Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Well, yes, I could be talking about the weather. This afternoon is sunny, but the morning was cloudy, and this partly-sunny/partly-cloudy weather is typical of spring in Virginia.

But I also could be talking about my emotional state. I count my numerous blessings daily, but then I read a news report or check the posts on social media, and I become discouraged or angry or profoundly sad. My mood can shift as quickly as the spring weather, in other words.

I am enjoying writing these daily posts. And the positive feedback from my readers makes me smile.  Thank you.

This is a simple, 2 ingredient cocktail called “Sol y Sombra,”  which means “sun and shade” in Spanish. The name refers to a type of ticket one can buy at a bullfight. The cheap seats (like the bleachers at a baseball game, I suppose) are in full sun, and the pricier seats in the shade. Some seats, however, will allow you to experience both, depending on the time of day, just as this cocktail combines both a light-colored liqueur and a dark-colored brandy.

In a shaker full of ice, mix 1 1/2 ounces of brandy (I like Christian Brothers) with 1 1/2 ounces Anisette (I used anisette from Vitae Spirits in Charlottesville–buy local!). Shake well and strain into a brandy snifter.

Remember to drink responsibly.