UNCERTAIN OF THE UN-CRUISE

Honestly, I was not exactly sure what to expect when I accepted the invitation to join the inaugural voyage of the Safari Endeavor's "un-cruise" celebrating her Christening.  (See more explanation of the "un-cruise" at the following site:  http://www.innerseadiscoveries.com/ .  

The only cruise I had ever been on was the large ship, “amusement park” type.  So, spending the weekend on a small ship, with people I didn’t know, in the middle of a large body of water seemed curious to me. 

UNEXPECTED

The celebration began at Seattle’s Fishermen’s Terminal with free-flowing champagne and excitement thick in the salty air.  I witnessed InnerSea Discoveries’ CEO, Dan Blanchard, speaking proudly of his ships as if they were his own children.  He spoke just as highly of this staff and colleagues.  His hugs and amiable kisses on the cheek showed that he meant every word of those high praises.  It was like a family celebrating the birth of its newest member.

For me, as a self-proclaimed foodie, it got even better at dinner.  Who knew that a true gourmet meal could be prepared on a ship?!  Previewed by a cocktail hour with a sweet-sounding Latin jazz band playing in the background, the party moved on to the Endeavor’s dining room.  Some of you may not care that I am about to describe the menu of the night, but please humor me.  You’ll probably be hungry by the end…

-          Coho salmon tartare with avocado mousse served with homemade flatbread crackers

-          Tender roasted duck on a bed of butternut squash and Swiss chard

-          Passion fruit tart in a nut & shortbread crust served with a web of burnt sugar & raspberries

Throughout dinner, I had the opportunity to meet Tim Jacox (Vice President) and Eric Gier (CFO), as well as Astrid and Naomi, whom I email frequently from work.  The people at InnerSea are even more amazing in person! Eric had my husband and me in stitches telling his off-the-wall stories until 11:00 p.m. around the dinner table!  I could already tell this was a special group and that it was going to be a special weekend.

UNLIMITED

Have you ever awakened to a gorgeous view of land and water moving swiftly past your window, lazily prepared yourself for the day, then savored the warmth of a fresh oatmeal scone while waiting for the latte you just ordered?  But wait…it gets even better.  Twenty minutes later, the chef calls you to the dining room for a full breakfast of lemon ricotta pancakes, eggs, bacon…the works!

How could this day get any better?  Well, it did somehow.  Perhaps it was due to a 20 minute massage by Noel in the warm breeze of the sun deck, a kayaking excursion on Puget Sound, inspiring conversations with our travel companions, spotting majestic bald eagles, watching a traditional Native American canoe race while visiting the quaint town of Coupeville during its annual Water Festival, exploring Penn Cove – where the famous shellfish originate, belly-laughing with our newly made friends, and enjoying yet more incredible meals.  All the while experiencing outstanding service by the staff such as sweet Meryl – a true Southern Belle, Matt – the friendly expedition guide who WILL stand up to the Coast Guard for you, efficient Jen, and Chris who quickly feels like your kid brother.  We were pampered and attended to the entire trip!  Little things, like having glass mugs of hot chocolate with Bailey’s and whipped cream waiting for us as we got off of a chilly & wet zodiac ride, were so appreciated.  It was this attention to detail that made the un-cruise experience over the top.

UNHURRIED

It may seem like it was a jam-packed weekend, but it was actually very relaxing.  Yes, we had a fun-filled weekend, but there is a calming effect when one is on the water with no responsibilities or deadlines.  Despite all the activities available, there was definitely a nature of “un-cruise” flexibility and laid back attitude throughout the trip.  It was almost therapeutic to fell detached from the world for a moment and to be free of the pull of day-to-day life.  A weekend of true leisure was something that I, personally, didn’t only enjoy but NEEDED.

UNFORGETTABLE

My un-cruise experience surpassed every expectation I had set for it.  I am absolutely honored to have taken part in the inaugural journey of the Safari Endeavor before she ventures on to Alaska this summer.  Reflecting upon my adventures, the memories made, and how close I became to the other travelers in just one weekend is incredible!  Then, I think of how so many others are going to gain those same encounters and cherish them forever.  More than the beautiful ship, I believe it is the beauty of those experiences that is truly something to celebrate.

P.S. - I found this little treat during our time in Coupeville.  Loved it so much I HAD to incorporate it into my blog!  Haha!

Tender Tennessee Christmas

Growing up and hearing this Amy Grant song, I never realized how befitting the following lines would be in my future life: "Rockies are callin'. Tender snow fallin'. Somebody said it's four feet deep. But it doesn't matter. Give me the laughter. I'm gonna choose to keep another tender Tennessee Christmas. The only Christmas for me."

So far, a Tennessee Christmas has been the only one for me! We were so fortunate to be able to travel down south this December to spend 10 wonderful days with family and friends. It was so comforting to be belly-laughing, reminiscing, telling stories, and sharing meals with my constants from a place that will always be "home".

As always, I am going to highlight the delightful culinary treats I encountered, but let me preface by stating that the absolute highlight of Tennessee are the PEOPLE in my life!

