Gifts from the Earth, and - -

- - and from a generous neighbor.

A fresh assortment of greens, tomatoes, snap peas, cukes, and a yellow carrot were presented to us by a generous neighbor. Later this evening we enjoyed this for our dinner.

My earliest memories all involve food: the rhythmic sound of a cleaver on a chopping block, standing on a chair and sampling a soup as it simmered on the stove, washing rice, cracking open a soft-boiled egg in its egg holder, eating one meal while planning the next, selecting a live fish or a chicken at the market, gazing into the display window at the butcher shop.

Nothing feels quite as safe and comforting as having someone prepare food for you. Unlike many other gifts that are saved and cherished, one shows appreciation for the gift of food by making it disappear.