Our world is far from a perfect place. For many it’s a daily struggle, but good food seems to make it a little easier.
Being raised by my depression-era grandparents in Detroit, Michigan, cooking and eating health was just something we did automatically. This was typical of the other families in my working class Polish-Italian neighborhood. Frugality was just part of our everyday lives, especially when it came to food. Eating out was a rare event. Meals we cooked were prepared with the most available, least expensive ingredients. They were healthy, nutritious, and so delicious.
I watched my grandmother and the other great cooks around me cook, and I learned the basics. My college friend, Paula, taught me that even gourmet-tasting meals weren’t that difficult or expensive to prepare. I just needed to have a few of the right ingredients and tools. And so I practiced and practiced. My cooking ability improved.
Whether we’re from my hometown in inner city Detroit, my current home in rural Central Illinois, or anywhere else, life’s stressors have always taken their toll on kids and families. In trying to do something to help makes life a little easier, nine years ago I started teaching kids, teens, young adults and families to cook. It has been such a joy to watch as their confidence in themselves grows while discovering their ability to learn this simple yet necessary life skill.
I look forward to each cooking class, and most of all, getting a chance to meet and share meals with new friends.
Anita