Celebrating...

Happy Independence Day!

I feel blessed to have been born into this country. I recognize the advantages I have grown up with that so many around the world lack. I look over the history of this country and I am amazed at the loyalty and fierce patriotism that has constantly surfaced in times of trail. I know this same feeling continues to lurk in the heart of Americans today. Despite the struggles and chaos that at times seem to be taking over, I know we as a people will prevail. I do love the United States of America.

(Ok, now setting down the flag.)

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Alright, my Canadian friends it is okay to rejoin. I won't get overly sappy. (Happy Belated Canada Day to all of you!)

This holiday actually has something else on my mind. FOOD!
Admit it! Barbecues, chips, sodas..is such a big part of the celebration of this day! (I am sure the founding fathers would be proud.)

This year a bunch of the extended family is gathering at my aunt's house for swimming, barbecuing and visiting. I am really looking forward to it. My aunt sent out emails asking for volunteers to bring food. After seeing nobody else had signed up for it, I offered to make potato salad for the party.

My sister-in-law used to always make the potato salad for family get-togethers. She makes a most yummy potato salad and everyone was always very happy to have her make it. Sadly, she (with her family) moved out of state last fall. I hope I can live up to the legacy she has left behind.

It has me thinking about my signature dishes. Anybody who does much cooking has a couple of things they are known and appreciated for. I realized the two main things I am known for are desserts. Hmm...this says more about me than I am prepared to discuss in this post. So, my two dishes (at least the only two I can think of right now) are my apple pie and eclairs. I am very proud of both of those recipes. In general, I am well appreciated if I show up somewhere bearing either as a gift. I once gave a batch of the eclairs as a Christmas gift. The recipient felt very lucky.

So, what are your signature dishes? What do you make that the whole time your mouth is watering just waiting for the dish completion. It doesn't need to be a dessert. Whatever you make that your kids rush to the table for.

My mom has some great easy recipes she has developed over the years. A couple of years ago, she gave laminated cook books to each of her daughters/daughter-in-laws. I think maybe she got tired of me calling to get reminders of just how she made something. Coming from a large family the recipes are all for serving at least 10. Which now with the size of my family fits just right. Sometime I'll have to tell you about her homemade Christmas candy. YUM!

I'm really looking forward to hearing about your yummy dishes.