I{HEART}ART: Inspiration: Downtown!

"Eighth Avenue" by Tina C. Wells

This doesn’t look like downtown San Diego, does it? This past week I was on a project that took me downtown to this historic home. Surrounded on every side by condos and high rises, somehow this old house survived. Built nearly a century ago around 1920, this property has a lovely courtyard, large lawn, old gnarly pepper trees, and a separate craftsman-style casita. It has been completely renovated and updated and is currently on the market. In the process of renovation, the exterior, consisting of large handmade clay blocks, was in bad shape and had been painted. The goal in renovation had been to bring the house up to modern standards without loosing the original historical context. Unfortunately, paint alone on the exterior did not accomplish this. That’s how I became part of the project; I was hired to bring back an aged look to the clay blocks on the entire exterior. 

Old gnarly pepper tree

The historic El Cortez can be seen over the roofline 

View from the street...a passerby would never guess what lies behind the gate.

BEFORE

AFTER (notice the "91" etched in the original clay)

Interior designer, Sandra Vila (www.sandravila.com), did a wonderful job making the home current and comfortable, but with a nod to the historical past. I was particularly taken with the beautiful tiles that are in the bathrooms and kitchen that reflect early California, and give personality to the space.

Side note... While working downtown, James and I headed to our San Diego favorite: Cafe Chloe: French cafe, sidewalk tables, delicious food, interesting wines. Love it! Corner of 9th and G. 

RECIPE: Cheese Plate

Yesterday was officially the first day of Autumn. As the weather cools down, the gatherings move from outdoors in. Invite some friends over and ask everyone to bring a drink and appetizer... it’s the easiest party to host, casual and fun. One of my favorites is the Cheese Plate. 

My cheese plate is a little messy, but in the best way possible. I start with at least 3 cheeses that are quite different from one another. I often choose a few that are my favorites and then throw a new one I’d like to try into the mix (cut smaller amounts from large blocks). After arranging the cheeses on the platter, I add handfuls of several kinds of nuts and dried fruits in between. My last key ingredient is a small dish of honey for guests to drizzle onto a bite of cheese. The platter should set out about 30 minutes before your guests arrive so the cheese is room temperature. Place a cheese knife out and separately a basket of crackers or bread. These ingredients are a little expensive, but if you have several parties, like during the holidays, there will be enough to make about 3 platters. 

What’s on this plate?

Goat cheese
Double Gloucester Cotswold Cheese with Chives
Dutch Gouda
White Cheddar
Brie with Wild Mushrooms

Spiced Pecans
Walnuts
Marcona Almonds with Rosemary

Golden Raisins
Dried Cranberries

Almondina biscuits 

Raw Honey

Sprigs of Rosemary

*note: Trader Joe’s is a great place to pick up a great variety of nuts and cheeses at good price!

I{HEART}ART: Inspiration: Spoon!

"Silver Spoon" by Tina C. Wells

After 14 years, I am redesigning my home. It all started with a flood...and one thing led to another. I found myself re-envisioning, repainting, and recreating. I will bring you along on this journey as I progress. Our first step has been to paint. I've left my warm buttery walls and ventured down the cool sleek path of gray. I love an element of surprise, something a little funky or unexpected, so several large painted silver pieces have been added to my cozy kitchen (cozy is a nice way of saying ridiculously small). And if I can't have a silver spoon in my mouth, then how about on my wall.

SIMPLY CREATIVE: Specialty Paint Finish

A few months back I published a post on the bountiful produce at Hillside Ranch. Today I am showcasing a specialty finish I did in the powder room there. The old french toile wallpaper was removed and the walls were painted a tomato red. Over the red, I applied a pearlescent paint that had a golden overtone, with a little water based glaze mixed in. I applied the entire finish with a large brush, stroking in all different directions so as to not create a pattern. The red base shone through with a golden glaze over the top. The finishing touch was to add a stencil, a very light, translucent application, randomly placed in balance around the small room. I wanted to share the lovely effect with you. 

