Grilled Corn and Tomato Salad + Reflections

We are smack dab in the middle of summer in the Bay Area. The heat index has been relatively mild overall. This weekend’s heat directory is expected to rise, especially in particular parts of the Bay Area. In contrast to the majority of country, we are enjoying comfortable weather.

Speaking of other parts of the country, I wanted to pause to pay my respects to the victims and their family and friends who were affected by the Colorado Movie Theatre tragedy. I can’t come close to understanding what these folks are feeling at this moment. What I can do is send positive thoughts and prayers to all who were affected and wish for peace to be in their hearts during this extremely difficult time. Time will begin to heal the emotional and physical wounds; until then we simply send many prayers and positive thoughts.

Events like this, stir various emotions for all of us. It reminds me how fragile life really is along with how we need to value each minute, hour, day, week, month and year we have on this earth. You hear the phrase – “Don’t sweat the small stuff” - how true is this statement? Now is the time to reflect on all of the gifts we have been given. Whether it is your family, friends, career or health – they are gifts.

Appreciate each.

Cherish each one.

Relish each one everyday.

I appreciate the simple things in life. My work week is often filled with a variety of meetings, leading people, managing processes, handling stress, ensuring profitability, problem solving, conflict resolution, coaching, mentoring, laughing, having fun at work and planning. I appreciate my career. When the workday is complete, I am fulfilled. I subscribe to the philosophy of living a balanced life.

Balance for me comes in the form of spending time with my hubby, family and friends. Many other activities bring balance for me including: exercising, cooking, blogging, traveling, dining out, watching my favorite television shows, reading, napping, learning and so much more. Simply reading a magazine and taking a nap in between or creating a simple new dish that is packed full of flavor are on my list of the simple delights in life. My Grilled Corn and Tomato Salad is one of my simple pleasures. Enjoy!

What are the simple things in life that make you happy?

Grilled Corn and Tomato Salad

6 Ears White Corn
2 C. Small tomatoes
1 C. Green peppers, sliced
1 C. Basil leaves, slightly packed then chiffonade
¼ C. Olive oil
2 T. Sherry vinegar
Salt
Pepper

Remove the husks and silks from the corn. Wash gently and brush slightly with olive oil. Add the grill and cook until each side has distinct grill marks. About 4 to 5 minutes. Let cool and then using a sharp knife, remove the kernels and place into a large bowl.

Add the tomatoes. Take each green pepper and cut into quarters along with removing the seeds. Slice thin and add to the corn. Chiffonade the basil leaves and add to the salad. Toss gently. Add the olive oil and sherry vinegar. Season with salt and pepper, then toss and taste for seasoning. Adjust by adding more salt, pepper, olive oil or sherry vinegar to your taste levels.