Thanks, Heather! That was the goal, and I'm glad that you felt that way. I did try to shorten it, but alas - it didn't happen this time around. But I did get a few mid-party mental resets with enforcing some quiet time in my head! It definitely helped me center myself and helped prevent my mental battery from depleting.
Most of all, my helping was NOT done out of people pleasing obligation. It was out of choice. I knew you'd appreciate that tidbit -- especially after your own last article. You're a damn rock star at this point, and I hope you know it, H. :) - Seth ✦
Well as someone who didn't get to do much celebrating of the 4th (I spent mine in the ER), this felt a bit like I still got to enjoy it. Truly this article was visceral. Reminded me of all the fourth of July's past when I was in Texas eating brisket and corn on the cob. I must admit I have not tried McDonald's apple pie haha. Lovely piece, Seth. And those firework pictures are insane!
Okay, Landon. (1) First, I'm so sorry to hear that you were on-shift in the ER for the 4th, and I just hope that you didn't have to deal with all sorts of 4th ^%$#ery. Too many people out there act like idiots (hopefully not myself) and that has to be one of the most difficult shifts of the year. (2) I'm really glad that you got to enjoy it, let alone to learn the fact that you're a brisket fan. As you were in TX, that is BBQ right and proper. (3) Now, I remember that you're wonderfully health conscious, but please - you have to go to a McD's and make an Eggleston Eggception here. Read the 2-piece article, and you'll understand why. This was one item that your generation did NOT get a chance to grow up with. Probably because it was TOO GOOD. You will understand. Plus, it's not greasy or any of that. Just wait about 15 minutes after purchase to bite into it, or you'll wind up back in the ER as a patient. ;) - Seth ✦
What a fun way to celebrate and the food looks amazing. I consider myself and ambivert as well, and at parties or events can often be found either sitting off by myself or with the family dog or cat, taking a little recharge quiet time break from the festivities. I love to celebrate and have fun, but some events are just too peopley for too long. Hope your arteries and your spirit recovered. I'm about 20 days behind in reading and commenting, so cheers! Onward to Labor Day! Love, Virg
Thanks so much, Virg! It was great fun, but strange to think that it was nearly a month ago. I probably spent upwards of a week writing that dispatch and putting it together; no wonder July has flown by.
I’m so glad to hear that I’m not alone with the whole recharge thing, especially at parties. But now that I’ve figured out “what’s-what,” parties are easier knowing that I “broke the seal” and feel more in control — that I can just disappear with myself for a few. Odds are, everyone else is too busy socializing — that they’re not thinking about us.
Nobody is looking! :)
Arteries and spirit have recovered. I think.
I’m entirely behind in all comments/restacks and all the Substack stuff. Trying to figure out my new normal here — as such could be a full time job in itself, right?
Hope things are going smoothly for you as it has been a busy/stressful two months for you. But that festival trip withour daughter sounded EPIC.
This is exactly why I love your writing. The illegal fireworks. The fog of DEET. The impending seasonal existential crisis. 😂 Equal parts hilarious, nostalgic, and existential. Somehow you made pre-grieving the end of summer feel poetic. That’s a gift. Meanwhile, I’m in smoking-hot Georgia where the heat and humidity have me negotiating with the outdoors like it’s an abusive ex. Bring on fall. 🍂
Gosh, Meg - Thanks for your incredible high praise here, that’s ridiculously lyrical in itself. Your comments are always a joy to read.
Okay, yeah, I feel like I’m pre-grieving a lot these days — but I’d better be careful or people will think I’m an AI-generated Charlie Brown! ;) LOL
As for you, I think you should call your attorney and sue the hell out of GA weather then. I have a funny feeling that GA fall weather feels like New England summer. Amirite??!??! ;)
I’m so not ready for New England fall. Dunkies can take their pumpkin spice lattes and blankety-blank-blank.
Yes, you are exactly right about Georgia’s fall. On Halloween my kids costumes were usually too much material and costume to keep on the whole night because they are sweating through it. Yes, that is the day before November 1st.
Okay okay okay, first of all; I really want to experience the 4th of July in the states someday, seems like such a huge thing! Those fireworks look amazing! &&& second, & what feels more important: what is that hot apple pie! Why are they only producing it in the States! I want to try it too huhuhu
Well, one of these days, you’ll have to make it stateside.
