My mom planned, prepared, transported, catered, and arranged beautiful foods for my MFA thesis reception to a tee and I am so grateful for it. My dad helped with the making and getting everything there. So many of my friends and colleagues have commented, complimented, and questioned the delicious foods that were presented. I felt that the best way for my mom to hear these kind words and to understand how deeply appreciative I am of her, is to create a forum by which she can see, hear, and respond to all of this.
WOW! Courtney, I had no idea about all the help you received from your family. How wonderful. When I saw the amazing, beautifully presented spread, I wondered who the awesome new caterer was in town. And the gallery looked awesome. So happy to have been able to attend this fantastic event. Happy for you and proud of you if I may say so myself. You are blessed!
ReplyDeletexoxo,
Colleen
Thanks Colleen! xoxo
DeleteI am gratified by all the lovely comments posted here. Thanks to you all! One of the best parts of being in Athens to visit Courtney and Chloe has been to meet her fine friends and faculty. We have been enriched by the OU experience and community in countless ways and will always be grateful for the time spent there. We hope any visitors to Pittsburgh will feel welcome to visit or stay with the Kessels .. We have spare rooms!!! Drema and Don Kessel, Courtney's parents
DeleteDrema and Don:
ReplyDeleteThe food and presentation was truly exceptional! Of course what is most exceptional is the continual love and support that Courtney and Chloe feel from you both.
Lots of love,
Cayla
P.S. Can I get that walnut pate recipe? :)
Sweet Girl,
DeleteOne of best things we have enjoyed in Court's experience is the many great friends she has introduced to us. All your talents have impressed and enriched us. We wish you good journeys in India! Here is the recipe:
Lentil Walnut Pate
1 1/2c. walnuts
2/3 c. lentils
1 bay leaf
1 T. olive oil
1 T. mirin
2 lg. onions
1 T. garlic, minced
1 T. umeboshi paste (salty Japanese plum)
1 T. tamari soy sauce
1/2 t. dried basil or more fresh
Preheat oven to 275 degrees
Roast walnuts 10 min. In a colander, rub together to remove skins.
In saucepan cover lentils & bay leaf with 2" water. Bring to boil, then simmer til tender, about 30 min.
Drain, discard bay leaf. Heat mirin and oil in medium skillet. Add onions and garlic. Saute til lightly brown. Place walnuts, lentils, onions and remaining ingredients in blender. Puree til smooth. Taste for additional tamari, salt or pepper. Serve warm or cover & refrigerate. Serve w/toast, crackers or raw veg.
Thank you so much, Drema and Don, for bringing Courtney into the world!
ReplyDeleteYour generosity and attention to detail was evident in the amazing food you prepared for Courtney's reception, and those qualities of giving and consideration are also evident in your daughter and granddaughter.
Much gratitude to you and your family!
--Danielle
Jennie Klein posted this on facebook:
ReplyDeleteBoth of them were fabulous. The food at Courtney Kessel's opening was really good too!
April 14 at 10:52pm · Like · 1