Coffee and Cayenne

I received an email with a loose recipe for Aztec Coffee. The coffee is "kicked up" by the addition of cayenne pepper to the coffee grounds prior to brewing. The amount of cayenne pepper was omitted, but I assume it is to taste, or tolerance. Thanks for the suggestion Michel! Since tomorrow is April Fool's Day I thought I'd give the Aztec a spin. Any takers? We expect visits from our local "fools" in the morning, and I am surprisingly gullible.

I spotted Becky today, she's back, but with some cultish aesthetic updates. The Society Coquette engages in the ritual of eye lash removal. Her right eye is devoid of lashes and the effect is simultaneously comical and creepy. I, of course, purchased a paper flower and graciously accepted her literature. Welcome home!

Lastly, I am alarmed and trusting this is merely a rumor, but today brought news that Gary was shot in the back. Apparently he was in Morgantown at a hospital when he was shot in the back. This sounds totally crazy, and probably has no traction, but I'll keep digging.

M.I.A.

If it weren't for the cold temperatures I would have believed Spring had sprung. I suppose I should apologize to the throngs of eager fans who showed to see Becky, but were met only with Chris' cover of Hot For Teacher. Although some dig that kind of abuse. Apparantly Becky while away joined a cult, the Society Coquette.The cult has a compound in Beckley, but without telephones there's no way to reach her for comment. The other entertainment was at the expense of this poor cat who sat in one of our chairs and the chair collapsed beneath him into kindling. It's been tough finding the humor today, but that fellow went a long way to making our lives better again. I trust his lawyer will understand the humor too. Enjoy the sunshine.

HeckBender

Rob, I'm sorry it's come to this, but alas... I heard about your problem and I tender this solution.

Hand Rolled Is Best

It is occurring to me that I write often and glowingly about the food prepared here, but fail to mention our real bread and butter. The coffee today has Chris and I jacked up, please allow me to plug the Bolivia! I am pronouncing it my favorite coffee. Normally while the rest of you are still nestled in your beds, visions of mountain biking dancing in your heads, I am here getting ready to provide you with all the excellence you've come to expect daily and as the sun rises I always make myself a Cappuccino with Soy and rarely do I partake in the brewed coffee. That sort of snobbery just happens when the espresso is pulled perfectly and the even the soy is steamed to the exact right consistency. I find the coffee merely too thin on my pallet... but then there is Bolivia, ahhh Bolivia. It is like Belgium Beer, (so right!), caffeine content so high, and the flavor and mouth feel are nothing short of perfect. Chris and I both are soaring because of it, and Chris started the day with the New Orleans flu! A shipment of Bolivia should arrive this afternoon, and if you're nice I'll brew it up in the morning before Biscuits and Jam. I will address the Jam in a moment, but first back to the food...

Roasted Red Pepper with Handmade Tortellini $4.50 14oz.

Roasted Chicken w/ Corn Dumplings $4.50 14oz.

Gary's Turn:

Monkey Muffins $1.50

Blueberry and Lemon Muffins $2.00

Watching Curtis hand roll the pasta for the tortellini, spoon in the ricotta cheeses, fold, and seam them with a fork was exhausting. His care is your reward! The bar has been raised, and then comes the Roasted Chicken with Corn Dumplings. A different soup altogether, the dumplings contain the corn and the corn contains the sweetness that balances the soup perfectly. Both soups...well done Curtis! Gary not only dropped off muffins this morning, but came back and made more. Good thing too, it took two (2) hours to sell the Monkey Muffins this morning. They sell so fast they're going to be like Bigfoot sightings, hurry, hurry, there they are! So many treats lining the counter today and we are just arriving to the Biscuits. Of course, Buttermilk Biscuits will be in the oven tomorrow morning, but Becky...? Where are you Becky? She took off on tour about two (2) weeks ago and hasn't been heard from since. Seth called and reassured me of her last minute time frame. I can only hope. Seth took our home phone and I expect a call from her, giggling at my fretting and I will see her in the morning. Otherwise, Chris will be performing covers of Van Halen and Journey for at least three (3) hours! Keep your fingers crossed and Don't Stop Believin'.

