Saturday, March 13, 2010

Just a day like any other...

I stopped in one of the local grocery stores on my way home a one rainy day not too long ago to pick up Milk and couple of other essentials. In this particular store the milk case was in the far back right corner of the store.

When I finally made my way back there, there was an older couple walking back in forth in front of the case trying to figure out what they wanted. It was almost comical as each would turn, they'd hit the other with their umbrellas that were tucked underarm.

All of a sudden, the lights went out. After a few seconds I heard someone say "nobody move in this dark."

A few seconds late I called out, "Marco!"

After a little laughter, several people responded, "Polo!" Then the lights came back on and the older couple resumed their comical performance.

Standing to my right was a woman not much older than I who was right next to the milk products case (yogurt, cheeses, etc.) She asked if I could reach to the back of the top shelf and grab some buttermilk for her.

"Sure," I said, being used to shorter women asking me for help. "How Many?"

"Three."

So I reached back and pulled them out one at a time, counting as I pulled out each and handing to her. I had to get on my tippy toes and stretch to reach the third, but it is worth it to prove that chivalry is not dead.

As I turned back around I noticed that she had easily a dozen quarts of buttermilk in her cart (or buggy as they like to call them in these parts.)

"What are making? A ton of corn bread?"

"No," She replied, "Irish Soda Bread."

"Ooo! Just in time for St. Paddy's day, eh?"

"Of course."

"I haven't made that in awhile, maybe I should do that again too."

She just smiled at me as if she rightfully thought I was pulling her leg. No, I've never made it before, but I do know how to make it.

So I added, "It's so simple; flour, buttermilk and baking soda."

"Yep," she agreed, "And so tasty too!"

I have been wanting to try my hand at Irish Soda Bread. Being embolded and feeling inspired I decide to give it a go today.