An informative sampling focused on herbs and tea with an occasional sprinkling of fairy dust and a glimpse into family activities too. The contributions to this blog are the combined efforts of the sisters of The Rosemary House and Sweet Remembrances.
Thursday, August 28, 2025
RE Farm Café, State College, PA
Part of the graduation surprise was a special dinner at RE Farm Cafe and Windswept Farm in State College. This Farm to Plate dining experience offers four course composer's (chef's) dinners or small plates and an a la carte menu on Fridays and Saturdays year round.
The central open kitchen offers guests a chance to see the composers at work as they magically transform the bounty from the farm into culinary delights. There is an option to actually sit at the counter for an up close and personal look at the chefs at work, but we opted for seating at a table. We were still able to enjoy the hustle of a working kitchen in the background.
Before we placed our order, the chef sent over a small plate with a complimentary appetizer of cheese, tomato, and basil crostini. It was just enough to confirm that fresh and flavorful were the working order of the day.
The prix fixe menu started with a Salad and Soup Shooter. The little cup held a fresh gazpacho (chilled tomato soup) and Napa Cabbage Slaw with a fresh ginger miso dressing. Heirloom tomatoes were the star of both of these courses. Sliced marigold bread with butter accompanied the meal.
Next up, the Small Plate Course. We each selected our preferred option and were then able to sample a variety of the small plates. Kale Saag with pita chips, Poached Egg on Red Flannel Hash, and Blistered Shishito Pepper Hummus, with vegetables and flatbread dippers. All were unique and quite tasty.
The Main Plate Choice offered many options, including trout, pork chops, wok fried chicken or the vegetarian option shown here. Baingan Bharta – smashed grilled eggplant, tomato, scallions, and southwest
Asian spices, served on basmati rice. The assorted cheese, cracker and fruit on slate was either an a la carte option, or also a dessert selection. 
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Up, Up, and Away
The whoosh of the hot air is exhilarating. The sight of the balloon against the blue sky is peaceful and tranquil.
Weather is a concerning factor, and wind speed, fog, all determine whether or not the balloon will take flight. We were grateful that the weather accommodated this surprise flight for the graduate. The flight lasts approx. an hour, and landing might be in a farmers field, a cul-de-sac, or a recently harvested corn field, wherever the winds take you. From a distance you can spot the towering Penn State stadium as the balloon came down in a nearby field. The chase vehicle follows the balloon from the ground, and is at the ready to help bring it down and in position to let the balloon deflate.
All hands on deck to help push the air out of the balloon and get it back into its carry case.
The Winds have welcomed us with softness.
The Sun has blessed us with his warm hands.
We have flown so high and so well
That God has joined us in our laughter
And He has set us gently back again
Into the loving arms of Mother Earth.
Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Mimi's Tea Cottage, West Chester, PA
The seating area is divided into two sections, we were seated on the left side with the beautiful chandelier. We admired their casual chic decor and the comfy padded seats.
Once we each selected our teas, assorted teapots were brought to the table.
The menu changes monthly, although we were there on the first weekend of August, we actually had the July menu as it was being served one last time for the weekend. In addition to your tea flavor, there are decisions to be made on the menu. The starter and the scones have different options. The first course included a choice of Mushroom Soup, or Sundried Tomato & Feta Quiche with a side salad. We all selected the Quiche.
Once we finished with the quiche, the three tiered tray was presented. Laden with sandwiches, scones, and mini desserts, the tiered tray is always a sight to behold.
Here's to tearoom celebrations and birthdays!
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