Houston We Need Re-fueling

As if you had been afloat on a homemade raft, drifting the ninety (90) miles to the mangrove lined Florida Keys, you were starving and you demolished the Cuban Black Bean Soup. Either famine has gripped our community or the rainy day lulled you in, the sounds of James Brown lifted your spirits, and before you knew it the morning was gone when you noticed hunger pains in your abdomen. For whatever reason we were forced to call in the fixer, Curtis. We always enjoy Curtis' company and today it will be coupled with Chris', so I am hoping the sparks will fly. As if that weren't enough entertainment for me, Gary will be baking this afternoon (hopefully more Monkey Muffins, but I know monkey is getting expensive). Gary seems to think me a Christmas ham and to fatten me is his goal. Good luck my friend! Summer too is alleviating the hunger pains by making a run to Elkins to pick up twelve (12) dozen bagels to keep you rolling. That's without mentioning she will be baking the Biscuits for the Jam. I will update with the menu and Biscuits and Jam news/tantalizers.

What a day for baked goods. Gary breezes in this morning bringing rich, decadent, and sweet treats; Monkey Muffins and Blueberry and Lemon Muffins. The muffins are large, the size of a carpenter's fist, or a baby monkey's head. You can barely taste the monkey! Your cholesterol won't stop rising there, Curtis happened in and got baking as well.

Cuban Black Bean Soup $4.50 14oz.

Strawberry and Blueberry Coffee Cake $1.50

Chocolate Cream Cheese Brownies w/ Walnuts $.75

Pecan Bars $1.25

aforementioned treats by Gary

Monkey Muffins $1.50

Blueberry and Lemon Muffins $2.00

Curtis seems to be baking for a coffee shop today, hopefully we can get some of those goodies too. The Cuban Black Bean Soup is free of rocks, and guarantees a taste of Cuba in every bite...or is that Cuban in every bite? It is our vegetarian option this week, you are welcome Chris. Strawberry and Blueberry Coffee Cake has my fave, streusel topping! The Chocolate Cream Cheese Brownies may very well put you in the ER, yes they are that good! Plus the marbled appearance is visually delicious. The Pecan Bars take me to my Southern roots, the buttery toffee that coats the top makes each piece pop with all the flavor of a pecan pie. Finally the sun has come out to play and that's telling me to get outside and run off those debauched, but well loved calories.

Sunshine and Snow

Amidst the flurries Abus popped in and hooked up those of you who love Salmon Cream Cheese and or the Lemon Bars. Everyone thank Abus. Also blowing in today was Curtis and I might as well start the anticipation now; we were discussing lunches! You read correctly, another step toward your total satisfaction is now in the preliminary phases. May should bring the chow, but stay tuned for a couple sample days as we get the kinks ironed out. I think all will enjoy the containers. Not one to repeat the ubiquitous Styrofoam and plastic vessels, we will serve all food in Chinese take-out containers. Be the first on your block to step lively with a Hypno-Takey-Outey box filled with a healthy lunch lovingly made by our pal Curtis. Lucky you! Also in the works is Curtis' foray into catering and a gourmet meal delivery service. Keep your ear to the ground on this one, as the details are illuminated, so you will be as well.

Chris and Renee rearranged the furniture in the shop and we have been getting positive feedback all day. Good job, Renee, your sooo feng shui. Welcome back Gary, nice defense presented by Brotherly and Love to your neglect of getting us a postcard. I know it's a small gesture which is why I think it should be an easy gesture...truck stop?

Who Put This Egg Here?

What's going on today? I awoke to a home filled with candy and plastic eggs. I thought perhaps this was a part of a Stevie and the Johnson hang-over, but Chloe set me straight, EASTER. Thanks Easter Bunny, we made out very well. Now we need a Sunday event, game day maybe, Trivial Pursuit, Risk, Chess, bring me your ideas. We had a good time with Stevie yesterday and look forward to Becky next week. As Stevie left he whispers to me "watch out for Chris, he steals" and "have you seen my wiki?" Blushing I thought what any of us would think, then Chris tells me that he must have meant wikipedia. Then after a few moments of searching we found him! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Stevieandthejohnson Check it out, we had no idea. Hats off to Chris for bringing him in, how cool. We may never again have someone so quasi-famous in here again. What a first show! I'll throw up a couple more pictures of Stevie today, now I see the resemblance to Screech. Happy Easter.

Biscuits and Jam!

