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Honey Raspberry Semifreddo And An Open Letter

Honey And Raspberry Semifreddo


Foreword: I have tossed and turned words for the past couple of days writing this post. I know this is a food blog, but over the past few years that I have written here, I have also shared with you the joys and sorrows of life. It has become more than just desserts since I come every week with stories out the wazoo, so I hope you will allow me to make this post about one person whom I lost and love and celebrate his memory. One person whose passing changed me radically in every thing I do and every way I see things. This is an open letter to my belated brother, one that I start and rewrite every year around the same time, one that will never end being re-written. I also thought about not posting at all, but one of our best memories shared was around dessert and it made sense to me to write it today. If this is not your cup of tea, skip to the recipe part.

Dear Thierry,
There are many dates forever engraved in my mind. The day you gave me a tiny white watch and a bright fuchsia scarf for my 10th birthday. The day I was looking at my parents' wedding pictures and saw you in one of them, standing right there with them and I turned to my mom and asked "if babies are made after you get married, how come Thierry is already there?" and found out that how we came to share only one parent. Dad was our common denominator. The same father who called me one August 18th, 8 years ago to tell me you were gone, forever. That date, I hate with every fiber of my being. I hated you even more for the wrenching pain you were causing him, how I wanted to punch you and hurt you the same. I know now that your circle of life was not ending, we keep it alive in everything we do. You and I have the same sensibility and a sensitivity that makes people uncomfortable when not prepared and sometimes makes some like us a little bit more, or at least that’s why B. says when I ask why he loves me.

Here is another date for you, that day in July when you met B. for the first time when he flew to visit for a couple of weeks. We had been dating just a couple of months and we met you at a cafe in Montmartre and shared a big plate of spaghetti. He spoke virtually no French and your English was just as bad and yet both of you started chatting away in your own made up language, hands and sounds included and I watched beaming. You told me that day that I was going to marry him and I added that I knew already but getting that same vibe from you reassured me that in spite of everything that separated us it would happen. You had never met this man and yet your generosity in showing him the kind of work you did was a big thing to do. Your work was your lifestyle and for a lot of people it was a rather bohemian one. Labeled as unreliable and different, I know it took a lot for you to just open up like that but you knew within a few hours spent with B. over lunch that he would never judge you or label you.

I remember B. getting antsy in his seat as if we were about to take him to some sort of secret society meeting, while we were trying to show him the beauty of the moment. "How many times are you going to share lunch with friends in a cafe in Montmartre if you live in SC, USA and work as a college professor?" Yep, my point. When the waiter came and asked us if we wanted dessert, B. said "I think I’ll pass, I am full" and we both looked at him like he was from another planet and exclaimed in the same voice "There is always room for dessert!!" and as soon as the waiter said the words "raspberry semifreddo" we replied "three please!" I had almost forgotten about that dessert until the other day when B. and I were talking about you and he said "didn’t we have creme brulee that day?". I was about to pop a few raspberries in my mouth and it all came back to me, not to mention that only dessert seem to stop us from talking!! So I stopped eating the raspberries that were in front of me and made semifreddo instead!!

So, and you will understand this, dear brother…I am stopping my letter here, adding it to the pile I have already written. As you often said it "why be sad when there is dessert?" and I know you were referring to the fact that I would always have to wrestle you and Arnaud for a piece of cake. Thank you for filling my days with sweet tears of the wonderdul times we’ve had, and hope you won’t get mad that I eat your semifreddo because really that would be waste to just stare at it and you hate waste (logic has never been our strong point)….right?!

Honey And Raspberry Semifreddo


There are as many semifreddo recipes are there cooks in this world, and the word itself refers more to a class of desserts more than just a particular one. Semi freddos are just that, semi frozen desserts not requiring an ice cream maker. The air comes and fluffly mouth feel comes from the amount of air you incorporate in your recipes, either with whipped cream, a "pate a bombe", an Italian or Swiss meringue. Here the dessert start with a pate a bombe base in which egg yolks are beaten with a sugar syrup and then whipped until airy and cooled. Whipped cream is also added here as a final touch of air before freezing. The honey gives more depth to the raspberry flavor and I advise you use a floral one such as wildflower, a stronger honey will be the dominant flavor, which is not what I was shooting for. For the decoration cookies, I made some tulip paste, filled a pastry bag with a small tip and piped squiggles on a silpat.

