Friday, February 12, 2021

Happy New Year! It’s the Year of the Ox.

The ox comes at an appropriate time for me. I consider the ox to be strong, steady, and resilient. Last night, the county school board voted to move to Stage 4 on March 15, which means that students may come into school–twice a week–if their families so choose. In other words, I will be working inside the high school building for the first time in almost twelve months, beginning March 10. (Has it really been a year? Wow.)

So yes, I need to dig deep, and become strong, steady, and resilient. I can do this! School will not look the same (the number of new safety protocols is making my head spin), but we will be one step closer to slamming the door on this pandemic and all its ugly repercussions, like social isolation and fear of the unknown.

Today’s cocktail isn’t exactly “Chinese” in essence, but a fusion of a flavors from a few cultures. The drink is smoky, salty, tangy, and just plain EARTHY, and exactly the inspiration I need.

This is my version of a drink called the Ox Eye Cocktail. In a shaker, combine 2 ounces mezcal, 3/4 ounces triple sec, 1/2 ounce lemon juice, 1/2 ounce lime juice, and 3 dashes of angostura bitters. Add ice and shake well. Strain into a coupe glass with salt on the rim.