today

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Winnipeg on the left. Montreal on the right. 

In the same gorgeous season — the gateway to harvest. When a gossamer yellow settles on bright green leaves. The temperature is ideal for wearing your most beloved sweater at night. A good time to be travelling — if you're not working your ass off. 

The photos were taken on Canadian FAM trips organized by a local tourism board — I've been on two in this country. That's enough, and it's not. The terms are fraught with obligation, and the schedules are breakneck. From arrival to departure, there's not a minute to collect your thoughts. I always come back having met interesting people, eaten superb food and smelled gorgeous wines. And with stories that don't land with travel editors. There are a few I'd still like to write. I came close to selling one to Canadian Art magazine just before it folded. It's in the untold file, with other gems. 

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Name a more perfect fruit than raspberries. Okay, I'll give you peaches.

Here's some quirky trivia: Raspberries aren't mentioned once in Elizabeth David's French Country Cooking. I know that because I made an interesting writing exercise with that book. There's nothing like studying the hand of a master for learning. 

Raspberries are a gateway to peak season — when fruit and vegetables start rolling in quick. Weathered bushel baskets are ready for filling. You'll swear you'll only plant one zucchini next year. Or at the roadside farmstand, you buy one of everything to bring back to the city. 

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There is a restaurant kitchen you'll work in that will leave a big imprint. Each place will give you something. But…

I know what place it is for me. Some of you can see it in my cooking.

A canadian chef could not believe I worked there. The surprise registering in the high-pitch in his voice when he said the name of the restaurant. I had credentials. Get the fuck out.

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I was playing with three songs. This one felt like it fit the spirit of the week. Michael Kiwanuka is a brilliant singer-songwriter. 

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2012