My mom and grandmothers' have always told me that the quickest way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Cooking, especially in the South, is a way of life and brings us all closer together. I guess it is safe to conclude that food is a universal language. Don't believe me? Next time you want something from a parent or friend, try giving them a slice of cake and watch how that "no" quickly turns into a "yes." Every Sunday after church, my family gathers around the table to enjoy a good Southern, home-cooked meal.
This past Sunday, I had the opportunity to share a delicious meal with my family and a few of my friends came over to join in on the fun. On the menu was macaroni and cheese, baked chicken, fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread, corn on the cob, black eyed peas, fried apples, strawberry cake, and caramel pound cake. Is your mouth watering because it should be. Grandma and Momma took their time to carefully put the right ingredients and measurements into making Sunday's menu. Everyone gathered around the table, held hands, bowed their heads, while my father blessed the food. As soon as he said, "Amen" everyone grabbed a plate and went straight for the stove. There wasn't a single person who did not get everything on their plate. Everyone ate in silence and the only sound that was heard was the fork hitting the plate. After everyone had at least one plate, it was time for seconds and this is when the conversations began. Momma says you know the food is good when everyone is silent the first time around. Laughs and stories about Aunt Joy spread around the table and the latest 'gossip' about family and questions about school were among the conversations at the table. We all can agree that a family that eats together will stay together.
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