Caprese Bites on a Stick

A Soapweed Yucca may be one of the more unusual plants that bloom late spring into summer. This distinctive member of the agave family is an attractive clumping perennial with grayish-green, dagger-like leaves that grow from a central rosette. Stout stalks lined with creamy, cup-shaped blooms rise 2 to 3 feet above the plant.

Looking for an easy appetizer or a mini bite that would pair well with a grilled meal? 
Try Caprese Bites on a Stick.

Cook's Notes: You can't pass this one up since it requires only 4 ingredients besides the sticks and little time needed for assembly. I cut long skewers in half for this recipe. I highly suggest you splurge on this one and use a chocolate balsamic. It just adds the piece de resistance.
Ingredients:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cherry size marinated mozzarella balls (deli section)
• Chocolate Balsamic or Dark Balsamic (good quality)

Directions:

• On each skewer thread mozzarella ball, basil and tomato-repeat on more time.
• Right before serving drizzle balsamic over the skewers. If not serving a group-no problem try these mini bites using a toothpick following the same directions as above.

"Spring Seduction"
by Sharon Harris

watch out
guard yourself against spring
or she will seep her way into your heart.
she will take you by the hand
if you are not careful
and lead you deep into awakening forests.
she will give you sweet wine to drink
that will intoxicate you.
the sunshine of her smile
will blind your eyes.
she sends joy and exultation
coursing through your veins
as melted snow rushes down valleys and gullies.
the perfume of new flowers
and pine needles
and the very clarity of the air
will make you dizzy, reeling.
she will seduce you
with centuries of experience in her eyes
with memories of hundreds of lovers in her heart
and in her warm, warm arms
she will trick you
into loving her.
she will draw all your attention
from your work and other interests
to herself
her vibrant being
her flower perfume
her moist, moist lips.

Previously published in 1999 Lake Country Journal