The next specialty finish is in a very small office/nook. The client wanted something lively in the small space and decided on a metallic teal. The space is vibrant and a little bit sassy!

Want to try this yourself? I could write a book on my 20 years of experience with specialty finishes and glazes... so instead I will give you a few guidelines and say, “EXPERIMENT!” (or call me- I’d be happy to apply a specialty finish for you!). This is a water-based metallic finish, just one technique of many that I have done over the years. 

If you are a San Diego resident, Modern Masters Metallic Paint can be purchased at Bayside Paint, off Moreno Blvd. Dunn Edwards carries a smaller selection of this paint as well. Start with an eggshell or low sheen paint finish (not flat), and keep in mind that the paint color you choose can come through depending on your application. If applying as a glaze, thin 1/4 with water based glaze (Benjamin Moore) and ‘haphazardly’ brush on, stroking in different directions. If you are going for an opaque metallic sheen, buy the Modern Masters roller and follow the directions they give. I applied this finish with the special roller in my sister’s living room in a champagne tone with gorgeous results. The final product was a subtle luster, very elegant.

RECIPE: Carlson Iced Tea

Sweet tea infused with lemon and mint

This was my grandmother’s recipe, originating in New York. It was at every poolside summer gathering...a family favorite. It is Oh-So-Refreshing on a hot day (and slightly addictive). 
Enjoy!

3 quarts water
3-4 black tea bags
5 3-inch sprigs of fresh mint (a handful)
1/2 cup honey
6 oz frozen lemonade concentrate (1/2 can), defrosted
Several lemon slices

Boil 3 quarts of water in a large kettle. Turn off heat and add 3-4 black tea bags (I use 4 as I like the tea strong). Steep 20 minutes, then remove without squeezing the bag. Add fresh mint sprigs, steep 5 minutes. Add honey and stir until completely melted. Add lemonade concentrate and several slices of lemon. Allow to cool completely (several hours) and then remove lemon and  mint. Transfer to a pitcher(s) and refrigerate. To serve to guests, pour over ice and garnish with fresh mint sprigs and fresh lemon slice.

I{HEART}ART}: Inspiration: Sierra Creatures

I have been here at Tahoe for nearly two weeks. From our deck, the noisy Jay squawks on and on, and occasionally gets brave and hops about the porch. Squirrels and chipmunks bustle about, around the trees. 
I have a confession...I didn’t pack my art supplies. This is not like me, because I feel a little lost without my brushes at hand.  But, life was busy and crazy before we left and feeling the need to pack light, I thought I’d be ok without. Ah, no. The problem is that I am on the west shore of Lake Tahoe...there is not a Blick Art, Aaron Bros., Michael’s, not even a local art supply that I could find. The closest is in Reno or Carson, both an hour away. I’m not doing that. So, I found a few little art supplies in the pharmacy (LOL)- poster board, glue, small paint set, and terribly cheap brushes. I'm sure all of these were designed for elementary school kids. Good enough for a little fun with mixed medium, paint, and collage. So above, i'm just having a little fun...  

JOURNEY: Lake Tahoe

I look forward to this all year...two weeks in the High Sierra, on the west shore of Lake Tahoe. It is so very restful. This is in part because I am at home here. We have rented the same spot on the lake since I was a little girl. The familiarity fills me with ease; the beauty fills me with awe; the fresh pine, lake air is sweet and fragrant. After a few days, my antsy-need-to go-and-do settles down and I feel the freedom to sit and soak it all in. Better yet, is to take it in from the water, on the boat. The lake, mountains, trees, etc. are all wonderful, but the best part is enjoying it with those I love.

Several years ago, James and I restored an Old Town wooden canoe. We love shoreline cruises in the morning and evening when the lake gets calm and glassy. A few days ago, we packed up a couple of cinnamon rolls and thermos of coffee for a picnic in the canoe. So different from the speed boat, the canoe is slow and quiet. It is amazing to gaze down into Tahoe’s exceptionally clear water. The colors are fantastic...shades ranging from emerald, teal, and turquoise, to deep ultra-marine and cobalt. I can’t get enough. This particular morning, we watched a sea plane circle several times to plot out his landing, and quietly spied an exquisite wooden Hacker-Craft speed off from one of the gorgeous estates lining the shore. We sat quietly talking, watching the birds and boats, fingers lightly splashing the cool waters, sipping our coffee and nibbling on decadent cinnamon rolls. A rare and memorable morning indeed.