Honey And Raspberry Semifreddo

Serves 8

1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons honey (I like wildflower the best)
2 tablespoons sugar
2 Tb water
3 large egg yolks
2 cups fresh raspberries

In the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with the whisk attachment or hand held one with ballon whisks, beat the cream until it just holds soft peaks. Chill while you prepare the base of the ice cream. Wash your bowl and whisk attachment.
In a heavy saucepan, stir together the honey, sugar, and the water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Since you are not making caramel, it is ok to stir occasionally until the sugar is dissolved. Let it boil and bring the mixture to 238°F on thermometer (soft-ball stage).

This second part is easier to do with a hand held mixer than a KA for example since the quantity of egg yolks is small and the bowl tends to be deep in some models. It works, have no fear…it’s just easier with a hand held one.
In the clean bowl of your mixer, still using the whisk attachment, beat the yolks until they are thick and pale. Reduce speed to medium and pour hot honey mixture in a steady stream into yolks. Go fast enough to prevent the eggs from scrambling but not so fast that you end up with most of the syrup on the wall of the bowl or the whisk. Continue to whip until the mass is completely cold and airy.

Fold about one third of the chilled whipped cream into the semifreddo base to loosen it up and make it easier to incorporate homogeneously. Fold in the remaining whipped cream. Add the raspberries and give the batter one last quick fold.
Divide mixture evenly among dishes or silicone molds, cover with plastic wrap and freeze until frozen.

Cookie Decorations: (base recipe which makes a lot but you can freeze it or refrigerate the dough and use as needed)

4 ounces unsalted butter, softened
4 ounces powdered sugar, sifted
1/2 cup egg whites, at room temperature
4 ounces all purpose flour, sifted

Cream the butter and powdered sugar together in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Add the egg whites and beat until just coming together. Add the flour to the butter mixture and mix until incorporated. Do not overmix. Use right away or store in the refrigerator, taking it out 30 minutes before you plan to use it. Pour the batter into a piping bag fitted with a small plain tip. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pipe away! Bake at 350 for 12-15 minutes.

Honey And Raspberry Semifreddo


So what did my brother do for a living that was this strange? I could simplify by telling you that he had a stall at the Clignancourt flea market in Paris but that would be so unfair to him. He was an artist, he made jewelry, earring, bracelets, brooches, necklaces, hair pieces, rings. He used all that was available, beads, metal, wood… He loved to work with miniatures anything and tiny everything (see a DNA trait here?!!). He had gifted hands and a never ending creativity, one I can only aspire to. He was also a gifted photographer. The best picture of B. and I is one he took that very same day we had lunch and I see it every morning I turn the alarm clock off. He liked odd places and odd angles to be, live and photograph. He truly lived to the beat of his own drum and he inspires me. Below are three of my favorite pictures he took ( sorry for the quality, they were scanned).



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Comments


Anonymous August 18, 2008 um 8:17 am

how sweet a post for your brother. Surely he misses you just as much as you him. Losing someone sucks- a lot – and there’s no nice way of putting it. I’m so sorry for your lost and thanks for the recipe!


Rachel@fairycakeheaven August 18, 2008 um 8:24 am

Helen, a wonderfully touching post for Thierry. Again you inspire me with your amazing sensitivity to the world around you, it is wholly endearing!!!

and p.s the pictures are gorgeous, love the cats!


Manggy August 18, 2008 um 8:58 am

Psst… You can always share whatever is in your heart (at least to me). Lord knows I have tormented too many of you too many times with my rants/ spilling my guts, director’s cut, extended edition, with deleted scenes etc. And I am glad you shared a bit of what your brother was like and these sweet/ sad memories. His pictures are beautiful– I hope we get to see more of his art someday.

That is probably the most exquisitely presented semifreddo I have ever seen! Yes, the bohemian gene does run in the family 🙂


Lucy August 18, 2008 um 11:00 am

What a lovely, touching post to your brother. It was so moving.

On another note – those are the most exquisitely presented semifreddo’s I have ever seen and I have no doubt they taste as good as theY look!

X


Lydia (The Perfect Pantry) August 18, 2008 um 11:21 am

What a beautiful post, Helen. Wherever your brother is, he is smiling down on this semifreddo, and remembering that wonderful day at the cafe in Montmarte.


