Daily Archives: April 25, 2020

WEEKEND NURTURING

Weekends were special occasions in my childhood home in Cleveland, Ohio. They were simpler times, but definitely special in a unique way. Fond memories of my Mother nurturing us through food. I’m transported back to our living room on a Saturday night, getting ready to watch Love Boat and Fantasy Island, the popular television shows of the time. I can almost smell the delicious cakes my mother often baked. The scent of vanilla and cinnamon enveloped our humble environment and made home feel extra comforting. We may not have owned the fanciest of furnishings, but her food made our home a popular destination with all of our friends. There was always enough to share when they showed up on our doorstep, and show up they did. The way she nurtured all of us through her love of sharing what she did best has resonated with me throughout my years.

Sharing your gifts is an important virtue I’ve learned, as well as cooking and baking. I’m still friends with all of my childhood friends, and they too continue to share their gifts with others. In a time when we are focusing on a virus that multiples silently, I prefer to try to focus on how kindness multiples; kindness feels better than illness. Of course we are taking it seriously, praying for all and social distancing;  I just wish to redirect my energy in more positive pursuits. More joy and less worry. My anxiety needs a break.

Through this quarantine I’ve been cooking a lot more, and baking. Before the Pandemic began I often baked vegan goodies for my co-workers. There’s nothing like sharing your homemade creations and sharing smiles with those around you. Last week I baked a yellow cake, per request of James, and the scent of deliciousness brought me right back to those moments with Mom. He loves when I cook for him and I love nurturing him through food. These are the moments I’m trying to recreate and relish as we retreat within the safety of our four walls of domestic life. It’s these homebody moments that brought me back to my childhood. 

Going forward I plan to take some of what I’m doing and try to have more of a domestic life, even after the world opens back up. Slowing down had its benefits. I bought new bedding in December, nothing expensive, but I was saving it for the next move. I decided to do some spring cleaning this weekend, and make the bed to enjoy now. My dear friend Kristen gave me the loveliest set of dishes, I think I’m also going to unpack those. I’m going to make home as homey as it can be.  Get busy living, right? 

Of course I’m going to be cooking and baking healthier versions of treats, it’s too easy in quarantine to make unhealthy comfort foods, and I’m practicing portion control for those moments I do cook vegan splurges. Balance is as important as good health. Today is day three of starting my new wellness journey and I’m feeling very confident in my ability to go the distance again as we continue to social distance.  Stay home and stay safe!!
Love and Light and Happy Cooking And Baking, Rose