Archives for April 2015

Craft Brewers Conference Beer and Food Events

April 8, 2015 by 4 Comments

Next week from April 14-17 is the Craft Brewers Conference in Portland at the Oregon Convention Center. This means next week 10,000+ craft brewers and industry people related to craft breweries and brewpubs will all be descending to PDX from all over the US and multiple parts of the world. How does this affect you?

Well, you can expect that many of the breweries that are unique to Portland and/or nearby the convention center are going to get even busier then usual – Cascade Brewing, I am especially looking at you who is also doing a Cascade Brewing Sour & Wild Invitational special beer tappings all week from April 14-18.

You can expect the extra crowds to happen even before April 14 as many will probably fly in slightly before the conference, and/or may stay slightly after the conference as well.

But also, there’s a huge amount of special beer events, including beers that these brewers are bringing from wherever they are coming from, all over the city next week! There are many meet the brewers events, places that special beers are tapping, and my favorite, beer pairing events bringing together craft beers and foods. Beer and Food is totally my thing.
Fort George 3 Way IPA, paired with this delicious course from Whole Foods Pearl of Scallops with pea puree and greens  Whole Foods Pearl Brewery dinners, this one is with Hopworks Urban Brewery (HUB). Dessert started with a honey herb butter custard with lavendar sage rosemary and thyme (and winner of a Whole Foods department ice cream competition) with house shortbread with many of those same herbs, then paired with Hopworks' Notorious FIG, a Belgian Dark Strong Ale that uses 30 lbs of organic fig

You can see a list of the activities on the Craft Brewers Conference/CBC Website, but a few highlights I thought I would share of the Craft Brewers Conference Beer and Food Events list:

Week long Craft Brewers Conference Beer and Food Events

  • Monday April 13- Friday April 17 Tap Takeover at Lardo. Enjoy delicious sandwiches (and those Dirty Fries) AND a portfolio of beer from a specific brewery all in one place. At the Hawthorne location, it will be Fort George Brewery, from Astoria OR that includes a wide range of Fort George one-offs and specialty beers on those 13 taps that will be rotated the entire week. Meanwhile, at the Downtown location, San Diego brewery Ballast Point Brewing & Spirits will control the 10 taps there, and at Lardo North the taps get commanded by Oakshire Brewing from Eugene, OR.
    Fort George Wit beer (conveniently in a can in case you want to take it camping or on a river float or on a hike) Ballast Point Brewing, taster sizes of various beers
  • Monday, April 13th – Sunday, April 19th Le Pigeon will offer beer pairings to accompany their five and seven course chef’s tasting menus. Usually they only offer wine pairings so this is a special pairing they are offering if you are into food and beer. Which, why wouldn’t you be. Beer flights: $30 (5 pairings) $45 (7 pairings) and the Chef’s tasting menu: $75 (5-course menu) $95 (7-course menu), gratuity not included
  • Monday April 13 – Saturday April 18 Bailey’s Taproom is doing “The Drinking Lot” a popup beer bar with 12 rotating beers and a rotating food cart at the East Burnside Street and NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd in yes, a parking lot (it will be covered). See more details at this article on Brewpublic.
    Beer in a Bailey's Taproom glass in Portland

Monday, April 13

  • EastBurn is hosting a 7-course dinner featuring rare beers from Avery, Burnside, DC Brau, Firestone Walker, Flying Dog, Maui and Surly called the Charlie Bravo Charlie Beer Dinner for $100 a seat that includes 7 courses and the 7 beers. If you aren’t going to the dinner, EastBurn will be closed that night just for that private event.

Tuesday, April 14

  • Accanto will be pairing their Northwest/Italian cuisine with five farmhouse ales from Green Bench Brewing (from St Petersburg, FL)  for a private dinner in the elegant former Genoa dining room on Tuesday April 14th, at 6:30 PM. They are also saying they are hunting down funky Italian beers to have by the bottle all week long; specials to go with those will be on the chalkboard. Call Accanto at 503-235-4900 to reserve a spot at the Green Bench Brewery dinner.

