Lovely package from California friend arrived this week.  Its contents, a book:  The Artist, the Cook, and the Gardener  The author leads painting workshops in her gardens in Bonny Doon California and the recipes come from lunches served to her students. It will be my pleasure to read this book, to cook from it, and to begin making a list of all the friends I know who will appreciate this book, too.  It is a book for artists, for cooks, for photographers, and especially for those who think life at the table should be beautiful as well as delicious.   The mushroom tart is a botanical inspired dish worthy of the eye and palate.

I’m anticipating fig season for the Fresh Fig and Black Forest Ham Sandwich with goat cheese.  Meyer Lemon Ice is another easy and beautiful recipe with fresh herbs and edible flowers served as garnish.  Salads from all the seasons are described, painted, and photographed.  You will want a cookbook for the kitchen, one for the coffee table, and one for the guest room.