Sizzle & Bounce
In this Christmas season, I was inspired to share a story of Hope, a café in Calexico, just across from Mexicali right on the California and Mexico border. I found Hope last Monday on a drive from Palm Springs, CA to Tucson, AZ, where I went a bit out of my way seeking a story. I knew that I had found one when in response to my “so, what’s the story of this cafe?” instead of the typical “you want a what now?” the woman who was working at the counter invited me to sit down and make myself comfortable while she went to go get Manuel (the owner). What had first struck me upon entering Manuel Guerrero’s café were all the pictures of – and quotes from - Freida Kahlo, so when he emerged from the kitchen, I was looking at Freida when I made my story request, which he took as a question about the artist and her work. “No, no" in interrupted "what’s the story of YOU and Freida?” "ah" he responded “well, I have had a life surrounded by strong women.” Telling me about his mother and his grandmother, Esperanza (Hope) then brought him to THE story – the story of the hummingbird, what the hummingbird means as an omen, how much his grandmother admired the energy of these powerful creatures, and how a visit from one inspired him to realize his lifelong dream of opening a café – a story you can hear Manuel himself telling here. , But for me, the story of Hope is a story of hope – hope in, for, and through community, by way of story. This café was built inside a house so that it would have a feeling of home. A space that would invite you in and make you want to stay for a while, to make you want to bring and share your stories. ”Hay muchas historias en este lugar y tambien queremos que la gente se sienta agusto y que vengan a contar sus historias” http://carlos-melendrez.squarespace.com/2go-salads-calexico And it does make you feel “a gusto” (at ease)– each of the five rooms in a slightly different way, designed to have their own energy and spirit. The Freida room, with its color and fire celebrating the strength and courage of women, was only the beginning! At a time when we all can be reminded of the strength that may be found in community, I was pleased to celebrate the gift that Manuel has given to his community by finding the courage to do what makes his heart sing. Hope is a place where writers can spend the day writing, where professors can be with friends whislt grading, where artists can celebrate, share, learn, and teach art. Where local civic leaders host community conversations, and where the community recently gathered to collect donations after the earthquake in Mexico. But most importantly to Guerrero, this can be a place where young folks can just hang out. The café is open late and the menu celebrates the mixing of cultures - try an horchaita (Horchata and chai) drink, or a Café de Olla with your crepe. I had the “Memories” a crepe with Cream Cheese, Nutella, Almonds, Banana and Strawberries, but you can try Cajeta (caramel), calabaza (squash) and with chipotle or even mole sauce. For those of you who can make the trip (just 2 hours from San Diego) – do it!! May it be just one of many things to savor in this season of hope, at a time when we need it more than ever! Bring your stories!
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Anna Marie & KirstenWe met at "The Porches" writers retreat one summer, and a love for cooking, conversation and adventures brought us here. ArchivesCategories |