A Table for Two
Fried Squash Blossoms on the Balcony (c)2011 LaDomestique.com
Gathering can be lively and stimulating, like a group of friends engaged in passionate conversation. . . but sometimes it’s nice to share a moment of quiet at a table for two. You don’t have to slave over a multi-course meal for the gathering to be special. Last night the husband and I sat on our balcony, taking in the last rays of the setting sun. It was warm outside, but a cool breeze passed over us. I could feel autumn whispering in my ear.
I had just returned from my community garden plot with a harvest of delicate squash blossoms. Carefully, my hands tucked a spoonful of goat cheese into each trumpet-shaped flower. I dipped the squash blossoms in silky batter and fried them in oil. As the blossoms turned golden I plucked them from the hot oil, giving each a sprinkling of lemon juice and sea salt. The husband poured two glasses of wine. Outside at our table for two we quietly enjoyed this little treat from the garden. He said, “This is good.” I agreed. It was a beautiful moment.
A small gathering : simple, elegant, shared with another.
About Gathering
With the release of Kinfolk, an online magazine devoted to “small gartherings”, I’ve been inspired by the idea that entertaining is changing. For a long time now I’ve been turned off by the word, “entertaining”, which brings to mind perfect parties, formality, and posturing- keeping up with the Joneses. Entertaining seems dated. Times are changing. We’ve been through a recession. After all the spending of money we don’t have and buying houses we can’t afford, we’ve filled these houses with stuff that hasn’t brought happiness. For many, the reaction is to simplify. Pare back. We’re investing less in material things and more in the things that really fill us- our friendships.
Gathering is different. Gathering evokes a feeling of ease, warmth, and a focus on interacting rather than performing. In this world we’re becoming so insular. We forget the importance of gathering with friends to share stories at a thoughtfully set table with simple, flavorful food. Because of Kinfolk magazine, I want to remember.
I’ve decided to begin posting to LaDomestique.com on Sunday, the day of rest. Much of the week at this site is about learning and doing, but Sunday will be about reflecting. Join me in an effort to keep it all in perspective. I will share a special moment from the week, and I would love for you to share snippets of your small gatherings in the comments section.