Writer’s Update – October, 2015: In celebration of Chuck’s 100th birthday, I had the privilege of writing a four-part story of my culinary mentor’s long and intriguing life, beginning back in 1915. If you’d like to read it, you’ll find it here.
Whenever I visit with my friend Chuck, I feel as though time has stopped—or as though I’ve entered a magical time-out-of-time. Of course, the colors of the San Francisco sky and bay outside the window are always changing, as are the jewel hues of the ever-dapper Chuck’s beloved cashmere sweaters.
But regardless of the weather or sweater, there’s a twinkle in Chuck’s eye and an energetic curiosity in his posture as he leans forward to ask a question or clarify a point. And there are decades of memories hidden on bookshelves or nestled comfortably in antique armchairs, just waiting to take shape in one of Chuck’s stories.
Sitting with Chuck as we sip tea and indulge in chewy molasses cookies or buttery chocolate shortbread, it seems as though there is all the time in the world. Nothing about Chuck is rushed—his soft southern voice is as warm and careful and orderly as the culinary landscapes he has created.
Over the years, Chuck has patiently – often passionately – answered my questions by reaching back into the memories of a long and delicious life. Chuck’s culinary vision has made history—and his own plain-spoken words tell it best.
Edible Legacies 