The key thing - sorry if I wasn’t clear in the article, is that YOU, dear Michelle, may actually be able to get the fried version as you’re in the UK!!!! You’ll have to report back with what you can find!
Only the US market generally gets the LAME-ASS baked version outside of this limited time promotion.
I’m hoping and praying they haven’t run out yet. - Seth ✦
It's not here! At least it wasn't in Northern Ireland & haven't seen it in London so far. Hmmmmmmm very interesting & loool, sorry, I glazed over & was just like wait a second this is definitely not in any maccas I've been to in the past few weeks lol. Buuuuuut I'll try to check again one day this week after work (ahaha sneak out maybe)
A bunch of mcflurrys, the sunday, muffins, & the normal apple pie! (Haven't seen any variations of it) - maybe it's not on the menu when it isn't available/no stock; I've found that some branches dont have the chocolate sundae (my go to, so ahaha I'm more conscious of when that's missing)
Okay, your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to check the apple pie. See if it is BAKED or FRIED.
If it is solid, with no open slits that show the filling, and it is crispy AF like a wonton, you are getting the international version. Which is FRIED!!!! Check my photos in the 2-piece articles. And stick around for Part 2 if you haven’t read it already. That’s where the profound stuff lives.
What is “normal” for you in the UK is likely the “fried” that rhymes with “DENIED” — as in denied for the past 34 years.
Gosh, I hope you accept this mission. Someone in Australia reported back that they get the fried version. Possibly Hungary too. - Seth ✦
Mission accepted! Just screenshot this so I don't forget, will report back latest early next week! (might struggle to sneak out to maccas on a workday, but let's see!)
Oh my gosh, Seth! I didn’t see this until now. (Dear Substack, please put @foodbiker posts in my algo!) This article is my favorite of all of yours that I’ve read! Well done on the ambivert personal growth and making us FOMO your party, bbq, and luxe pre party!
And I love love LOVE that your posse is so tight that they go out and send pics back for you!
Hey, Jen! No kidding. Glad you really enjoyed the article so much. Again, it wasn't my party per-se, but one of my BFFs threw it and I was happy to help. It truly was a fantastic time. I think it blew up my eating rheostat, as I'm still full weeks later and I haven't quite re-calibrated yet. ;)
As for the Road Feast posse, I'm proud to have you as a part of it and I'm lucky that we're a tight posse. :) I didn't even ask my peeps for photos, TBH! Feeling a lot of gratitude here, Jen. A huge thanks! - Seth ✦
Well, I hate to say it, but I'm kind of lucky that with two of my BFFs throwing BBQs, I haven't had to throw one of my own! Then again, as I'm in an apartment in Cambridge, I can't say that I have the room to throw one.
But surely, we'll certainly enjoy some food together wherever that might be, Jen. :) - Seth ✦
Loved this. I got the emat sweats just looking at all the meat. Good for you for both listening when your body said you don't need to stay at an 11, and for getting us all to eat the pies. Pies from all over. Love it. You know I put mine across my subbie like the red-headed slut she was. lol.
That Subie pie pic was goddamn priceless, Lilly. Truly priceless. Glad you got a kick out of Aftermath250! Agreed - realizing that it's okay to dial things down per social stuff (even in the middle of an event) is okay.
Was just stuck in hellish traffic for 2 hours, and missed the rest area. Problem solved with a bathroom break at McD's...AND TWO MORE PIES!!! Glad you got yours too.
I think I'm picking up a dozen tomorrow AM on the way home for the deep freeze. This must happen, Lilly. - Seth ✦
PS - That last line you wrote, especially with two "b's" -- Man, that is totally FTW for the spiciest line I've read day. ;)
What a fun read, Seth! 😄 I’m totally an ambivert too! 😂 I love the fun and connection of big gatherings, but I also need that quiet time to recharge. And I was all into the McDonald’s apple pie adventure too! 🥰I need to get one soon and reminisce.
I’m so glad you got a kick out of it, Steena! It’s always great to meet another ambivert. The fact that when I do go to large gatherings these days, I get overloaded more than in my youth — my internal battery seems to run out more quickly than other peeps. I love large groups and speaking in front of them, too. (BTW, I remember you gave that presentation about your book a few months back — you’re a natural!) Meanwhile, the key thing is that my battery may run out before the evening or weekend is over. It depends on the situation and the person; I just found that ducking out for a few for some quiet absolutely helped me get back on track and actually enjoy myself. Maybe that resonates with you?
