HUNGRY GERALD

Wow!!  A great celebration and farewell dinner last night at Ocean Mist Farm, the spectacularly verdant farm (and equestrian center)—home of BSK’s sister, Noel M. and her husband, Yossi M. Ocean Mist is bursting with ripening fruit–plums, peaches, pears and berries. There’s an outdoor, wood burning pizza oven on the grounds built by their son, Erik M. and his wife, Lisa. A magnificent abundance of wisteria covers a pergola and shades the dining room, site of last night’s festivities. HG/BSK, daughter, Lesley R., and her husband, Massimo, left the HG/BSK/RIVA oceanfront home on the north shore of Prince Edward Island for Ocean Mist, located on the south shore (45 minute drive, door-to-door). The group was there to celebrate the 54th wedding anniversary of Noel and Yossi–also a chance for N. and Y. to say goodby to Lesley and “Max”–who leave PEI for Rhode Island in a few days (lucky HG/BSK live close to L. & M In Rhody so many good times will be had together in the months ahead –fingers crossed, old HG will try to stay alive). Last night’s joy began with celebratory toasts (white wine) and an appetizer of hummus, cherry tomatoes and Noel’s home-baked pita dusted with zaatar. The main dish was ground lamb kabobs barbecued by Yossi. Juicy, packed with spices and herbs plus a hint of smoke. Among the best ever and easy for HG to swallow (thanks, Yossi). The sides were outstanding—golden Israeli couscous, Greek yogurt dotted with olive oil, grilled vegetables. Adding flavor and fire to the meal were two condiments created by HG/BSK son Jeremy–a bright red liquid hot sauce, a variation of Frank’s, and a dark green Yemenite “Khrug”, that burns tongue and mouth with masochistic pleasure (group drank Rose’ and moved on to a robust red from the Peele vineyards in Ontario). The meal ended with a green salad from Yossi’s farm/garden (HG had the usual two balls of vanilla ice cream), last sips of red wine–and many hugs and kisses.