Like a whirling dervish, Stevie entered our little shop, donned shades, and got to work. Charlie especially appreciated the live music, and if you missed Stevie check with Mountain State Brewery, they want to book him. We enjoyed hosting Stevie and had a good time, albeit a busy time. Nate filled in as the Johnson and opening act, thanks Nate. Thanks to everyone for coming in, especially the young ladies who came from Morgantown to see Stevie. Wow, girls traveling to listen to John Fogerty's favorite, well done Stevie! The AR rep from Capitol Records got into the show and felt compelled to take Stevie for a walk, what happened Stevie?!

Many many thanks to MountainMade for the wonderful jelly. The Dandelion Jelly was a huge hit, and is my new favorite. Next week, more Jam thanks to Becky.

Jeremy, you missed it, damn sale. If you're reading this go to Highland Prospects, the winter inventory is 30% off, but leave at least one double hammock and straps for me. Ben... Jeremy... please put one under the counter NOW!

Better Friday

It is always a Good Friday when Curtis is in the kitchen. Maybe you caught him last night during his rendition of Charles Bukowski in Mountain State? Today he's starring as a chef in our theatre and obviously craving to sink his teeth into some beast! Three beasts in fact! Vegetarians and Vegans steer clear, there is no love for you coming off the stove today, pure carnivore. If you are inclined to meat consumption today is your day. Live and in 14 oz. bowls...

Mom's (3) Beast Chili $4.50 14oz.

Chocolate Oat Bars $1.50 per

Macaroons .50 per

Three (3) beans, three (3) beasts and all the finesse you've come to expect from our resident culinary creator. Turkey, Swine, and Beef (stock) are the cast of characters in the chili, just like Mom used to make. Each beast lovingly represented, come and feel the comfort! Chocolate Oat Bars are about to pull a vanishing act, don't delay. Summer's favorite, Macaroons, have resurfaced in the kitchen; your mouth will praise you once that sweet meringue starts to melt on your tongue. Tomorrow will see our first Biscuits and Jam, I spoke with Stevie yesterday and he seems psyched and mentioned how we're going to get what we pay for, whatever that meant. Well, we've been warned!

Free At Last!

Finally, Chris will be allowed to realize his dream of being an interpretive dancer thanks to his skills at Sudoku! It seems a bit convoluted but bear with me; Chris is a whiz at Sudoku and the warden fancies himself a Sudoku genius as well. Apparently the warden's imagined skills with Sudoku got him into online Sudoku competitions, which led to wagers, which led to some loss of his salary and hot water with the Miss's. Enter Chris, a Sudoku player with kung-fu like skills, his speed and accuracy were noted by the warden during the Cell Block D "puzzle day." A deal made, a competition won, money reclaimed, and a happy wife got Chris paroled! Welcome back to society my friend; I know it may seem like a police state on the outside right now but I am sure that will mellow out before too long.

Chris' first day of freedom also saw Old Man Winter making another grab for us. Last night I went for a run with Chloe and Matt in shorts and I awoke this morning to snow. I'm sure it is merely a reminder that Spring doesn't come that easy for us mountain top dwellers. Maybe another "spring" seeing our children digging through snow to find their Easter eggs is what we need to put us back in our place.

Friday brings Curtis with fresh ideas regarding catering this spring and summer so tune back in for updates on how you can eat like I do! Gary struggled with, but managed to bring our new jam display case into the shop. We are just about ready for Biscuits and Jam, so I expect to see you here. Don't forget to congratulate Chris on his exodus, but don't move to quickly around him. You can take the man out of prison, but you can't take the prison out of the man.

Big news on Front Street, bagels are back! Three (3) new flavors made it and they look excellent, good work Wolperts. New to your pallet's lineup is Elderberry (local berries of course), Veggie (with local Ramps), and Poppy seed. We are working on a freezer so that we can store more of every body's favorite round treat, and not sweat the delivery so much. Another "thank you" goes to John; not only is he saving lives, but he is the fastest bagel delivery man on the mountain, which of course saves lives as well. A dreary day has befallen our little hamlet, which is fitting as we are entering the supposed "dead time" of spring. Feeling contrary, we are looking forward to sussing out new ideas during this time and first idea up this Saturday; Biscuits and Jam!

Some of you already know Stevie, or perhaps you met him this past weekend as I did, but we can't wait to see him again and look forward to him kicking off our Jam. He is a trail runner, obviously by trade, and I look forward to an afternoon run with him as well. Mountain Made's Richard has built a jam display case for the jam and jelly treats we will be serving with the biscuits.

