Fresh Crostini and Cajun Charcuterie
At work I day dream...Somewhere in the distance Dj Request switched the music from its fast tempo to a slower tempo. We all lay comfortably in the abyss infamously known as the living room of the Daniels' Manor. Some of us are on couches, others have found our way to the floor, either way we all find ourselves stretched out like Garfield awaiting the next snack.
Most often, we would start with brunch and go onward to supper. Sharing in great times over football, basketball, food, and/or politics. Topics of discussion for this Krewe usually ranged from current events on the news to the latest and greatest in trap rap. All things being equal, it's the atmosphere we are really basking in.
Friendships and all it has meant to our family must be stated to be one of the greatest riches we have received beyond our wildest dreams. We are the wealthiest family on earth in terms of great relationships.
Growing up, my husband and I watched our Grandparents as hosts. There was never a pot of food that couldn't be shared with friends and family. Jeff and I never really discuss it. It may even be subconscious. However, we both thoroughly enjoy when our friends arrive and an enhanced sense of warmth and welcoming energy overwhelms their senses. Starting with the scent of our home down to the last crumb of comfort food on their plate it is with great pleasure that we entertain our friends.
Over a cajun charcuterie board, rich with alligator andouille sausage, spicy mustard and honey roasted cashews, we indulge in Chardonnay and jokes. Laughter is heard all afternoon as fresh crostinis come out of the oven. Our DJ moonlights as a self made Chef. Our best buds have been around for the culinary evolution and experiments. No matter the occasion or event be it joyful or dreadful our friends have been ever present in spirit and prayer motivating us to the next level. Who we choose to do life with matters. For the past few months I have had the pleasure of taking time out to be present and relatable with people I hold dear. I couldn't help but think back on times where we dreamed what life would be like together and now there are weddings, child events, promotions, dinners, holidays and homecoming happening all around us. There is honor in being invited to bear witness to someone's joy that I naively took for granted in the past. During Homecoming, however, I looked merrily to the left and the right of me and saw friendships that have shaped me on a campus that helped raise me. A feeling of nostalgia warmed my heart.
As this month draws to a close and the holiday season ushers in yet another opportunity of merriment I take this opportunity to express thanks for our friendships. What a time in our lives to be young black and our ancestors positive affirmations.
Bon soir…
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