Wednesday, April 15 – the big beer dinner night apparently

  • There is a lunchtime event (lucky you who can actually make something like this) of Stone Beer & Blue Star Doughnut Pairing at Bailey’s Taproom/Upper Lip. It is beer paired with doughnuts from Blue Star Doughnuts! Dammit, such a good idea, Bailey’s Taproom! Bill Sysak known as “Dr.” Bill in the craft beer community is the Craft Beer Ambassador and Certified Cicerone for Stone Brewing Co. and will also be there to discuss his “Masterpairings” philosophy on pairing beer with food at The Upper Lip. A special private session will kick off the event at 11:30 AM which has limited tickets are available in advance for $28. Then, there will be Public tasting begins at 12:30 PM through 2:30 PM.
  • Wednesday is a big day for Dr. Bill (Bill Sysak, Craft Beer Ambassador and Certified Cicerone at the Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens) because after Upper Lip at lunch, he’s off to Zupans. From 4-6 PM he will be at a Beer & Tapas Social Hour (cost $45) and then 7-10 PM he marathons on with a 5 Course Dinner and Beer Pairing that includes Stone brews paired with a five course menu for $85. Both events listed here take place at Cellar Z (at the Zupan’s downtown cellar, at the Zupans located on Burnside). Purchase tickets in stores or on-line at zupans.com/
  • Imperial Bottle Shop and Taproom is having a 40 Oz to Fort George and Free Pok Pok Wings Night. Fort George Brewery is taking over the Imperial 14 taps for one night and the first 80 lucky beer lovers that buy a 40 oz drink ticket package (10 tickets) for $15 will also get a FREE 1/2 order of famous Ike’s Vietnamese Fish Sauce Wings from the Imperial Bottle Shop neighbors Pok Pok! Wings will start to be delivered in waves at 6 PM, and be served until gone.
    Pok Pok Wing at the PDX airport offers Ike's Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings which you can get normal or spicy. You can get a half dozen in a full order, or just 3 wings in a half order of these fresh whole natural chicken wings marinated in fish sauce and sugar, deep fried, and tossed in caramlized Phu Quoo fish sauce and garlic
  • At the McMenamins Crystal Hotel at the Zeus Café, you can make reservations for the Spring Brewers Dinner that includes a tour at 6:45 PM of the brewery and then followed by 4 courses and 5 beers as well as lots of tall tales from McMenamins Crystal Brewers Drew Phillips and Dan Black. $75 per ticket Tickets onsale now at mcmenamins.com
  • At Hotel Deluxe, a Sierra Nevada Beer Dinner option will be available. As part of their menu offerings a one-night-only four-course prix fixe beer-pairing menu during their dinner service (5-9 PM) that pairs food from Chef Mark Hosak in the sophisticated and elegant atmosphere but reasonable prices of Gracie’s Restaurant with the beers of Sierra Nevada is being offered for $50 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Make reservations to dine anytime between 5 and 9 p.m. by calling the restaurant directly at 503-222-2171 or using OpenTable.
  • Stammtisch Chef Graham Chaney is collaborating with Eric Toft, the head brewmaster of Schönramer Brauerei from Germany for a five course beer dinner at 6 PM. The beers from Eric will include the first US appearance of the new IPA & Imperial Stout. Tickets are $75, call (503) 206-7983 to make reservations
    Stammtisch and Schönramer Brauerei Beer Dinner
  • Ned Ludd and Breakside Brewery are doing a Collaboration Dinner with Elder Hall that includes 5 course, 10 beer pairing dinner with 2 beers for each course, one of them beers that Breakside created in collaboration with Jester King Brewery (Austin, TX), Melvin Brewing (Jackson, WY), Crooked Stave Artisan Beer (Denver, CO), and Moody Tongue Brewing (Chicago, IL) and one beer from the visiting brewery. Tickets are $90 (not including gratuity), with two seatings available at 6PM or 8:30PM. For reservations, email events@elderhall.com or call (503) 477-4725 or call Ned Ludd at (503) 288-6900

