Yesterday, my in-laws came over to help Danny do some work in the bathroom (Marty) and to help me hang valences in the bedroom and then just hang out (Nancy). Danny and I are so grateful his parents are willing and able to come help us with various projects as we get ready to sell the house.
Because they are just as busy as we are, we don't get to spend as much time with them as I would like, so when we do, I try to stretch the time as long as possible by making a dinner that includes dessert. Last night, dessert was a cake in honor of Marty's birthday last week.
This cake, to be precise:
This cake.
This cake reminds me of my Gram, one of the most important women in my life. My elementary school years were turbulent, but Gram was there whenever Kyle or I needed her. She was a lifeline throughout high school and college. She helped me to plan my wedding and swooned over my babies. I can't believe that she was taken from me ten years ago tomorrow.
She made cakes just like this one. Now, mine are made from scratch where hers weren't, but we both bake these pound cakes in bundt pans. They're best when slightly underbaked in the middle (I think), and the outside is crusty and crunchy - think the opposite of a Sara Lee pound cake.
Whenever I see pound cakes like this I am instantly transported to my Gram's kitchen; I hear her laugh and see her wide, bright smile. She would make this cake for my grandpa, even though he shouldn't have had cake at all. She would make this cake for desserts when the family would come over for barbeque in the summers, even though the oven would heat up her kitchen something fierce.
I don't remember her eating the cake.
As I get older, I find I'm getting more sentimental about things like this.... finding memories in little things like pound cakes or Wishbone Italian dressing (a story for another day). It is in these memories I realize that though she may not be a physical part of my life, she is always with me.
 |
| My gram and my girls, June 2004 |
This is beautiful, and you are generous to share your memories. Your grandmother sounds remarkable!
ReplyDeleteLove your cake memory. Food certainly plays a vital role in the family stories we tell. Your post reminds me how food in literature serves to promote interest in my students. I've gotten a bit too far away from that in the past couple years. Thanks for the reminder and the inspiration.
ReplyDeleteI love how you shared appreciation for your in-laws and memories of your grandma. I really identify with this line: "As I get older, I find I'm getting more sentimental about things like this.... finding memories in little things"- I will probably write this month about some of my mother's little things that give me pleasure and stir good memories, things I have around my house now.
ReplyDeleteI was immediately drawn in by your title. I love cake and I love memories. Your post was heartwarming!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful story of family and food. I agree that we savor those memories more and more as we get older.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing such a touching and intimate story with us! The little moments when we get transported back in time are the best. I can't wait to read more of your stories!
ReplyDeleteThis warms my heart (and makes me a bit hungry). Hope to see you soon, friend, but at least I can hear you through your slices. I'm starting to slice for the first time this year (Eep!)...and having my students do it also.
ReplyDeleteI couldn't help but think of my own Gram and time spent in her kitchen full of love and deliciousness. Thank you for the glimpse into your family. It brought me warm memories too.
ReplyDeleteI can't believe it's been 10 years since we both lost our grandmothers. So glad you have memories like these to keep her alive in spirit.
ReplyDeleteDoris was one on a million. It was an honor to call her friend.
ReplyDeleteIt is a wonderful gift that the people who love us leave the wonderful mementos like this...as they have the ability to transport us. I really loved reading this.
ReplyDelete