And the Beat Goes on…
Greetings to All!
“There’s an old saying that applies to me: You can’t win a game if you don’t play the game”
Romeo and Juliet (Act 1, Scene 4)
William Shakespeare
Where has time gone? Its two years since selling the Bistro and has certainly been a life style change. When working I had a schedule to keep, duties and responsibilities. That went away and I adapted easily to riding, exercising and pursuing interests that I have wanted to over time. My career as a restaurateur has passed but I’m certainly not done with being involved with food, cooking and hospitality. People ask “How is Retirement?” Well first, I’m not a fan of the word that suggests leaving, retreat or withdrawal. I am in the throes of another stage of my career that is incredible. I am busy and embrace my life as being an adventure that is pretty amazing. It is with much gratitude that I can play some new games. When I first read the above quote several years ago I realized that I had to take chances and go with my gut feelings and that my decisions would be right. That was always me in a professional and working world and has been a very powerful instigator in choices I’ve made over the past few years. I’ve had to get myself into a mode of Mary “games.” Has it been a challenge? In some respects yes, there are games that I didn’t want to play but did knowing that doors would open because I took advantage of opportunities that were way out of my comfort zone. Doing so has made me stronger mentally, physically and spiritually. I don’t second guess myself and feel confident about the path I am traveling.
Many of my volunteer activities provide me with a sense of peace and comfort. I deliver communion to residents at an assisted living facility in Milford each week. I can’t describe the elated feeling I have as I walk out. I feel so good that I’m making another person’s life more joyful, which in turn makes mine such also. I help the Knights of Columbus chapter at my church when asked, which is fairly often. It is a fraternal organization and when I first showed up to volunteer at a Friday Fish Fry two years ago they were shell shocked to say the least. I reminded them that their request for volunteers in the bulletin didn’t have a requirement that excluded women. They assigned me to serve the on the buffet line. It has turned out to be an amazing year-round journey with men who are dedicated to community service. I really enjoy working alongside them. They are the cooks… no chefs (me) allowed in the kitchen. I get the fun part, working the “front” and being able to visit with a way different and various groups of guests than I’ve ever been used to. It’s very feel-good.
Of course there is still my riding. Four days a week, sometimes five. I’ve come to realize that riding isn’t for competition only but for the mental and physical attributes that I need from the sport. You only “age out” if you want to and I don’t. When I throw my leg over my horse’s back I’m thinking about what body movement or mind thought will “do this or that.” Daydreaming is not allowed. I’m in awe of riding a 1200# animal that will be mostly compliant, if I ask properly. It’s incredible.
Every Wednesday is Dinner with Mom. I’ll cook one of her favorites, bring along a beer, if she drinks 3 ounces it is a lot, and visit with her and my sister Liz who often joins us. We remiss and often laugh until we cry. The remarks of a 95 year old are often hilarious.
Maddie and Sophie are good little girls and doing well for 13 years old. Finger’s crossed for more time with them. I’ll always have a pup bud. No matter what.
I wrote a list of what my goals were when I sold the Bistro. I’ve been able to accomplish many of them and have some to go, which I look forward to.
The first was to author a cookbook. I’ve wanted to for 40 years and finally was in a position to do so. When I started I thought “this will be a one and done in two months.” Two years later I’m finished. What a journey. I have had an incredible team working alongside me all the way. Photographers, designers, printers, editors and PR advocates. Most of all, my family and friends who have offered support, honest feedback and lending an “ear” to my ups and downs during it all. Looking Back, Cooking Forward will be debuted at Milford’s St. Mary of the Snows church art fair this Saturday, November 9th, 11 to 3. It will be available through my website within a few weeks. (chefmarybrady.com) I’ll also have a table at the City of Chef’s documentary premiering on December 9th at the Novi Emagine Theater. There are great general admission and VIP tickets. Please come to visit me at either or both.
It has been so exciting being involved with the Detroit City of Chef’s documentary. What a history of great restaurants, owners and chefs. Being part of the legacy makes me very proud.
I’m including a recipe for Herb Salt. I can walk out my door and harvest the frost resistant herbs in my garden, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and whirl them together with a bit of Kosher salt. Enjoy.
I Wish You Many Million Dollar Days and Look Forward to Seeing You Soon.
XXOO,
Mary, Maddie, Sophie and the Ponies