Some years back, half of ODB spent several weeks exploring England. After a couple of weeks in London, our first stop was Hampton Court Palace. While built by Cardinal Wolsey, it’s most known for being a favorite of Henry VIII. After a significant disgrace, Wolsey “gave” …
I recently spent an afternoon with a herd of bison, up close and personal, as they grazed on the grassy plain and huddled together with their small calves. It was mind-boggling to think that they were living not far from Chicago, and some compassionate people …
Today we lovingly poured our ruby-colored red drink into champagne flutes that had been purchased with my mom nearly two decades ago. We toasted our ancestors and to love as we reveled in the spiciness of sorrel. It is celebratory.
We nibble on boiled peanuts that taste of black-eyed peas and connect us to my childhood. I vividly remember eagerly squeezing the shells to get to these slippery and soft nuts.
And of course there’s watermelon. Today they look like thick discs topped with salty crumbled feta and the tiniest basil leaves and royal purple flowers. This dish is a nod to living in Greece in the 90s and it’s ubiquitous (and delicious!) sheep’s milk cheese. Is it possible for the feast to be more wonderful because it’s set in the Black Garden? Why yes.
Happy Juneteenth! Jubilee!
When I was a kid, there was no shortage of new Easter dresses, patent leather Mary Janes with short white socks, and frilly bonnets to mark the holiday. Think pastel pink, yellow, and green linen with delicately embroidered details. Oh, and there were Easter speeches, …