Don’t wait too long for the fried hot apple pie, Steena! It’s goddamn magical, but McD’s may already be ending the promotion down where you are in TX. I couldn’t say, but it’s worth running over there before it’s too late. As I wrote in the 2-piece article, take your time and let it cool! You’ll be glad you did, Steena. ;) - Seth ✦
I have not had a proper summertime cookout at all this year and I didn't really realize that until reading this post. Because, of course, we wanted nothing to do with the celebrations this holiday. I am going to need to rectify that soon. I was some SC BBQ with a mustard based sauce on a flimsy bun please, macaroni and cheese, and banana pudding. and coleslaw. That might be my weekend plans made right there. Okay, other than food I am always so elated to hear about someone taking time for themselves instead of pushing to keep up because you feel you have to. Good for you!!!!!! It is not always easy but the results are sooooo worth it! So happy for that growth moment for you!
I loved that you three just hid for the 4th Margaret! Equally so, I love that you appreciate the SC BBQ mustard-based sauce, which seems to be increasingly popular as of late and has regularly appeared on my plate. Yes, a flimsy bun is a requisite. Leave the goddamn brioche buns home; it's a way for chefs to upsell stuff. Let the Q speak for itself and not become distracted by a fancy bun.
Homemade banana pudding is something I leave for BBQ take-out these days. It doesn't hold well, and is cloyingly sweet where by Day 3 -- you're just sick of it. There's no way to make a tiny portion of it.
Coleslaw? Try Ina Garten's blue cheese coleslaw recipe. You will thank me later. No savoy cabbage; it’s just too fibrous even if you let it sit for a while.
Glad you get the whole “time out” thing. There’s often peer pressure in groups of friends to constantly talk. Sometimes, just being together with some quiet is key. Just amazed that I found some confidence (it took me decades) to just go off and do my own thing — even if it’s a 20 minute lie down in the middle of the festivities. That means a great deal to me, Margaret — and I’m so glad you enjoyed the article! :) - Seth ✦
Ooo I've always wanted to try an Ina Garten recipe, thanks! I've never seen a banana pudding make it out of the barbeque let alone last 3 days! That sounds gross though.
The peer pressure is so real, so happy that you got there!
You’re welcome, M! Squarely one of the best chocolate cake recipes I’ve ever tried. I don’t even bother with other recipes anymore, TBH. The espresso does NOT make it coffee flavored; instead — it amplifies the chocolate flavor. Plus, her blue cheese dressing is totally on point and ready for coleslaw with whatever you want to serve it with (hot dogs, Buffalo chicken, etc.). You’re gonna’ love it. :) - Seth ✦
I totally get the ambivert thing - I am a creature of hospitality but also need alone time for creative recharging. I think it must actually be very common for food professionals!
I think you're absolutely right, Kristen! I mean, back at Le Cordon Bleu here in Boston (once upon a time), clearly there were the savory peeps (extroverts) and the baking/pastry peeps (introverts). Both sides tried hard to recruit me with their doings, and I didn't want to commit.
In retrospect, I think more fell into the middle (including myself) where I love both sweet and savory -- and maybe that's where we ambiverts live in the culinary world.
I admittedly find myself more easily overloaded in huge group settings these days, but being able to quiet the noise and listen to what I need is something I'm still practicing. Superb insight, K. Glad you enjoyed the piece. - Seth ✦
Glad you got a kick out of it, MDB. Honored you read it while you still feel yucky. It may not have improved your summertime bug, but I hope it distracted you for a few moments.
As MDB, clearly you’re a lot safer to be around than some of those fireworks I may or may not have been setting off. ;) - Seth ✦
Ohhh my goodness! Now that felt like a feast! Made me wish I was there enjoying fireworks from a lounge chair instead of a garage and feasting throughout. But I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed my view of our surprising awesome Costco fireworks and our far more tame festivities.
Still you bring such nostalgia not only for our previous big countrywide celebrations but for the over the top festivities of the wild times of my more youthful days or even more recent ones from my lakeside home.
