Tall Tales from Kansas

If you have not been properly introduced to “black squares” from Bath England… please allow me to facilitate your getting acquainted. These are some amazing, unusual, extremely delightful, crackers that are the perfect pairing with a triple cream brie and a pour of your favorite crisp white wine. The olives, nuts, and dried cherries are icing on the cake. The crackers have a bit of chocolate in them. But not like a sweet chocolate, more like the effect you get when adding chocolate to a Mexican mole – it increases the flavor profile in a way you can’t quite put your finger on, but you know you like it.

This is a perfect addition to your spring cocktail hour. Plus your guests (if, and only if, you want to share them) will think you are a culinary trend setter. Thank you Annette for telling me about them.

While I am on the subject of really good things, let me recommend (HIGHLY) When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzen. If you can… the audio version is wonderful. Ivan Huw Dafydd narrates the 89 year old Swedish main character (Bo) beautifully. Bo is living alone, in his home, with the support of “carers” and his son Hans to check on him. His wife with severe dementia has been placed in a facility, and Bo misses her mightily. The story follows the last months of Bo’s life as he comes to terms with what his life has been, and where it is now. He badly wants to be sure he has done right by his son, but at the same time is inwardly intensely frustrated at being told what he must do. Isn’t losing our independence what we all fear the most? The author handles this subject matter honestly without backing away from what is hard.

Thank you so much Susan Bjerke for recommending this to me. It’s a real gem.