Memories Stirred

 This is my Mom, when she was maybe 3 or 4.(1943-1944). I recently submitted some art work, to Somerset Life. It was for a recipe challenge, this is just a peek of what I sent in.  I already feel like it was a success, whether I get published or not. This is not something I would normally say; I just felt such a calmness diving into the past and remembering, the goodness this time of year. How anyone who stopped by my family home was welcome and treated as a guest. It reminds me, of the true essence of the holidays. I could feel the memories arrive like a flash flood, as I glued, cut and stitched my hopes n' dreams. It would be nice to be in these rich, vibrant magazines, but nothing compares to these memories of loved ones baking magic and sharing their souls. My Mother had an unique relationship with her Mother-in-law. They had a lot in common; She taught my Mom  to cook, they shared garden tips and they both sewed. My Mom n' Grandmother both encouraged me to do my art.  They both saw the benefits of doing what you love. I hope as the holidays arrive, your memories are stirred by the magic of the souls in your life and those passed. We  have the opportunity to create magic daily, in whatever we do. It could be writing a letter, baking something, or inspire someone by a kind gesture or smile,etc. M.F.K Fisher reminds us, no matter what our circumstances or paycheck, "You can still live with grace and wisdom",  she suggests you keep the wolf(fear) at bay. She wrote a book called, "How to Cook a Wolf", It is one of her earlier works. It was published in 1942, during the wartime food shortages. My Mom said, as a child, she remembers sugar and gas rations. Tough times; MFK Fisher's book is about embracing the good, what is available. I think I need to read this book as the holidays approach. I always try to volunteer when I can, it reminds me of the real magic of the holidays. When we create rituals for our families we give the gifts of time and love. We hope our expression of passing on  the recipe of true friendship and kindness, becomes part of their souls. Recipes were meant to be shared~

Savor your holidays and enjoy the sweetness of your memories.  Yes, we all have some bittersweet moments, but try to remember the decadent potential of everyday~