Botacook August 18, 2008 um 11:47 am

Une lettre triste et qui donne quand même le sourire. Je t’envoie plein de pensées de France pour passer ce jour…


Cannelle Et Vanille August 18, 2008 um 11:53 am

he was an artist indeed… those photos of his are truly beautiful… keep on sharing stories like these with us. helen, i’m sure he is still around you, sharing your successes with you.


Susan @ SGCC August 18, 2008 um 12:18 pm

A very touching post, Helen, and a lovely tribute to your brother. I’m sorry that you had to suffer the pain of losing him. He sounds like a wonderful person.

His photographs are beautiful and your semifreddo looks divine!


rahree August 18, 2008 um 12:24 pm

i’ve been lurking for quite a while, but had to tell you how touching i found your letter to your brother. my father and i spent many evenings and holidays in the kitchen together, and while i lost him earlier this year I can only hope that i’ll be able to share some of the great things about him in a letter like that someday.

creativity, inspiration, reflection…thank you so much for all you do!


Anonymous August 18, 2008 um 12:34 pm

Thank you for sharing a touching letter to your brother and a lovely dessert in his honor.


Anonymous August 18, 2008 um 12:53 pm

{Helen}


Anonymous August 18, 2008 um 1:11 pm

we share the same experience…I lost my brother , Andre in 1986 but I always remember him on his birthday, the day he passed and on Christmas. I always remember the good times…he was big brother always giving in to the whims of little sister…
I love semifreddo and this is so yummy… and your brother is right , why be sad when there is dessert!


LizNoVeggieGirl August 18, 2008 um 1:22 pm

Helen, the letter to your belated brother is absolutely heartwarming; and I love your brother’s philosophy of "why be sad when there is dessert?" Fabulous!! And that semifreddo is a wonderful dessert to make, to prove his philosophy correct :0)


Camille August 18, 2008 um 1:23 pm

Having just lost my mother I realize it is my responsibility to not be sad, but to rejoice in her life, to remember.

You have honored your very talented brother by sharing your letter and sharing the recipe for such a memorable dessert.

(People everywhere share so much through food, so many memories.)


Jen Yu August 18, 2008 um 2:03 pm

My friend, I feel your bittersweet feelings on this day. I love that T was his own spirit and that you two shared your independence and creativity. We both know that those loved ones who were so dear to us when they were alive are always dear to us until our own last days – they are part of who we are. A big hug to you today and every day. xxoo


RecipeGirl August 18, 2008 um 2:05 pm

What a beautiful tribute and memories of your brother. He obviously was quite a special guy. Love his pictures.


PG CakeCraft August 18, 2008 um 2:19 pm

Hi Helen,love ur blog. It’s heart warming to read ur to ur belated brother. I lost my parents and it always rekindles old memories when I see food that reminds me of them.
ur brother was lucky to have you as a sister.


Anonymous August 18, 2008 um 2:36 pm

A wonderful post and amazing pictures Helen.

-Marc


Suzana August 18, 2008 um 2:45 pm

Beautiful post, Helen. You always find the right words to show your love. Thierry’s photos are truly awesome.


Peabody August 18, 2008 um 2:46 pm

Nothing like a good cry in the morning. That was truly touching Helen.
And yes, why be sad when there is dessert in the world. 🙂


Kelly-Jane August 18, 2008 um 3:00 pm

A heartfelt post – remember though that T will be with you for as long as you need him 🙂


Snooky doodle August 18, 2008 um 3:15 pm

this looks really nice for a summer dessert. I m always amazed by your photos 🙂


Sandie August 18, 2008 um 4:20 pm

My apologies if this comment comes through as a double post…

What a lovely, heartfelt letter to your brother. It literally brought tears to my eyes, as I’ve written many such letters to my father, whom I lost only 1 year ago.

While the pain is still raw, the love and the memories never end, nor does the positive impact these amazing men still have on our lives.

And yes, pass the dessert, please! "Why be sad when there is dessert?"


Alexa August 18, 2008 um 4:37 pm

Helen,
Thank you for sharing such an important piece of your life. This dessert and letter are beautiful. They really celebrate your brother and how he touched your life.


Rachael Hutchings August 18, 2008 um 5:16 pm

I believe that many of the best recipes are the ones that have a memory to go with them. There’s something about a story that makes everything taste better. Thank you for sharing.


