Sunday Brunch

There are few things more wonderful on the weekend than having brunch.  Brunch is more than just a meal – no one needs brunch to survive, yet in so many ways, brunch is essential to a life well-enjoyed.  It can be as simple or eventful as you wish to make it, but at its core, brunch is about time spent in the company of dear friends and loved ones, delectable breakfast foods that normally don’t make it into your daily hustle and bustle, and a reason to look forward to the next weekend!

Today I had brunch at a local diner.  It was simple and straight-forward, no frills brunch.  As an avid foodie, I will be the first to admit that I love a place with a good bloody mary bar and gourmet crepe made from scratch.  However, sometimes a stack of buttermilk pancakes and mug of coffee is all it takes to hit the spot.  What are some of your favorite brunch plates and places?

Brunch at Bloomsburg Diner, Bloomsburg, PA

Eggs Benedict at Bloomsburg Diner, Bloomsburg, PA

Bloody Mary bar at brunch, Meat & Potatoes, Pittsburgh

Bloody Mary bar at brunch, Meat & Potatoes, Pittsburgh

Bloody Mary bar at brunch, Meat & Potatoes, Pittsburgh

Bloody Mary bar at brunch, Meat & Potatoes, Pittsburgh

Brunch at Meat & Potatoes, Pittsburgh

Brunch at Meat & Potatoes, Pittsburgh

Brunch at Meat & Potatoes, Pittsburgh

Brunch at Meat & Potatoes, Pittsburgh

Brunch at Station, Williamsburg, NYC

Brunch at Station, Williamsburg, NYC

Reminscings

It’s the end of the day, and my mind finally has time to wander.  Today I found myself thinking about the past, to a time where my life revolved around blissful summers filled with popsicles, bike rides, and playing House, rather than work and rush hour.  Mid-August was a time of getting nervous and excited about the start of a new school year (did I remember how to do fractions?!), purchasing bouquets of new crayons, and maybe even a Lisa Frank folder.

I also looked back on my life 20 years ago compared to today.  My penny loafers have turned into stilettos, side ponytails controlled by a crushed velvet scrunchie have been transformed into long beach waves, and bouquets of crayons have become bouquets of lipstick.  I no longer worry about fractions; instead, I worry about financial goals at work.  Every year I question what makes more sense- going home for Thanksgiving or for Christmas?  Am I doing what I really want to do with my life?

If my mother were to read this and realize that I’m (still) worried about things, she would remind me of the timeless adage “Will this matter in five years?  One year?  Two months?” And she’s right.  Some things will be rendered trivial, but many things – family, loyalty, good humor, and kindness – will remain cornerstones of our lives.  So go ahead.  Be kind and give away your prized purple crayon.  Surprise your sister with weekend getaway.  Laugh until you are gasping for air.  And above all else, show those who are nearest and dearest to your heart, that you love them.  I promise that you will find joy in all of these things.

August may no longer mark a beginning for you, but it is as good a time as any to take a moment to sit quietly and reflect on things.  If you let your mind wander, you might be surprised what it comes up with.

 

~ C