Books, food, wine and a blog hop

Today was my community's garden day.  We all took turns shoveling, digging, playing in dirty and ultimately planting chrysanthemums and junipers.  I am officially dead.  Seriously, there is no harder work than working the garden.  You use every muscle and ones you didn't even know you had.  My fingers nails hurt.  How is that possible?

After the gardening, and my subsequent nap, my husband and I decided to make our "go-to" meal...and it just happens to have come from a book.  It was New Years Eve several years ago and I had picked up a few cozy mysteries to keep me company over the holidays.  I picked up a book, Murder Uncorked by Michele Scott, and was instantly dragged in to her story, but more, her recipes.  They made my mouth water!  But it wasn't until book 2 that I had no choice but to try out her recipe.  It's super easy and so very flavorful.  I made it and after the first bite my husband got a look of ecstasy on his face.  "This is from a book?  Please keep reading!" I later wrote the author to tell her of my culinary success and to pledge my undying gratefulness.  I've tried several other of her recipes from other books and they are all incredible.  But the best part?  They come with wine pairings.  Because of Michele Scott and her pairing, I found my favorite wine varietal,  Zinfandel (red, not the white that comes in a box).

The book is Murder by the Glass and the recipe is for Pork Tenderloin in Port Wine Mushroom Sauce.  Make it with a liberal slathering of the "rub" and a glass of Zinfandel and enjoy.  Your taste buds will love you for it and, if you're so lucky, so will your spouse.  I'll be happy to share the recipe if you'd like it - just comment - but I still say you should read the book.

Finally, this is part of a blog hop - an attempt to find some friends and get some followers.  I'm new to the blogosphere, so please follow me if you like what I write - I'll even follow you back. And check out some of the other blogs - you may find something new you like.