Even the canning got out of control and at months end, the inventory is at 800+ jars. Cook, can, nibble. Cook, can, nibble. The 72 jars of concord grape jelly came out perfectly, equal parts grape and sugar – it is no wonder grape jelly is everyone’s favorite. How about this new one: Salted Brown Sugar Peach Jam? And the fermenting containers of hot sauce are bubbling away. The end is in sight (perhaps). Get your requests in!

Then there is the BEST day of the year – The Vendy Awards on Governors Island: aka the Oscars of the Food Truck World. My daughter and I have a tradition of arriving early and eating our hearts out! The Vendy’s is a fundraiser for the Street Vendor Project which works stands up for vendors rights, many of whom are immigrants and people of color. Its vital work includes lobbying for increasing the cap on food vending permits. Please, support them by feasting with food truck and street vendors often. The 2019 winners are a creative and highly motivated group of entrepreneurs and chefs.

Life does happen around food, especially when we are eating together.