Deeba PAB August 18, 2008 um 5:23 pm

*GULP* Helen…got such a huge lump in my throat…it hurts! This is just so beautiful & touching; admire you for sharing your thoughts.His photographs have so much depth & character…that hurts too. Darn it…


Chu This August 18, 2008 um 5:24 pm

This was a truly touching post – thanks for sharing! Your writing really brings your brother to life and I would have loved to know him.

I lost my brother in 2002, and like you, losing him has changed me forever. I used to write letters to him every so often and you’ve inspired to me to continue the tradition.

As always, you have an amazing blog that I’m always looking forward to reading.

Sending warm thoughts your way!


Half Baked August 18, 2008 um 5:27 pm

What a touching post. I can see from your brother’s photo’s artistic ablity runs in the family! Thanks for sharing such a personal story.


Deborah August 18, 2008 um 5:38 pm

I, for one, want to thank you for sharing your life with us. Very touching.


Anonymous August 18, 2008 um 5:51 pm

What a lovely tribute to your brother. I’m sorry for your loss, and I can’t imagine the pain, but I’m glad you’re able to remember him with such wonderful memories. The semifreddo looks delicious and I’m sure he would be proud.


Olga August 18, 2008 um 6:03 pm

You almost made me cry! That was a beautifully written letter. Luckily the pictures of the dessert cheered me up.


Geo August 18, 2008 um 6:13 pm

You don’t know me, Helen, but I appreciate you so, and I would love to put my arms around you right now and give you a warm hug.

This post is a thing of beauty, like everything else you set your hands to. It’s a recipe for something even higher and more satisfying than sweets, though it’s very much intertwined with them. Thank you for sharing your heart with us.

God bless and heal your heart. It’s my faith that you’ll be with your brother again, and maybe even share a wrestle for something tasty.


Ivy August 18, 2008 um 7:25 pm

Hi, I love the fact that you share other things and not just recipes. It makes blogging more real and not so "fantasy food land-ish" 🙂

I can see that you are a very sweet and sensive person-Thanks for sharing.

P.S. I love all the little extra decorations that you create for your desserts-this squigly cookie is soooo neat!


toontz August 18, 2008 um 7:48 pm

Beautiful in every way. Thank you.


Parisbreakfasts August 18, 2008 um 7:56 pm

A very touching tribute to your brother, Helene.
His photos speak for him – beautifully.
As does your exquisite semifreddo..
Thank you for this


Patricia Scarpin August 18, 2008 um 8:07 pm

You’ve brought tears to my eyes, my dear friend. I just posted something about my little sis' birthday, and how much she means to me and how important she has been to my life. I can’t imagine the pain of losing a sibling, even though I can relate because I lost my mom a long time ago. Like you, I keep her alive in my mind and try to make her proud every day. And I’m sure that’s how your brother feel about you, always. Very, very proud.


May August 18, 2008 um 8:10 pm

"Why be sad when there is dessert?" is such an awesome line.
Your brother sounds like a great guy, sorry to hear he passed away.

The semifreddos look beautiful and delicious 🙂


May August 18, 2008 um 8:10 pm

"Why be sad when there is dessert?" is such an awesome line.
Your brother sounds like a great guy, sorry to hear he passed away.

The semifreddos look beautiful and delicious 🙂


May August 18, 2008 um 8:10 pm

"Why be sad when there is dessert?" is such an awesome line.
Your brother sounds like a great guy, sorry to hear he passed away.

The semifreddos look beautiful and delicious 🙂


May August 18, 2008 um 8:10 pm

"Why be sad when there is dessert?" is such an awesome line.
Your brother sounds like a great guy, sorry to hear he passed away.

The semifreddos look beautiful and delicious 🙂


montague August 18, 2008 um 8:34 pm

what a moving post. i wish i could send you a hug via the internet… your words are so moving.


maybelles mom August 18, 2008 um 8:48 pm

lovely and loving post. my sincerest condolences. your brother sounds like a truly amazing person.


Mallory Elise August 18, 2008 um 10:18 pm

t’es une marveilleuse soeur, c’est difficile mais tu la fait néanmoins. t’es une inspiration, dans tous.

bisous! je t’embrasse maintenant!

et belle recette!


