Friendship isn't a big thing - it's a million little things. (Part One)

There is nothing quite like fabulous friends on a long weekend!  I had such a great time that it will need to be written in 3 blog segments, enjoy Part One below. 

 I had the great pleasure of spending the family day weekend with some close friends in Jasper.  I hate to bore you with sappy quotes and sentimental propaganda; however Katie and Brian deserve a sappy Kerri shout out.   

So here goes: Albert Schweitzer writes; in everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out.  It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being.  We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.  

A visit with the Calder’s always sparks my inner fire. This inner fire encourages me to:dance, sing, blush,laugh, be adventurous, cook often, eat well and partake in champagne celebrations.   The scenery near their home in Jasper isn't to hard to take either.

What a beautiful place, I love the Jasper Mountains!

Apron Fashion Show in the Calder Kitchen

This was a field trip of sorts as  I picked up some great lessons in the Calder Kitchen.

In keeping with my goal of learning to cook,I spent the weekend observing two great culinary artists in action.   

Please enjoy the pictures and notice the immaculate attention to detail. Even their aprons have flare, particularly Brian’s.    

Day One – Friday Evening

My first lesson of the weekend:

I discovered what a butternut squash was!! (A very interesting looking vegetable) 

Did you know that Butternut squash not only makes excellent soup but also French fries? I am nowhere near having the ability to make butternut squash fries, but I look forward to hearing the outcome of Katie’s.  

 The second lesson of the weekend:
Red Peppers cost upwards of $7 in Jasper (That’s crazy). 

Clearly every kitchen needs wine, butternut squash and a pineapple!

 

 Day Two – A "Blue Bird" Saturday





Fresh Maple Granola



A yummy Breakfast

Katie prepared an awesome home cooked breakfast.  It started with a yogurt parfait with freshly toasted maple granola followed by a warm tomato scallion melt.  Both were absolutely delicious.  This warm hearty Breakfast gave us plenty of energy!

We needed the energy as it was -28 out and we were off for a three hour tour of Maligne Canyon. 



A Frozen Waterfall: The Queen of Maligne



The hike was unique as we wore ice clamps and actually walked on the frozen water of the Canyon.  A little slippery at times, but the scenery was spectacular.  If you are in Jasper in the winter, this is a must do!

Stay tuned for Part 2 and 3!  Lunch,Champagne, Dinner, Beer, More Breakfast and More Dinner! 

"Blue Bird" is skier lingo for clear blue skies. I thought the phrase went well with the Jasper experience.