The Pope, a Portabello and my friend Skyler

The Pope is just finishing his final mass in Philadelphia and people are so excited here because he frequently peppers his homily's, talks etc with the word LOVE. How unusual. In the history of the Catholic Church and the Papacy there has been equal if not more measure of conflict, politics, war and torture than love - and of course the Catholic Church continues to be a bastion of conservative and at times reactionary values. How far removed can one get from the original teachings of Jesus I ask myself? However the Pope in person comes through as a genuine love filled person. Here is the link for the official  I love Pope Francis T-Shirt site!

I wanted to share another something starting with 'P' with my brother Simon who is a wonderful cook - and once upon a time cooked the most amazing portabello (mushroom) tomato pasta sauce that I have never forgotten!

In Australia I never clapped eyes on a fresh portabello mushroom in the shops - only the dried Italian variety - but here there are oodles. I didn't realize this - but it turns out they're overgrown button mushrooms! I They make a substantial nutritious meal. They are as big as my hand which is probably not saying much. Here is the one I had for breakfast Simon. They grill and bake easily and go especially nicely with with pesto sauce. Yumbo!

And finally to something starting with 'S' - my dear friend Skyler - who is a new furry friend of just 8 months. I have been living with Skyler along with his 'Mom' - Ani Alyce Louise - and other furry friends - including Nebulous Norbu the Cat and Zoe Canoli - golden dog of unknown golden descendants. Skyler died at home on Thursday. His body finally gave out on him after 16 long years. He was a fusty, feisty, grumpy loveable dog and I  miss him. The Pope recently said all dogs go to heaven. If heaven is universal love - may you be there. Travel well and in peace Skyler. Really glad to have met you.