Hope Springs Eternal

 

 

 

 

Hope springs eternal.

 

I use that phrase a lot at this time of year but mostly in regards to baseball.  Each year I believe my beloved Mariners will have the year they deserve.  Last year they actually did what I’d hoped they do – win more than half their games – but this year I’m thinking bigger.  Way bigger!. 

 

However, that’s not really what this post is about.  If you live in Seattle, or really anywhere in the Pacific Northwest, you know we’ve had a very mild winter.  Spring has come early – at least so far – today’s weather report insinuates old man winter is not quite ready to throw in the towel.  But the great weather we’ve had to date has forced many things into early bloom and growth. 

 

I was completely surprised yesterday when I happened to notice that my rhubarb had not just broken ground but is well on it’s way to growth!  If you’ve followed this blog for any time at all you’ll know I love rhubarb.  I also understand you may not share my enthusiasm and I’m sorry for you!  Besides all the traditional pastries I normally make, one of the best dishes I’ve ever had was a foie gras with rhubarb compote – some day I’m going to recreate that dish.  But this year I’m looking forward to making a new recipe I just found in local author Cynthia Nim’s new cookbook, Gourmet Game Night: Bite-Sized, Mess-Free Eating for Board-Game Parties, Bridge Clubs, Poker Nights, Book Groups, and More, long name, I know! She has a pork tenderloin with rhubarb chutney recipe that sounds great. 

 

 

 

 

 

I bought her book with the idea it might spur me to host some game nights.  I’ve also recently reconnected with a bunch of grade school friends which has me reminiscing about penny-ante Blackjack nights we used to have.  I can feel a game night coming on soon!  Especially if the rhubarb continues on its growth spurt!