Encounters with Beauty and Grace
I recently visited a cafe in the German town where I live, Wiesbaden. In normal times this event would have been brushed off, likely forgotten. But these aren’t normal times. I haven’t been to this cafe since 2019. Walking into a place that appeared untouched …
This recipe was inspired by a trip to Eibingen Abbey. While the nuns did not relinquish their chestnut soup recipe, I’m happy to share the one I whipped up in my kitchen. I hope this hearty nourishing soup finds a seat at your table and …
I don’t attend church. I’m not religious. But I’ve been chasing a 12th century nun around Germany. A few years ago on a chilly October day I discovered Hildegard of Bingen, or at least an abbey and trail along the Rhine River bearing her name. …
This is the soup I made after returning home from a silent retreat at Arenberg Abbey. The recipe can be found in Twelve Months of Monastery Soups by Brother Victor-Antoine d’Avila-Latourrette. This cookbook is filled with so many delicious recipes of my favorite comfort food …
(This abbey is one hour from Wiesbaden.) They are mythical creatures. You know one when you see one; their habits flutter with the slightest breeze and rest just above sensible rubber soled shoes. They often have a strand of beads dangling from a hip pocket …
Full disclosure: I’ve never worn a Hawaiian shirt. Maybe it’s because I’ve never been to Hawaii. Or because I don’t like to draw attention to myself. Or perhaps it’s because one of my old, grumpy uncles used to wear them. (Only one of these statements is …
I discovered Hildegard on accident, while hiking. You can read about the encounter HERE. 1 ½ cups spelt flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cloves ½ teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 4 eggs 1 cup …
Proud to have a piece I wrote about a special Wiesbadener included in Trink Magazine. Prost, to Holger ~
My taste buds told me I was drinking the scent of wisteria at its peak and peaches faintly past their prime. The wine carried the burden and exuberance that accompanies transitions. The golden liquid with legs’ enchantment resided in what it implied, but never explicitly …
This recipe was gifted to me by a beautiful woman from Bechtheim, Germany. Martina’s delicious “Fantasy Blueberry Cake” was served when I interviewed her daughters, Janine and Jasmin. I followed her instructions precisely and was left with a beautiful tender cake topped with billows of …