In celebration of the summer solstice we didn’t just go to Ikea for their somorgasbord, oh no…we went to Maggie’s for a surprise picnic! We had planned a pot luck and when we got to Maggie’s she declared, “We’re eating outside tonight!” (that didn’t sound very Maggie-ish…she would probably include some weasels and such). So, the six of us took our potluck’n foods and walked to Lake Merritt and man alive did Maggie whip out her hostessing prowess! There were candles and flowers and flavored waters of all sorts and palm leaf plates and wines and tablecloths and nice napkins that smelled good and cold corn vichyssoise with creme fraiche and watermelon salad and a plentiful veggie risotto and more wine and great conversation and a beautiful night and good friends. Unfortunately, the one thing that we were missing was a good camera. Dagnabbit!
But, two iphone photos to give you an idea:
When the cold set in we took our empty bowls and baskets and and went back to the warmth of Maggie’s apartment for berries and ice cream and Tartine treats! (thanks to the e. bean). It was an awesome night that lead me to think:
EVERYONE SHOULD EAT OUTSIDE AT LEAST 2938592837597 TIMES A YEAR!
It is good for your health.
Author: Ali Carras
At a very young age I lost site of my mom in a local grocery store in Boulder, Colorado. I did, however, have the smarts to go to the customer service counter. The kind woman at the counter asked "What is your name little girl?" My reply: "Assi." The woman gave me a look like, "Are you playing with me you little devil?" but she proceeded to blast on the loudspeaker the "We have a lost Assi at the front of the store." Customers throughout the store gagged and giggled, but my mom knew exactly who the woman was referring to: the mullet haired little girl with a tongue too big for her mouth, wearing a leotard, skirt, tights, and jelly shoes (with florescent green laces in them...even though they didn't need the laces). A shy little character for whom every little detail in life was a huge thing. I am pleased to report that today I am able to fully pronounce Allison (aka Ali), but the Assi pseudonym has always stuck, evolving into Aszi. As for the shy little character for whom every little detail in life was a huge thing? Some things never change.
I have closed my comments due to mass amounts of spam that no filter could ever control. Feel free to contact me abeckord [at] gmail.com!
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