I was mesmerized by the movement of the grass.

During one of my weekly shopping excursions, I pulled into the store’s parking lot and noticed a hillside of grass across the way. The wind was blowing the tall grass and it was moving so dramatically and beautifully. I sat there in my car and watched the grass wave in undulating movements. It was almost like one could see different parts of an orchestra playing, and hear the music.

It was a mixture of nature’s beauty, air movement and color. Dare I say it was a potpourri of intensity?

I expect we all know what a potpourri is, correct? It’s that nice combination of dried flowers and spices that eludes a pleasant scent. But do you know what a literal translation of the words are? I’ll let you mull a bit while I send a potpourri of items your way.

This past weekend we visited the Cooperative Creamery in Ellsworth, WI. If you are ever in the neighborhood, stop and wander through its terrific retail store. The area is known as the Cheese Curd Capital of Wisconsin, and for good reason. It features over 80 different kinds of cheese; has an amazing selection on locally crafted beers; has many fun and interesting gift items and features wines from local wineries.

I had entered the store seeking a six-pack of New Glarus Brewing Company Spotted Cow Ale. Years ago, some Badgers in our family introduced us to this brew, and it became a favorite of mine. It has such a nice yeasty malty flavor with hints of hops at the end. Very pleasant beer — obviously, I found my six-pack.

How does one choose a cheese from over 80 varieties? You just go with instinct and grab a package or two of different kinds. One of the cheeses we choose was a soft, mellow cheddar with cranberries in it. Absolutely delicious!

Then, I noticed this little bottle called Shanky’s Whip. The label boldly states it is made in Ireland, and I couldn’t resist. I have never tasted this Irish whiskey, which informed me it was infused with natural flavors and caramel color. I don’t think you can go wrong here, and I brought the mini bottle home. The amazing vanilla and caramel flavors are delicious. If you can find it, buy it!

A year or so ago, we visited Chateau St. Croix Winery — it’s a wonderful site. I tasted a couple of wines there; found them good but didn’t buy a bottle of their Chateau Rouge. The wine is made from a blend of Frontenac grapes, and the label told me there are tastes of black cherries and vanilla. There’s nothing wrong there, and I am trying to exude patience before I open this bottle.

Another subject: I like coffee, and over the years, have learned I enjoy coffee from the Indonesian region of the world. I like getting Sumatran coffee beans, grinding them and enjoying the gentle nutty flavor of the brew with little acidity. That’s just a little insight to me — another part of the potpourri of this article.

In today’s world, when one reads, sees and hears about so many awful things happening, it’s good to know that life is a potpourri. There’s the pleasing fragrance of gorgeous flowers and spices; the neutral fragrance of so many encounters, and the odor of, well, let’s just say junk.

It’s a good thing there’s good cheese, excellent wines, tasty beers and outstanding Irish whiskey to aid us on our pathway. Oh, let’s not forget those family members and friends who help us get through each day, too!

And, in case you’re wondering about the literal meaning of potpourri in French, it translates as rotten pot. I’ll stick with the pleasing scent of flowers, spices, wines, beers, whiskeys, the enchanting motion of nature and the people around me.

As always, eat and drink in moderation but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!