With good behavior and some luck Chris will join me tomorrow on the front lines, mud slinging and serving coffee. He is good at both; sleep well in lock down my friend. We must have a trade agreement worked out with Philadelphia as I have met two (2) families from that area today and tomorrow sees Gary making haste for the City of Brotherly Love. Enjoy your "Philadelphia Freedom" GG and I look forward to a postcard!

Thomas Blue Lights

Another visiting day has come and gone. Curtis appreciated the kind words, but some of the magic is lost through the safety glass. Chris was looking rough, again he is making his own booze, fermenting saved breads from the cafeteria. Those boys! Yesterday I was afforded a close-up view of our boys in blue, no I wasn't pulled over or arrested, just see the above photo. I am sure he stopped this female to make sure there wasn't anything she needed and to conduct a survey on how to better serve the community. Good work Troop!

Jeremy (Bubba) and I met to deal with the upcoming spring soccer season. A few details need to be worked out, but a successful season awaits. I am sure Jeremy will be honored with a Coach of the Year award and our kids will turn heads everywhere they play. What an athletic community we have!

Bagels are on their way up the mountain and tomorrow's red morning light should shine on a fresh eight (8) dozen bagels and a few new flavors...stay tuned.

Our Mountain State Brewery Dream Team made it in this morning looking a little "green" about the fingers. I guess the world is short one more Leprechaun today. We all know how hard they are to kill and some, like Chris, have first-hand knowledge. Lucky for Chris the penalty for killing leprechauns doesn't carry the same legal weight as say a Bald Eagle or New Yorker. I can't wait to see that county van pull up Thursday, un-cuff Chris from the gang, and enjoy his stories.

Work Release

Our young bard, Stevie, (you'll get the chance to meet him next week Saturday March 22nd) claims he once played with John Fogerty. Fogerty, being so impressed, claimed he was the best young singer songwriter he ever jammed with. True story. Only qualifier is this John Fogerty never played with CCR. Good story none-the-less. As always, it was great to see so many law enforcements officers patrolling our streets keeping us safe. So many things to do last night and police escorts for all! Fresh from county and a good de-lousing, Curtis made it in to get our week started right.

Red Curry Chicken Soup $4.50 14oz.

Corn Chowder w/ Roasted Garlic $4.50 14oz.

Chocolate Oat Bars $1.50

Peach and Strawberry Tart $2.50

Everything looks and smells terrific this week. Nothing like solitary confinement to bring out the best in Curtis. The Red Curry Chicken is back, and I can hear the sighs of pleasure all over the Thomas and Davis area. The Corn Chowder with Roasted Garlic is the most spectacular for the olfactory, but the taste buds will thank you as well. Chocolate Oat Bars are fresh from the oven and selling already. They never last long. Expanding even more on the Tart, today brings Peach coupled with Strawberry and your taste buds will worship Curtis for the efforts. We appreciate both Chris and Curtis making it in today, and of course a special thanks to the county jail for their progressive work release program. Stellar use of tax dollars!

Saturday Evening Post

The Easter Bunny hopped on in today and left Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter and Chocolate Covered Coconut Cream Eggs. It must be a large chocolate chicken who lay-ed these, they're big! Also left behind in the wake of the Bunny are boxes of Dark Chocolate Espresso Bark, how appropriate. E.B. is just as omnipotent as Santa, but without the support crew, that must be why he came by a week early. His precipitant delivery system is good news for you!

Chocolate Covered Eggs (peanut butter or coconut cream) $3.25

Dark Chocolate Espresso Bark $5.00 per box

Today also brought in Bob of Colabrese fame delivering "Black Diamonds" a DVD documentary tackling the subject of mountain top removal. This has relevance for us as well; ask Mackie to connect the dots of these coal operations, "I am (or want the perception of being) a 'green' representative" political connections, and our Dolly Sods Wilderness Area. The DVD made its way to me via Bob's son, Michel, thanks and see you soon!

Also in today is a fresh delivery of Honey from Healthberry Farm, they may have had something to do with the eggs, but details are often fuzzy. Thanks to Ben and Stacy McKean for the re-enforcements.

Looks like we're on for Biscuits and Jam on the 22nd, in fact we're screening talent right now! Chris knows and vouches for this cat, Stevie. Songs of jail and woman killing/loving is what I'm getting out of it thus far. Enjoy!

