I went to a gathering where the host served Four Seasons punch. He followed “Idol Sa Kusina” chef host Boy Logro’s recipe.
The basic recipe requires the juices of pineapple, orange, mango and guava. Some recipes call for the addition of clear soda, or vodka. I have tasted Four Seasons with rum.
I created my version using the juices of watermelon, strawberry, orange and guava. Whenever only adults shared this drink, I added my alcohol of choice.
Today’s story, though, revolves around my other idea about “four seasons.” It sprung in my meaty head, when my niece Ellen lamented about her spiritual life.
“Uncle, I missed hearing mass twice this month! I have been busy helping Tita Blitte oversee the renovation of our kitchen.”
“You made the right choice. You showed Tita Blitte respect. This so-called church ministry needs to start at home,” I said.
Uncle Gustave, said, “That is true. It sounds like ‘charity begins at home.’ What’s the use of having a strong ministry in church if, at home, you are worst than an infidel?”
“Thanks, Uncle. I will hear mass tomorrow,” Ellen promised.
People undergo four seasons in their lives, I told my family. Since this is a food-flavored column, the seasons are related to food. In no particular order, here they are.
BLAND AND BLAH. This is the season in your life when you feel inertia pulling you down. You hate getting up in the morning. You are not motivated even to quarrel with your partner. The cure for this phase? Get up, get up and look at the morning sky.
Ellen also refers to this as being “burned out.” Take time to go back to your past achievements. If you are a writer, leaf through your journal. Something will trigger the creative juices again.
FASTFOOD, TASTY BUT DANGEROUS. This is the time when you feel rich and famous. You have the Midas Touch during this period. You do not mind that other people have troubles because you are doing very well in life. Be careful. You could become proud and insensitive; two ingredients for failure.
HOT AND SPICY. When you enter this season, everything to you is lit. You are Mr. or Ms Active. You accept every invitation, do every task plopped on your table or burn the candle at both ends to finish projects. Take time off. Drink the cool water from the fountain of life.
PERFECT, WORTHY OF GORDON RAMSAY’S PRAISE. Multi-Michelin starred celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay is famous for his show “Hell’s Kitchen.” He appears to be difficult to please in the culinary circle of life. He is in fact a nice person. “HK” is just formatted around his volatile side.
This season is a good balance between Hot and Spicy and the Fastfood, Tasty time of your life. There is no room for Bland and Blah. You