Annually, the first part of November finds me wandering down memory lane as I
fumble through my untidy batch of recipes. You see, my recipes are not neatly
filed away on my computer, nor are they alphabetized in a cute recipe box; they
are an embarrassing hodgepodge of cards, scraps of paper, and even a few
envelopes. Yet, finding my favorites for the holiday season is never difficult.
Some dishes are recognized by the handwriting of the person that jotted it down
at my request. Others were scribbled on any notepad that was handy at the time;
and I search for a certain color of paper. As I rummage through my jumbled
collection of recipes, it causes me to recall people, places, and events from
the past—and I like it that way. For me, my filing system is perfect!
Still, one recipe card stands out amongst all other. The handwriting has faded,
the yellowed edges are bent, and it has amassed an array of smudges over the
years. Oh, but it is far from being just another dog-eared recipe card; it’s a
special keepsake from my Mother, who is now deceased. This year I realized just
how faint her handwriting had become on the aging card and it was promptly
placed in plastic for protection.
I’d not been gone from home long before asking Mother for her Pumpkin Bread
recipe. It had been part of every holiday I could remember, not to mention being
decadent and habit forming. The recipe originated with my Grandmother, who died
before my birth, and was handed down to my Mother.
That ragged, old card has traveled with me from state to state, kitchen to
kitchen, and has generated more loaves of pumpkin bread than I would dare to
count. Many were devoured at family dinners, and countless others have been
given as gifts after being embellished with holiday ribbons and bows.
I often feel my compilation of favorite recipes is akin to a roadmap of my adult
life, beginning with the Pumpkin Bread recipe from my mother. Others were
gathered along the way in different states and different cities; some were
offered by old friends, some by new friends, and some by relatives. I find
myself being grateful for each person that came into my life and shared a
special dish, several of which are now part of my traditional holiday fare.
Most times the roadmap of my life has directed me down scenic boulevards or
tranquil country roads, although I’ve had my share of bumps and detours along
the way. Upon reflection, I’m more than thankful for the journey…and all those
who touched my life along the way…
©2006 Kathleene S. Baker Lnstrlady@aol.com
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