And damn if it made me realize I too am certainly not an extrovert as I once thought but an introverted extrovert. Is that an ambivert?
Right back 'atcha, Silvia. :) Can't wait to read your article! You've go this. BTW, I think 1:11 is a good time as any. I think many people read stuff after work, so it'll be perfect for someone's commute home! - Seth ✦
I don't know, but it surely sounds like you had it made in the shade, Silvia -- especially if you got the fireworks in before the welcome cold front moved through. We were admittedly racing as the raindrops were coming down more steadily.
Thanks for your wonderful appreciation of the piece, Silvia. That's the kind of thing that keeps me writing here. Nostalgia is great, especially if it can remind us that we can build a better future together if we want to. Life doesn't have to be this way.
Yup, I'm pretty sure that's being an ambivert! Surely mental health professionals can chime in here, but that's what it's all about. If you feel like you enjoy socializing and all that, but can definitely get overwhelmed and need to recharge your emotional battery -- that surely seems like ambivert territory. Again, as Kristen said, I think there are a lot of us in culinary who fall into that category. I often treasure the quiet of knocking out pasta by myself and focusing -- that's my introvert side of being an ambivert. - Seth ✦
That is some good looking food. If you have not seen it 'Young Washington' by Angel Studios is excellent. Learn a lot about the boy that grew into the man to lead our country into independence.
Thanks! I'll have to check it out. I've read a great deal about Washington's later life; I'm just not going to chop down any cherry trees in the process (a myth). ;) - Seth ✦
The producer’s grandfather is the reason he got into the buisness of telling stories. A true American hero-Filmmaker Jon Erwin's grandfather was Henry Eugene "Red" Erwin Sr., a World War II hero and Medal of Honor recipient.
Exceptionally delicious article, Seth! I can relate to the time-out solution to overstimulation and the difficulty in shifting back to work mode. Also, color me blush for the compliment.
I'll happily keep throwing compliments at you, as they're well deserved, L. Really -- it is such a great photo. I'm getting better at saying "screw it" to constant social stuff and just taking a time out. Yes, those grinding gears you're hearing in the background is my trying to get back into the groove here. LOL. I hope the next few weeks for you go smoothly on your end! :) - Seth ✦
I’m most definitely an ambivert….more and more the older I get. I’ve never been one for celebrations at all - plus I’ve lived in Europe for much more than half my life - so the 4th has no meaning for me but…..I’d go anywhere and celebrate anything for that feast!!! And I do love me some fireworks 🎆
Glad you enjoyed it, Jamie! :) Proud to have you as my "French Connection." Like the original movie from 1971, there will never be any remake (of you) that would be any good. You're one of a kind.
Again, I don't remember having eaten so much. But hiding for a bit and just "resting and digesting" in the middle of the non-stop excitement, I was cool with such. I think peer pressure gets to everyone, and I'm getting too old for such s^%$.
Hope you have an amazing Bastille Day next week, you! - Seth ✦
PS - I still owe you that clafoutis! Haven't forgotten. :)
You really captured so much about the 4th of July from time gone by. I paused and thought about my favorite 4th of July (and I knew I wrote about it...apparently it is lost). It used to be a very memorable and happy holiday. Over the years, it has changed, because I don't enjoy crowds and loud noises. I absolutely enjoyed reading about all the food, fireworks and fried apple pie. As always, your writing is full, fun and easy to read always leaving a smile on my heart.
Seth, what a great article (and not just because you included me in it). Your writing makes me feel like I'm hanging out with you. And I love that!
Thanks, Heather! That was the goal, and I'm glad that you felt that way. I did try to shorten it, but alas - it didn't happen this time around. But I did get a few mid-party mental resets with enforcing some quiet time in my head! It definitely helped me center myself and helped prevent my mental battery from depleting.
Most of all, my helping was NOT done out of people pleasing obligation. It was out of choice. I knew you'd appreciate that tidbit -- especially after your own last article. You're a damn rock star at this point, and I hope you know it, H. :) - Seth ✦
Well as someone who didn't get to do much celebrating of the 4th (I spent mine in the ER), this felt a bit like I still got to enjoy it. Truly this article was visceral. Reminded me of all the fourth of July's past when I was in Texas eating brisket and corn on the cob. I must admit I have not tried McDonald's apple pie haha. Lovely piece, Seth. And those firework pictures are insane!
