2020: Lessons in Gratitude

LESSONS in

BY JEAN MARIE JOHNSON

When I saw my primary care physician for my annual visit late last year, he asked how I was doing. I mean…of course, he asked how I was doing. But to me, it’s a meaningless question unless you answer it honestly. It’s a limited question unless you answer it in a more existential way. I opted to do both, beginning with the latter. How was I doing? A neighborhood is an eco-system of connection that benefits by my simple gestures and actions; When a neighbor passes, we can honor their memory and keep them alive in our hearts by telling their story. Smiling eyes and a simple “How are you doing today?” speaks volumes to that person behind the register. Septic systems may fail and trees may topple, but helping hands and generous hearts will be there for me. Desperate times call for desperate measures (ice cream and potato chips anyone?), but I don’t need to stay there…. I have not one, but TWO neighbors who will text me, “I HAVE COFFEE,” when my power goes out. A cheap bottle of bubbly and a chunk of brie is all it takes to create a pop-up party. Canines are and will always be the ultimate icebreaker. Technology is my friend when it means bridging the gap between here and there and seeing my peeps back home.

From sunrise to sunset and everything in between, I belong to nature.

Mint should never, ever be planted in a garden. Grab a pot! With a strong dose of patience, book club conversation can withstand the quirkiness of Zoom. Humming and singing to one’s self on an early morning walk sets the tone for my day. Yoga can be moved from the Y to a friend’s house without missing a beat.

The bathroom cleaning can wait, no, really it can. If my Arizona BFF can Facetime me now, that’s where I should be.

“Well, let’s see…I am Concerned about my husband’s chronic health issues; Weary with being stuck at home; Tired of wearing a mask; Sad about a chronically-ill co-worker I deeply admire; Missing my family back home and my close friends elsewhere; Troubled by the divisiveness in my country.”

“Anything else?”

“That will do.”

“Are you depressed?”

“No!”

Hitching a ride on the perfect segue, I went on to explain, albeit briefly, that I was deeply grateful for the many lessons of 2020, an unforgettable year. He smiled behind his mask, understood that I was in a good place, and moved on to the more practical questions about my health. As it should be, I thought.

My many lessons occupy a virtual “gratitude board,” the one that lives in my heart, fueling my spirit and keeping my joy alive, especially when I take a hit. While the litany of 2020 losses can’t and shouldn’t be minimized, when it comes to inspiring gratitude, last year was the bomb! I am strong. I am vulnerable.

I am kind.

Pandemic be damned! I am who I have always been and letting my quirky little light shine is always the best response.

THE Fancy

BY LAUREN SEPHTON

Welcometo The Fancy Fork! Your hub for seasonal produce insight and farm-style recipes that are made to satisfy.

During the month of January, you’ll most likely find the produce aisles with an abundance of citrus. From grapefruits to oranges to kiwi, your morning fruit bowl won’t miss a beat; however, let’s take a moment to highlight a zesty favorite— lemons. During this cold season, try mixing together a little honey from a local farmer, lemon juice, and hot water for an antibacterial drink that is good for sore throats.

While the uses of lemons vary greatly, from cooking to decorative garland to cleaning, they provide excellent health benefits when employed in both savory and sweet recipes. They are tasty sources of powerful antioxidants, specifically vitamin C and flavonoids, that can help keep free radicals from damaging body cells. The high levels of vitamin C strongly support a variety of bodily functions, like the formation of collagen for strong nails, shiny hair, and healthy skin. In addition, pairing lemons with baby spinach leaves can help your body maximize the intake of both vitamin C and iron from dietary sources.

Fork

(Dairy-Free) Lemon Cardamom Creme Brûlée Servings: 3-4 INGREDIENTS: 2 cups Almond Milk ¼ cup Pure Maple Syrup 1 tsp. Vanilla Extract 4 large Egg Yolks 2 Tbsp. Arrowroot Powder 2 Tbsp. Lemon Juice ¼ tsp. Ground Cardamom INSTRUCTIONS: • In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, whisk together the maple syrup and almond milk. Bring to a gentle boil.

• In the meantime, whisk together the egg yolks, arrowroot powder, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and ground cardamom. Add two spoonfuls of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, then whisk. • Pour the egg yolk mixture into the saucepan and mix to combine. Over medium-high heat, bring the mixture to a gentle boil and simmer for 1015 minutes until thick and creamy, whisking occasionally. • Pour into 3-4 ramekins, then place in the fridge until set. • Sprinkle each ramekin with 1-2 teaspoons sugar, then either torch or broil to caramelize the sugar. Enjoy immediately.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of baking creme brûlée with lemons, it’s time to grab your fork and enjoy the warmth of Winter season delights!