I love restaurant recommendations from friends when visiting somewhere new...so here are a few of my favorites for future reference:

Sunnyside: quintessential Tahoe, deck on the lake (I had dinner there the night I got engaged 15 years ago, so it is near and dear to my heart).  I really like the more casual, less expensive, bar side menu.

Fire Sign Cafe:  great outdoor deck in a wooded setting, with the best breakfast in the world, seriously.

West Shore Cafe: great deck on the lake, upscale menu items...fantastic!

Garwoods:  beautiful north shore deck, on the lake.  Go for their signature rum punch slushy on Wednesdays when they are 1/2 price.  Then, take a stroll over to the big warehouse of Sierra Boat Co. to see some of the beautiful wooden boats Lake Tahoe is famous for.

The Bridgetender:  on the Truckee River, burgers, brew, and lots of charm.

Christy Hill:  If you want an excellent dinner out with fabulous lake views, this is the spot.

Tahoe House:  Great homemade pastries and coffees.  Worth the wait in line.

For more Tahoe favorites, click here for a previous post:
http://winsomewren.blogspot.com/2012/07/tahoe-traditions-we-have-many-great.html

RECIPE: Cinnamon Rolls, doctored

OK, I’ll be honest...I was skeptical about Pillsbury cinnamon rolls. But then I tasted these rolls, deliciously doctored up, and I’m a fan! This recipe is from our cousin Kathy. My mom made this for all of us on vacation, a little splurge. 
Easy and delicious.

You probably aren't going canoeing with them, but I do recommend packing up a thermos of coffee and cinnamon rolls and having an early morning picnic somewhere- park, trail, beach, etc.

CINNAMON ROLLS

2 refrigerated tubes Pillsbury Grands cinnamon rolls
Arrange in 9x13 pan, 4 down center and 3 on each side
Whisk together 1 cup brown sugar and 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Pour over rolls
Bake 35 minutes in preheated 350 degree oven
Cool 10 minutes in pan, then loosen edges with a knife and turn pan upside down onto a platter.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Point Loma

I{HEART}ART: Inspiration: Point Loma

"Point Loma Nazarene University Cross", original art by Tina C. Wells

Point Loma is the gorgeous peninsula that welcomes ships and boats into San Diego’s magnificent harbor. Atop this large peninsula sits Point Loma Nazarene University. I’m not sure if the amazing views from campus inspire or distract the students. The college commissioned me to paint this campus landmark of the cross with the ocean vista behind. It’s hard to imagine that paint could add to the natural beauty of this special place. 

Point Loma

Pt. Loma, as seen from Coronado Beach

As a San Diego native, I have enjoyed visiting the coastal neighborhood of Point Loma. At the tip top of the point sits Cabrillo National Monument with AMAZING views of the harbor, city, ocean, and east into the mountains. As you drive to Cabrillo National Monument, you will pass Pt. Loma Nazarene University, and then  through thousands of white crosses in Rosecrans National Cemetery (Military). At the park, you can visit the charming old lighthouse, the amazing tide pools (make sure to check the tide schedule online and go during low tide), hiking trails, and visitor center. My dear friend and college roommate, Gia, came for a visit with her family from Texas. We spent a great day in Pt. Loma.

Our visit to the Tide Pools

Little crab

Sea anemone

Cabrillo Monument

San Diego's Harbor as viewed from Pt. Loma

After working up an appetite exploring the tide pools, we headed back down the hill to Pt. Loma Seafood Co. to have a deli style fresh fish lunch...ordered it to go, and drove 5 minutes to Shelter Island, where we enjoyed a picnic. The kids played and we took in the view!

Pt. Loma Seafood Co.

RECIPE: Lobster on the grill!