Thursday, April 16

  • Brewer’s Dinner with Oakshire Brewing (Eugene, OR) and 3 Floyds (from Indiana) at modern steakhouse Urban Farmer promises to be classy and delicious with a four course tasting dinner with three beers from each brewery! Tickets are $125 per person and include beer and gratuity. Call 503.222.4900 to make your reservation
  • Ninkasi Space Beer Dinner at the Oregon Museum of Science & Industry, $60 inclusive, 21+ older only, ID required. Advance tickets required, purchase from the OMSI website. This is the Portland premiere of Ninkasi’s space beer, Ground Control, made from yeast that’s traveled in space. The evening starts with a space science demonstration on “What Would It Be Like to Drink Beer in Space?”, followed by a three-course dinner courtesy Bon Appetit’s Executive Chef, Ryan Morgan. The courses are paired with Ninkasi beers.
  • Definitely one of the most affordable events is the Heads and Tails CBC Dinner at Culmination Brewing from 5-9 PM (5-6 PM is the CBC VIP hour for those with CBC Badges. Free shuttle service from 4:30 – 10 PM from Oregon Convention Center to Culmination Brewing for CBC attendees.). For only $20 with a CBC badge or $25 without a CBC badge, guests receive a four course tasting dinner starring Tails & Trotters and a commemorative Culmination / Tails & Trotter Belgian tulip beer glass, 2 beer tickets, and a tour of the Culmination Brewery.
  • Interurban from 6 – 10 PM will offer a special 9 item menu specifically designed to pair with 3 beers each from breweries of other states, namely Alesmith Brewing from San Diego California, Trinity Brewing from Colorado Springs in Colorado (they have already shared that they are bringing Koelorado Spontaneous, Magic Brett Tour #1 Drie, and their Wild Apple Saison), and Against The Grain from Louisville, Kentucky.  All items will be available a la carte so this is also a great deal in terms of tasting beer (9 beers!) and food pairings (9 special food items!).
  • Deschutes Brewing is going all out at the event space Pure Space by throwing a party they call BEER MACHINES A Steampunk Ode To The Craft Revolution. Besides beer, they promise lots of entertainment including circus theater and steampunk art pieces. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door and includes beer tokens and all entertainment and starts from 8 PM – 1 AM

Friday, April 17

  • Lardo ups the game with its beer and sandwiches with a special one day special highlight with Breakside Brewing thanks to a Breakside and Lardo Beer & Sandwich Pairing Collaboration Event at their Hawthorne location from 5:00 pm – 8:00 PM that includes Breakside Brewery and Lardo offering amazing collaboration beer (each beer is a different collaboration of Breakside with another brewery, including Stone, Pinthouse, GBonfire, Iron Goat, NoDa, and Elliot Bay) paired with collaboration sandwiches event. 7 breweries, 13 beers and 6 sandwiches. No cover.
  • Imperial Bottle Shop and Taproom is hosting The Bruery Pop-Up Beer Pairing Dinner with Coquine Supper Club. Limited to only 40 people, this 6-course, pop-up beer pairing dinner is $75 per person (18% gratuity added for a total of $88.50). For reservations, please email info@imperialbottleshop.com or call Imperial at 971.302.6899 between noon – 5PM. Check out the awesome menu and beers here

Saturday, April 18

  • You have another chance with doughnuts and beer thanks to Baker’s Dozen Coffee Beers & Doughnuts Festival at Culmination Brewing from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM that offers a total of 13 3-oz coffee beer samples, and 13 gluttonous doughnut morsels along with Olé Latte Coffee. Tickets are limited to 300 and are available through Eventbrite for $20 (or $10 for those with a CBC badge, checked at the door.)
  • Or, about sour and coffee beers for Saturday brunch instead? Hop & Vine is hosting a Sour Sunrise w/ Sante Adairius, Rare Barrel & Almanac brunch that starts this funky brunch with sour beers with a flight of “mimosa-esque” apricot sours, followed by a “coffee-ish” trio of dark sours, all to accompany a special Hop & Vine brunch lineup to compliment the flights from these three California breweries. Each flight offers three 5 ounce pours. Hop & Vine will be offering 3 seatings for this brunch at 10:30 AM, 12 noon, and 1:30 PM. The reservation is only necessary for the member(s) of your party who will be partaking in the flights/brunch pairing, they have a limited amount of the beer and brunch servings available. An additional brunch menu and full drink menu will also be available. Reserve your spot(s) in person at the Hop & Vine on Sunday, April 12th or make reservations earlier (my recommendation, you pay upfront but gratuity is already included in the presale price) at this link here. Brunch and the two flights are $30 for the beer only and then $20 for the food for $50 total for both. There is also a vegetarian option available for this brunch food (though as noted, you can also decide to offer item from their other brunch menu instead of the pairing one)

So yeah, there’s a lot going on. I didn’t even list the special beer events because then this would be 10 pages long. If you’ve ever wanted to try a beer pairing of beer and food, I can help you out with this list, but you’re on your own looking the rest up for beer only events!

If you are interested, make reservations ASAP because as of this blog post one dinner (Wild Side at Imperial) already sold out and I expect other Beer Food Events to do the same.