Gravy Train and Cin

All aboard! Summer is the engineer and she's ball'n the jack this morning. The Biscuits and Gravy are moving fast (sausage gravy atop two generous buttermilk biscuits), thanks again to our friends at Grant County Bank for the idea. I am gaining weight just smelling the aroma this morning. Gary is also helping me put on the heft with two more cakes in the oven. I'm like Adam in Eden, only here there are several trees of knowledge and the fruits keep changing to entice my ever changing pallet. This is a dangerous place to work, I need a personal trainer, and cardiologist on staff, but alas I have only my dwindling self-control. So much for my self-control on a day like today...

Biscuits n Gravy $4.50 (two (2) buttermilk biscuits)

Blueberry and Orange Cake $2.00 per

Blue Cin Cake $2.00 per

Blue Cin first; this thing's a killer, Blueberries, Chocolate Chips, and Cinnamon, eat at your own risk! Blueberry Orange is lighter but just as deadly if taken too often. I have already waxed poetic enough on the Biscuits n Gravy, you've been warned. Next week I'll wax nostalgic for these three deadly sins. Enjoy them while they last.

High Life

I don't want everyone coming in cracking wise about the title today. It is not what you think, it is what Chris found in the fridge this morning, thanks Stephan for the leave behind. Curtis fought other battles today, but Summer will be stepping in tomorrow to fill the Grant County Bank request. We will see you ladies tomorrow! Gary and the Mountain Made crew are supporting Biscuits and Jam by bringing a variety of locally made jams for our first get together. Thanks to our neighbors for helping the cause. Tomorrow brings Gary in to guest chef a couple more of his wonderful and beautiful cakes. He'll be sharing oven space with Summer and I'll be cracking jokes, only come by for the aroma, the jokes are always pretty stale. There will be extra Biscuits and Gravy in the morning so if your are inclined...we will be here with the goods!

Biscuits and Gravy $4.50 (two (2) buttermilk biscuits)

Proportions on the buttermilk biscuits are large, and are to my heart's detriment, a rarity in our house. Only when we host visitors does Summer cook these and I always eat more than I should. In that regard, a personal "thanks" to the girls at the bank. Having enjoyed these biscuits in the past I would recommend they come with a Surgeon General's warning when coupled with creamy sausage gravy, so good! If you are a reader and have a special recipe you'd like to put to the test in the discerning HypnoWorld, we love guest chef's and their wares, just talk to us.

Home Skool

First a hearty hello to our dedicated readers at Grant County Bank, and I won't forget to mention your request when Curtis arrives. The girls at the bank put in an early Biscuit request, only they are asking for Sausage Gravy. I am looking forward to trying Cathy's Elderberry Jam, so many neighbors always willing to pitch in. I'll see what I can do to make you happy.

Today we are hosting the home school group. I am so tempted to misspell everything in today's post, not just for fun but for my friend Phil (home skooled!). The place is hopping under the excited pressure of our kids, all ages are rocking the joint. Game playing, a hike on the rail trail, and then good old-fashioned show-n-tell round out the afternoon. The home school group is another example of our tight knit little community and how well a community can work and support one another.

Tomorrow brings Chris and Curtis, new baked goods, lots of laughs, and good conversations. I really look forward to Thursdays.

"Pawn" Shop

The sun is back, warmer weather to follow. The morning beat down caused by the sun not rising until 7:30 is alleviated a bit by the sunny afternoon. Today was built for chess and Seth and Becky battled it out all afternoon. I won't reveal who was Bobby Fisher for the day. Becky has agreed to perform in the shop for our Biscuits and Jam Saturdays, stay tuned for the exact date and time, but preliminary projections put her supplying the Jam the last Saturday of March.

Chris once again took on the role of my daily hero by showing up with a fresh supply of bagels. The last 72 bagels were all consumed, so a refresh was desperately in order. Flavors this week: Molasses Oat, Sunflower Seed, and Everything. These are more from Joel and Katie Wolpert, and if you've eaten them before you know how well made they are and how great they taste. I appreciate the ingredients list that has been included lately and if you are interested please ask to see it; lots of organic and or locally grown ingredients. Well done, Wolperts!

The last two days have gone by ever so pleasantly and we have enjoyed our neighbors here in Thomas spending their days with us. You know who you are and we thank you.

