Sand Sculpting Festival 2010

I got up real early this morning and drove over to Revere Beach to watch the contestants, from all over the United States and Canada, put the finishing touches on their sand sculptures.

Peaches and Cherries

I go to the computer and find the recipe for Peachy cherry-almond tart, Mary's favorite.

Using my new cherry pitter.



Almond paste makes this tart so delicious.




My mini-computer next to me on the counter top is so convenient.

I arrange the fruit on the pie crust in a tart pan.

The almond paste is blended with 2 tablespoons of soft butter.

Two eggs are mixed in, one at a time.

Two tablespoons of flour is mixed in and the batter is then spooned over the fruit.

The tart is baked in a 400 degree oven for 40 minutes.

After cooling for 1 1/2 hours, the tart is placed on a platter.

and served.

Very good with a little whipped cream!

Entertaining Michelle and Doug at poolside

Yes, I was there, behind the camera as usual.

Fourth of July 2010

Every year, Ed and Mary host a pool party for their extended families and friends.

This year the weather was perfect.



We displayed our patriotic colors.

Sophie began the day in the playground.

and was joined by her brother Jonathan who enjoyed the sand box.

Floats in the pool.

I set up a panini bar for lunch.

Proscuito ham, baked ham and roast turkey.

Provolone and mozzarella cheeses.

Pesto sauce and fresh mozzarello cheese.

Fresh basil from my herb garden and roasted peppers.

Tomatoes

Everyone built their own sandwiches.

This was very popular.

Here are two on the panini press.

Soon the kids were in the pool.

Here is Dante trying to catch a frisbee

while jumping off the diving board.

And cousin Joshua catching one.

Some adults gathered in the shade for some laughs

and lively conversation.

Others enjoyed the pool.

James and Dante

Matthew grills sausages

to be served with

a variety of salads.

Joshua cuddles with his new puppy,

Bailey

Its time for ice cream sundaes

and banana splits

provided by Sandy

No banana

but I would like two cherries

please.

lots of whipped cream please

chocolate sauce and whipped cream please

no nuts

Jimmies please

More jimmies please

Brothers and cousins

This is me, Vernon, serving grapes to the ladies.

Mary and Karen

The party went on well into the evening

until everyone walked down to the yacht club

to see the fireworks.

The children were watching the sunset

waiting for darkness

and fireworks.