A Snapshot, a Memory, a Golden experience revisited!

Mama

   We all have many memories that are brought to light at times and then quickly dismissed for the  next thought or idea.  The challenge to create, expand and compete to prove we have escalated to a more purpose driven life seems to be the priority of so many.  The Gold seal of approval whether in athletics or acting is supreme. For many others everyday tasks are a joy. I fall into the latter preferring the experience to the event. The take away sensation in my heart feels the same as many awarded medals . I often discuss with my family the need to isolate the moment and share the feeling of it, dismissing its ranking level. OK OK I will get off my soapbox before you click off, and simply celebrate Mama, her memories and most of all her fabulous Meatballs.
     Although not with us today her memory is one that I will forever treasure.  Whether it be a familiar smell when i'm cooking or shopping for vegetables at the farm stand, can spark feelings of so many special times we spent together. She and my father-in-law lived in Brooklyn and we were living on Long Island and they would come out for weekend visits.   It was always so much fun cooking, shopping, and just listening to the stories she would share with me of her childhood. She lived her life with the joy of pleasing her family.  She was creative, thoughtful,  and diligent to the family needs. She stayed focused with the changing times and adjusted her momentum without the need to be heard from a new platform. 
    On our trip to England and Italy I thought of her often.  Both Countries seem to preserve their cultures in their original make-up. There is less of a tear down and rebuild attitude, replaced with refurbishing the original state.  We found this in both Architecture and Food.  Their buildings and villages reflect years past and are sought out by so many tourists to glimpse tradition still in existence . Meals follow this tradition as well, with basics and  simplicity carried out, savoring the experience as a course in its self.
​    In Italy, as well as my mother-in-laws kitchen years back Macaroni and meatballs were followed by another course of meat and salad and then a dessert of Demitasse (espresso) and pastries with fruit and nuts to complete the meal. She said Sunday's were about  family, meatballs and good conversation.  Her home reflected her heart and I am so happy to have a few of her pots and dishes. She also crocheted baby blankets and sweaters for my children and made a beautiful lace top for their bassinet . 
     Remembering the taste of Mama's Sunday meatballs is an experience that I will forever Savour! She truly was a Golden gem!