The Joy & Peace of Cooking

You will always find this can of Love sitting in my kitchen. I have had it for nearly 25 years. The kids in our old neighborhood where my son grew up always loved coming to our house when I was baking or drying apples for Christmas treats. I'd let them help me, and before anything went in the oven, it was sprinkled with as much love as their little hands could shake out of that can. The smiles on their faces as they shook the Love can always made my heart smile. Love never dries up unless you let it. Love never runs out even if someone turns their back on it. Love waits for your to pour it on life as freely as you wish.

I am realizing more and more each day how time spent in my kitchen is good for my soul. It's good for my mind because it gives me an escape from negative thoughts I may be having due to life or an onslaught of anxiety caused by PTSD. I was told by a dear hippie friend in the early 70's the importance of cooking with love, and focusing on how the food will bless those who eat it. It made sense to me and I've never forgotten it. I do not cook when I'm angry. I can't. I grew up to become a hippie, too. I always cook with Love.

If you're having a rough time finding joy this holiday season, try making a batch of cookies for a group home or a shelter. Sprinkle the ingredients with mental love. Try this with everything you cook or bake even if it's just some scrambled eggs for yourself. You will taste the love and your body will feel the love, too.

Here's a quick and easy main dish that looks festive and tastes great!! It's a Woodstock Lily original.

Happy Apples and Sausage

Slice up a package of smoked sausage, 1 large sweet onion, 2-3 apples [don't peel but remove seeds], and 1 large red pepper. You may also add chopped yams or sweet potatoes. I prefer yams because they have more nutritional value than a sweet potato does. Drizzle the mixture with olive oil, salt and pepper to taste. Add some fresh oregano and a sprig of rosemary if you have it and bake at 350 degrees until nicely browned. Stir occasionally while baking. You may also add a nice touch of color and flavor the last 5 minutes with some dried cranberries. The options are endless with a dish like this. Be brave. Cooking is an adventure. Sprinkle it with LOVE and enjoy!

Next time you're preparing a meal, put the tea kettle on.

Make a nice cup of Black Cherry Tea and think of me.

I'll be smiling and sending you some love.