It was my birthday this past weekend. I’ve always loved that it falls in and around that glorious celebration of Thanksgiving.
I hate to admit it but I have reached the stage in my life where I really don’t want or need anything for my birthday. (I cringe at how I sound like my poor old Babi, when I say this!) Not to sound too saint-like, but my favourite gifts are a funny card, or gorgeous flowers (a gift of which I will never tire!) and…good food.
On the eve of my birthday, I received a unexpected visit from Amanda who worked with us for many years at The Good Earth. She has since moved on to Olson’s to practice her skills in the world of pastry. Out of her car, Amanda produced a brown bag along with a beautifully wrapped gift. The bag contained a perfectly fashioned and freshly baked loaf of sourdough along with a charming novella by Chef Erin Turcke – Sourdough A Recipe for Life. Now to some this might not seem to be an exciting gift but to me it was perfect!
That evening I was entertaining my mother, widowed uncle and an old family friend. I warmed the perfect loaf and brought it to the table accompanied by some of our herbed butter. The aroma was intoxicating. After the first bite we all declared that sometimes it is the most simple gifts in life that are the best. A gift of food, given with love and best wishes is perhaps the best of all!