Okay, Landon. (1) First, I'm so sorry to hear that you were on-shift in the ER for the 4th, and I just hope that you didn't have to deal with all sorts of 4th ^%$#ery. Too many people out there act like idiots (hopefully not myself) and that has to be one of the most difficult shifts of the year. (2) I'm really glad that you got to enjoy it, let alone to learn the fact that you're a brisket fan. As you were in TX, that is BBQ right and proper. (3) Now, I remember that you're wonderfully health conscious, but please - you have to go to a McD's and make an Eggleston Eggception here. Read the 2-piece article, and you'll understand why. This was one item that your generation did NOT get a chance to grow up with. Probably because it was TOO GOOD. You will understand. Plus, it's not greasy or any of that. Just wait about 15 minutes after purchase to bite into it, or you'll wind up back in the ER as a patient. ;) - Seth ✦
What a fun way to celebrate and the food looks amazing. I consider myself and ambivert as well, and at parties or events can often be found either sitting off by myself or with the family dog or cat, taking a little recharge quiet time break from the festivities. I love to celebrate and have fun, but some events are just too peopley for too long. Hope your arteries and your spirit recovered. I'm about 20 days behind in reading and commenting, so cheers! Onward to Labor Day! Love, Virg
Thanks so much, Virg! It was great fun, but strange to think that it was nearly a month ago. I probably spent upwards of a week writing that dispatch and putting it together; no wonder July has flown by.
I’m so glad to hear that I’m not alone with the whole recharge thing, especially at parties. But now that I’ve figured out “what’s-what,” parties are easier knowing that I “broke the seal” and feel more in control — that I can just disappear with myself for a few. Odds are, everyone else is too busy socializing — that they’re not thinking about us.
Nobody is looking! :)
Arteries and spirit have recovered. I think.
I’m entirely behind in all comments/restacks and all the Substack stuff. Trying to figure out my new normal here — as such could be a full time job in itself, right?
Hope things are going smoothly for you as it has been a busy/stressful two months for you. But that festival trip withour daughter sounded EPIC.
Rock on, Virg. Big hugs to you. - Seth ✦
This is exactly why I love your writing. The illegal fireworks. The fog of DEET. The impending seasonal existential crisis. 😂 Equal parts hilarious, nostalgic, and existential. Somehow you made pre-grieving the end of summer feel poetic. That’s a gift. Meanwhile, I’m in smoking-hot Georgia where the heat and humidity have me negotiating with the outdoors like it’s an abusive ex. Bring on fall. 🍂
Gosh, Meg - Thanks for your incredible high praise here, that’s ridiculously lyrical in itself. Your comments are always a joy to read.
Okay, yeah, I feel like I’m pre-grieving a lot these days — but I’d better be careful or people will think I’m an AI-generated Charlie Brown! ;) LOL
As for you, I think you should call your attorney and sue the hell out of GA weather then. I have a funny feeling that GA fall weather feels like New England summer. Amirite??!??! ;)
I’m so not ready for New England fall. Dunkies can take their pumpkin spice lattes and blankety-blank-blank.
Keep cool down there, Meg. - Seth ✦
Yes, you are exactly right about Georgia’s fall. On Halloween my kids costumes were usually too much material and costume to keep on the whole night because they are sweating through it. Yes, that is the day before November 1st.
Okay okay okay, first of all; I really want to experience the 4th of July in the states someday, seems like such a huge thing! Those fireworks look amazing! &&& second, & what feels more important: what is that hot apple pie! Why are they only producing it in the States! I want to try it too huhuhu
Well, one of these days, you’ll have to make it stateside.
The key thing - sorry if I wasn’t clear in the article, is that YOU, dear Michelle, may actually be able to get the fried version as you’re in the UK!!!! You’ll have to report back with what you can find!
Only the US market generally gets the LAME-ASS baked version outside of this limited time promotion.
