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Make your own family recipe book

What does it mean to leave a legacy? When people we love pass away, they leave us with memories, but they often leave us with tangible gifts, too. Those may come in the form of family photo albums, letters, or journals. If we’re lucky, they leave behind important traditions that stick with our families for generations.

Food has a way of bringing people together … during times of great happiness, celebration, or even sadness. On the landmark days in our lives – the ones that stick strongly in our memories – we can often recall the meals we shared and who we shared them with. And many of us can remember the special dishes our parents or grandparents prepared for us. In my family, it was Grandma’s bread rolls that signified togetherness and warmth. We could smell them baking on Christmas morning, and we’d slather them with butter and strawberry jam before opening presents. My first memory in the kitchen was standing on a stool at Grandma’s side, watching as she pulled perfectly uniform balls of dough through her fingers, and attempting to copy her technique with my own untrained hands. Still, today, long since my grandmother has passed away, baking bread is my small way of filling my home with comfort and love. I look to her techniques as I learn new recipes and try to perfect old ones. Always, when I bake bread, I think about her, and I imagine myself as a child, standing on a stool and breathing in the importance of that moment.

The history of recipes in my family contributes to occasions big and small. When we make the same oatmeal cookie recipe we’ve been making forever, we talk about how I prefer them with only chocolate chips, Mom and Dad prefer them with chocolate chips and raisins, and my aunt prefers only raisins. (She once told us she doesn’t like that she can’t tell, by sight, the difference between the raisins and the chocolate chips.) When we make spaghetti sauce (an old “recipe” which includes almost no exact measurements), we talk about how different members of our family have adapted the sugar content over the years. New traditions have formed over time, as well – traditions that I’ll pass down to my children someday. Our favorite gingerbread cookie recipe is reserved for the day after Thanksgiving. Our meatless barbecue sandwich recipe is best served on football game days. And individual homemade pizzas are the perfect activity for bringing a new boyfriend or girlfriend home for the first time.

The importance of recording and remembering these recipes can be enormous in creating a lasting legacy for the people we love. Now, at the beginning of a time of year when food is at the center of practically all we do, we recommend starting to collect and share your family’s most important food memories. This can be an easy or difficult task, depending upon the records that already exist within your family. In mine, we were lucky that most of our favorite recipes had already been recorded. Some of them, like the spaghetti sauce, were rather vague, and we’ve worked together to determine measurements on our own. All we needed to do was make a detailed list, organize the recipes, and compile them. My mom made my siblings and me the most incredible Christmas gift when she pulled all of our family recipes into a single-bound book with space for future additions. In other families, the best chefs among you may not keep detailed notes about the dishes they make. In these cases, your interviewing skills will become most useful. Ask your family member if he or she would be willing to attempt to record a detailed recipe for you, or even watch the next time they make the dish and record the recipe yourself. It might take some work, but chances are the results will be worth the effort for you and your family.

If you’re collecting recipes into a book as my mom did, you can find resources for getting started at the following links. These make wonderful gifts that will be treasured for years to come.

  • Making a cookbook using Microsoft Word – This Instructables tutorial walks you through how to format and organize a recipe book without special software.
  • How to update old recipes – Older recipes sometimes contain ingredients or processes that are rarely used in modern kitchens. This blog post contains some great tips for using old recipes today.

We recommend also saving a digital version of your collection in case the hard copies are lost or destroyed. (Any regular cook has spilled sauce on or burned the pages of at least one recipe book in the past.) My mom turned each recipe into a file that was uploaded to an online sharing space. Now everybody in my family can access all of our recipes even when we're not at home.

Finally, while there’s certainly something to be said for updating old recipes to make them novice-friendly, there’s also something to be said for paying homage to the originals: the old stained notecards on which Grandma’s beautiful penmanship lists all ingredients in “pinches” and “scoops.” Scanning and digitizing these mementos in the same way you would old photos and printing or saving them will ensure that the character that accompanied the recipe isn’t lost forever.