I’ll be going to the Bruery Brewery and Coquine Supper Club dinner at Imperial Bottle Shop and Taproom on Friday – that was the one that really stood out to me. I also might try to make Interurban on Thursday because I am highly interested in Trinity beers, and at Culmination on Saturday The Baker’s Dozen as those coffee beers sound really fun paired with doughnuts, though I am equally torn by the Hop & Vine Sour Sunrise Brunch – do I dare do both? Add to this that I also have multiple other events on my calendar (3 a night!) so let’s see how my palate (and my liver) feel.
Starter of Shigoku oysters, tomato, fish sauce, lime, cilantro, paired with Newport Summer Ale, Smallwares PDX, Breakside Brewery, Smallwares and Breakside Beer Dinner A course at the Saraveza Block 15 Winter Dinner Block 15 Saraveza Dinner Pairing Seared Foie Gras on Brioche Coffee Dusted Roasted Figs, Chocolate Almond Sauce

Did you know about the Craft Brewer’s Conference coming to Portland? Are you thinking of attending any of the beer events happening around Portland next week?

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Recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan

April 7, 2015 by 9 Comments

When I saw this recipe Matzo Brei with Parmesan and Chives in the Vegetarian Times a year ago, I was fascinated. I’ve never made anything with matzo before. But, this sounded interesting – and what doesn’t go with eggs and cheese right? So for Passover 2015 (though I don’t observe it myself) from the evening of Friday, April 3 to Saturday, April 11 I thought I would give it a try.

I did add chopped onion to mine to go an itsy bit more savory –  if you want you can sauté your chopped onion before adding them into the matzo brei mixture. I also used a bit more butter, but a lot less than the Ruth Reichl version so you decide what is enough for you!

Recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal

This recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan is a great way to use up some extra eggs as with this dish, 4 eggs can feed 6-8 people depending on what else you are eating with the Matzo Brei. I used 1 matzo for every egg, but some use 2 matzo for each egg to make it more chewy and further stretch that egg. You can  also add a splash of milk if you’d like.

Matzo Brei also seems to come in two forms- omelette from where after pouring it into the pan, you flip it, and then for serving you do slices almost like a quiche, like I did. Or, you can scramble it instead – a perfect fallback in case your flip doesn’t work! – or in case you have leftovers later to heat it up in a pan and break it up and maybe add a little more (like in this case, I added some broccoli).
Recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal Recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan: in this example I scrambled it with a bit of broccoli

Apparently there is quite a debate of the best accompaniments for Matzo Brei – there seem to be two big camps, either enjoying the matzo brei savory or sweet.

For savory, think of topping them with sour cream, sauteed onions and mushrooms, creamed spinach, or other roasted vegetables, grated cheese, hot sauce or horseradish etc.
Recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal. Enjoy with sour cream or other accompaniments! Recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal. Spice it up with hot sauce or horseradish! Recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan: in this example I scrambled it with a bit of broccoli

For sweet, common toppings include cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, maple syrup, applesauce or other fruit jams or compotes or fresh or roasted or maceration fruit – think similar to pancake.
Recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal. Serve savory or sweet, such as here with maple syrup or cinnamon sugar

Ingredients:

  • 4 matzo squares
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/4 cup chopped chives
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon of butter

Directions:

  1. Break up your matzo squares into 1 to 1 1/2 inch pieces. Place broken matzo pieces in bowl, and cover it all with hot water (brei means scalding, though it doesn’t have to be that hot!). Let the matzo get soft by letting it sit in the water for 30 seconds or so, then drain out all the water – you want it to be softened, not mushy.
  2. Crack and beat the 4 eggs in a large bowl. Stir in the broken but now softened matzo squares, chopped chives and onion, grated Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
    Softened matzo mixed in with the eggs and chopped chives and onion for Matzo Brei with Parmesan
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Now add the matzo egg mixture and let sit for 2 minutes before flipping, or scramble for 3-4 minutes.
    <Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal
  4. Serve immediately while still hot with your choice of sweet or savory or both types for toppings!
    Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal

What do you think you would do, keep your Matzo Brei in omelette form or scramble it? Why?
Recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan: in this example I scrambled it with a bit of broccoli

And would you do it with sweet or savory toppings, what would you pick?
Recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal. Enjoy with sour cream or other accompaniments! Recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal. Spice it up with hot sauce or horseradish! Recipe for Matzo Brei with Parmesan, an easy way to stretch eggs with matzo crackers into serving more people or a more full meal. Serve savory or sweet, such as here with maple syrup or cinnamon sugar

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After Easter: Asparagus Goldenrod Recipe

April 5, 2015 by Leave a Comment

Looking for another way to use all those boiled eggs from Easter?

