Life Is So Delicious

Lisa Burwell, Demetrius Fuller, Morgan James, Sinfonia Gulf Coast, The Henderson FL

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Lisa Burwell, Demetrius Fuller, and Morgan James | Photo by Kay Phelan

By Lisa M. Burwell

Taste and see that the Lord is good. —Psalm 34:8

When you really think about it, life is grand. In the midst of a stressful day, listening to gleeful bird chirps on a short walk to the mailbox under the warmth of a bright spring sun will instantly bring a smile to my face. The day becomes brighter as gratitude washes over me like a wave, enabling me to shake off all worries and cares. At that moment, I know everything is going to be all right and that it is glorious to be alive.

: Jim Denevan and Gerald Burwell | Photo by Romona Robbins

: Guests around the table for Outstanding in the Field at Kaiya Beach Resort | Photo by Romona Robbins

Because this is our annual Culinary Issue, gastronomic art abounds in its stories. The chefs, restaurateurs, and other foodies found within these pages extol the virtues of good food and discuss culinary creativity, passion, and prowess. Our cover girl, Amirah Kassem of Flour Shop bakery in Manhattan, demonstrates those very qualities in her craft—all the while putting smiles on faces as she creates her magic. And because good food usually involves celebrations, we have numerous ones to share—from Outstanding in the Field’s recent dinner at Kaiya Beach Resort to the many philanthropic endeavors of Chef Emeril Lagasse.

: Pam Burge, Heavenly Dawson, and Lisa Burwell | Photo by Gerald Burwell

: Nicholas Rodriguez and Morgan James perform with the Sinfonia Gulf Coast orchestra | Photo by Kay Phelan

: Lisa Burwell, Demetrius Fuller, and Morgan James | Photo by Kay Phelan

: Leslie and Jack McGuckin, Greg DeLeo, Bill and Heavenly Dawson, Demetrius Fuller, and Zack Krone | Photo by Pure7 Studios

: Lisa and Gerald Burwell at Hotel Café Royal in London | Photo by Abigail Ryan

In reality, a celebratory repast is merely an excuse to linger and engage in engrossing conversation that is so very good for the soul. After all, if you can’t celebrate life or experience joy with those around you, then you aren’t really living. So dive in and discover all the awesomeness that life—and great food—can bring you!

To Life!