Strawberry Rhubarb Pie- the perfect combination of sweet and tart in a flaky pastry shell. But there is so much more to this delectable treat than pure gluttonous goodness. It is the tasty reminder of living a balanced life.
The sweetness of the strawberries combined with the rhubarb’s tartness makes for a winning combination. A pie of one or the other would be excessive in taste. It’s the stability of both flavors that are key to this culinary success. It is a true slice of heaven.
Strawberries and rhubarb are Spring plants. Their arrival in one’s garden or at the market are signs of new beginnings and that one has successfully weathered another winter of one’s life. Their red colors are fresh splashes of excitement to the eyes and to the heart.
The historic silver town of Westcliffe, Colorado is nestled at the base of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It has much to offer including a genuine Wild West atmosphere, recreational opportunities galore, random Victorian homes and the occasional Amish horse drawn buggy.
A must-stop is a visit to Sugar and Spice Bakery on Main Street. There, one will find quaint hospitality wafting from the Mennonite proprietor like the scent of goodies drifting from her kitchen. Display cases are laden with fresh breads, cookies and pastries. There is one item there that draws me back each visit like the swallows in the Spring time to Capistrano- a warm, strawberry rhubarb pie.
Sweet moments surround us all the time. We just have to keep our eyes open and be aware of the opportunities that surround us. I actually keep a gratitude journal of sorts next to me throughout the day. It is my notebook that I use to stay on track with my to-do’s. The lines of the margins act as a freshly furrowed field to place the beautiful seeds of life’s gifts received throughout the day.
- A majestic blue heron flew past the back porch
- Call from Mom (feel so blessed to still have both of my parents alive and well)
- Zuma, the cat, stopped by to place her paw on my lap and say hi
- Fridge and pantry stocked with healthy and delicious food
- Hummingbirds enjoying the feeder
Who doesn’t enjoy the sweetness of life? Yet it’s the touch of a balancing flavor that helps us appreciate the joys that exist in our lives. There is much beauty in balance.
Writers and speakers understand the need to weave stories with ups and downs, otherwise the tale would be too syrupy and un-relatable. Life is laced with tart reminders to help us remember how great things can be. Finding that perfect blend is the true sign of mastery- like a well concocted strawberry rhubarb pie.
Karen Loucks Rinedollar is an award winning author (Working for Peanuts: The Project Linus Story) and speaker who is able to remind readers and listeners of joy through the simple things in life like a tasty pie or cuddly blanket. She is the Founder and Denver Coordinator of the children’s charity, Project Linus, which has provided over 5 million handmade security blankets to seriously ill and traumatized children. She is available for keynotes, graduations, workshops and book signings. www.denverspeakersbureau.com/karen-loucks-rinedollar
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