This is a 2nd hand post (seems apropos in a recycler’s world).  My husband arrived back in LA today… which is remarkable in itself because he’s a producer on a pretty big reality tv show that shoots each show in a different town – and he’s home about 10 days a month.  Anyway, I woke at 7:30 am this morning to find a lengthy & hilarious text from him.  He was on a lay-over in Minneapolis – and some of his colleagues told him he’d be insane to pass up breakfast at French Meadow Bakery.  Apparently, the food is pure genius!  It’s certified organic, non-GMO and much of it’s gluten-free.

He said his meal was incredible (which I can’t even compute… because to me U.S. airports = Chili’s at best), but the hilarious part comes with the libations.  I must now add a disclaimer… if you don’t know TV people – here’s a quick run down.  They work 16-18 hour days without batting an eye (and that may easily be for 10-14 consecutive days with no time off).  They are on their feet 14-16 hours each work day.  Screaming, tantrums and door-slamming are often used as communication – & that’s behind the camera. (Can you tell I used to work in TV – and don’t miss it one bit?)  Anyway, my husband’s show is actually a feel-good, totally legit, life-changing series, and still all of the above are accurate.  So, please keep in mind that the occasional 8 am martini seems passable for a wonderful bunch that works so hard – they honestly don’t know what day of the week it is.

By 10 am, my husband was 4 serious drinks into his travel day.  And here’s what came of it:

Rain Org Vodka    UK5 Org Vodka    Juniper Green Org Gin    & a magical Bloody Mary

Rain Vodka is not a revelation, but it is note-worthy.  It’s smooth & inexpensive… 2 of the best attributes a vodka can have.  UK 5 is new to me, so I look forward to giving you a full review.  And um… Organic Gin?  SO excited!  Why don’t more bars stock this?  Finally, the magical Bloody Mary.  My husband makes INCREDIBLE Bloody Marys… so when he thinks he’s been outdone, he’s get competitive.  French Meadow’s secret: Tomato juice, obviously – horseradish, definitely – Tabasco, sure – lime juice, yes – black pepper, why not?  So, what’s the secret?  Wait for it… fresh, finely chopped Cilantro!  I asked if this made it “salsa-y”.  The answer, “No way!”

LSS… 1.  French Meadow Bakery, please open in every airport – we need you!  2.  Minneapolis, I underestimated you.  Forgive me.  3.  Thanks to you both for taking care of a somewhat rag-tag team of TV folk who very much needed & deserved what you had to offer them.