MISE EN PLACE…
I’m an optimist so I try to begin everyday anew. With fresh hope and refined plans. Doesn’t always work. Too often it feels more like groundhog day! But I really like to return to this quote from the Dalai Lama:
“Every day, think as you wake up, today I am fortunate to be alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it. I am going to use all my energies to develop myself, to expand my heart out to others; to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. I am going to have kind thoughts towards others. I am not going to get angry or think badly about others. I am going to benefit others as much as I can.” A great thought to start each day.
Speaking of humankind, we’ve gone a bit international in this issue with different articles featuring Ecuadorian cacao in Avon (Chokaico), Peruvian high end dining in Hartford (Mancora Restobar), and a pantheon to Italian food in Mystic (Cucina Al Pantheon). You’ll also appreciate our story on Himmelstein Homestead Farm at 100 years old, as well as a newer venture already achieving great success, Veritable Distillery.
Of course, we love all of our supporters, so we ask for a warm welcome for new supporters including 100 Acre Wood (home of Grijalva Cattle Company featured in the Summer Fun issue), the World Wildlife Fund, and a returning supporter, and friend, Highclere Castle Gin!
As always please let us know how we’re doing. Email me anything at [email protected]! Let’s all be our best selves in 2026!
With gratitude for all, Shane
R. Shane Kennedy
Publisher/Editor
