Thanks to a diverse group of friends and family, my take on religion is like an a la carte menu. I pick elements from a few different offerings, combining them into my own spirituality. This week was Jewish + Christian and it all added up to several days of good eats.
The week started with a delicious hamantaschen recipe from Nicole from Annalayna’s Sweets. I’m working on writing up a much longer post about the experience so until then, you’ll have to scratch and sniff the computer screen.
Next was Passover second seder at Rabbi Geri’s house. I first met Geri when we both pledged Kappa Kappa Gamma at the University of Miami. We spent time together hanging out on the patio, in the Kappa suite and at various fraternity mixers. Not once did I ever turn to her at a crowded Lambda Chi party and shout above the band, “I can’t wait to have Passover Seder at your house 15 years from now!” And yet, here we were for our second annual 2nd Seder. Geri and her family are good cooks and gracious hosts. The haroset was sweet, the balsamic chicken was tangy and the brisket was moist and I happily piled the shreds on my plate.
Then it was onwards to Baltimore for night 6 of Passover. My little sister Julie is known for her intellectual prowess. Additionally, she happens to be quite crafty and is a master at mosaics. Cooking, however, has never been her forte. Until now . . .
Julie decided to turn her energy to the kitchen and seemingly effortlessly whipped up a mini-Passover seder. I am so proud of her. The matzo balls were light and fluffy, plus she made the chicken soup from scratch! Her haroset had finely chopped apples and her potato latkes were perfectly made. Mike’s parents, Janice & Gary brought awesome steaks, but I ate those (and also Julie’s matzo brie) before I remembered my camera.
Finally, Kevin and I made it home from Baltimore in time for a White House Easter. There were appetizers of bbq ribs and chicken, followed by the annual easter egg hunt. Those of you that are familiar with White holidays know that I spend holiday time enjoying my family and trying to survive an incredible food marathon.
Lessons Learned:
-An old dog can learn new tricks — go Julie! Great job on the seder. No need to cook again until next year.
-You never know when college friends will turn out to be Rabbis. I’m just lucky that Geri and I were able to reconnect. Thanks Geri, Eric and Jay for including us in your celebration.
-When attending a White House holiday, it’s important to pace yourself. Some of the newbies this year thought the appetizers were dinner and they never made it through to dessert. I’ve learned the hard way, take one and only one of everything. Otherwise, you’ll miss out on the pound cake and chocolate covered strawberries and they are definitely worth the extra time I’m going to do in the gym tomorrow.
To all my readers: wishing you a happy holiday for all religions. Happy Passover, Happy Easter, Happy Spring and just have a happy food-filled day.