Clumbsy Cookie August 18, 2008 um 10:30 pm

Helen thank you for sharing such a beautiful letter. Your brother was as special as you, I’m sure. It’s good to have nice things that remeber us from our loved ones that are not phisicaly present anymore. I remember my dad so much trhu food as well.
That is my favourite kind of semifreddo, it’s just lovely!


Bunny August 18, 2008 um 10:32 pm

Thank You for sharing your thoughts abou your brother and letting us know him too.


PheMom August 18, 2008 um 10:49 pm

Thank you for always sharing your life with us. I imagine this was especially difficult to share and makes it all that much more precious. Your brother sounds like he was a rare and unique amazing person (another DNA trait I think). The dessert looks and sounds absolutely lovely. I’m sure he appreciates you making sure his share is enjoyed for him.


Anita (Married… with dinner) August 18, 2008 um 11:01 pm

I know you have written about your lost brother before, but every time I read more, I am sad for you anew. But how wonderful those memories!


Bonbon Oiseau August 18, 2008 um 11:15 pm

an amazing post helen…so lovely of you for sharing this…i am at a loss for words..i think he is smiling right now at what a wonderful incredible sister he has.


My Sweet & Saucy August 19, 2008 um 1:32 am

What a touching post Helen! Thanks for sharing it will us. Your desserts always seem to be more than just desserts and this one in particular brings such a lovely memory with it. Thanks!


LyB August 19, 2008 um 1:36 am

Your brother inspired you Helen and now you inspire us. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with, in such a beautiful way. Hugs!


Anonymous August 19, 2008 um 2:06 am

What a wonderful tribute to your brother Helen. Artistic talent runs in the family.


Elly August 19, 2008 um 2:21 am

This is such a moving tribute to your brother. I’m so sorry to read about the loss you experienced, but I am happy that you have shared another piece of you in your blog. And of course the semifreddo looks fabulous 🙂


quizzine August 19, 2008 um 2:41 am

I hesitated to read the tribute you have written, as I know it’ll bring back the sadness that I’m feeling afer losing my most beloved mum a few months ago. Turning to baking is one of the best outlet, I hope it have the same effect on you. God bless that our loved ones are in the better place now.


quizzine August 19, 2008 um 2:41 am

I hesitated to read the tribute you have written, as I know it’ll bring back the sadness that I’m feeling afer losing my most beloved mum a few months ago. Turning to baking is one of the best outlet, I hope it have the same effect on you. God bless that our loved ones are in the better place now.


Sandy Smith August 19, 2008 um 4:07 am

This story, like your semifreddo, is a beautiful tribute to someone who was obviously a very special person.

Isn’t it amazing and wonderful how we can use food to parcel up and preserve memories of people we treasure?

Thank you for sharing this.


cindy* August 19, 2008 um 4:48 am

helen, thank you for sharing. what a beautiful letter and recipe. i always envy people that can share the memories of the people they have lost. what courage!


Cakebrain August 19, 2008 um 5:07 am

His pictures are indeed wonderful and I can tell he was a talented soul. Yes, you’ll always have dessert…and what a gorgeous dessert you made!


Meeta K. Wolff August 19, 2008 um 7:57 am

A heartwarming post Helen. With tears filled in my eyes – I can only say, I am sure he is smiling on this semifreddo in his honor.


Christy August 19, 2008 um 8:11 am

A truly moving post Helen…thank you once again for opening up your heart and your past to us.

I don’t see anything wrong with what your brother did for a living…it was his dream and his passion, and he had the courage to pursue it with all that he had. I really respect that.

He had a short life— but with family like yours and having done what he loved best everyday— I’m sure it was also a very fulfilling and happy one.


Anonymous August 19, 2008 um 9:09 am

thank you. Not only for the recipe but for sharing your feelings with us. You feelings for someone who is not here anymore. You made me think about so many people…

A sweet kiss for your heart from Spain.


Dalybeth August 19, 2008 um 9:21 am

I’m sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing with us such a beautiful love story.


Barbara August 19, 2008 um 12:09 pm

A special dessert for a special brother. Hugs to you today and everyday Helene.


NOT SO VANILLA August 19, 2008 um 1:18 pm

Truly amazing letter! Having a special relationship with a sibling is like no other. I can see how much of an impact Thierry had on your life in so many beautiful ways. It’s also amazing how one thing (like raspberries) can bring a flood of memories back in a instance.
Thank you for sharing something so personal with us.
Not so Vanilla
xo


The Short (dis)Order Cook August 19, 2008 um 1:36 pm

What a fitting tribute to someone who meant so much to you.

