There's been a tiny dust storm in my path. It was beautiful and fun, but like any storm, it shook my foundation a little, in a good way.
I thought I was prepared for the stormy onslaught of company that descended on my home recently. I cleaned, spruced things up, shopped and made bedrooms out of office rooms to accommodate family.
I cooked some things ahead of time. This is no easy task considering some family members are vegetarians, others not, some eat hot chile, others don't, some are on low carb diets, then decide to break their rules, and others just eat anything in sight.
One family member insisted on reviving an old Puerto Rican tradition - slightly modified for modern times.
I think Home Depot calls this a meat roaster. We know it as a caja china. This translates literally to Chinese Box. I have no clue why. But among some Caribbean meat enthusiasts, this is the latest, most efficient way to have an old fashioned pig roast.
A pig roast is not something I had in mind as I envisioned our little family reunion, but it turned out to be the highlight.
Of course, I had to deal with my own inner storm of vegetarian resistance, until I caved in to resignation. At least I know the pig was sacrificed in a humane manner, was raised in a free and non- toxic way and if we had not roasted it, someone else would have. I thanked the pig profusely, hoping it had a forgiving spirit that can understand the conflicts and variations of human perceptions.
I wish I could have recorded the laughter that surrounded this roast. Though I did not partake of the meat, I did benefit from the joy it provided.
The little storm was like most little storms. It was replete with excitement, drama, anticipation and finally the realization that it's over, leaving behind traces of its turbulence and lessons for next time.
One thing I learned is that I am unrealistic. I fully expected to be able to blog and read blogs during this time. I overlooked the realities of time, relationships, group activities, trips, and fatigue.
I feel rested now, and ready to resume the calm in which I thrive best. I hope you haven't forgotten me, but I'll remind you of my existence by visiting your wonderful blogs.
smiles...sounds like you had a great time with your family...and i bet the roasted pig tasted great..always exhausting if you're the host of such gatherings though...and welcome back..smiles
ReplyDeleteMyra, I'm so glad you had a good time with your family despite the challenges and difficulties.
ReplyDeleteOops, I left the N out of your name. I'm so sorry.
ReplyDeleteoh nice...i love a good pig roast....best that was a lot of fun...and storms like that will def shake you a bit with all you have to do but i am glad you found the good parts...smiles.
ReplyDeleteI missed the pig roast ~ And that picture is awesome ~
ReplyDeleteHope you get enough rest, and yes, blogging takes a lot of time ~
Cheers ~
My dear Myrna,
ReplyDeleteGood story and pictures. Oh yes, the pig roast looked very good (smile). Life has many ups and downs as you know. Enjoy the happy days and your family. Thanks for sharing my friend.
i spend a lot of time in a community that is not vegetarian. sometimes, it's a challenge, but the law of hospitality is strong. yesterday, i took a taste of the pork patties becuz my friend had made them and was very proud of them. they were good. i told him. food brings us together. meat is important for cultural reasons for so many. thanking the animal i also find a very worthwhile and valuable ritual. sounds like a lot of fun on your end. i can relate to lots.
ReplyDeleteYou are so very gracious! What a great time for everyone. I admire your ability to go with the pig. I would have struggled with that one. Your gratitude to the pig sure came out in the joy of the occasion. Good on ya!
ReplyDeleteWhat a companionable post! Nice thinking about storms - and you had a LUAU! Wish I could have been there too :-)
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your week!
Aloha from Honolulu
Comfort Spiral
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I have had pig roast a few times in my life and it was always fun.;) And I so know what you mean about being unrealistic, for me it is impossible to live life and blog simultaneously, as I like to do them both well and with full focus.;)
ReplyDeleteGlad you had fun.;)
xoxo
Having family visiting is always so much fun (and tiring too!). But you sound refreshed and that's good.
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