Lavender in my mimosa and pickled egg in my salad

That about sums up my brunch at Shaun's.

Was it good? Well, it's really not bad. So what's the problem? Hmm, maybe I just don't like too many surprises on a lazy Sunday morning. Maybe I just want to sip a tall glass of vigorous bubbles and taste a fresh jolt of OJ without also getting a whiff of a country club powder room. Maybe I just want a fresh plate of greens with a zesty springy dressing without also being reminded of those scary jars of pickled eggs lining the counter of some forgotten truck stop. Then again, maybe it's just me.

Both the lavender mimosa and the pickled egg, when evaluated individually, were much unlike their comparisons mentioned above. The lavender was light, with no hint of talcum. The pickled egg tasted of complex balsamic, with no hit of pig's knuckles (is that what's often in those same truck stop jars?) So, if you are out looking for something different for your brunch and look at some pulled-together people, Shaun's may just be the place for you. For me, the whole lot took me too far from that ideal brunch eaten swaddled in my J's big big robe and bathed in the warm spring sun on the daybed in my imaginary sun room. Until I have that, I guess I'd still be out looking for the next closest thing.

Amore! Amore!

Heart racing, I could barely contain my excitement driving to the airport to pick up J, who has been away in Vegas for the week. Cute right? After ten years of knowing this man, I still get all flustered to see him. Well, I hope that's what he was thinking. Although I have a strong suspicion that he knew I was rushing to the airport to get my little hands on that adorable box peeking out of his carry on.

After the welcome back kiss, a bit of chitchat in the car, J finally couldn't take my not so subtle glances at his bag anymore and said "oh, go ahead, open it!" Music to my ears!

Inside the elegant Bouchon box, nested among white tissue papers were these colorful beauties in my favorite flavors of chocolate, raspberry, and lemon. Careful not to crash the delicate morsels, I picked up a raspberry one and took a bite. Slightly flaky on the outside and pleasantly toothsome at the center with a jolt of fresh raspberry flavor. Pure amore.

Through dreamy eyes I saw J smiling mischievously behind the steering wheel. I know he is in love too, in love with open spaces around us and the feeling of that slight pull when his favorite car grips a curve in the road. It's amazing how different things make each of us feel loved and positively giddy. Because of that difference, it's even more precious when one goes out of his way in a busy day (and endure lining up for half an hour behind 10 loud women who couldn't decide on what flavor macarons to get) to bring that giddiness out in you.

"Monkey, you did good," I said.
"So the little one likes," he smiles.
"Yes, she likes."