Two memorable meals, 31 years apart

            At a diner in Rochester, NY in 1989, I experienced an epiphany. Two-and-a-half-year-old Anna and I were there for lunch (someone must have been with baby twins). I’d been feeling intellectually numbed by full time motherhood, but during our meal, I suddenly realized we were engaged in lively conversation. Oh my gosh. Here is a person, rich with ideas, and she is my friend!
            Last night, my friend and I ate at Mani’s in Ann Arbor, Michigan. We had lively conversation. We were also enraptured by a heavenly series of shared plate cuisine.
            First - gin cocktails innovatively flavored with rosemary and citrus.
            Second – roasted cauliflower, shallots, pickled chilis, bacon jam. I had to close my eyes and savor the dancing explosion of flavors.
            Third – risotto croquettes on a bed of romesco puree. Crispy, creamy, cheesy, a journey home in food.
            Fourth – carmelized brussel sprouts, roasted garlic, almonds. The perfect balance of crisp-dark and bright green leafy bits.
            Fifth – arugula salad, tantalizingly, delicately seasoned, with crispy shallots and mushrooms.
            Sixth – mushroom ravioli with arugula pesto and walnuts. With every new dish, I thought nothing could possibly match the last – wrong!
            Seventh – white chocolate pistachio mousse with dark chocolate whipped cream. Oh. my. God.
            Surely this gustatory experience was made even more unforgettable by my dinner companion, who continues to illuminate and delight my world. Here is a person, rich with ideas, and she is my friend!
 
My 60th year in 60,000 words
Day 132: 236 words, TOTAL = 21,899; 38,101 remaining