I wanted to re-share part of this post from two years ago, when I made Asparagus Goldenrod while reviewing the book The Four Seasons Farm Gardener’s Cookbook. Although I followed the recipe and served it on asparagus on top of bread (be it traditional toast like this recipe or English Muffins or biscuits etc.), I believe you can really put Goldenrod sauce on anything, and the sprinkling of the grated egg yolk and perhaps a pinch of cayenne or herb is just beautiful.

Asparagus Goldenrod

Asparagus Goldenrod recipe

This recipe comes from Barbara Damrosch and her mother, and is named for the grated egg yolk that appears like goldenrod pollen. I chose to use two types of bread (paesano and seedy grain), but did not remove the crusts (and whoever styled the dish for the food photo did not either!).

Ingredients (serves 4):

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 4 ounces (1 cup) of shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 40 medium size fresh asparagus spears
  • 4 large or 8 small slices of whole grain bread, crusts removed
  • 2 tablespoons butter at room temperature
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1. Hard cook the eggs by placing the 4 eggs in a saucepan and adding enough water to cover the eggs. Bring the water to simmer over high heat, then immediately lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Drain the hot water and fill the pan with cold water to cool the eggs for at least 5 minutes.
  2. Peel the eggs and remove the yolk carefully so they remain whole. They should be firm enough to now grate. Coarsely chop the egg whites and set aside for the sauce.
    The Four Seasons Farm Gardener's Cookbook review Barbara Damrosch and Eliot Coleman gardening farming recipes local produce Asparagus Goldenrod recipe The Four Seasons Farm Gardener's Cookbook review Barbara Damrosch and Eliot Coleman gardening farming recipes local produce Asparagus Goldenrod recipe
  3. Pour the cream into a medium size skillet and bring to slow simmer over medium heat, stir, stirring constantly, until it has thickened. Gradually add the grated cheese, stirring until it has melted and is smooth. Add the egg whites, and keep the sauce warm over low heat.
  4. Toast the bread and then butter (optional), putting them on the plate you plan to serve with.
  5. Trim the asparagus spears to about 5 inches in length, and steam until the asparagus is tender, 2-5 minutes. (Or, you can roast or grill the asparagus, whatever you’d like.) Distribute the asparagus spears over the pieces of toast, and then cover with the creamy sauce. Top with the grated egg yolk and some black pepper to taste, and serve immediately.
    Asparagus Goldenrod recipe

For most of the recipes in the cookbook, there is a “Try This Too” section that suggests some variations to try. Barbara advises that depending on the season, you can easily substitute broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, leeks, garlic scapes, etc for the asparagus. She also suggests a salad and a dessert of fresh fruit to serve with to make a complete complementary meal.
Asparagus Goldenrod recipe Asparagus Goldenrod recipe

As a bonus, if you still want another idea, although I don’t have a recipe… make egg salad, and then put them on baguette slices and take them as snacks to a party, like this. Just add a bit of paprika and a pickled beet to balance the creaminess of the egg salad with a bit of sour and spice.
Egg Salad Appetizers. Just add a bit of paprika and a pickled beet to balance the creaminess of the egg salad with a bit of sour and spice Egg Salad Appetizers. Just add a bit of paprika and a pickled beet to balance the creaminess of the egg salad with a bit of sour and spice

How are you using your boiled eggs from Easter?

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Recap of 14 previous Stitch Fix boxes

April 3, 2015 by 7 Comments

I was surprised as I opened up my box of Stitch Fix to see at the top that my March 2015 box was Stitch Fix #15. Fifteen! I have had 75 items styled by the Stitch Fix stylists for me, like I’m a Hollywood C-lister.

I wanted to share some of the items I’ve kept from the 14 previous boxes to the March box (I covered the March box in a previous post). If you haven’t heard of Stitch Fix before, Stitch Fix is a monthly styling subscription service personalized for you.

You go online and they ask you questions, including showing you images of various outfits, to get an information on your size as well as your preferences in style. You can even put together a Pinterest board of outfit  inspirations, including from celebrities (I’m crushing on Grimm TV show character Juliette’s wardrobe) or stores. You can also let them know if you want a box to include certain fixes, such as pants, or if you have an event (like a bachelorette party or beach vacation trip) to style for. Then, based on all that, a stylist will pick out 5 pieces to ship to you that are mailed to your home for your consideration.