Like these people...

...and these people.

Jordan and I were welcomed upon our arrival to Nashville on December 25th by sweet southern accents and a semi-tropical climate. (Compared to Montana anyways.) We were also welcomed by Christmas dinner!

Jordan's mom, aka Big She-She, made a spectacular meal! Sweet potato casserole with a pecan & coconut topping, fresh salad with fruit and feta, hot rolls, and DEEP FRIED TURKEY. Listen...this is the way to eat a turkey, people!!

My parents opened up their home for a little shindig the day after Christmas. Queso with homemade tortilla chips & bourbon apricot ham were compliments of a favorite local restaurant, CHEF'S MARKET. I fancied up some baked brie with pastry ribbons and fresh fruit.

Michelle, my belle.

My long-time fellow dancer/house shopping companion/Doyle & Debbie fanatic friend came to visit! Her gift to Julz and I...none other than a bottle of "Kung Fu Girl" wine. I appreciate the way this lady makes me laugh...

BAKING DAY with the Johnston ladies!!

Enjoying an afternoon of chatting over hot mugs of French press coffee, solving the world's problems, and taste-testing the cookie dough along the way.

We baked chocolate chip cookies from a Pinterest recipe which called for pastry flour AND bread flour. Seemed a bit odd for a cookie recipe. But whatever. I'll go with it because these little morsels of goodness with huge shards of bittersweet chocolate were divine!

Duck, Duck, GOOSE!

Julie introduced me to my favorite eatery that I visited on this trip! My little sister is becoming quite the foodie herself!

SILLY GOOSE in up-and-coming East Nashville definitely has a localvore, farm to table vibe. The hostess sets a fresh peony in a mason jar on your table as you are seated. We ordered rosemary lemonade and herbed iced green tea, again in mason jars. Our delectable sandwiches were an array of grilled local vegetables hugged by perfectly toasted artisan breads, and the signature herbed cous cous was so fluffy it was barely existent.

TWELFTH ANNUAL PROGRESSIVE DINNER!

There was this group of 15 girls formed my sophomore year of high school. This was a very creative group of friends who called themselves, "The Fifteen". We got together for birthdays each month and had a progressive dinner every Christmas. This year we did not "progress" since the expedition between 5 different houses seems a bit overkill, but we had some good southern cookin'!

We have been with each other through marriages, babies, great losses, hard times, life changes...everything that comes with 12 years of friendship. This event is not about the food or the Dirty Santa gift exchange (although this does get QUITE entertaining!) It is about a camaraderie that absolutely cannot be replaced! We are 15 extremely different women and we have been throughout the journey, but there is an unexplained, unquestionable bond that we share.

For the birds.

Elizabeth wanted to name her steel cut oat, flax, honey, peanut butter, cranberry breakfast treats something other than "oat balls". And I can see why.

Sumalee looked pensively at one of the yummy treats and decided that they looked like the food she put out for the birds. Hence the new name for them...Bird Bites. Appetizing??...

CREMA

This local coffee shop is newer, so I had never had the pleasure of going. I read about it on a blog that I follow, Eat.Drink.Smile. Therefore, it was a must-see.

Apparently, Dave Barnes was also a must-see because I saw him here. It made me remember the days of seeing "famous" people around Nashville and what a commonality that used to be.

FOOD TRUCKS are the newest craze around Music City USA.

Therefore, it made my list of "things to do" while in Nashville.

The GRILLED CHEESERIE did not disappoint!

Wow...the all time best grilled cheese sandwiches I ever tasted!

- Brie, turkey, pumpkin seeds, pesto, roasted butternut squash -

- Gouda, ham, fried farm egg, and spicy brown mustard -

Random

I loved this new addition to the official Nashville poster collection. It is in remembrance of the big flood in 2011 and how the city rebounded from that huge tragedy.

Back on track....more FOOD!

jeni's ice cream

Yet another outstanding East Nashville eatery.

I loved their mission statement. First things first..."We believe in glorious butterfat."

Enough said.

I tried salty caramel, fig and goat cheese, and bumbleberry crisp flavors.

Mom, Julie, and I cooked a random, but delicious, meal for the Canaday-4.

It was fun to have just the girls and dad at home for a meal, just like old times.

Homemade whipping cream dumplins, fried ham, fresh salad, and roasted spaghetti squash.

MARCHE

Artisan.French.Simple.

Always a fave of mine. Consistent, creative, fresh food in an atmosphere that takes you across the pond to a little bistro in Paris.

French onion soup & Cauliflower/Onion tarte were my choices "de jour".

frozen yogurt = nashville trend

I was beginning to believe that a lady named CeCe was taking over the city! There is a Sweet CeCe's yogurt shop on every corner of town! No exaggeration!

Naturally, I HAD to try it out to see what the big deal was.

As you can see, the toppings line the back wall of the shop. And that is not all...there is a bar of candies, fruits, sauces, etc. along another wall!!

