Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Gourmet Chimneys
Gourmet Chimneys
Today was busy.
First stop, a wood-fired pizza oven/chimney at a Bistro. This is a monthly contract and requires specific scheduling when the oven is cold and the business is closed. Wood-fired oven cooking is having a revival throughout North America. In some countries the concept has enjoyed continuity for hundreds of years. On our trip to Italy last fall we quickly discovered the best pizzas were those produced in the old masonry ovens, and they were readily available even in the small villages.
The next stop was a level two, fireplace/chimney inspection for a real estate transaction. This includes scanning the internal surfaces of the flue with a closed circuit camera, and reporting the findings for the potential buyers. Then off to prepare some repair proposals for some water damaged chimneys.
Also today, was a stop at a local coffee house. Did you know coffee roasters have chimneys? Luckily for me they also serve espresso – my poison of choice! Here is a photo of today’s quad-shot espresso and sugar free chocolate.
Confessional Corner
It was day one of the actual swap. The kids and I had just come home from church and dinner afterwards. Tish Meeks was waiting to see us at the Hoover House and we spent the next few hours getting acquainted and sharing different things about each others lifestyles. Tish was very interested in getting a smoke break and made her disappointment clear regarding the lack of alcohol at the Hoover House. I told Tish I was going to grind some coffee beans and about my espresso affection. She responded by saying, “Thank God you have at least one vice!” It was indeed a moment of truth, and one I have not forgotten. The Meeks are kicking the smoking habits, and cutting back on alcohol. I understand the “Kegorator” is gone… …meanwhile my “addiction” has continued…
4th of July Fireworks Display
Yesterday we had a fire department meeting for preparation of the Fireworks Display on the fourth. Last night was the third night is a row I responded to medical emergencies in the middle of the night. I find it difficult to return to sleep when those calls come in at 3:00 AM!
Stay tuned for Wife Swap news – next.
Questions, comments, concerns? Please feel free to E-mail me!
Labels: 4th of July, espresso, gourmet, pizza ovens
