memories and food

Memories and food seem to go hand in hand.  At least, for me they do.  So many great memories i have from growing up seem to revolve around food, the dinner table and the kitchen.  When i was growing up, we always ate dinner at the dinner table at the kitchen.  I really can't remember ever sitting in front of the tv for dinner, unless i was sick and then they'd let me do that.  But every night it was family time to sit around and eat dinner and converse about the day.

Washing dishes also holds alot of great memories for me.  i don't know why, but so many good conversations in my life were held at the sink.  My Grandmother would tell me wonderful stories from her past and childhood while we washed dishes together.  It was never a chore to me, just something to do as we talked.  Of course, the fact that i also loved the dishes i was washing didn't hurt either LOL

And food holds good memories as well.  As i'm really relearning to utilize our kitchen, i'm having the greatest time going thru old family recipe books and cards.  Many of the recipes i don't remember having, but have enjoyed making.  i especially enjoy the handwritten recipe cards.  There's just something about seeing Mom's or Grandmother's handwriting that is special to me.  And some of the recipes i make of theirs actually turn out like i remember them to be, which is also a perk.

But it's when they all come together in the present that it's the best for me.  Having a few friends over last night for hot dogs was great.  Nothing extraordinary in the kitchen, needless to say, but it was still a great time.  Mom's hot dog chili and baked beans, Aunt Jan's potato salad recipe, Bobbie Yandle's lemon ice cream pie.  Using Mom's china, my Great Grandmother Bivens' potato salad bowl, my Aunt Sara's cole slaw bowl.  Might as well use the things if i have them and create new memories.  And it's nice to include the past with friends who aren't even aware of it.

Ah, well....on to more dinners soon!