A rooster crows. A soft breeze blows through the open window and I begin to stir. Roux jumps up on the bed and flops down next to me, thumping his tail enthusiastically, and giving me a few sloppy kisses. I fell asleep thinking about abundance and woke up feeling abundant. Our thoughts, feelings, and actions weave such a complex web of downy, dewy threads that it often seems impossible to untangle them all. But, I’ve come to realize that the simple act of concentrating the mind has the power to change how we feel and what we do. Thought really does manifest action.
Two years ago, I was lost and unhappy. I was working long hours waitressing, adjusting to a new life in a new city, and lonely. But, I was lucky to have a wise man in my life who suggested I try something new. So, I signed up for a workshop and waited. The air got colder, the leaves changed color and fell to the ground. It was October. The workshop arrived and I spent two days learning about food styling and how to shoot on manual. The next day, on my birthday, I started this blog. Now, after pursuing my passion, building a business, and honing a craft, I feel happy, content and full of purpose. I still think about “success” and what that means. For me, success means reaching a wider audience with the hope of changing our food system. So, I’m hoping you can help me by taking a moment to nominate Tending the Table for the 2016 Saveur Blog Awards. These awards recognize the best blogs out there in a myriad of categories and set the standard for the industry. Nominations are open through July 18th, here.
They say gratitude is the key to abundance and it’s true. I feel so grateful for all the steps that led me here, grateful for a sequence of events that now seem serendipitous and almost archetypal, and grateful for all of you who give my work meaning. So, thank you. Thank you for being here and sharing this space with me. For listening and for sharing your stories.
With gratitude, Sasha
This toast was inspired by a dessert I saw on a menu in Sydney. The combination of peaches and tahini turned out to be even better than I expected, perfectly balancing sweet and savory. The juiciness of the peaches works perfectly on toast and the radish sprouts add a little punch. This is a perfect breakfast or lunch on those days when it’s too hot to cook and you want something both filling and refreshing.
Toast with Peaches, Tahini and Honey
Serves 2
INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup tahini, well stirred
1 tablespoon raw honey, plus extra for serving
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 pieces of whole grain toast
2 peaches, sliced into wedges
black sesame seeds and radish sprouts
PROCEDURE
Combine the tahini, honey and salt in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Spread half of the tahini mixture onto each piece of toast, top with the peaches and sprinkle with the sesame seeds and sprouts. Cut each piece of toast in half and drizzle with more honey. Enjoy!