When I began my cooking on New Year's, I foresaw it as a Julie and Julia journey in which I would I would complete at least one recipe a day. Over time I realized it wasn't always going to be do-able. There was about a month there where I really slacked up, which you can probably see in the archives. Lately I have picked it back up and going full force.
Paula's Southern Cooking Bible has not only given me a hobby, but it has also allowed myself and Mark to try so many new things. Some things we have never tried, while others we have never even attempted to make on our own. I remember my Granny talking about how much she enjoyed Oxtail, and the rest of us just looked at her with an expression of disgust. I bet not one of us ever even took a taste. I know she was looking down at me when I made that slow cooker Oxtail Stew out of the book. She was probably saying "told you so."
I feel more and more comfortable in the kitchen with every recipe I accomplish. Before beginning this, Mark and I were not usually in the kitchen together. He was always the cook and had high expectations if I were to step up. He was, of course, critical at times which is understandable since I was not exactly what you would call a chef. Mark has worked in the cooking atmosphere off and on for years. This has definitely given me a bit more confidence.
So, you may all be thinking to yourselves, "I wonder how much weight they have gained...?" Well, a few. I am not going to completely lie. Up until about a week ago, I didn't even get out much. Once I realized how much this may start effecting me, I am outside getting some much needed exercise, and I already feel a ton better. It's all about balance, and I am learning that now.
What do I hope to accomplish from this? I have set a goal to complete every recipe by the end of the year. You have all heard how important it is for families to sit down at the table every day and have a meal together. It brings you closer, allows for you to have time to discuss life in general. The kitchen is a place of gathering, pretty much the center of your home. I want to be able to just walk in the kitchen, look in the pantry and just know what I can throw together. Cooking through Paula's book is familiarizing me with so many different items. We have found a lot of recipes that we will continue making from here on out, recipes that have shaped us this year. May sound cheesy, but there is a lot of cheese in some of these recipes, let's be honest.
Oh, and another accomplishment is to perhaps meet Paula in person one day. Far fetched, maybe, but it doesn't hurt to hope.
Kylie
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