Although I had everything a girl could need and more growing up, my lack of a 'proper' nuclear family unit including present father and requisite siblings made me sometimes yearn for the big family dinners or lunches that other 'proper' families seemed to have. Oh I know, there is a lot of dysfunction in those big families (like all families I guess), but I guess you tend to romanticize things you can't have.
I never wanted to be anything other than an only child (on balance, I had it good!), but I did want a big family for myself. So I got the guy, the three kids and the big old family house. And I have assumed the position of matriach and all that comes with it. Like cooking for most special family events for example. Sometimes I wish my mum did all this stuff...don't get me wrong, she does cook from us from time to time...but generally my Capricorn control freak feels the need to take on the big stuff, making things from scratch and trying to get things 'just so'.
I'm probably not really saying what I mean to say...which is that I take great pride in looking after my families gastronomic needs, as well as creating 'occasions'. I missed that a bit growing up (there's only so much pomp and circumstance you can create for two people)...My stepmother was a great cook, and I have fond memories of her cooking and creating special treats. I want my children to have those memories too...because a lot of love goes into nourishing a family. I struggle on a daily basis to be everything I want to be to my children - so being able to create food for them, especially when one has special dietry needs, is a tangible sign of my love.
Last weekend I felt the need to make a lamington cake for morning tea. To turn it into something more special I invited my mum and nan down to join us. The weekend before when my girlfriend was over I made scones for a devonshire tea. Perhaps it's the 'grownupness' of all sitting at at the table that appeals, but I do enjoy it. And our house is old enough to wonder about all the cups of tea that have been enjoyed looking out it's windows. There will be many more enjoyed in the future.
4 comments:
Yum! I can relate to what you are saying so well :). I also grew as an only child (brother was missing from my life from age 4 to just a year ago) and we also didn't do the hosting/baking thing with friends, my parents both worked fulltime and I can't remember them ever really hosting afternoon teas or dinners, etc. I find I am also doing things that before children I never thought I would. Like making their birthday cakes (also due to special diet for my daughter), sewing for them and our home, being a dance and sports mum, etc. Entertaining and baking for people :). It is very 'grown-up' and also wonderful.
I just need to ask though...what is your scone secret? ;) mine have only ever turned out like rocks! lol
My favourite way to make scones is with cream (instead of butter) and lemondade.
Because I used gluten free flour I don't know the exact quantities...I tend to use as much as I think to get the right texture.
Also it's important not to overhandle the dough...
Google lemonade scones and you'll come up with some recipes!
ah yep... I get where you are coming from.
While I still find it a bit of surprise I really do feel proud that I cook for my family. Little things like making bread or cakes from scratch makes me feel wonderful.
I'd like to think that our home and our family will have those fond memories of sharing food together... not even fancy food.. just good food and good company and good memories.
I love the dream you have for your family. I think it was always amazing that you had such a definite view of what you wanted family to be following your own childhood.
I would love the dream you've created for your family.
I am have always been one to fall through life rather than create it so I admire it in others.
Your table and teacups look so inviting!
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