A Few of My Favorite Things

French press coffee in the morning with Sophia: We have a leisurely, decadent routine that makes us happy on so many levels. The French press, a simply elegant way to make coffee that brings out the best flavors. Compared to other coffee makers it's a little labor intensive, that's why Sophia loves it.

She loves to pour the beans into the grinder, grind the beans, pour them into the coffee pot, wait for the tea-pot to whistle, watch mommy pour in the hot water, set the timer for four minutes (something we learned at Brewed Awakenings.) Then her favorite part of the morning, pressing the coffee grounds to the bottom. She uses all her strength to accomplish this goal and it's adorable. Finally mommy pours in a yummy flavored coffee creamer and Sophia stirs it to perfection.

This morning she commented "You like your coffee this light color, it's the same color as you! "Yes" I replied "but it's as sweet as you!" She's still not convinced it's worth drinking but it's definitely my favorite part!

Jaime Oliver: Food Revolution: Speaking of food & favorites. I ADORE this cookbook. I typically avoid cook books opting for web based recipes. But I'm in the process of working my way through this cookbook. I'll keep you posted. The only problem I can for see is keeping enough fresh herbs on hand! Uncultured Persons, Favorite T-Shirt: My cousin (in-law) did it again! An oh-so comfy shirt that I love to wear at home and around Dallas!

Pho 95 New Favorite Restaurant in Arlington: Moving as much as Nate & I did growing up you learn how to befriend a place, like you would a person. Getting to know it's personality. On the corner of Cooper and Bardin in Arlington is Pho 95. It's not just a whole in the wall it's got style and ambience with great Vietnamese food. But it's not a chain, it's a decidedly local feel especially when it's cool enough to sit outside. My tip-- try the Su Yuen Reisling with the BBQ Pork & Noodles, it's served with fresh veggies, drizzle it with the dressing and watch it disappear. Try their sandwich's or their drip coffee! Vietnam was settled by the French and so the influence show's up in the crusty French Baguette sandwich with and asian twist and iced-drip coffee with sweetened condensed milk! To die for!

Cara Black, Paris Mysteries: Last but not least Cara Black's, Amiee Leduc mysteries have been my standard pool reading this summer. I've devoured four of them. All set in Paris in the 90's Aimee Leduc runs a cyber-detective agency but still manages to get out of the office and find trouble in every nook and cranny of Paris.

I love these books for a couple of reasons. First, she manages to get involved with every type of Paris settler. The Jewish WWII community, the Algerian refugee, the Haitians, you name it she's written a book about their connection with the city and their country. It gives you a feel of the real Paris, not just the guidebook version. Yet Black is still able to capture the essence of the Parisian attitude and French--all while teaching you more about the different neighborhoods of Paris, their history and modern inhabitants.

I love Black's formula for a great novel, her integrity with the characters representing real people. Great writing and daring political plot twists make it a great page turner! Also the last four are now on audio book. They're fabulous.