The “42nd” Annual Picnic—July 18, 2010
More pictures below
Fay Mikkelsen reports: Fifty-eight members and guests relaxed under the shady firs outside Cavallotti. From the comfort of their deck chairs they heard Bocce cries and clanks from the more energetic. In the hall Willie and Peter were marshalling desserts, snacks and salads and slaving over hot ovens. Soon the appetizer table was carried out and demolished as only good food can be. Rainer couldn’t talk, so Peter conducted the fun educational Rhone blend comparison of French, Australian and South African wines. They were as they should be. The French only won by one vote.
At about 6 pm many succulent salads were given their finishing touches. Peter carved deliciously roasted lamb and pork. There were good green mint sauce preparations and bonuses of Oink and Baaa gravies. Hot baked potatoes and buns filled up the hungry.
From the bright sun, the calm shade of Cavalotti was a welcome relief. And the pastel cloths and centre pieces on the tables (prepared by Franco and the set up crew) gladdened the eye. At last Peter and Willie were seated and roundly applauded for their very well planned and executed picnic. But that was not the end. A groaning desert table was flashing “come and get me” signals from behind the coffee urn. A particularly bright pink mousse captivated me, and I prayed that Saint Atkins was not watching. I have first hand reports that all the desserts were sinfully good.
After a noisy series of deep and meaningful conversations, the clean up volunteers magically wafted through the hall and the clutter vanished to the kitchen where Franco was operating the washer. I think everybody pitched in with clean up. Thanks to Lorenzo for tying up the loose ends.
There was an informal wind-down tasting outside again. Cindy and Mike brought out the best of Cindy’s cellar. She and Peter locked horns on food pairing principles until even the die hards went home happily sated.
Photos by Rod Church.