After a long respite, it is back to the keyboard for more thoughts on food and cooking and eating.  Much has happened and changed during this hibernation period,  personally,  locally and especially globally, and yet of course, just as the wise French proverb reminds us, so much has stayed the same.  Sometimes the unchanged is truly cause for despair, but also there are times when the familiar and established can provide comfort and perspective when we need it most.

We are all well aware of the political turmoil and unrest, the divisions and hostilities within our society, the environmental tragedies and educational and economic challenges.  Each of these can seem insurmountable and perhaps some of them are.  Sometimes maybe all we can do in the moment is to be aware of the small pleasures we share and hope that those moments multiply.  Surely some of the most universal community is formed over the stove, the table and the basket of shared bread.