Monday, November 20, 2006

Birds of a Feather

This morning I breakfasted with four peacocks. They flew into the walled compound probably looking for water. They approached the pool but flew off without drinking. I was eating an omelet, toast, papaya, and Cadbury drinking chocolate. It is quite a Western breakfast but it was nourishing and will prepare me for the day. I am staying at Jasvilas in Jaipur. It is an oasis. As Rachel prepared me, this is a third world country. The people are very welcoming, non-threatening, and good. I point out this place is an oasis because the streets are a different thing, but not dangerous. I haven't minded the driving (from my back seat in the taxi). People seem to know what they are doing and no accidents yet. Horns a plenty. I spent the first four days in Mumbai (Bombay) which is the second largest city (I believe population) in the world, after Mexico City. It never appeared super overrun so it paints a broad swath and the worst slums are not where I was. Brad, Angelina, and I are visiting India.

At home, preparations continue for Thanksgiving, arguably a perfect holiday. Do let me know your plans and any menu successes. I plan to make Thanksgiving at Christmas. Cami presented me with a portable Thanksgiving feast: candied pecans, dried cranberries, pringles (potatoes), a pumpkin seed bar, an apple pie Larabar, and turkey jerky. I will eat royally. Perhaps you wish your feast was as pre-pared. I hope someone is baking an Indian pudding. This is what I will try in the coming days. Rachel B. made the best baked gingerbread ever a week ago. I will also make this. I don't see why we need pie with these deadlies. Historically wholesome. I wish you all well and heap big blessings.

6 comments:

Karen said...

What the heck are you doing over there, KTG? My Thanksgiving will be as uncultured as me; I bought canned yams today. Wouldyoubelievethat, Shatzi? Please forgive. Have a YOSH time!

apple slice said...

I am here seeing colors and smelling spices. The colors are extraordinary. I admit the smells have been good and bad. The incense is pervasive and powerful. Sometimes it makes the head spin. I will spend Thanksgiving at the Taj Mahal where I plan to picnic with the turkey jerkey. Enjoy the yams. There is nothing wrong with a yam, canned or no.

Anonymous said...

We had a delightful Thanksgiving. As other family was out of town (or out with in-laws), we were favored to invite our neighbors to the feast. It was a splendid feast. We enjoyed:

+ Turkey
+ Gravy
+ Mashed potatoes
+ Stuffing (a favorite!)
+ Baby peas
+ Cranberries
+ Cranberry bread
+ Autumn-colored, cubed Jell-O, served in a goblet

A family member (who was not with us) had seemed preoccupied in seeing the baby peas’ natural flavor be covered by strong seasonings. We considered this and decided to place a container of seasonings on the table for those who wanted it. When offered, our guests explained, “We’re not that adventurous.” It was a delightful meal.

For dessert, we had an apple strudel pie and—of course—pumpkin pie. Topping this was vanilla ice cream.

In all, it was a wonderful—and wonderfully traditional—feast. Yet we missed our family. Perhaps they will be present during Christmastime? If so, we may need to reenact the feast we enjoyed at Thanksgiving.

Anonymous said...

i can't wait to see pictures! especially of the peacocks. it all sounds wonderful. i would take breakfast with peacocks over thankgiving with turkeys any day. let's talk soon.

Anonymous said...

oh that was me, katie.

apple slice said...

Brian, your guests were ideal for the sumptuous meal. How kind to put the seasonings in a separate bowl. It reminds me of when mother left the seasonings out of the pumpkin pie and sprinkled them on top instead (I don't recommend this to those who did not experience it and know better).

Katya, so great to hear from you. I will call you soon. Home now and brought you incense.