Give me bagels or give me death

Sunday gave in to quiet; the last of the vittles were consumed, conversations were languid, and the afternoon saw the sun shining. Monday brings in an exited Curtis (motivated by images of Eskimo Pies?) and the promise of our pantry re-filling. Our appreciation to all those who were happy to eat Cinnamon Raisin Bagels today. Chris is down in the metropolis liberating another six (6) dozen bagels and battling his way up the mountain to deliver the booty in the morning. So many efforts besides our own to keep this performance on stage. Thanks to all!

The grapevine reveals news of a "lounge" opening up in Hellbender's Burritos http://www.hellbenderburritos.com/ , and I for one look forward to spinning records and talking trash while playing pinball; getting frustrated with my abilities, cursing, and "tilting" the machine! See you tomorrow Rob!!

Poor Curtis, the pressure is on as hungry masses have assembled and are calling for blood, or soup...

White Bean and Sausage Stew $4.50 14oz.

Roasted Cauliflower and Cheddar $4.50 14oz.

Oatmeal Cake w/ Toffee Icing $2.50 per slice

Blueberry and Lemon Scones $1.25

The White Bean and Sausage Stew is truly a meal in a bowl. Curtis used spicy turkey sausage and made sure I knew the difference between navy beans and great northern beans, he used great northern beans by the way. The Stew also has carrots, potatoes, and baby spinach (that's just what I could ID with my brutish pallet). Summer says the Stew reminds her of her grandmother's Italian Wedding Soup, a great comparison, and ringing endorsement. The Roasted Cauliflower and Cheddar is back by popular demand and is a real hit, not just our vegetarian option for the week. The Oatmeal Cake with Toffee Icing makes good use of Curtis' secret ingredient, sugar. Not too sweet really, but that Toffee Icing sells to me every time. The cake is two layered affair and as always will not last long. Also back by popular demand are the Blueberry and Lemon Scones! You're welcome.

Late Day Dedication

At the behest of our best customer and obviously our most avid reader I tender this late post. It is with tired fingers that I click and clack out this report from the front lines to coffee slinging. Today saw some of the most diverse weather I have ever seen in a four hour period. The sun rose and the air was warm (55 F); spring like again, by 10am a fog rolled in and the temperature began dropping, thirty minutes later and rain began to fall, about an hour later the rain turned to sleet, then quickly to hail, back to sleet, and then finally snow. It hasn't stopped snowing yet! The hail brought a large and friendly group of travelers into the shop and Curtis' baked goods started to disappear. The disappearing act continued all day and by closing time we can only inventory a few Giant HypnoCookies and one (1) Apple and Blueberry Tart. What a great day it was to hang out in a cafe and watch the weather change. Speaking of change; Chris and I are still experimenting with music, and which music goes over the best on any particular day. Apparently we did well today. Earth, Wind, and Fire, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Commodores, et. al. did a wonderful job getting people to dance and to sing along. I know our asses were moving in time to the masters of Rhythm and Blues!

More development regarding Biscuits and Jam. The spontaneous singing that erupted from customers has lead us to the conclusion that YOU should supply the Jam! That could mean but one thing; Karaoke!! We'll see what we can do to rustle up a machine and you start tuning up those vocal cords. We're ready to throw down, are you?

Gary, hope your trip is going well. We look forward to the postcard (you won't forget) and I appreciate the spurring on!

We're Not The Only Ones

Man it's getting tough to fathom more winter, we are getting full blown spring fever here. A couple of oddly warm days and mentally; winter is washed up. Today we are batting around ideas for spring themes. Eighties (80's) week is being discussed; replete with break dancin' contests, pop-n-lock routines, hair metal band day, the options go on and on. Quite frankly, being of an age that has such vivid (formative) memories of the Reagan decade I can run with that theme all year long. Movie night (could tie in with 80's nicely), Sunday School (Trivial Pursuit in the morning), Hall and "Oats"; I can't help myself, it's too easy..."E"...here I go again..."on my own", I'll stop! Another theme Gary threw into discussion is "Biscuits and Jam." This would involve both biscuits and live music in the mornings. Rotating styles of music not normally heard here would be preferred. An amalgamation of the Eighties (80's) and Biscuits and Jam is sounding pretty tasty! Segue "tasty" into Curtis' return from Morgantown...Here we go...

Spicy Red Lentil Soup (Vegan) $4.50 14 oz.

Chunky Cream of Potato Soup $4.50 14oz.

