P is for Partridgeberry

Partridgeberries (known internationally as lingonberries) are a relative of the cranberry, they grow on a low, mat forming, evergreen shrub.  

As a child I spent many hours on the barrens, in October and November picking the dark red berries. I can recall tiring before my bucket was full, and lying on the marsh spreading the surface area of my body out as much as possible so not to get wet, grasping the plant and running my hand distally pulling the berries in multiples, the cold air biting me.  The sour, slightly sweet, slightly bitter taste popping into my mouth as I squished the softest ones with my tongue.  Then the smell of the kitchen as the berries boil and simmer into jams, pies, muffins and loafs.

Partridgeberry jam is my father's favorite, I've seen him more than once hurry spoonfuls to his mouth straight from the jar.