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More than ever, I think we need to embrace the elements of our lives that bring us joy, comfort, and peace. How we each approach that sensibility, is as individual as we are. Quilters and needle workers in general, seem to have the ability to compartmentalize our activities so that we can live full and mindful lives. Today my thoughts go to the importance of family tradition. Seeing families separated and distressed has strengthened my belief that we are tasked to do the best we can for ourselves and for our friends and families while the opportunities present themselves. On this first day of Spring, it is my hope that you are able to structure your day to make it memorable.
Historically, the French do not work on Sundays, it is a day of church, leisure, eating, visiting, museums, and strolling. No matter where the French person calls home, family is the most important element of the day. Even as the world is becoming more globally involved, for many families worldwide, this is a day of repose.
I grew up in a family where Sunday was a revered day of the week and after church the afternoon roast was prepared for late dinner. In my very young years, we often spent the afternoon in my Grandmother's parlor and played our instruments and read the Sunday paper. Grandmother never missed a radio broadcast baseball game.
In this family, our Sunday routine was a blend of family customs. In my profession, working Sunday was just a fact of life, I usually only had one week-end per month off. Most times I would prepare Sunday dinner on Saturday and reheat for dinner where the kids and often grandparents, great-aunts and cousins would also join. I have so many good memories of those times. Husbands grandmother always brought the pies for desert.
Now I continue the tradition of Sunday dinner, usually a roast, for 2 or 4 of us. Everyone else has gone to their reward. After early Mass, I make the famous Sunday breakfast, a rather elaborate meal far removed from the eat and run of weekday breakfast! Dinner prep is started on Saturday or right after breakfast, then I spend the afternoon reading, stitching, or watching something saved on TV while I work on the current crochet project. If we visit a museum or flower show dinner is a more simple affair.
- Today I am testing a Beef and Kidney Pie, without the kidneys! (I do not eat organ meats, ever.) I am substituting a firm mushroom for kidneys. The crust is either a puff pastry or an egg based short pastry, I will add the puff pastry because that is what is on hand. I became interested in this recipe by watching the 1990's UK television series on Acorn, Pie in the Sky! Review to follow. I am testing a couple different recipes, we will see.
- On Sundays I dress the table with a Vintage tablecloth. For me, this is Sunday. The table is the setting for a slow and enjoyed meal, a time to begin the week on a positive note. Most often we use the Polish dishes, even with company, they set a happy table.
- After dinner I usually check my schedule for the week, make my to-do list for the next day, work on the menu for the week and round out the grocery list.
Have a beautiful Sunday, may your week ahead be filled with kindness and creativity!
*Photo of Eiffel Tower, Rebecca Plotnick, HERE.
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