I’m hoping and praying they haven’t run out yet. - Seth ✦
It's not here! At least it wasn't in Northern Ireland & haven't seen it in London so far. Hmmmmmmm very interesting & loool, sorry, I glazed over & was just like wait a second this is definitely not in any maccas I've been to in the past few weeks lol. Buuuuuut I'll try to check again one day this week after work (ahaha sneak out maybe)
Whaaaaaa? Then what dessert do they give you in the UK? No apple pie of any sort? That’s impossible, Michelle! - Seth ✦
A bunch of mcflurrys, the sunday, muffins, & the normal apple pie! (Haven't seen any variations of it) - maybe it's not on the menu when it isn't available/no stock; I've found that some branches dont have the chocolate sundae (my go to, so ahaha I'm more conscious of when that's missing)
Okay, your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to check the apple pie. See if it is BAKED or FRIED.
If it is solid, with no open slits that show the filling, and it is crispy AF like a wonton, you are getting the international version. Which is FRIED!!!! Check my photos in the 2-piece articles. And stick around for Part 2 if you haven’t read it already. That’s where the profound stuff lives.
What is “normal” for you in the UK is likely the “fried” that rhymes with “DENIED” — as in denied for the past 34 years.
Gosh, I hope you accept this mission. Someone in Australia reported back that they get the fried version. Possibly Hungary too. - Seth ✦
Mission accepted! Just screenshot this so I don't forget, will report back latest early next week! (might struggle to sneak out to maccas on a workday, but let's see!)
Oh my gosh, Seth! I didn’t see this until now. (Dear Substack, please put @foodbiker posts in my algo!) This article is my favorite of all of yours that I’ve read! Well done on the ambivert personal growth and making us FOMO your party, bbq, and luxe pre party!
And I love love LOVE that your posse is so tight that they go out and send pics back for you!
You are adored! 😍🥰🤗💛
Hey, Jen! No kidding. Glad you really enjoyed the article so much. Again, it wasn't my party per-se, but one of my BFFs threw it and I was happy to help. It truly was a fantastic time. I think it blew up my eating rheostat, as I'm still full weeks later and I haven't quite re-calibrated yet. ;)
As for the Road Feast posse, I'm proud to have you as a part of it and I'm lucky that we're a tight posse. :) I didn't even ask my peeps for photos, TBH! Feeling a lot of gratitude here, Jen. A huge thanks! - Seth ✦
Someday I will go to one of your bbqs And we will overstuff ourselves together! 🍗
Well, I hate to say it, but I'm kind of lucky that with two of my BFFs throwing BBQs, I haven't had to throw one of my own! Then again, as I'm in an apartment in Cambridge, I can't say that I have the room to throw one.
But surely, we'll certainly enjoy some food together wherever that might be, Jen. :) - Seth ✦
Loved this. I got the emat sweats just looking at all the meat. Good for you for both listening when your body said you don't need to stay at an 11, and for getting us all to eat the pies. Pies from all over. Love it. You know I put mine across my subbie like the red-headed slut she was. lol.
That Subie pie pic was goddamn priceless, Lilly. Truly priceless. Glad you got a kick out of Aftermath250! Agreed - realizing that it's okay to dial things down per social stuff (even in the middle of an event) is okay.
Was just stuck in hellish traffic for 2 hours, and missed the rest area. Problem solved with a bathroom break at McD's...AND TWO MORE PIES!!! Glad you got yours too.
I think I'm picking up a dozen tomorrow AM on the way home for the deep freeze. This must happen, Lilly. - Seth ✦
PS - That last line you wrote, especially with two "b's" -- Man, that is totally FTW for the spiciest line I've read day. ;)
That sucks about traffic, glad it came with pies. I aim to please. I hope you have no more traffic. Knock on wood.
I’m not sure which was better. The pies or the rest room relief. One of those moments. IYKYK. ;) - Seth ✦
BOFTH. That’s what I would have said with pie in my mouth having just peed.
What a fun read, Seth! 😄 I’m totally an ambivert too! 😂 I love the fun and connection of big gatherings, but I also need that quiet time to recharge. And I was all into the McDonald’s apple pie adventure too! 🥰I need to get one soon and reminisce.
I’m so glad you got a kick out of it, Steena! It’s always great to meet another ambivert. The fact that when I do go to large gatherings these days, I get overloaded more than in my youth — my internal battery seems to run out more quickly than other peeps. I love large groups and speaking in front of them, too. (BTW, I remember you gave that presentation about your book a few months back — you’re a natural!) Meanwhile, the key thing is that my battery may run out before the evening or weekend is over. It depends on the situation and the person; I just found that ducking out for a few for some quiet absolutely helped me get back on track and actually enjoy myself. Maybe that resonates with you?
