My neighborhood at work . . . a little gem

of a garden at Adams & Wabash!

"For all things are for your sakes, so that the grace which is spreading to more and more people may cause the giving of thanks to abound to the Glory of God."
2 Corinthians 4:15


It's about time . . .

"We haven't time, and to see takes time - like to have a friend takes time."
Georgia O'Keefe

My work has been one of the greatest blessings of my life . . . it is truly a gift from God!  As a member of the design community I am exposed to some of the most amazing people, places and ideas of our time . . .

The most recent inspiration came in the form of a TED Talk a colleague shared with me.  The speaker is an artist who is transforming some of the most challenging neighborhoods in the South Side of Chicago; one building at a time.  His name is Theaster Gates and he is a potter by training but his life work is the sum total of so much more.  He has built a diverse portfolio of businesses that connect to a central theme:  cultural transformation.  Beyond simply investing in the community, he has connected with this community in such a deep, meaningful way.  The residents are engaged and energized by new possibilities.  If you have some time this holiday season be inspired by Theaster in his TED Talk, "How to Revive a Neighborhood: with Imagination, Beauty and Art."

As I think of my own community I am reminded of our village motto, "Darien, A Nice Place to Live."  To this I would agree.  It has been our home for most of our married life.  It's the place where we raised our four children, attended church and established our businesses.  Our friends and neighbors have become extended family.  We've shared our lives and opened our hearts & homes to each other.  We are a community.

It was on the sidewalks of Darien that I first strolled with Jake & Kate over thirty years ago.  How many pieces of candy did the kids pick-up along the parade route on the Fourth of July?  Safety Village taught Luke & Daniel the "rules of the road."  What about the warm summer nights that the neighborhood kids played "Ghosts-in-the-Graveyard" in the yards between Winterberry and Evergreen?  Sweet memories of a time and place that connect us to people that have a special place in our hearts.

Whatever you call "community," this is the time of year to celebrate the blessing of the people that you do life with.  As you "break bread" and "talk turkey" remember to savor the moments together and share the stories that  define your lives.

Fresh Cranberry Sauce

No Thanksgiving table would be complete without a bowl of these jewel-toned berries to serve alongside turkey and dressing. Alone, the cranberry is quite sour.  But allowed to mingle with some fruit and sugar, the flavor is transformed.

Native Americans were the first to use cranberries as food.  It is said that Algonquin peoples introduced cranberries to starving English settlers in Massachusetts.* 

     1 bag (12 ounces) fresh cranberries

     1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice

     1/2 cup apricot jam

     1/3 cup sugar

     1/4 teaspoon ginger

     2 ounces dried apricots, finely diced

Place all ingredients together in a medium, heavy pot.  Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to medium.  Stir constantly until the berries pop and the sauce starts to thicken; about 8 minutes.

Remove from heat and transfer to a medium bowl.  Cool, cover and allow the flavors to intensify in the fridge at least a day or two before serving.

Serve cold in a glass or crystal bowl to allow the contents to glisten on your Thanksgiving Table.  It also makes a great condiment for a late night turkey sandwich!

*Background on "Cranberry," Wikipedia; Etymology & History 

Father God,

You have created us to be together, in community.  What a blessing it is to share our lives with friends and neighbors!  We thank You for the places that we each call home.  May peace and unity prevail this holiday season.  Amen.