doing wrong. The more sweets and carbs you load up on, the more green they dish out. Full of advice and fiber. Just stop the bad eats, and have a leaf. You’ll be fine. They do it. So can you. Unless you’re allergic to their brand of dressing. Unless you want more in your life than just rabbit food. Unless you want to eat the not-so-good-for-you stuff, just once in a while.
My favorite dish is the Meat and Potatoes. You know, the main course. These are the people who add sustenance to life. Sometimes it’s not quite flavored the way we hope, but add a dash of this and a pinch of that, and soon enough, it’s delicious. The reason we’re all here. Main Course people are your family, your best friends. The ones who are just comforting to have around and who help nourish you even when you don’t realize it.
Spices are those little extra touches in life. Salt for seasoning and preservation. Pepper for attention. Some flavors mix well, some don’t. Some you can take in large amounts, others notsomuch. Spices are anything, or anyone, in life. People. Money. Jobs. Entertainment. Distractions. Hopes. Dreams. Fears.
The funny thing is, I’ve never seen anyone use every single spice all at the same time. And some spices just don’t belong on certain foods. You wouldn’t pepper a pound cake, would you? Or dip an ice cream cone in gravy? I think not.
Being in the catering business means knowing what flavors blend, and what ones don’t. It means knowing proportions are just as important as presentation. You can’t serve an entire menu on one plate, or even at one function. We are all called to help each other, to cater to each other’s needs.
It’s okay to add seasonings and sustenance, and to enjoy their offerings as well. In fact, we’re called together in this potluck of life, to share and celebrate. To try new flavors, new foods. But that doesn’t mean ignoring our own needs for their sake.
It’s important to know that it’s also okay to say no. It’s okay to say, “This is my plate, and this is what I need,” or even “I’m allergic.” And when others start to heave their helpings upon you, it’s okay to say, “No thanks, I’ve had enough.” You know what you can take and what you can’t.
So sometimes you just have to set the big plate down and reach for dessert: that finishing touch that just sets things right. I’ll take the tiramisu over there, please. And a coffee. Thanks.
My date with Bocelli.
And Frankly, My Dear… that’s all she wrote!
