I have wonderful memories of being with my Mother in the kitchen, learning how to make bacalao, Capirotada, and chicken curry, helping her baste the turkey for Thanksgiving, and even her secret for getting a roast tender. One of my fondest memories is when my brother Alfred and I decided to make tamales and she stepped in to help.
She enjoyed us being in the kitchen but never pushed. She did direct us to be self-sufficient which is why I can change a tire and my brother can cook.
Today I learned that Julie Powell the author of the book that later was adapted into the film, Julie & Julia, passed last week. I had just finished my well-balanced and home-cooked lunch. I'm still in birthday mode although it was two weeks ago today. I spent the morning at Sephora's getting my eye cream and birthday treat and to some of my other haunts that also give birthday goodies and or discounts.
I made myself a spinach salad with mushrooms, celery, and avocado topped with my homemade honey mustard dressing. Then I baked a chicken breast with olive oil, ghee, garlic, and rosemary. I sauteed rice cauliflower in olive oil and Vidalia onion. For dessert, I had a vegan coconut cream plain yogurt with raspberries and walnuts and a decaf cappuccino made with cinnamon and almond milk.
I don't consider myself a foodie but I don't bicker about time spent in the kitchen. I buy organic and am particular about fresh, in season, and enjoy eating well. This entire concoction made me so happy that I was indulging in self-love and self-care.
(Toasting Mom)
My friend who shared Julie's death said she felt like she knew her. Me too. Especially when the film came out and Julie said that Julia cooked for her husband out of love. I could identify. In fact, how can you not cook for those that you love? It shows that you care about their health. It's as natural as a mother breastfeeding her infant.
Julie & Julia was such an enjoyable film that it inspired me to make Beef Bourguignon and Queen of Sheba chocolate cake. And now while these two ladies have departed their physical bodies their legacy remains as a footprint on American culture that will be ever-present.
Listen to Margaret Whiting's version of Time After Time, it was the soundtrack in the film and is one of my favorite 1940s tunes.
What an inspiring piece & love the pics! Your readers would know your Mom anywhere, due to striking similarities!
I bet Julie & Julia will run on tv for the next week, in honor of her passing.
Thank you for sharing
Linda, your an amazing woman. Your great at what you do for all. I hope, you know it. Love and miss ya. I'll be sending out something soon. Your,brother sure is good looking .
Cool an old photo, of you and, your ex-sister_inlaw