Written by When I think of radishes, it takes me back to one of my early trips to Paris to visit Philippe. That may seem a touch odd, but we would often get them as little treats and the particular shape and flavor was not something I’d ever found here. Sure, there were lots of wonderful foods that I discovered in France, but those little packs of radishes were so memorable. Perhaps, looking back, it was less about the food itself and the little ritual of having them as a snack before dinner in that tiny apartment we’d rented. Food has a way of doing that to memories. Taking them from the mundane into something special and perfectly unforgettable. Each bite was a reminder that I was miles away from home, and yet, feeling perfectly at home as well. I didn’t want those moments to end. I didn’t know, at the time, what was going to happen next.
I remember sitting with Philippe at that little kitchen counter in the apartment and sharing a bowl of radishes nearly every day I was there. It was only the beginning of the evening and there was much more interesting food to come, but the radishes signaled the start of it all. At the beginning of that trip, time stood still for the first few days. It was such an incredible feeling to finally be together again. I felt like I was floating and lost in a dream. But, as the days passed, I would soon find myself closer and closer to having to return home. Alone. Worse, was the feeling that this dream we had invented for ourselves wasn’t actually possible. That this was just a moment in time and being together forever was simply a fantasy. But one tends to put thoughts like that to the back of their mind when lost in the middle of something incredible.
That was over 5 years ago, and we’re married now, living on the same continent, and raising an adorably cute yet bitchy basenji. And each day, still feels like a gift. And also proof that even the most impossible dreams can often come true. It just takes heart and determination. Yeah, and maybe just a little bit of crazy optimism. But when you let your heart lead, and your mind wander, incredible things can happen. Even those ridiculous goals that hold little if any chance of ever happening. Those most of all. And if today, I ever find myself taking life for granted, I only have to think back to times less certain. Those doubtful days in a French apartment, quietly ignoring my fears and letting time simply stop, while blissfully enjoying those radishes in Paris.
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About the DoodlewashSennelier L’Aquarelle: Opera Rose, Sennelier Red, Indian Yellow, Phthalo. Green Pale, Phthalocyanine Blue, and Payne’s Grey. Lamy Safari Al-Star Fountain Pen – Extra Fine,
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with Platinum Carbon black ink in an A6 
I feel so uplifted reading your post today. I am touched that you share these personal experiences and reflections with us, your readers. It’s a pleasure to read your blog each day. I’d imagine it would be an even greater pleasure to know you.
Thanks so much, Laura! 😃💕 That is the most amazing comment… I truly appreciate it. I would love to know you as well! I’m sure we’d be good friends. I simply write what comes to mind, and never edit, so I’m thrilled you enjoy these posts. It means a lot to me.
You are most welcome.
That is a wonderful bunch of radishes. I never liked the taste of radishes until I started growing them in my garden. Fresh radishes are delicious Your story was lovely as well. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks so much! 😃💕 I’m so happy you liked this post! Yes, french radishes are so wonderful. I do prefer them to the ones here, but have learned to enjoy them all! hehe
That’s awsome Charlie. Your testimony about radishes has caused big drops of saliva gush out of my big mouth and how I wish I can lay my hands on some radishes around because I know this will without a single doubt give me a first-hand taste and feel of what it really is. Thanks for that piece. Looking forward to reading more from you doodlewash.
Thanks so much!! 😃💕 Awww glad you enjoyed this post. Those radishes are truly special to me. And well, just really, really delicious! hehe
First of all, the painting of such a simple vegetable is really lovely. Bold colors of the radishes, delicate detail of the leaves, and the tiny spritz of individuality each radish shows.
But your story of you and Phillipe in Paris before you were married melted my heart. Thank you for letting us into a very private world to see how magical it all was.
Aww thanks, Sharon! 😃💕 I’m convinced that all of our lives are magical in some way. We just have to stop for a moment and think about how. But these radishes will always hold a special place in my heart.
What a lovely post, Charlie! 💕💕💕
Thanks so much, Marina! 😃💕 So happy you enjoyed it!
Ha 😊, I love this post Charlie, my husband sits and eats a bowl of radishes as a snack, I could never understand why, but now I see he’s not the only one 😉. Lovely painting, the colour is wonderful
Thanks so much, Phil! 😃💕 hehe… your husband has wonderful taste! You should join him. 😉 I have to admit though, I didn’t appreciate them as much until I made that trip to Paris.
What a lovely story! Once again, amazing drawing and fun, sweet story!
Thanks so much!! 😃💕 I’m so glad you enjoyed this post!
It’s funny how food becomes associated with emotions. And a happy ending! (K)
Such a happy ending!! Thanks so much, Kerfe! 😃💕
Never before – I dare suggest! – have radishes been charged with such a romantic glow and sweet nostalgia. Once again you have brokwn new barriers, Charlie! Wonderful post and gorgeous painting. Made my day!
You’re so awesome, Michael! 😃💕 What a fabulous comment… that just made MY day!! Thank you so much my friend!
Box of Chocolates. Bowl of Cherries. Bunch of Radishes. All have so much emotion tied to them. The Quin/Aliz. reds on the radishes look great Charlie!
Thanks so much, Joe! 😃💕 Yeah, food is so charged with emotions. I think that’s why I love sketching it most!!
What a beautiful, touching post, Charlie. I’m so glad your memory of munching on those funny-looking Parisian radishes has expanded into a happily-ever-after story with Philippe. May you share many, many more bowls together for many, many years.
Thanks so much, Heide!! 😃💕 So thrilled you enjoyed this post. And thanks for the wishes of a continued happily ever after!
Thanks for sharing some special moments from your love story. It warms my heart to hear it. Beautiful radishes!
aww thanks, Sharon! Glad you enjoyed this one! 😃💕