Sensuous. The fragrant, voluptuous blossoms of the Peony are among the most sensual of all flowers. Tracing the light and shadows of each unfurling petal is mesmerizing. Transcendental.
Raspberry Swirl, Strawberry Cheesecake, Cherry, French Vanilla, Espresso, Salted Caramel, Maple, Double Chocolate...the intense flavour of rich, creamy Italian ice cream is best on a hot, humid night...or, walking along a beachfront promenade! Italian ice cream feels satiny smooth, and luscious, as it melts in the mouth.
Peonies disappear as quickly as melting ice cream on a cone. They bloom in late Spring, usually for two precious weeks, and they're gone. What a glorious two weeks! I have discovered that growers as far North as Alaska, produce peonies under the Midnight Sun, and they are available well into August and September.
Remember Baked Alaska? No one makes that anymore. It's a decadent combination of cake, ice cream, and oven-carmelized meringue. I've read that it was created in 1867 by a New Orleans chef, to commemorate the purchase of Alaska from the Russians. The first record of the name is thirty years later, when the fire and ice dessert is called, Alaska Florida.
Peonies are called the King of Flowers...although, to my eye they are all woman. They're little black dress and cocktails at a jazz piano bar. They're elaborate wedding bouquets and white lace. They're jeans and baskets of flowers from the garden. They bring smiles, and tears, and unforgettable memories.
No comments:
Post a Comment