I feel the need to write about goodness and kindness this week. I’ve not forgotten the angst. I’m well aware of the mayhem. I write letters, make phone calls and attended the rally. Trying to make sense of all the angles of every piece of news. But in the midst of all the chaos, I sometimes need to sit back and simply focus on the good, especially in my own sphere. To me, that comes in the form of thinking about my family.
I was 19 when she arrived. My sister’s first child. My first opportunity to be Aunt Mary. She would later be joined by a sister and a brother. Worry not, I’ll write about them later. This is the first of a three-part series!
Within a few years, Angela’s bright red, curly hair drew the attention of every clerk in every store. As did her effervescent personality. Her smile was infectious. It was then. It is now.
That darling little girl became a beautiful woman, both inside and out. If one believes in the birth order theory, as the first-born child she came into this world with a sense of responsibility, conscientiousness and reliability. I believe she carries all of those characteristics.
I don’t see her often enough. But I always know that if I needed her, she would be here. Quickly. She would get in her car, drive much too fast, and be here with her warm and loving arms wrapped around me.
Last month, I texted her, asking her to name a woman in history who has most inspired her. Within seconds I had a reply. Ina Garten.
I went directly to the library and found Be Ready When the Luck Happens, Ina Garten’s memoir published in 2024. It was available in audio, with the author telling her own story. I loved her voice describing her journey, moments of joy contentment and moments of stress and sorrow. How she became the great success she is today, told with humor and realism and charm. Offering some of her very favorite recipes along the way.
I didn’t know very much of Ina Garten’s life, other than the fact she is the Barefoot Contessa. I now understand that she is indeed a cultural icon.
Angela has most, if not all, of the Barefoot Contessa's cookbooks...and follows them exactly when preparing family dinners. She says that’s the key.
Angela also inherited so many of my mom’s culinary skills. She definitely channels her grandma. However, for many recipes, Grandma June never measured anything. A pinch or a bit was described as a measurement in many of the handwritten recipes we inherited.
One of Ina Garten’s remarkable talents is to make everything look easy. Angela does that also. Every dish/plate/menu created with class and grace. Meal planning and preparation, cooking, baking and presentation is an art form.
Angela loves being in the kitchen, or maybe I just think that because she looks so comfortable putting together a meal. A dinner is an event, especially when she sends the menu to her guests ahead of time. From outrageous brownies to an elegant charcuterie board, the plating is an artistic creation.
Lucky is the family or friend group with whom she shares her skills. I’ve never lived close enough to gain access to a seat at her table on a regular basis. I wish I did. Some of the family favorites are Ina’s biscuits and gravy, lasagna, mac & cheese, and of course, the desserts. Oh, the desserts. German chocolate two-layer cake, white two-layer cake with lemon filling, cheesecake, and dark chocolate cupcakes. Hungry? Doesn’t it make you want to drive to her house, knock on the door and see what’s on the table?
And speaking of their home. It is calm. Not calm because their children have grown and moved on to their brilliant lives. Calm because it is tastefully designed with the beauty and simplicity that creates an aura of peace and tranquility. And...it emanates love and happiness.
As Angela says, “The impact of my cooking & homemaking grounds me.”
Angela, if you are reading this, know that you could be related to Ina Garten. You share so many characteristics and qualities. However, I’m the lucky one. The goodness and kindness you bring to this world is a 5-star recipe for success. I love being your aunt!
Do what you love because if you love it, you’ll be really good at it;
swing for the fence; and always be ready when the luck happens.
-Ina Garten
