It’s that pink thing on my plate, a pickled turnip, otherwise known as lifit.  I see it most often at Osta’s Lebanese Cuisine on Wealthy Street SE in East Grand Rapids.  Now the problem is my grandson is addicted to it, too.  On our most recent visit, Dianne Aouad brought the three year old a plateful of it for himself, which he devoured along with half of our hommous appetizer.  Dianne’s husband John brought the Osta’s family tradition to the United States from Beirut, Lebanon where his father and mentor began in the restaurant business in 1950.  The family recipes and traditions brought here include food that is both nutritious and delicious.  My favorites include the labnee appetizer, a dip made with Lebanese kiefer cheese blended with garlic (of course) and topped with extra virgin olive oil and mint, and the fatoush salad.  Don’t bother asking Aouad for the dressing recipe.  The spices he uses are imported from home and he won’t share how he combines them.  What he will share is his sincere wish to give you the best dining experience he knows how to provide.  My grandson believes they are family.  You will, too.  Sahtein…to your good health.