For my mother

It’s taken me weeks to make this phonecall. I’ve got a Scotch on the rocks beside me, for courage. I’m ready to hang up at any moment, should the need arise. My mother’s voice, deep and unworldly (she’s had her larynx removed) comes on the line. We chat about this and that. The weather….

February…and Jamaican Soup

Hello February! C’mon right in! Bring on the valentines, and the oscars! Let’s honour Black History Month; celebrate Crepe Day (February 2nd); and the launch of Recipes for Trouble (Feb. 8, see below)! Send chocolates; buy flowers! Cook something with asparagus, or blood oranges! We’re that much closer to spring! Some months take on…