I had an old college friend over for lunch today. I am not insinuating that Emily is old... it's just that we go way, way back. And while we have seen each other here and there over the years, our lives took different paths and so our schedules were varied. I've been very good about following through with my New Year's resolution. (Partly, I am sure, because it had nothing to do with a gym!) I told myself that I would reconnect with all those people who were near and dear to me in the past. People I've let go, slip away because I was busy, or lazy or whatever. And so, largely thanks to Facebook I am back in touch with so many wonderful people. Memories that I thought had been buried have been unearthed, some good, some bad, and many, very funny ones. So I noticed that Emily was on FB and I sent her a note a few months ago. She posted a message on my wall a few days ago. And so we decided to get together and reminisce. I offered to have her over for lunch since the kids had no school today. With no running around I could enjoy some time for a play date of my very own! I made a Valentine Salad with heart of palm, artichoke hearts, fresh mozzerella that had been marinating in an olive oil based dressing, garbanzo beans and kalamata olives with a light vinaigrette. We enjoyed our salads with baguettes and a garlic, olive oil and butter spread. We enjoyed a lovely bottle of wine and a bottle of Pellegrino. For dessert (when the boys decided to make an appearance) we had strawberries, miniature heart shaped fudge brownies and cranberry almond shortbread. The wine, the food, the company made for a nearly 4 hour lunch and a perfectly wonderful afternoon. (Menu and recipes are posted over at The Entertaining Kitchen.)
