Prompt: What did you eat this year that you will never forget? What went into your mouth & touched your soul?

During the summer’s road trip, I stopped for a few days in Denver with my dear friends Kim and  Ken. Night after blissful night we sat on the deck overlooking the source of our dinner, fresh-from-the-back-yard-garden veggies. Heavenly food, setting and friends.

I particularly remember the beets. Kim roasted them with olive oil, salt and pepper and sauteed the greens with onions and garlic — simple is usually best.

Kim and Ken are foodies who enjoy the full experience of growing, harvesting and eating. Ken waters the beds as a morning ritual and they talk about the garden as they might a child. They compost and practice companion planting (like marigolds among the tomatoes).  Living within walking distance to the center of Denver, they’ve turned most of their back yard into a garden, including sunflowers.  This shared endeavor brings joy to their relationship, not to mention the joy it brought to my palate!

Some ten years ago I stopped eating a vegetarian diet. I need to return. Lacto-ovo. It’s good for me and for the planet. Thanks for the inspiration, Kim & Ken.