Both of my Czech grandmothers were wonderful cooks. They knew how to put the food on the table. One grandmother gave lots of hugs and gave them often, but the other grandmother rarely hugged anyone. Yet, I knew us grandchildren were loved. You could tell by the way she greeted us at the door and how the wonderful aromas would waft over to us as we entered. There was always plenty and though we ate our fill, she would always encourage us to eat more. I can still hear her say, “Deborinka, you’re so skinny. Eat, eat!” I know that was her way of saying she loved me.

Now, I love to cook, I love to eat, and I also express my love through feeding those I care about. Whether I’m throwing scratch to the chickens, feeding the dogs, or whipping up something yummy for family and friends, I’m showing them all that I love them. And I give hugs, too.