Do-Over

As is almost the case every time I drive now, a man on a street corner asked me for money. When I smiled and mouthed “I’m sorry I don’t have any” meaning I didn’t have any cash with me which is usually the case even pre-pandemic. The man then gestured asking me for my old, navy blue Adidas bucket hat I was wearing. He was wearing a beige baseball cap but the temperature was 111 degrees that day. I shook my head no and drove off – I had to go to the grocery store. One reason I didn’t give him my hat was because of vanity – my hair was in 3 fuzzy, french braids with un-dyed, graying temples (I know I’m not alone) that make me look like the Black version of Lily Munster except not. I will start combing my hair when I run errands I promised myself or bring extra hats because I certainly have them. My question is can a middle aged Black woman safely go into a high-end grocery store looking disheveled? I have been disrespected in this store where I spend a lot of money while looking quite prim – hi Beth, my complaint letter is forthcoming. Discuss among yourselves. I like the idea of a do-over but in this instance I’m not sure I would behave differently. I did a gluten free pizza do-over recipe below.

Gluten Free Individual Pizzas

• Udi’s Gluten Free Pizza Crusts
• Organic Olive Oil
• Fresh Garlic
• Organic Fresh Tomatoes
• Organic Zucchini
• Organic Fresh Basil
• Organic Red Onion
• Green Olives
• Organic Cheddar Cheese
• Beyond Sausage Hot Italian
• Dried Oregano
• Organic Fennel Seed
• Black Olives
• Beyond Beef Burger

Heat oven to 325 degrees. Massage both pizza crusts with olive oil and sprinkle with ample amounts of fresh minced garlic. Slice vegetables and arrange as you would like. Top with herbs, fake meats, shredded cheese and bake for 5 to 7 minutes. Naturally you can add broccoli, mushrooms or any other vegetables you would like. Great way to get the kids involved with dinner preparation. Serves 2 to 3 people.

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