As soon as I read about the white watch and fuschia scarf, I saw just how beautifully you echoed that sentiment in the dessert. It’s as if you created an edible version of the gift he gave you in his tribute.

He sounds like a wonderful person. If his art was as good as these photos, I’m sure he was brilliant.


Anonymous August 19, 2008 um 2:09 pm

Beautiful letter… lovely dessert.

Eileen (passions to pastry)
www.livingtastefully.com


Ariel August 19, 2008 um 2:46 pm

I’m sorry for the loss of your brother- my family is going on 8 years since my brothers passing and I still miss that little shit everyday.

You letter was sweet. Memories are so so precious 🙂


giz August 19, 2008 um 3:28 pm

There are no words. Loss is so personal – we move on but the pain stays. Your tribute is very touching. Thank you for sharing.


Maria August 19, 2008 um 3:43 pm

Thanks for sharing your letter. It was beautiful.


Nikki @ NikSnacks August 19, 2008 um 4:52 pm

First, your semifreddo looks de-lic-ious. I haven’t seen anything look that good in a long time. Your tuille is cute. I’d definitely eat that 1st.

Second, stop apologizing for sharing sentimental parts of your life. The fact that you are sharing your love, craft, and joy of cooking is not enough sometimes, and we need/like stories, tearjerking paragraphs, and thought-provoking photos to help us remember we’re not robots. We’re real.
Third, hey, this is YOUR blog. You can do what you want! And I like it! 🙂


فرانسيس August 19, 2008 um 5:18 pm

Gosh, I’m sitting here with tears in my eyes. I love how you mix family and food just perfectly. And thanks for sharing so many amazing things.


Elizabeth August 19, 2008 um 5:32 pm

Your letter was so moving. It makes me wish I knew your brother, and his creativity and artistic eye is so clear in the photos you shared (and also something that you share with him, I think!) Thank you for this glimpse into the life of a special person.


Anonymous August 19, 2008 um 6:20 pm

What a moving post about your brother Helen. I am sure he is smiling reading about the semifreddo recipe and story behind it 🙂


limonana August 19, 2008 um 9:47 pm

hi! i found your blog through my sister in law (montague)…just wanted to say your blog is sooo great…i’m ogling all your beautiful dishes…


Anonymous August 20, 2008 um 12:44 am

Wow, what a post. So raw and beautifully written, no symbolism, just real feelings and emotions. I loved it.


Anonymous August 20, 2008 um 2:22 am

i want to say so much…..

this is beautiful and special.


Anonymous August 20, 2008 um 2:22 am

i want to say so much…..

this is beautiful and special.


Anonymous August 20, 2008 um 2:22 am

i want to say so much…..

this is beautiful and special.


PG August 20, 2008 um 4:16 am

Beautiful post. Thank you for sharing. I’m sure your brother would be thrilled to share this dessert with you.

We have an award for you on our blog.


Katie August 20, 2008 um 7:23 am

Wow that looks stunning. Its your attention to detail which realy makes things shine. The little tulip cookies are just perfect.


steph- whisk/spoon August 20, 2008 um 11:37 am

so talent, creativity and the ability to find inspiration in everyday life definitely runs in the family then! although he may not physically be with you now, it sounds like he always is in spirit and memory. and i’m sure he wouldn’t mind you having a helping of semifreddo for him…afterall it looks wonderful!


Anonymous August 20, 2008 um 4:15 pm

Helen – All I can say is that you have inspired many, in so many big and small ways….

Thank You!!!


luv 2 cook August 20, 2008 um 5:01 pm

I am deeply sorry for your loss. I hope that you can find some sunshine thru your sadness.


Lori August 20, 2008 um 7:31 pm

I kind of like the colors in the shots! Scanned or not they are filled with mood.

Bravo to you for writing these letters. What a beautiful thing for you and him… and us. It s a nice way to honor both you and him.


Manger La Ville August 20, 2008 um 9:38 pm

The photographs and story is touching. I love semifreddos and I have never tried to make them at home. I love the combination of honey and raspberries.