Chocolate Oat Bars $1.50

HypnoCookies $1.25

Apple Blueberry Tart $2.50

Calling all hippies!! Spicy Red Lentil Soup has arrived and all the Vegans are invited. I've had Curtis' Red Lentil Dal and I could eat that into my nineties and not get sick of it. The Chunky Cream of Potato Soup may sound a bit like a contradiction, but that's Curtis, the first name he gave the Potato Soup was Magical Mystery of Potato. I like the latter, but the "Chunky" part is how he's leaving the consistency, so don't expect a drinking soup. The Chocolate Oat Bars seem to grow legs and walk out of the door whenever Curtis bakes them, so hurry. The HypnoCookies this week are HUGE, Curtis got ambitious and increased the size 50%, we decided to only increase the price 25%, enjoy! The Apple Blueberry Tart is another twist on Curtis' favorite new dessert, the tart. They are always excellent and the Apple Blueberry does not fail to please!

The ideas for themes keep coming in, African, from Curtis. Please bring your ideas into us, fully realized, with graphics, and of course a Power Point presentation is necessary.

Prince and Coffee?!

Bagels arrived and not a moment too soon! With a dozen ordered and three tables full of tolerant neighbors waiting, Chris comes through the door greeted with cheers and Prince (Little Red Corvette anyone?)blasting. What an entrance! Some of you remember last summer's party, badminton tourney, and cookout at our house and the magic that amalgamates when Prince is mixed with alcohol. Prince and coffee come close. Thanks to Joel and Katie again, these look better than any others, and thanks to Chris for running to Elkins for the bagel fetch. Flavors this week: Sunflower Seed, Cinnamon Raisin, Everything, and Blueberry.

Abus is back from occupied Virginia and as promised she brought Smoked Salmon and whipped up some of the ever-popular Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese. She'll be back tomorrow and upon our request (begging) she will assemble Lemon Bars! Good weekday mornings kick ass, thanks to everyone who enjoyed this morning with us.

Food From Home

You guys have just about wiped out all of Curtis' soups. Only a couple of serving of Beef Stew remain and one (1) each of the Cream of Broccoli and West African Peanut Stew. Funny how the warm and sunny weather we shared yesterday got Charlie and I running together again (me in shorts, yes those white-blue sticks are my legs) also brought out so many soup eaters. Curtis is visiting Morgantown and won't return until his regularly scheduled Thursday cook off, thus Summer will step in and fill the void. Instead of soups, Summer plans to make both Sausage and Vegetarian Red Beans and Rice. The recipe for today's Red Beans and Rice comes from our former neighbor and former coon-ass Felipe, who was renowned for his Red Beans and Rice gracing the table at every pot luck function he attended. Thanks Felipe, say hello to Eugene for us! So get those beads we gave you last month out, fondle them, think about New Orleans, the spicy food, the humid air, the people who share accents with folks from Brooklyn, and enjoy your cup of Red Beans with the dollop of bright white rice sitting in the center. Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Red Beans and Rice w/ Sausage $4.50 14oz.

Red Beans and Rice (Vegetarian) $4.50 14oz.

Sunday Edition

Curtis awoke to smell of braised beef and the sun shining in the window this morning, and shortly thereafter Curtis is bringing the funk a day early to our shop. Honestly, this is good timing for myself as I am getting hungry and he's making Beef Stew today. A nice amount snow fell this past week and as the mercury rises we again hop on the roller coaster that has been this winter. These warmer sunnier days get my mind wandering to the future and our glorious summers, but I digress... From the Kitchen...Drum roll please...

(the aforementioned) Beef Stew $4.50 14oz.

Chocolate Oat Bars $1.50

Strawberry and Blueberry Tart $2.50

HypnoCookies $1.00

The Beef Stew is HEARTY, sweet, and filling. Carnivores across the county rejoice! The Chocolate Oat Bars are becoming another favorite of mine and always better than anything else you may be considering for dessert. Well, except for the Strawberry and Blueberry Tart, that takes me to a better place bite by bite. As always HypnoCookies are coming out of the oven and the chocolate chips, peanut butter, coconut, and oats smell like a sugar assault on my olfactory. I can't wait to have some. There is only a little Chocolate, Chocolate Chip Cake left and the Raspberry and Orange Zest is history (good work Gary!). More bagels are coming up the mountain early in the week; stay tuned for the flavors of the week.