Jordan and I took a night to go on a DATE! Actually, we dropped my parents off at the Ryman for a Glen Campbell concert, THEN went on a date :)

Big decision: WHERE in the world to eat??!!

We chose J. ALEXANDER'S.

It was always our go-to place when we found ourselves downtown with an appetite and a budget. So, definitely a good nostalgic location.

The roasted acorn squash with almonds and brown sugar, house-made veggie burger, and orzo salad met every expectation of one of my Nashville favorites.

Here's to you, Nashville!

Home of country music and wanna-be stars.

Home of the Titans and the Grand Ole Opry.

Home of gourmet restaurants and greasy spoons.

Home of friendly folks and bad drivers.

Home of Goo Goo Clusters and Loveless Cafe biscuits.

Home of precious family and forever friends.

Home of a lifetime of memories.

Home of my history.

Home.

Hello Stranger

So, it's been a while. I really have a commitment issue with my blogging habit when it gets nice outside. In Montana, you have to take advantage of those few short months of sunshine and warmth during which I, for one, am OUTSIDE as much as possible! But now that the ground is covered in white for the next 8 months, I think it's time to settle back in front of my computer and attempt my writing once again. I must say...it's good to be back...

I know this is technically a "food blog", but this entry is in honor of some special PEOPLE in my life. And, of course, I will tie in some of the food we enjoy together!

This Christmas, Jordan and I are heading south to Tennessee to be with FAMILY for the holidays. I guess maybe the fact that I have not been back to Nashville since LAST DECEMBER has made me a little emotional about my family and friends there. As I was looking through pictures of my parents' visit to Montana last summer, the sentimental tug on my heart was beckoning me to blog about it. I'm such a sap!

Ed and Sue.

First stop upon arriving in Missoula...naturally a brewery!

Big Sky is a personal favorite. (Mainly because the samples here are FREE, and I can usually drink no more than ONE of the FOUR 4 ounce glasses they give you. Such a light weight!)

This is a familiar sight for anyone who has ever taken a peek at my blog.

BIGA PIZZA is an absolute MUST for visitors to Zootown. Also a must is starting your meal there with the antipasta platter. This was my parents' inaugural meal in Big Sky Country!

My father should get royalties for the promotion of Montana products during his time here.

In this particular case, Mr. Ed says you should eat your huckleberry preserves!

Here, he is showing what fabulous coffee LOOSE CABOOSE offers.

I just love how passionate he was about things made in Montana! Hehe!

We took a road trip to GLACIER NATIONAL PARK. It was gorgeous, as always, but a little bit sweeter due to the company i was keeping.

This was take three of a picture at Glacier. Jordan and I were laughing uncontrollably and dad's finger STILL made it into the shot somehow!

There are not many places where you can have a snowball fight in July!

My parents fell in love with the mountain goats. But really...who wouldn't think these creatures are absolutely adorable! Mom & dad wanted to take one home. That might be taking it a bit far.

HAPPINESS

Jordan and dad acting goofy. I am truly blessed that my husband and father get along so well.

Now if they would only share that huckleberry ice cream with me!

Another highlight in the Missoula restaurant world...CAFFE DOLCE.

We shared the local lamb burger on homemade ciabatta with goat cheese and local thick-cut bacon, Housemade pasta with prosciutto & parmesan, and Field greens salad with stone fruits.

Meeting friends for a creamy treat at none other than BIG DIPPER.

I have sat at this picnic table countless times, but this was one of the happiest memories there.

This moment was also the beginning of Momma Sue's Big Dipper infatuation. She has even asked if we could ship it to Tennessee for her!

Good Food Store Cheese Tasting Class = The most delicious way to spend your First Friday

List of the cheeses and recipes we got to taste!

GREAT HARVEST on a Saturday morning. Can't get much better than that!

Our spread of Apple crunch rolls, Savannah bars, Cream cheese & berry scones.

A sunny Saturday at the Farmer's Market of Missoula.

I'd say, by the looks of things, our day together was blissful!

When you come to Montana, MEAT should be on the menu!!

Char grilled buffalo steaks / Grilled rosemary smashed potatoes / Field greens

This was the first time my parents had ever eaten steelhead, this type of trout that tastes very similar to salmon to me. Jordan and I discovered it as a favorite after living in Montana for a little while. Another bonus...it is easier on the budget than fresh salmon.

Grilled steelhead and squash.

Remember my mention of mom's obsession with Big Dipper. Well, she forced us to go back with her for another taste of sweet goodness. She practically had to threaten us to order our dark chocolate & nut-dipped cones. Then we cried the entire time we suffered through the eating of the best ice cream in Montana. Cruel, I tell you...

Last dinner in Missoula with my parents at JAMES BAR. The way to start a meal here is with the hot & crispy sweet potato tots! I bet you can't eat just one!!

The dinners were delicious, the trips were a blast, the desserts were decadent, and the laughs were too many to count. But moments like this...Jordan and dad bonding over a guitar lesson...and quality time spent TOGETHER with my precious parents were the TRUE treats of this visit. More satiating than any meal could ever be.