Don’t wait too long for the fried hot apple pie, Steena! It’s goddamn magical, but McD’s may already be ending the promotion down where you are in TX. I couldn’t say, but it’s worth running over there before it’s too late. As I wrote in the 2-piece article, take your time and let it cool! You’ll be glad you did, Steena. ;) - Seth ✦
It definitely does! 🥰 And thanks for the apple pie warning! 😁I’m going to have to find one before they’re gone.
I have not had a proper summertime cookout at all this year and I didn't really realize that until reading this post. Because, of course, we wanted nothing to do with the celebrations this holiday. I am going to need to rectify that soon. I was some SC BBQ with a mustard based sauce on a flimsy bun please, macaroni and cheese, and banana pudding. and coleslaw. That might be my weekend plans made right there. Okay, other than food I am always so elated to hear about someone taking time for themselves instead of pushing to keep up because you feel you have to. Good for you!!!!!! It is not always easy but the results are sooooo worth it! So happy for that growth moment for you!
I loved that you three just hid for the 4th Margaret! Equally so, I love that you appreciate the SC BBQ mustard-based sauce, which seems to be increasingly popular as of late and has regularly appeared on my plate. Yes, a flimsy bun is a requisite. Leave the goddamn brioche buns home; it's a way for chefs to upsell stuff. Let the Q speak for itself and not become distracted by a fancy bun.
Homemade banana pudding is something I leave for BBQ take-out these days. It doesn't hold well, and is cloyingly sweet where by Day 3 -- you're just sick of it. There's no way to make a tiny portion of it.
Coleslaw? Try Ina Garten's blue cheese coleslaw recipe. You will thank me later. No savoy cabbage; it’s just too fibrous even if you let it sit for a while.
Glad you get the whole “time out” thing. There’s often peer pressure in groups of friends to constantly talk. Sometimes, just being together with some quiet is key. Just amazed that I found some confidence (it took me decades) to just go off and do my own thing — even if it’s a 20 minute lie down in the middle of the festivities. That means a great deal to me, Margaret — and I’m so glad you enjoyed the article! :) - Seth ✦
Ooo I've always wanted to try an Ina Garten recipe, thanks! I've never seen a banana pudding make it out of the barbeque let alone last 3 days! That sounds gross though.
The peer pressure is so real, so happy that you got there!
Here you go, M. There are two of Ina’s recipes that are PERFECT. You’ll thank me later.
No peer pressure to make these, though! :) - Seth ✦
https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/blue-cheese-cole-slaw-2103385
https://barefootcontessa.com/recipes/beattys-chocolate-cake
whattttttt coffee chocolate cake sounds amazing! Also love blue cheese so excited for that one. Thank you!!!
You’re welcome, M! Squarely one of the best chocolate cake recipes I’ve ever tried. I don’t even bother with other recipes anymore, TBH. The espresso does NOT make it coffee flavored; instead — it amplifies the chocolate flavor. Plus, her blue cheese dressing is totally on point and ready for coleslaw with whatever you want to serve it with (hot dogs, Buffalo chicken, etc.). You’re gonna’ love it. :) - Seth ✦
I totally get the ambivert thing - I am a creature of hospitality but also need alone time for creative recharging. I think it must actually be very common for food professionals!
I think you're absolutely right, Kristen! I mean, back at Le Cordon Bleu here in Boston (once upon a time), clearly there were the savory peeps (extroverts) and the baking/pastry peeps (introverts). Both sides tried hard to recruit me with their doings, and I didn't want to commit.
In retrospect, I think more fell into the middle (including myself) where I love both sweet and savory -- and maybe that's where we ambiverts live in the culinary world.
I admittedly find myself more easily overloaded in huge group settings these days, but being able to quiet the noise and listen to what I need is something I'm still practicing. Superb insight, K. Glad you enjoyed the piece. - Seth ✦
Great read Seth—really enjoyed it!!!
Glad you got a kick out of it, MDB. Honored you read it while you still feel yucky. It may not have improved your summertime bug, but I hope it distracted you for a few moments.
