roasted shallots + asparagus, spinach + mint salad with feta + walnuts, greek yogurt with toasted walnuts + honey
In the summer of 2004, my family and I traveled to Greece to baptize our first child. We were very excited to embark on this journey for many reasons, but mainly because we would be traveling to the island of Lesvos, to a holy and sacred monastery where my grandmother lived during the last years of her life. I consider that trip to be one of the best ones I have ever taken. On so many levels, it was inspiring, moving and extraordinarily poignant and I find myself constantly daydreaming about the day when we will return.
One of the things I loved about the baptism, other than the remarkable service, was our very simple and quaint reception. I can still remember our party of 15, the only guests dining at this amazing seaside eatery. We ordered fresh fish and seafood, platters of grilled vegetables, salads made of herbs and greens, stuffed zucchini flowers, grilled breads with homemade dips and sauces and local wine. We sat together, along a long rectangular table overlooking the ocean and as the sun set, it was tranquil and perfect and the only place I wanted to be at that very moment. It’s hard to believe that this month marks 7 years since that event. As cliché as it sounds, it feels like only yesterday that we were all together, celebrating this momentous occasion, surrounded by family and friends.
The island of Lesvos is a remarkably beautiful island. I can’t wait for the day when my children will have the opportunity to experience its beauty and learn about the history. I can’t wait for them to meet all of our amazing friends and swim in the Aegean Sea. But the thing I am most looking forward to, is that they will visit the monastery where both my brother and my daughter were baptized, the place my grandmother called home for so many years. It really is the most magnificent place on earth.
nicholetta
Reader Comments (2)
Nicholetta,
You made me feel like I was sitting by the sea shore enjoying the lovely meal with you.
Thank you for the recipe I will try it today.
Daisy
Really nice post reminiscent of some truly wonderful memories! I'm going to try the salad soon too; it looks delicious!
rp