An Exploration of Curiosities
“Morning Awakening” by Eva Gonzalès (April 19, 1849—May 6, 1883) I fell in love with 21 kindergarteners before I could remember their names. And the feeling was mutual. While the teacher began her day in the back of the room on the computer, the first fifteen minutes of …
It’s been a year since I received, Classic German Baking by Luisa Weiss. And I’m happy to share, I finally rolled up my sleeves, tied on my apron and stained my first page. The recipe I wanted to tackle first is found at nearly every …
If your apron and cookbook wear stains with honor, then I suggest you do what cooks in Wiesbaden have done for 70 years, head to Karl Müller & Co. Tucked on a quiet lane under a striped awning you’ll discover a door leading to …
Sometimes getting caught in the rain has benefits. I’m thankful for the day I forgot my umbrella at home during a downpour, it’s what brought me to an entry I’d passed countless times without noticing. With only four tables, blink or sneeze and you’re …
I’m haunted by a painting. A girl stands on the cusp of womanhood with shades of copper and cream draped upon slight shoulders with impeccable posture. Tarnished gold strands coil and rest haphazardly above a complexion washed in soothing shades of peach and cream. Full …
Brandon Kinder’s two albums are part of my “pandemic” playlist. Last year I asked Brandon to perform where I live, in Wiesbaden. He said if I found a venue he would add Wiesbaden to his European tour. I did. And Brandon was true to …
Cemeteries train the eye to glance downward. As if the thought of death weren’t somber enough, most are flat and grey. The only breath of life – the occasional wilting flowers that rest beside headstones. If you have the opportunity to visit the cemetery, Père Lachaise in Paris, you’ll …
I’m fascinated by individuals who make waiting tables their profession. My forearms have balanced trays. My fingers have pulled tap handles. And once-upon-a-time, I served cocktails and peanuts at 32,000 feet. The service industry is physically and mentally demanding, which is why a few months …
Fifteen years ago I attended a luncheon and met a delightful woman, Penny McConnell (former owner of Penny’s Pastries in Austin, Texas). Ms. McConnell gifted me a treasure, her famous butter cookie recipe. This paper relic, stained from use, has claimed a permanent spot …
(Originally written in February, 2015.) Showing up at the Moody Theater in Austin, I was the demographic: middle-class female, 30-60, chasing a raspy masculine voice known only through airwaves. When my husband surprised me with tickets to see Bob Schneider for Valentine’s, I was thrilled! But the real …