Big table, big white table cloth. Fresh flowers, hand-picked lettuce and tomatoes, along with a crowd of winemakers, photographers, builders, artists, chefs and kids—always lots of kids running around, darting between the persimmon trees and apple trees, and through the herb and vegetable garden that my friend Madeleine tends lovingly.

Madeleine is a graphic designer, originally from the midwest; Thomas, a photographer, moved to California years ago from Germany. They found this farm with the white rustic house, reminiscent of a fairytale book illustration, surrounded by the rolling hills of western Marin. Seven years ago they rebuilt the old barn which now holds a lofty studio that serves as Thomas’ photo atelier or, sometimes, just a place for great parties.

The property became a weekend refuge and also the place where the couple celebrate the seasons. On the Fourth of July, the big table stands in the front of the house, or sometimes next to the herb beds along the back pasture fence. I never know who will be attending, but it’s always an interesting and fun day, sitting under the willow trees, enjoying scenery and the particular light of this little coastal area in Marin County.

On Thanksgiving, the big table sits in the kitchen next to an old wood burning stove. Again, friends gather and enjoy the coziness of the farmhouse, aromas from whatever is bubbling on the stove and watching Madeleine transform flour, butter, fruit and many more ingredients into sweet pies and savory dishes.

Thomas and Madeleine share their love for celebrating seasons, food and nature with their friends and extended family. And what is better part of life than a big table — full of food shared in the midst of stories and opinions and laughter, and if somebody needs compassion, they can get that too….

Photo by Thomas Heinser