Although I'm not a picky eater in the least bit, one thing that kills me about cuisine on the scallop boats is fake sweeteners: Aunt Jemima's "syrup" and mass-produced honey. High fructose corn syrup is no substitute for maple syrup and Stop 'n' Shop honey simply doesn't resemble the real thing. Both are a far cry from the pure product to which I'm accustomed.
Growing up in Maine, I was spoiled by the purity of simple living. At an early age, my dad and I tapped the red maples on our property and we made syrup. Perhaps the hard work that went into the process made it that much sweeter, but to this day it is the best syrup I've ever laid taste buds on.
Later on my dad took up beekeeping and I helped him tend the hives. There was a steep learning curve the first season, but he reaped a rewarding batch of sweetness in the end. Again, the best honey I've ever tasted.
Daddy's motivation to maintain the hives subsided when I left for college, but thankfully our supply of the "real stuff" continued thanks to his best friend Uncle Jimmy. Jimmy was a very special man. The type with an contagious smile and a laugh that would brighten your day. He lost a battle with cancer last winter. But his legacy lives on in the heavenly nectar of his hives.
This morning I poured it over my cereal, thinking of Uncle Jimmy's zest for life. Somehow his honey is sweeter than most. It has the perfumy taste of honeysuckle, even though the plant isn't common in Maine. It's as if the honey embodies his sweet and loving spirit. It is soulful.
Rest in peace, Uncle Jimmy.