Family

Grasping the concept of family seems more difficult in the climate of today. Perhaps the mobility, the media, and class issues contribute to the downfall of family. My family disappeared when my Mother died. I held on to whatever I could and Carole was it for me. Family is not always by blood, it's about common experience. Perhaps for some, those experiences are divisive, too many depressing, catastrophic memories. Sometimes it is felt the best thing is to just let it all go. Carole and I never said, "don't let go." We just held on, through dark and sunny days. We have hurt each other, but forgiveness runs deep in our relationship. I feel lucky to have this shared experience from childhood. Carole and I can reminisce about people only she and I may have a common memory of their existence. We shared our Mothers, each in our own way. We share her sisters and shared my brother, each in our own way. We feel completely comfortable with a quick phone conversation, just to touch base. Sometimes a month or two can pass and we don't call. But, we always do, doesn't matter who calls first. We just talk.

Aunt Verna's Biscuit Pudding (also known as bread pudding)

Aunt Verna always had "Biscuit Pudding," as she called it on her stove. The pecans were from the tree in their backyard and the leftover biscuits from breakfast.

Ingredients:

About 4 cups leftover state bread or biscuits. (French bread works really well)

1 cup milk

2 eggs

1/2 stick melted butter

1/2 tsp vanilla

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/3 cup raisins

1/3 cup chopped pecans

dash of cinnamon

dash of salt

Chop the bread into small pieces and soak in the milk and eggs for about 15 minutes. Add butter and remaining ingredients and stir well. Melt 1/4 stick butter in a small skillet add batter and bake at 350 degrees until slightly firm to the touch and browning around the edges. Eat it warm with a glass of cold milk.