Family Recipes

I was asked recently by a student why I loved to bake so much. There are many parts to the answer.

I love to bake/make because I believe it is a gift given to me by God. I don't want to waste the gift from the Giver of all good things.

I love to bake/make because good food brings people together. Sitting around a table with people I love or barely know and sharing a meal provides so much happiness and laughter. I love to bake/make because I pass on recipes from people that I love and miss. Being in the kitchen connects me with this part of my family tree that I don't want to let die.

I love to bake/make because there is purpose in what I am doing. Each meal, dessert, or bread is packed with my love and prayers.

I love to bake/make to flex my creativity muscles. Trying new recipes, recreating family favorites, or mixing ingredients never mixed before is my way of expressing myself and also my love for others.

Finally, I love to make/bake because the kitchen is my favorite room in the house. It is filled with so many memories. Like this cake that was an original of my aunt...when I make it, I am transported by to her house filled with the sights and smells of her always active kitchen.

Thank you Jesus for the ability to bake/make which brings so much joy, love, and cherished memories.