Stitch Fix #15 March 2015

There is a $20 styling fee that is applied to your order as soon as the box is shipped to your home. You can choose whether you want to exclude anything, or ask for certain things, what your price points on various parts of an outfit might be, if there are parts of your body you hide or that you flaunt, etc. They also have petite or maternity styling, if that applies to you.

You also get to choose how often you get your Stitch Fix boxes – monthly, quarterly, on demand… you make the call, down to picking even that date of your Stitch Fix (ha ha I pick it to be after my credit card statement closes for the month). You can keep everything (and get 25% off the price of the entire box) or send any pieces or even everything back in a postage paid package in the box based on what you think of the items in the box.

My boxes have been mixed – there have been a couple times I have kept everything. Other times I might only keep 1 thing, or even nothing (this has never happened to me, I always like at least one thing).

I always try everything on because I have been surprised that things I don’t think would work on me or that I would never pick up in a store actually end up looking surprisingly good once on me. And, I love getting unique pieces that no one else in my circle has, I’ve gotten so many compliments on Stitch Fix clothing from friends and strangers.

This Miilla Alani Draped Mixed Knit Cardigan is probably my favorite piece out of all the boxes. It’s perfect for layering all year long, and the cut of the cardigan is very feminine and flattering. It comes with a detachable long scarf too.
Stitch Fix styled fix of Miilla Alani Draped Mixed Knit Cardigan is perfect for layering all year long, and the cut of the cardigan is very feminine and flattering Stitch Fix styled fix of Miilla Alani Draped Mixed Knit Cardigan is perfect for layering all year long, and the cut of the cardigan is very feminine and flattering

Another favorite is Subtle Luxury’s Madone Silk Back Cardigan that is the epitome of a perfect piece to wear to work or out in the evening. Whenever I walk when I’m wearing it, I can feel the softness of the cashmere-cotton blend and the fluttering of the 100% silk back like I’m a pretty peacock.
Stitch Fix styled fix of a Subtle Luxury's Madone Silk Back Cardigan that is the epitome of a perfect piece to wear to work or out in the evening. Stitch Fix styled fix of a Subtle Luxury's Madone Silk Back Cardigan that is the epitome of a perfect piece to wear to work or out in the evening. Stitch Fix styled fix of a Subtle Luxury's Madone Silk Back Cardigan that is the epitome of a perfect piece to wear to work or out in the evening.

A few other cardigans from other Stitch Fix boxes. I didn’t realize it until Stitch Fix sent me this many just how much I love these really fluttery cut cardigans or the warm coziness of some of those thicker sweaters.

  • Roxanna Chevron Open Knit Cardigan by TCEC works in every season
  • Can’t recall, but love the fluttering movement of this fuschia cardigan/wrap from Qi, I just don’t know the name of the design with this shawl collar
  • Tulle Lawley Cable Knit Open Cardigan has a cheerful color on the grey days and super deep pockets on either side
  • Mystree Demi Mixed Material Cardigan is like a sweatshirt and huggable sweater in one
  • Sanctuary Rollins Striped Slub Knit Sweater is so comfortably cozy but warm and cute

Roxanna Chevron Open Knit Cardigan by TCEC, thanks to Stitch Fix Roxanna Chevron Open Knit Cardigan by TCEC, thanks to Stitch Fix Stitch Fix knows I love these fluttery cardigans Stitch Fix knows I love these fluttery cardigans Stitch Fix box styled me a Tulle Lawley Cable Knit Open Cardigan Stitch Fix styled me a Mystree Demi Mixed Material Cardigan Stitch Fix styled me a Mystree Demi Mixed Material Cardigan Stitch Fix Sanctuary Rollins Striped Slub Knit Sweater is so comfortably cozy but warm and cute Stitch Fix Sanctuary Rollins Striped Slub Knit Sweater is so comfortably cozy but warm and cute

Living in Portland where it might be 40 degrees F in the morning but close to 70 degrees F by 4-5 PM when I get out of work, layering is crucial. Stitch Fix has been helping me out with lots of lovely blouses so that even if I wear only boring black cardigans over them, I still look great.

It’s usually the little details that get me- a color that stands out, a cap sleeve or sleeve that rolls and buttons up, the mix of materials. I’m always looking for pieces that look like no one else’s.

