Chapters (22)
Ginger was one of the earliest spices and, during Roman times, the most highly prized import from the East. Known in Europe since the ninth century, it became so popular that it was included, like salt and pepper, at every table setting. By the twelfth century, at least for the well-to-do, dried ginger was used in desserts, including cakes, cookies—especially gingersnaps—and gingerbread. In English pubs and taverns in the nineteenth century, barkeepers put out small containers of ground ginger for people to sprinkle into their beer—the origin of ginger ale. Ginger flavors puddings, jams, preserves, and drinks like ginger beer, ginger wine, and tea. Preserved ginger is also eaten as a candy, chopped up for cakes and puddings, and is sometimes used as an ice cream ingredient. My grandmother introduced me to crystallized ginger, a treat at holiday time.
All of these ingredients add richness to our lives. One of the blessings of living in modern times is that we benefit from the collaboration of Mother Nature, human ingenuity, and civilization. Just think. Sugar, ginger, and cinnamon from the East. Chocolate and vanilla from Mexico. Dates and flour from the Middle East. Nuts from all corners of the world. An array of foods from our earth and its history in thrilling diversity to whet our appetites and imaginations.
People are mixes of ingredients, too. Each one is a combination of sugar and salt, of spiciness combined with sweetness that enhances both flavors. Our love and support is leavened with the nutrition of nuts and wheat, the sharpness of ginger and the opulence of vanilla, the headiness of chocolate—all plants, like people, which are rare and sometimes tricky to pollinate!
Next year we will gather again, laden with new cookies, filled with excited cheer and drawing on even greater wisdom. Who knows exactly where we will be? We will open our circle for a new cookie virgin. I suspect Sissy and I will become closer allies. But will Rosie have her baby and Taylor a new job? Will Jeannie have moved beyond her dilemma of twisted triangles to focus on her own life and career? Will Allie have made a definitive move one way or another in the relationship with T.J.? And me?
And me?
Maybe, just maybe, Jim and I will be together, loving each other. Maybe, just maybe, I will recognize and believe it.
I’ll have two grandchildren. Two babies. I’ll once again witness the world through the fresh eyes of a child. And I know that whatever happens, whatever wonders or hurdles life presents, my family and friends and I will journey together.