Poached are any lingering feelings of exhaustion or dullness because soon the holiday weekend will be upon us – I am left feeling optimistic and welcoming of the time away from work. I have a mind that easily wanders whilst I’m allegedly assigned to “more important tasks”, so it’s always nice to be able to have personal time for my wandering mind. Inspiration can be quite beguiling at times: often I think I am onto a brilliance as my senses become heightened and my synapses start to fire – but just as soon as it hatches, it flickers and dims. I cannot be alone in this! But there are those times where (what you feel is) greatness steps into the air. There is a lure involved with an awakening – the temptation of the muse we do not know yet, but will fall so hard for. The beginnings of these feelings are chaotic and blissful. The results, if they come to fruition, are frustrating, beautiful, and captivating all at once. We can search for it, or we are found – but it’s always an adventure.

The garden has been the greatest influence to my life this year. Many hours have revolved around planning, tending, nurturing, and receiving. I have spent many more hours speaking lovingly to those who surround me about the joys and benefits of growing your own food. My hours spent convincing have been short, mainly because I think there is a sweet and communal acknowledgement that food is best when it is fortified by one’s own hand. Around here we are investigating new ways to spread the message that you don’t necessarily need a farm to provide some form of nourishment for yourself. We are managing our paradise in an urban setting, and I want our neighbors to know that they can do it too! You’d be amazed what you can procure in pots and containers alone. We try not to preach, but simply want to share our enlightenment. Self-sufficiency and health are an unbeatable combination, and an inspiring concoction.

When the garden gives you eggplants you make baba ganoush? I like to think so. This is absolutely one of my favorite dips. There is a sincere smokiness to blistered eggplant that is simply divine. We have been granted some very eager eggplants this year – such beauties to watch grow. We experimented with a few different varieties, including fairy-tales and gretels. I don’t have their portraits with me this evening, but I will share them soon – serious stunners, and tasty to boot. I crafted the baba ganoush with our purple satin eggplants, and the taste was one of happiness. A twist I thought was ever so pleasant and elevating was the addition of miso (I am extremely fond of it). A small endeavor in the oven followed by a quick whirl in the processor leads you softly to bright and bold flavor. I am such a fan.

Enjoy cosmically with pita, olives, cheese, and crudités.

I hope that the oncoming holiday weekend is full of relaxation, inspiration, and loving vibrations. Even though summer is technically still upon us I am giddy with the release of my favorite brewing company’s fall beer, Tumbler. It definitely accents and punctuates cool, crisp nights better – but I can hardly resist a preliminary sip.