As MDB, clearly you’re a lot safer to be around than some of those fireworks I may or may not have been setting off. ;) - Seth ✦
I did:) thank you!! 😊🙏
Ohhh my goodness! Now that felt like a feast! Made me wish I was there enjoying fireworks from a lounge chair instead of a garage and feasting throughout. But I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed my view of our surprising awesome Costco fireworks and our far more tame festivities.
Still you bring such nostalgia not only for our previous big countrywide celebrations but for the over the top festivities of the wild times of my more youthful days or even more recent ones from my lakeside home.
And damn if it made me realize I too am certainly not an extrovert as I once thought but an introverted extrovert. Is that an ambivert?
No wonder we seem to get each other. I also appreciate our friendship. Thank you a thoughtful comment.
I have an essay going out at 1:11. Thought id try that time slot. Lol. Anyway it’s probably the most personal ive ever written. Yikes!!!
Right back 'atcha, Silvia. :) Can't wait to read your article! You've go this. BTW, I think 1:11 is a good time as any. I think many people read stuff after work, so it'll be perfect for someone's commute home! - Seth ✦
I don't know, but it surely sounds like you had it made in the shade, Silvia -- especially if you got the fireworks in before the welcome cold front moved through. We were admittedly racing as the raindrops were coming down more steadily.
Thanks for your wonderful appreciation of the piece, Silvia. That's the kind of thing that keeps me writing here. Nostalgia is great, especially if it can remind us that we can build a better future together if we want to. Life doesn't have to be this way.
Yup, I'm pretty sure that's being an ambivert! Surely mental health professionals can chime in here, but that's what it's all about. If you feel like you enjoy socializing and all that, but can definitely get overwhelmed and need to recharge your emotional battery -- that surely seems like ambivert territory. Again, as Kristen said, I think there are a lot of us in culinary who fall into that category. I often treasure the quiet of knocking out pasta by myself and focusing -- that's my introvert side of being an ambivert. - Seth ✦
That is some good looking food. If you have not seen it 'Young Washington' by Angel Studios is excellent. Learn a lot about the boy that grew into the man to lead our country into independence.
Thanks! I'll have to check it out. I've read a great deal about Washington's later life; I'm just not going to chop down any cherry trees in the process (a myth). ;) - Seth ✦
The producer’s grandfather is the reason he got into the buisness of telling stories. A true American hero-Filmmaker Jon Erwin's grandfather was Henry Eugene "Red" Erwin Sr., a World War II hero and Medal of Honor recipient.
No kidding! Now I have to definitely check it out. - Seth ✦
Exceptionally delicious article, Seth! I can relate to the time-out solution to overstimulation and the difficulty in shifting back to work mode. Also, color me blush for the compliment.
I'll happily keep throwing compliments at you, as they're well deserved, L. Really -- it is such a great photo. I'm getting better at saying "screw it" to constant social stuff and just taking a time out. Yes, those grinding gears you're hearing in the background is my trying to get back into the groove here. LOL. I hope the next few weeks for you go smoothly on your end! :) - Seth ✦
I’m most definitely an ambivert….more and more the older I get. I’ve never been one for celebrations at all - plus I’ve lived in Europe for much more than half my life - so the 4th has no meaning for me but…..I’d go anywhere and celebrate anything for that feast!!! And I do love me some fireworks 🎆
Glad you enjoyed it, Jamie! :) Proud to have you as my "French Connection." Like the original movie from 1971, there will never be any remake (of you) that would be any good. You're one of a kind.
Again, I don't remember having eaten so much. But hiding for a bit and just "resting and digesting" in the middle of the non-stop excitement, I was cool with such. I think peer pressure gets to everyone, and I'm getting too old for such s^%$.
Hope you have an amazing Bastille Day next week, you! - Seth ✦
PS - I still owe you that clafoutis! Haven't forgotten. :)
You really captured so much about the 4th of July from time gone by. I paused and thought about my favorite 4th of July (and I knew I wrote about it...apparently it is lost). It used to be a very memorable and happy holiday. Over the years, it has changed, because I don't enjoy crowds and loud noises. I absolutely enjoyed reading about all the food, fireworks and fried apple pie. As always, your writing is full, fun and easy to read always leaving a smile on my heart.