The Help

If you live in the South, you know about the book.  You might even have a friend of a friend who was an extra in the movie, as it was filmed in Jackson, MS.  Or, you may even know the Stockett family who has roots in central Mississippi, like, in my neighborhood.  Kathryn Stockett, author of the phenomenal book, The Help, was born three minutes away from where I live and lived in a house just a few blocks away from me for the first part of her life.  In fact, she lived right beside the iconic Southern author, Eudora Welty. Ironic? Yes.  Is she destined to become a great figure in literary history like Ms. Welty?  I have yet to see it, because after all, this is only her first novel, but I believe her honest and eloquent writing will propel her into a solid future.  How would you like for your maiden novel to be turned into a major Hollywood production with a passionate following all across the country?  Now that's impressive, y'all.

I so wished I could have afforded the $500 price tag to sit next to the stars (Emma Stone, anyone?) and experience the premier of the film in Mississippi, but alas, I settled for a $9 ticket a couple short nights ago to see the movie on its official opening day.  It was magical.  Our group settled in at the 10pm showing to avoid the crowds and found a whole row to ourselves.  It pays to go late, people! With that said, I would be lying if I didn't admit that I needed three cups of coffee and a shot of espresso to get through the longest Thursday of work ever.  I know it.  I'm old.  Anyway, go see it!!  The Help gives you such an exquisite and revealing look at life in Jackson, MS in the 1960s and depicts the stories of black help that raised white children.  I had been a fan ever since I read the book (for the first time) and was counting down the moments until the movie hit the silver screen.  This novel-turned-movie provokes tears, laughter, hate, and love through the tales of lives lived not that long ago.

And now, a side recipe to snack on!  The night of the movie, some chatty ladies and I got together over wine, cheese, and other yummy sides.  Need a quick, mid-busy-work-week, healthy appetizer?  I brought these:

Turkey Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

I'm telling you, this is so deceiving.  Its reception at parties usually contains the phrases, "Oooh! Who made this?" "These look lovely!" "So green!" "Healthy", etc.  To do: 

Cut strips of turkey bacon in half, the short way.  Wash and clean a bundle of asparagus, cut off the ends, and snap them in half.  Bundle two "tops" and two "bottoms" and wrap in a half strip of bacon.  Season to taste with salt, pepper, garlic, or whatever your taste buds are craving.  I think lemon juice would bring out the green and the freshness of the veggie.  Bake at 350-375, depending on your oven, for about 20-25 min, just until the bacon browns and the asparagus starts to appear heated through.  It will have a good bit of give to it, but it makes for a solid bite.  If you like softer stalks, bake longer.  Tada! Done!  I don't use a recipe for this; I just like to throw it all together and when baked, display on a silver tray.  Hey, you gotta dress to impress.