Jenny Baxter File Photo/Calaveras Enterprsie
A mountain pass opened above the highway. In '88, the sun was high in the sky, pouring its warmth onto the welcoming earth, and it was time to drive to Reno to see her daughter, Gina, whom she hadn't seen since the fall. We have made a promise that neither of us will cross the mountain pass in the winter. The drive was spectacular! Caples Lake and Silver Lake were both frozen over, and the glistening snow cast a gentle glow as we drove along the edges of the lakes. The exposed granite hillside had numerous waterfalls trickling over the rocks, which spilled onto the road and other rock formations. The lush foothills, scented with cedar and pine, swayed lightly in the breeze, casting shadows on the railroad-like highway. As we descended the pass, this lush landscape gave way to tumbleweeds and cacti, welcoming us to Nevada. It was a warm afternoon for April, traffic was surprisingly light, and there was no sign of winter anywhere. When we arrived at Atlantis, her daughter was waiting for us. What a painful sight! Our hug lasted forever and I covered her face and kissed my mom! She took Joaquin and I to our room in the tower section and she entertained us. What an amazing view of the city! We were hungry, so we went downstairs to the Manhattan Deli for a quick lunch before playing. Gina and Joaquin's pastrami sandwich was delicious and had plenty of meat. I ordered a strawberry salad drizzled with my favorite balsamic vinaigrette and it was spot on. After lunch, we hailed a taxi to El Dorado to see “Menopause the Musical.” I hadn't taken a taxi since I lived in New York in the 70's. Boy, have things changed! The play was amazing! I laughed and laughed. It was amazing what four women were able to do on stage with minimal props. If you like music from the 70s to the 90s, this is the play for you. Highly recommended. After the play, we headed back to Atlantis for a little dessert, a little gambling, and a good night's sleep. The second day was truly a shopping day. Every store you can think of is in Reno. There is also a wide selection of restaurants. I felt like a kid in a candy store! I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed both shopping and eating. I think my favorite meal was “Nick the Greeks”. I ordered a bowl with jasmine rice on the bottom. It was topped with shredded romaine lettuce, cucumber chunks, red onion rings, tomatoes, and a heaping pile of lamb and beef slices on top with a generous helping of tzatziki sauce and warm pita. I was in heaven! The next morning, when we said goodbye, I felt empty and sad, but grateful for the wonderful time I had with beautiful Gina. I'm already planning my next trip!
balsamic vinegar
2 cloves of garlic
1/2 cup parsley
1 cup Marisolio 18 Year Aged Balsamic Vinegar
Put the above ingredients into the process bowl and proceed with the process. While the motor is running, add the following to the feed tube:
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
Once coated with oil, season with sea salt and freshly ground pepper.
Note! If you are not using Marisolio Balsamic Vinegar, use 1/2 cup of another brand of balsamic vinegar.
