HUNGRY GERALD

BSK sourced some green tomatoes—BSK used them to make (in HG’s opinion) the best soup ever. HG did not watch the cooking but presumes the tomatoes were cooked with chopped onions, garlic, herbs and spices—possibly a dash of cumin and hot sauce. BSK pureed the melange  with an immersion blender and served it with a bowl of sour cream. The soup had multiple layers of flavor–acid from the tomatoes, smooth and lush from the other ingredients—there’s even a faint whisper of citrus. A spoonful of sour cream turned the soup into an unusual treat. Fortunately, BSK made a big pot of the soup. HG, BSK and glorious granddaughter, Sofia (she will be returning home to Padua, Italy, soon and will be missed) are enjoying autumn life at the family oceanfront home on Prince Edward Island. The weather has become chilly (not frigid) so warm blankets and a steaming bowl of green tomato soup are welcome.

If you are very lucky you will have a daughter, granddaughter or friend like HG/BSKs extraordinary granddaughter and pal—the glorious Sofia R. Last night there was an example of Sofia R.’s thoughtfulness and generosity. Before sitting down to dinner, Sofia brought HG the ultimate culinary first course—nine perfectly shucked South Lake oysters boxed on ice (from Julio’s Fish Market at St. Peter’s landing). Big time treat. The oysters were firm, lush and had the right amount of brine, Accompanied by a glass of chilled white wine, HG was in culinary heaven–thanks to Sofia. HG will miss the glorious woman when she returns to her  home (and PHD studies) in Padua, Italy. HG is tearful.

Daughter Lesley R. and her husband, Massimo R., have left Prince Edward Island for their Riverside, RI, home. So, now there are three persons—HG/BSK and a magnificent granddaughter, Sofia R., at the family oceanfront home (panoramic sea views and dramatic sunsets). It has been a joy living with Sofia–she’s  a delightful visual—a beauty. But, that’s not all. Full of energy, she’s a sterling aide in the kitchen—cooking and cleaning up. She is indispensable to HG–helping HG to  be seated, arranging and charging HG’s computer, managing his food and drink, etc. She does it all with good humor and startling efficiency. (Makes life easier for BSK). When not on PEI or Rhode Island,  Sofia lives and works in Padua, Italy ,where she is pursuing her PHD. Yes, she’s an academic star—a true intellectual.  She qualified to officially conduct the Arânna R. and Adam L. wedding. In addition, she helped make all the arrangements which made the wedding day joyous and memorable. Lucky HG/BSK to have  Sofia as a granddaughter, companion and loving (and much loved) friend.

After some chilly weather, Prince Edward Island warmed up comfortably—and there’s abundant sunshine. HG is cozy in the Freeman/Riva oceanfront family home on the north shore. Son Jeremy (aided by Profesore Massimo R.) cleaned the panoramic expanse of windows so the sea views are exhilarating. BSK and the Rhode Island and Tokyo clans are enjoying the HG/BSK private beach. Supper two nights ago was based on quahogs (cherrystones) harvested by Freemans and Rivas from a south shore bay. Linguine with white clam sauce was a yummy dinner (using super fresh clams plucked from  salt water homes  made  a positive difference). Last night, Gifted daughter Lesley R. took over the kitchen.  A  supper feature was a big platter of tiny boiled potatoes smothered in olive oil and a mountain of dill and other herbs. Yes, PEI potatoes are unique– have a tingling mineral taste because they are cultivated in sea salt enriched red earth. (That’s HG’s presumption).  The meal continued with a sheet pan of haddock filets and ripe cherry tomatoes. Finale was a green salad and a selectôn of cheeses. A joyous supper.