Snow in Mentone and Filet and Vine in Montgomery, Alabama

Dear Nora,

Life is crazy in Alabama with 70 degree weather on Sunday, sleet on Monday and snow today. I am so glad the outfit you made for me is perfect for all seasons! Lickety-Split and I have been busy taking care of guests since Thursday. Preparing breakfast for guests is challenging as I cannot get too close to that oven or I might be butter.

This weekend, Sarah had some wonderful guests from Montgomery, Alabama, which is the state capital. I wish I could remember all of the history tidbits we learned this weekend but the 20 degree weather today has frozen my brain. However, Lickety-Split and Sarah visited with Ken and DJ on the guesthouse porch before heading out for a walk the other day. (I stayed behind to write you a letter. Plus, I am so skinny that I don't need to walk to lose weight.) Lickety-split was treated to a taste of cheddar cheese made here in Alabama. I thought Wisconsin had all the cheese heads?! She said the cheese was delicious. Sarah was discussing with Ken different types of wine. He is from the Bottleshoppe at Filet & Vine Market and Deli in Montgomery. Many in Montgomery just call it Derk's. Their selection and knowledge of wine is very impressive. Ken can help you with your wine choices(when you are of age) at wineseller01@charter.net. I went to their website at http://www.filetandvine.com and here is what I discovered and why I hope we will take a road trip south of Mentone.

Filet & Vine Market and Deli began in 1997 with partners
Derk Lyerly and Jud Blount in Old Cloverdale of Montgomery, Alabama. After six months of renovations, we opened our doors to the public in March of 1998. In 1999, we received the Emerging Thirty Award from The Montgomery Chamber of Commerce honoring our start as a new business in Montgomery.

Our Market boasts of fresh produce, gourmet desserts, cheeses, and Filet & Vine products and seasonings. Derk's Dirt, "the original steak rub," is a favorite among the locals. We feature only the best prime and choice cuts of beef, and provide excellent wine selections as well as beer from around the world.

The Deli is full service, offering Boarshead Meats and Bates Turkey for sandwiches or by the pound. Fresh salads, vegetables and a variety of other favorite lunch items are available. We are proud to use only the best ingredients and products in our deli. Our bakery provides fresh breads, muffins and cookies daily. Seating for about forty people is available in a cozy nook of the store.

With over 1,200 different wines in stock, the Bottleshoppe at Filet and Vine is ready to assist you in selecting the perfect bottle of wine. For that special event, or everyday enjoyment, we offer a variety of wines sure to please your palate and budget. For hard to find and specialty wines, be sure to visit our “Grail Room” or ask about our Wine Locator & Special Order Services.

Filet and Vine also offers Estate Wine Valuation Services as well as our Cellar Builder Program for those wishing to start or enhance their collections for investment and/or years of future enjoyment.

On the lighter side, Filet and Vine also offers a unique selection of over 130 different import and domestic beers, ales and ciders.

Come visit or give us a call at 334-262-8463.

Reading about all these fine cuts of meat are making me hungry. Maybe I can get Sarah to take me out to dinner. She sent Ken and DJ to Canyon Grill in Rising Fawn, GA www.canyongrill.com on Sunday night and they said it was fabulous. Oh, it is time for us to head to spin class again so I better say toodles!

Can't wait to see you in a couple of weeks.

Your Friend, Flat Stanley