HG/BSK have a pleasant arrangement with BSK’s sister, Noel M., and her husband, Yossi: Alternate weekly dinners at each other’s Prince Edward Island homes. Last night was a celebration of Yossi’s 76th birthday at Noel and Yossi’s verdant Ocean Mist Farm. Yossi is an extraordinary man. A former Israeli kibbutznick, agriculturist (manager of a banana grove), IDF paratrooper, educator, cantor, musical performer. Yossi has a characteristic that is somewhat at odds with the perception of Israelis. He dissipates hostility, makes friends and acquaintances easily, surmounting all language and cultural differences. His musical talent is extraordinary. He is a choral leader, a singer and guitarist. Plays a trumpet with professional skill and is taking first steps in mastering the violin. He (and Noel) are world-class equestrians, horse trainers and famed as teachers of vaulting (acrobatics on large horses). Seemingly composed of steel and copper wire (as is Noel), Yossi has the strength and endurance of a much younger man. This is exemplified by his farm of potatoes, carrots, lettuces, garlic scapes, radishes, strawberries (best in the world), and much more. Whenever HG/BSK visit Y. and N. they are gifted with a big bag of Yossi’s incomparable spuds. Dinner last night was ground lamb (from animals raised by Y. and N.) kebabs, Yossi roast potatoes. Lettuce salad with leaves picked from the farm. Noel made a variation of the spicy Yemenite/Israeli condiment, zhug/chrug (not sure of pronunciation). A tasty wonder. Dessert was lush: vanilla ice cream with Noel’s unique compote of strawberries and rhubarb. Have many,many more healthy birthdays, Yossi. You enhance HG’s life and the lives of all who know you.
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