Teacher Appreciation Week has come to its end. Thanks to the efforts of the high school’s parents and students, I was treated to yummy goodies for the past days. (The Greek-inspired, catered lunch was a stand-out.) It never hurts to make a positive fuss over teachers and staff members.

I have been doing some reflecting this week.

I stand in awe of all those who were my teachers so many years ago. I stand in awe of all those who contributed to the education of my three children. And I stand in awe–and fervent admiration– of all my co-workers over the past ten years, because the profession of teaching has undoubtedly become more challenging than ever. (And is “profession” even the right word here? Perhaps “passion” or “calling” is better, based on the people I know. No one’s in it for the money, or the glory.)

I am weary, this Friday afternoon, but I am grateful for my colleagues over the past decade. I am going to miss working with them. I hope each and every one felt a little bit more appreciated this week.

Wet the rim of a margarita glass with a lemon wedge and then dip into smoked salt. In a shaker half-filled with ice, combine 1 ounce mezcal, 1/2 ounce simple syrup, and 1/2 ounce lemon juice. Shake and strain into the glass. Add about 3-4 ounces of chilled hard apple cider, until the glass is full. (I used Schilling’s Local Legend, a semi-sweet cider made by Daughter’s former employer in Washington State.)

Enjoyed: Sunday, April 28, 2024

Listed on the menu: Yes, as “Cuvee Single Cask Old Fashion”

Ingredients: Courage and Conviction Cuvee Single Cask Whisky, Raspberry Syrup, Chocolate Bitters

The occasion: After waiting patiently for warm weather, spring vegetation, and a date that we were all free, our little group of friends headed out to Virginia Distillery Company, just a short drive south of town. We had all tried the distillery’s products before, yet here was an opportunity for flights and cocktails and side-by-side comparisons, all while basking in the sun and admiring the scenery.

My rating: ***** out of 5. The cuvee cask whisky (yes, the distillery spells it the Scottish way with no “e”) is aged in European red wine barrels that have been shaved, re-toasted, and re-charred, so imparting just enough of a sweet fruity flavor. I wondered if the addition of the raspberry syrup would make the drink cloyingly sweet, but this was not the case. The fruitiness was subtle; whisky was definitely the main flavor. This cocktail had a luscious mouth-feel and a pleasing color, and was easy to sip.

Final thoughts: I wish this distillery were a little closer to home. Then again, a forty minute drive with good company does go by quickly.

Enjoyed: Sunday, April 14, 2024

Listed on the menu: No, only the two preferred cocktails of the newly-married couple were listed on a sign.

Ingredients: Makers Mark bourbon, simple syrup, angostura bitters, orange peel.

The occasion: The wedding reception of M & A. The ceremony was held in the nearby Italian Garden, and Maymont Park was in full glory on this warm and sunny afternoon. The bride was gorgeous and glamorous, and the groom was ever-so-dashing. (I will never forget how the groom lifted and then dipped the bride during their first dance. So romantic.) Such a joy-filled day!

My rating: **** out of 5. I asked the senior bartender to make me his best Old Fashioned, and he replied, “I am not putting a maraschino cherry in. I don’t have Luxardo cherries, either, so I hope that’s OK.” It was fine, I assured him, since I don’t care for maraschinos. He was generous with the bourbon. He twisted an orange peel to get a few drops of oil and then rubbed the peel along the rim of the glass. This guy knew what he was doing. And kudos to the caterers for using real glassware, versus plastic.

Final thoughts: What a memorable wedding! Happy guests, incredible food, quality drinks, decadent desserts, enchanting flowers, fun music, all on a lovely terrace overlooking the park. (At one point, we guests spotted a bison down below. I’ve never been to a wedding with a bison…) Best wishes to the bride and groom!