My husband James with Spiny Lobster

Point Loma Seafood is a great family owned seafood market that has been in San Diego for decades. Look in the lobster tank and take home a few live ones on dry ice, or to the beach for a lobster feast!

Our friends Paul and Sabrina, last summer treated us to grilled lobster at the beach. It was fantastic! The live spiny lobsters were brought to the beach on dry ice. The charcoal grills were warming up to full heat while Paul prepped the lobsters. With a large, sharp chef's knife, he cut them in half lengthwise (down the middle, separating right from left side). He removed the transparent tube-like intestine in the head, seasoned with salt and pepper, squirt of lemon, and a little butter on the tail. The lobsters were then cooked, shell side down on the grill. This keeps the meat moist, succulent and full of flavor. Cook 5-7 minutes, until shell turns light red and meat begins to pull away from the edges. The half lobsters are served with melted butter and lemon slices. DELICIOUS! 

Nursery Art, Pavlova

I{HEART}ART: Inspiration: Nursery!

"Gretel's Garden" by Tina C. Wells,  24"x36" Acrylic on canvas

This abstract garden was a relaxing change of pace for me. So often my work is very tight and detailed. It was like a breath of fresh air to play so freely with the colors and let the painting evolve. This piece was commissioned by my friend Kristin Rinehart. She is a talented designer and owner of the design firm Huckleberry Living. She and her husband Jim are proud new parents of baby Gretel (meaning “little pearl”). The nursery featured below, Kristin designed for her daughter in their charming Coronado cottage. I love how Kristin has used unexpected pops of color, and design combinations that create a beautiful, unique space. 

Contact Kristin to design a special space for you: kristin@huckleberryliving.com
To view more of her work in a previous post, click this link:  http://winsomewren.blogspot.com/2012/09/winsome-wednesday-september-19-2012.html

When I delivered Gretel’s painting to Kristin, we met at Tartine in her hometown of Coronado. Tartine is a wonderful little French bakery and restaurant. Just to gaze at the desserts is a treat...lovelier still is to order one and enjoy it with a cappuccino! 

Lucky me! I got to hold baby Gretel!

RECIPE: PAVLOVA

My friend Holly made these large beautiful pavlova desserts, to be cut and shared.
The recipe below is for individual servings.

I have many favorites at Tartine, but one of my top picks is Pavlova. It is especially nice in the summer with all the fresh fruit in season. 

The tricky part of Pavlova is cooking the meringue to a perfect crispness. This is my sister’s recipe that she has had success with. If you don’t want to make meringue, Trader Joe’s sells small meringues and can be used in the recipe below.

PAVLOVA

serves 10

1/2 lb. Strawberries, stemmed and sliced
1/4 cup sugar
2 tsp. lemon juice
1 pint heavy cream
1 tsp. vanilla
1 TBS powdered sugar 
1/2 lb. blueberries
1/2 lb. peaches
1/2 lb. raspberries
(kiwi and bananas are often added as well)
30 meringues (Trader Joe’s) or follow recipe below to make meringues

In a blender, place strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice and blend on high until liquid and smooth.  Whip cream in mixer with vanilla and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spoon strawberry puree evenly onto individual plates, place 3 mimi meringues on top in a triangle with space in the middle. Fill middle with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with fruit.

Meringue
4 large egg whites
1/2 cup + 1 1/2 tsp. caster sugar (this is very fine sugar- take granulated sugar and place in food processor or blender and pulse until fine, but not powdery)
1/2 cup + 1 1/2 tsp. powdered sugar, sifted (measure then sift)

Preheat oven to 225 degrees
Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixer, on medium speed, whisk egg whites until fluffy with stiff peaks.
Increase speed and add caster sugar slowly, a TBS at a time. 
Mixture should be thick and glossy.
Add about 1/3 of powdered sugar and fold in gently, repeat 1/3 at a time with remaining powdered sugar until all incorporated. 
Mixture should look smooth and billowy.
Drop in rounds onto baking sheet.

Bake 1 hour, 15 minutes. Cool. 
Store in airtight tin for up to 2 weeks.