I love summer camp. For the last 33 years. I have anticipated the arrival of a full week to do anything I want without questions, demands, or time limits. Alone time is something I crave, not just as a writer, but as an individual. When my husband heads off to a week in the wilds with the scout troop, I do my best to take full advantage. I might write, have lunch with friends, rearrange the furniture, or paint the walls.
Last year, while Jim was at camp, my friend Trish called and invited me over for a lamb stew dinner. Despite my Irish heritage, I had never eaten lamb. I grew up in a house where there were four standards: beef, pork, poultry, and fish. I don’t remember my mother or grandmother ever mentioning lamb as food. When I got that invitation, I jumped at the chance to try lamb for the first time. Trish grew up in a similar Irish household and is an incredible cook. Her lamb stew was amazing. The lamb was melt-in-your-mouth tender, with tasty veggies and a savory lamb gravy. It was a delectable treat for the tastebuds! I loved every bite.
Months later, when September rolled around, I traveled to Ireland with my son. Chris was determined to try every traditional Irish dish he could find; and find them we did! There was the “Full Irish Breakfast” complete with white (okay) and black (not so much) pudding, thick bacon, eggs, sausage, potatoes, grilled tomato, baked beans, tea, and brown bread. We ate Fish and Chips, Guinness Stew, Colcannon, Boxty, Champ, Soda Bread, Bangers and Mash, and Shepherd’s Pie. We never had a bad meal in Ireland.
Galway Bay was our final destination before heading back to the airport. We had our last Irish dinner at a restaurant and pub attached to the Inn where we stayed. Chris was perusing the menu.
I said, “This is it. You want traditional Irish food. We’ve tried everything except lamb. Tonight’s special is Lamb Shoulder; let’s order that.”
Best. Meal. Ever.
Happy Leg of Lamb Day! Try it. You just might like it!