  • Ezra Malena Embroidered Flutter Sleeve blouse
  • Ark N Co Siva Chiffon Rose Print Blouse is a chiffon blouse good to dress up or down
  • Daniel Rainn Tolley Mixed Print Crochet Detail Tie Neck Blouse is so interesting for spring and summer with its colors and materials
  • Blouse from a Stitch Fix box – I cut the tag off because it was itching my neck, so really can’t even look up who made it!

    Life of a food blogger! #lgpfoodcrawl #pdxfoodbloggers #thymeoftaste

    A photo posted by Thyme Of Taste (@thyme_of_taste) on

  • Daniel Rainn Bilson Pleat Detail Abstract Print Blouse can be long sleeved or buttened into the rolled up sleeve look
  • Under Skies Milan Lace Print Back Pleat Top came in the same Stitch Fix box as maroon jeans so was a whole outfit in 1 box
  • 41Hawthorn Moni Stud Detailed 3/4 Sleeve Blouse is a great mix of hard and soft. This is one of the few outfits I think there is a photo of me in… thanks to other people

    Portland bloggers learn how to make fancy salad at @bluehourpdx #bluehourbloggers

    A photo posted by Michelle L. (@hummingbirdhigh) on

  • Sanctuary Ronelle Chiffon Longsleeve Blouse is very sweet with the lace but the raw edges give it a bit more, a Stitch Fix box item that I was on the fence on but ultimately kept
  • The details of this Papermoon Rebecca Floral Print and Lace Blouse are lovely
  • Under Skies Caressa Tribal Embroidered Blouse is a way brighter color of red than I would think to wear, but I love the embroidery details

Ezra Malena Embroidered Flutter Sleeve blouse from Stitch Fix box Ezra Malena Embroidered Flutter Sleeve blouse from Stitch Fix box Courtesy a Stitch Fix box, the Ark N Co Siva Chiffon Rose Print Blouse is a chiffon blouse good to dress up or down Stitch Fix match of a Daniel Rainn Tolley Mixed Print Crochet Detail Tie Neck Blouse is so interesting for spring and summer with its colors and materials Stitch Fix match of a Daniel Rainn Tolley Mixed Print Crochet Detail Tie Neck Blouse is so interesting for spring and summer with its colors and materials Blouse from a Stitch Fix box From a Stitch Fix box, this Daniel Rainn Bilson Pleat Detail Abstract Print Blouse can be long sleeved or buttened into the rolled up sleeve look This Under Skies Milan Lace Print Back Pleat Top came in the same Stitch Fix box as maroon jeans so was a whole outfit in 1 box 41Hawthorn Moni Stud Detailed 3/4 Sleeve Blouse from a Stitch Fix box This Sanctuary Ronelle Chiffon Longsleeve Blouse is very sweet with the lace but the raw edges give it a bit more, a Stitch Fix box I was on the fence on but ultimately kept This Sanctuary Ronelle Chiffon Longsleeve Blouse is very sweet with the lace but the raw edges give it a bit more, a Stitch Fix box I was on the fence on but ultimately kept The details of this Papermoon Rebecca Floral Print and Lace Blouse are lovelyThe details of this Papermoon Rebecca Floral Print and Lace Blouse are lovely Under Skies Caressa Tribal Embroidered Blouse from a Stitch Fix box Under Skies Caressa Tribal Embroidered Blouse from a Stitch Fix box

There are a few dresses in the mix too that just don’t look as good on the hanger as they do on the cards that come with every box, so I just scanned the cards that come with each item in the box. As you can see you always get 2 suggestions how to style each piece. There is also a personal style note with each box from the stylist with her own ideas and suggestions!
Dresses from previous Stitch Fix boxes Dresses from previous Stitch Fix boxes Dresses from previous Stitch Fix boxes

Also not photographed are 5 pairs of jeans and 2 pair of pants (a really cool brocade print black pant and faux leather detailed jogger black pant) I also got from my Stitch Fix boxes. I never ever ever would think to wear cranberry colored Jeans but Stitch Fix styled a box with those Jeans and the Papermoon Rebecca Floral Print and Lace Blouse and… I loved it! I’ve never worn anything but blue and black jeans but now I know I can wear colored pants too. Same with skinny jeans and the brocade pattern black pants and faux leather jogger black pants… Stitch Fix opened my mind to items I would have thought I could not pull off. 

