Community Table

We had our first bona fide dinner party in a long, long time last night. Lori and I, plus three other couples. They say that absence makes the heart grow fonder, and it was so true in this case.

The conversations were special. We’ve been apart long enough to see just how different we are today from the last time we gathered together. Obviously, a little older, a little more gray in our hair. But grounded in something closer to base level truth. We’ve all wrestled with health issues (our own and/or loved ones), gone on adventures, with more planned in the months ahead. We’ve gotten more hip to the various ways people numb themselves here in the U S of A.

I had hoped to make the Bolognese Lasagna Rolls featured in last week’s essay for last night’s gathering. The recipe was elaborate enough that I felt I should make a test run last week to ensure that I could pull it off. The test went reasonably well, but it took a lot of time - more than I had available at the end of this week for a kitchen project. So I ordered a pan of lasagna from Vincenzo’s, and it was delicious. Making this choice is a sign of personal growth, believe it or not. The money/time/taste trade was completely worth it in this case. The point of the evening was the people, not to showcase my culinary skills.

Saving my energy for our guests, rather than spending it all in a mad dash of cooking, was the exact right approach. Speaking of energy, I did not partake in any alcohol consumption last night. So I woke this morning well-rested. I would characterize my relationship with alcohol as “default dry” - preferring to not drink generally, but allowing for the occasional exception.

Last night felt like a “moment” - the moment when we were able to re-join the broader community in some fundamental way. I’m looking forward to experiencing more of this kind of reunion in the weeks and months ahead.

Sunday Supper

This Burgoo looks like a great Sunday meal to prep, that could carry you into the week with some sturdy leftovers. This Cornbread recipe would pair wonderfully with it. This Blackened Salmon Caesar Salad sounds great, too.

Sunday Music

This Sunday I share with you a live performance by one of America’s under-appreciated singer/songwriters, Mr. John Hiatt. Enjoy!

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Have a great week ahead!  Offer support to others.  Make good use of this day.  And let me know how I can help.


Peace & Love,