My mom was not a chef. She wasn’t even really a cook. She was however, the best mother I could ever imagine. She prepared meals most weeknights and whether it was Midwest Hungarian goulash or chicken-N-dumplings, I was right beside her, wooden spoon in hand. It was my way of spending time with my working mother. The kitchen was our common ground. It was warm with a comfortable smell that made me feel like I had a place in the world. After a while, once my food basics were solid, I took over in the kitchen. At ten, I was more or less the cook, but my mom was still by my side encouraging me to have culinary adventures.
Today marks five years since I lost my mother to Scleroderma. I think of her every day I am in the kitchen. Those moments with her 3 decades ago gave me a foundation of confidence and love that carry over in my kitchen with everything I prepare.
That feeling of deep love cultivated in a kitchen is something that I want to share with my boys. They are curious about food, because I am passionate about cooking.
Recently, I invited another passionate food mom over for a little cooking with kids. I wasn’t altogether prepared but we made it work. Another thing my mother taught me: Sometimes, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about being present.
The kids measured and mixed up a macaroni casserole. They cut tomatoes, browned beef, poured and stirred. I was more than impressed at how everyone wanted a turn and I think as a mini Ironchef team, I’d pick them any day.
We followed up with a tofu chocolate pudding that Bug turned into paint. Smiles were present. It was a fun moment my boys will remember.
Was it the best pasta ever made? Not even close. For me, slowing down and letting go of the outcome was a great experience. It was an afternoon well spent. I think my mom would have been proud.
Many thanks to Fuji Mama for snapping all the photos and bringing Bug and Squirrel.
I hope for the holidays, you will build memories in the kitchen and let your kids be a part of it!
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
Those kids are gorgeous… and I LOVE this post! What wonderful and wise words!!
Melissa you truly are an inspiration. Love reading your blogs. It’s all about family! making cooking fun, allowing your kids to help and creating memories. Who knows, many years from now our kids could be blogging about us. Honor your mommy Day! Every day…..
Great article and fantastic timing!! The holidays are about memories and I think (actually I know) we tend to get invested in the “outcome” rather than the journey/experience! I am going to heed your wise words this holiday season!!!
Thanks for posting!!!
What a great way to get some fun quality time in with your children; Love it! Keep blogging wonderful ideas like this one.
AMAZING!!! You inspire me to do the same when Hunter gets old enough! Your boys are so lucky to have you as their Mom!!!
How right you are! Our best meals are often remembered by our experiences in the kitchen with others and around the table — filled with love, laughter, and joy —- create memories, it’s the best gift you can give the boys —- I love you, honey!
Great inspiring post, adorable photos and fabulous reminder that it’s about being present rather than perfect — inside the kitchen and out. A lifelong lesson for all of us!
I just found your blog because I’m going to Food Blogger Camp and so are you. I love your blog. I think we share a brain. I saw the little girl and though “she is adorable I swear I’ve seen her somewhere, oh right Fuji Mama!”
Hey I know Squirrel and Bug, now I know little chef too. GREG