I used to get jewelry and accessories, but have checked it off for now as I seem to be returning those more often than not.
Jewelry from a Stich Fix box Jewelry from a Stich Fix box

Have you heard of Stitch Fix? What has been your favorite piece if you are a fellow Stitch-Fixer (and we should exchange info so we can stalk what each other gets and request a piece if it’s available that month based on each other’s boxes!). If you are not a Stitch Fixer, and are thinking of trying it, would you mind using this referral link that gives me a small credit? And, then become Stitch Fix friends with me!

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Spring Beer and Wine Festival 2015

April 2, 2015 by Leave a Comment

It’s going to be cool (low 50s) and rainy and windy on Friday… so can I recommend staying indoors but in the company of oh, booths of 33 breweries, 6 cideries, 15 wineries, and 10 distilleries? In particular, I really enjoy visiting the wine booths because this festival is also a competition for them with medals, and you can already see the resulting medal winners for what wine here to help guide your tasting!

Oh, and I shouldn’t exclude 6 booths of chocolatiers, a Tour de Cheese opportunity with artisan cheeses from Jacobs Creamery (usually you can only find Lisa’s cheeses at the Farmers Market, and only a few of her cheeses are once in a while at Whole Foods or a few local stores and restaurants).
Jacobs Creamery cheeses Jacobs Creamery cheeses Jacobs Creamery cheeses

Plus a chance to browse various booths (there are more than 50 booths) including artisan bottle openers to kilts to fun or classy hats and a balloon artist to gourmet foodstuffs like

  • Salami and Meats from The Beautiful Pig
    The Beautiful Pig
  • Several oil and vinegar vendors (I love tasting the different flavors and getting new recipe ideas from the booths!)
  • Shrubs from Sage and Sea Farms, as Saveur Magazine raved as a pick  of their Sage and Sea Farms grapefruit shrub “Mouthwateringly tart and insanely delicious, this grapefruit shrub, or drinking vinegar, makes a hell of a margarita.“
  • The delicious jellies of Kelly’s Jelly and more recipe ideas… For instance, a couple years ago she shared this idea of delicious combo of Olympic Provisions Sweetheart Ham with Kelly’s Habanero Pepper Jelly Glaze
    Kelly's Jelly Olympic Provisions Sweetheart Ham with Kelly's Habanero Pepper Jelly Glaze
  • Mom’s Booze Balls.  Yum.
  • Hand-crafted, small batch marshmallows from Lil Miss Marshmallow that include Peanut Butter, Peppermint, Cinnamon Sugar, Chai Latte Spice and more flavored marshmallows
  • And more!

There will also be live music in the evenings, demonstrations on a Culinary Stage every hour on the hour from 1-6 pm varying from talking about home brewing to highlighting artisan vendors to pairing chocolate and spirits.

What is this indoor location? It’s the Spring Beer and Wine Festival at the Oregon Convention Center, this weekend from April 3 & 4, 2015 starting at 12:00pm – 10:00pm both days. It’s hard to believe that this festival has been so successful at it’s indoor summer festival vibe that this is it’s 21st year!

Admission is $8.00 (tickets are on sale here, you can also purchase at the door), plus if you plan to optionally sample beer you need to buy a beer glass (beer is only available in a festival glass or mug). You can purchase a plastic tasting mug or go for the fancy glass with the gold rim… (I admit to having several of these from previous festival years as you can see… the screenshots from the TV are this year’s glasses it seems). They have some packages that include admission, 10 tokens, and a glass as well for a small savings. Purchasing in advance also gives you express entry with no waiting in line and $2.00 off parking at the Oregon Convention Center.
Previous Spring Beer & Wine Fest glass Previous Spring Beer & Wine Fest glasses 2015 Spring Beer & Wine Fest glass 2015 Spring Beer & Wine Fest glass

Tasting tokens ($1 each token, generally you need 4 tokens to get a full mug).  Cider, mead, and wineries may sell samples in tiny plastic cups or have their own glasses for sale or will serve their product in any of the festival glasses. Cocktails and distilled spirits come in their own glasses. Sharing samples is permitted).

Minors accompanied by an adult are permitted until 9:00pm both days, and children 12 & under are free. Plus, on Friday, the first 500 people to enter get in for FREE!

For a little bit more on the history and where the Fest may be going in the future, check out this great writeup in the Oregon Beer Growler by Kris.

What are you doing this weekend?

Disclosure: I have a media pass for the Spring Beer and Wine Fest 2015, but I have attended the festival multiple times in the past, and I will always provide my honest opinion and assessment of all products and experiences I may be given. The views and opinions expressed in this blog are entirely my own.

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