Just another manic Monday...

...Wish it were Sunday, that's my fun day.  Mondays are actually my relaxing weekday because I don't have to be to work at 5 AM, but Sunday's are my ultimate.  I often sleep in (which is usually only until 8, but I am SO grateful), cook a big Sunday breakfast, do some yoga, cook some stuff for the week,  and just have a relaxing day with my boyfriend. Well, luckily Saturday, we went down to civilization and hung out with one of my favorite little friends.  His name is Ryan, he is 6, and he lights up my life.

Derek and Ry played a little guitar for a while and Ry has the beginnings of being a total music man. :)
Earlier on, we took him to Borders for a Dr Seuss Celebration (that we missed, but had one of our own!) and I got a new cookbook.  The Vegan Table by Colleen Patrick Godreau is totally fun and spunky.  She creates menus and recipes based on entertaining guests.  I made the Polenta with a red pepper coulis.  I really loved the coulis' spicy attitude and the polenta's grainy texture together.

 (Excuse the green beans again, free produce at work= lots o' green beans to eat.)

I also made a chocolate tart with the crust made out of pecans and walnuts.  It's been desperately calling my name from the fridge, but you have to let it set overnight.  I will give you three guesses what dessert will be devoured tonight. :)
                 
Also on Sunday, we decided to go this amazing Vegan/Veg Friendly place in Nevada City called Ike's quarter cafe.   The menu was pure genius.  It was a ton of Cajun-inspired dishes that made you feel like that good ol' soulful 'Nawlins' was right at your fingertips.

They have this great old tree that fills up the patio to offer a shady, cozy little place to chow down. I love finding gems like this because it inspires me to open my own restaurant some day.  They even have a piano, so Derek might be able to gig there.  Yay!  Here's their website so you can check out my new obsession:
 http://www.ikesquartercafe.com/

It was a fabulous weekend, full of laughs, wine, relaxation, and people I love. That's all I ever need. :)