Anonymous August 21, 2008 um 1:51 am

Thanks for sharing Helen. Beyond the fact that your photos and recipes are amazing, I love reading your blog for the very human stories you share:-)


Fifi Flowers August 21, 2008 um 2:01 am

What a lovely memory… thank you for sharing it… the photos are GREAT… I adore them… and that dessert looks delish!


Perfect Pear August 21, 2008 um 3:36 am

Such a moving post and lovely tribute to your brother. I love your blog and your writing and how you celebrate life and food.


Faery August 21, 2008 um 3:41 am

I felt like you when my Daddy passed away, although we cannot see them, they are always in our hearts and thoughts.
Tartelette I have something filled with love for you in my blog, please come see.


lubnakarim06 August 21, 2008 um 3:56 am

Amazing photography. Hearth touching words. Nice honey raspberry semifreddo.


Vera August 21, 2008 um 5:42 am

Helen, I believe your brother hears and appreciates every word you say.
My deepest condolences, Helen.


mimi August 21, 2008 um 6:01 pm

i didn’t know if i wanted to read the letter, but i did and it is so beautiful, i wept without even knowing him or you or B. this is a beautiful remembrance. oh yeah, and a gorgeous dessert!!


Cookie baker Lynn August 21, 2008 um 7:09 pm

A beautiful tribute post and a fittingly beautiful dessert for your brother.


Anonymous August 22, 2008 um 12:13 am

It was through tear filled eyes that I read this post. My heart breaks for your loss, Helen, but I love how you have chosen to honor your brothers dear memory!


glamah16 August 22, 2008 um 3:50 pm

I am just catching up with your blog. What a beautiful post. You captured all the love , and sometimes angst only our dearest ones can give. You guys were lucky to have had each other. Your brother sounds like he was a fascinating strong, hold no punches type of person. A real artist.


The P & A Food Chronicles August 22, 2008 um 9:10 pm

simply lovely!!


Mrs.French August 22, 2008 um 11:39 pm

I am so sorry you lost such a special person in your life. He is smiling where ever he is reading this deary. Count on that!


Anonymous August 23, 2008 um 2:51 pm

Such memories. A big hug to you, Helen. My brother is alive and well, but we’re not close, unfortunately. The semifreddo is fabulous, as are you.


Jen August 24, 2008 um 12:59 am

I read the first sentence and started to get teary eyed. The pictures he took are fantastic! I’m so sorry for your loss.


Anonymous August 24, 2008 um 7:33 am

Earlier this month was the 10-year anniversary of someone’s death in my extended family. It’s so sad that I think I’m the only one who knows the date. It’s constantly in my mind.


Anonymous August 26, 2008 um 1:54 am

A beautiful tribute. Thanks for letting us into your world.


MyKitchenInHalfCups August 26, 2008 um 8:57 am

I think sometimes these sad memories are the core of our humanity and somehow give structure to our happiness. Again your brother sounds like a beautiful person. It may not be the usual for a food blog but you seem to be able to say it just right: food is people and life.


Aimée August 27, 2008 um 2:03 am

A bit late in commenting, but anyway, this was a lovely post. I think my favorite so far, sad as it is. I know how truly special a brother can be. My older brother and I were close enough to do a back packing trip together many years ago and Paris was one of our stops. A week there, exploring cafes and museums was one of my favorite memories of us together. We live far apart now, but at least he is still around.
Those photos are truly amazing. Thanks for sharing.


Anonymous August 27, 2008 um 4:26 pm

Helen, what a beautiful post and a tribute to your brother. I always read your posts in one breath – you are one amazing writer with such a genuine personality. I am sure your brother is very proud of you…


Nic August 27, 2008 um 7:48 pm

Thank you for sharing this – your words are beautiful.


Anonymous September 4, 2008 um 2:03 pm

Thank you for the fix. I’m going to make these cookies for tea. Do I have to beat the egg whites until fluffy first or just add them gooey? Sorry to be a pest, I just want mine to be a lovely as yours. Thanks!


Helene September 4, 2008 um 4:13 pm

Melissa: add them as they are. This is one recipe where you don’t need to incorporate extra air by whipping them first.


Anonymous September 5, 2008 um 4:59 am

Thank you, thank you, thank you for your patience!


showfoodchef August 19, 2011 um 2:51 am

I love your letters to your brother, they are a "love album" all their own. Your soulfulness adds so much beauty to this planet. thank you 😀


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