06 Nov, 2024
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06 Nov, 2024
Cremation has become an increasingly popular choice for handling a loved one's remains. Its flexibility, lower cost, and eco-friendly nature appeal to many people. However, deciding on cremation is only the first step. A common question that follows is, "What are the cemetery options for cremated remains?" Whether you're planning ahead for yourself or making arrangements for a loved one, it’s essential to understand the various options available. Here’s a guide to help you explore the different cemetery options for cremation: Columbarium Niches A columbarium is a structure designed to hold urns containing cremated remains. It is often located within cemeteries or churches. These structures typically have designated niches where urns are stored. Families can choose from a variety of niche options, including single, companion (for two urns), or family-sized niches. Why Choose This Option? Allows family members to visit a specific place. Niches can be personalized with plaques or engravings. A good option for those seeking a permanent, above-ground resting place. Cremation Gardens Many cemeteries now offer dedicated cremation gardens, beautifully landscaped areas where cremated remains can be interred. These gardens often have various options such as individual plots, communal scattering areas, or urn vaults. Why Choose This Option? These gardens provide a serene and natural setting. Aesthetic appeal for those who prefer being surrounded by nature. Multiple memorialization options available (plaques, markers, etc.). Urn Burial (In-Ground Burial) For families who prefer a more traditional approach, cremated remains can be buried in the ground, similar to casket burials. Urn burials usually take place in designated cremation sections of a cemetery, and many cemeteries offer urn vaults to protect the urn. Why Choose This Option? Allows for a traditional cemetery plot and grave marker. Offers the permanence and tradition of an in-ground burial with a smaller environmental footprint. Family members can easily visit and tend to the gravesite. Scattering Ceremony If your loved one requested their remains be scattered in a specific location, you always have the option to host a scattering ceremony with your loved ones. Why choose this option? Can be of importance to the deceased and become a location you and your family can visit. Very personal experience. Lowest cost option. Cremation offers a wide range of cemetery options that allow families to memorialize their loved ones in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Whether it’s a columbarium niche, a peaceful cremation garden, or an eco-friendly green burial, there are options for every preference and budget. When making this decision, consider what feels most meaningful to you and your family, keeping in mind the lasting tribute you want to leave for future generations.
06 Nov, 2024
Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences a person can face. The grieving process is personal and unique, often accompanied by feelings of shock, confusion, and overwhelming sadness. However, amidst these emotions, certain practical steps must be taken in the immediate aftermath to ensure that legal and personal matters are handled appropriately. Here is a guide to help you navigate the first steps after a loved one passes away. Take Time to Process the Loss The first and most crucial step is to allow yourself a moment to process the loss. Experiencing a range of emotions is entirely normal, and you may need to reach out for support from family, friends, or even professionals. Notify Close Family and Friends Begin by informing immediate family members and close friends about the passing. Contact the Appropriate Authorities If your loved one passed away at home, you will need to contact the appropriate authorities to confirm the death. A medical professional will need to declare the death and provide a formal pronouncement, which is necessary for obtaining a death certificate. Arrange for Transportation of the Body After the death is confirmed, you will need to arrange for the body to be transported to a funeral home or crematory. If your loved one had pre-arranged plans for their final arrangements, follow those instructions. If not, you will need to choose a funeral home yourself. The funeral home staff can guide you through the initial steps, including the transportation of your loved one. Obtain the Death Certificate A death certificate is a legal document that officially confirms the death of your loved one. You will need multiple copies of the death certificate for various purposes, such as settling the estate, closing accounts, and accessing benefits. The funeral home often assists in obtaining this document, but you can also request it from your local vital records office. Review Existing Wishes or Pre-Arrangements If your loved one left behind a will, living trust, or other pre-arrangements, it’s important to locate these documents early in the process. They may contain instructions for funeral or memorial arrangements, as well as information about the handling of the estate. The existence of these plans can provide guidance during a difficult time and help prevent disagreements among family members. Notify Key Parties and Institutions Begin notifying key parties about the death. Here are some of the individuals and institutions you may need to inform: Employer : Notify your loved one’s employer if they were still working. They may need to process final payments, pensions, or other employment-related matters. Insurance Companies : Contact life insurance companies to begin the claim process. Social Security Office : Notify the Social Security Administration if your loved one was receiving benefits. Banks and Financial Institutions : Inform banks, investment firms, and any other financial institutions about the death to freeze accounts and prevent fraudulent activity. Utilities and Subscription Services : Gradually contact utilities, credit card companies, and other subscription services to close accounts or change billing information. Plan the Funeral or Memorial Service The funeral or memorial service is a meaningful opportunity to honor your loved one’s life. You may choose a traditional funeral, a private memorial, or another type of gathering that reflects their wishes and personality. Collaborate with other family members to determine how you would like to proceed and reach out to a funeral home to help coordinate the arrangements. If your loved one expressed specific desires for their service, do your best to respect those wishes. Begin Settling the Estate The process of settling your loved one’s estate can be complicated, depending on the size and complexity of their assets. If there is a will, it typically designates an executor who is responsible for managing the estate. The executor will need to: Locate Assets and Debts : Identify all assets, debts, and accounts in your loved one’s name. File the Will : File the will with the local probate court if required. Work with an Attorney : You may want to hire an estate attorney to assist with probate and legal matters, especially if the estate is large or contains unique assets. Pay Debts and Taxes : Use estate funds to pay off debts, taxes, and other obligations. The passing of a loved one is a extremely difficult experience that requires both emotional and practical steps. By notifying family, making appropriate arrangements, securing necessary documents, and seeking support, you can take care of the most immediate responsibilities while giving yourself space to grieve. Remember that you do not need to navigate this journey alone; lean on those who care about you, and seek help when needed. This process is not easy, but step by step, you can honor your loved one’s memory while finding a way forward.
06 Nov, 2024
A funeral is a deeply personal and emotional event, a time to honor and celebrate a loved one’s life. While traditional ceremonies often provide comfort, adding personal touches can create a unique and meaningful experience that reflects the individuality of the person being remembered. In this blog, we’ll explore ways to personalize a funeral service, ensuring it feels like a true celebration of life while providing solace to friends and family. 1. Incorporate Personal Stories and Memories One of the simplest yet most meaningful ways to personalize a funeral service is by sharing stories and memories. Invite family members, friends, and colleagues to speak about the deceased. These anecdotes not only highlight their personality, values, and life experiences but also provide comfort to those attending, reminding everyone of the positive impact the person had on others. Consider creating a memory jar or book where guests can write down their favorite memories or messages. These can be kept as a lasting tribute for the family. 2. Create a Visual Tribute Photos and videos are powerful reminders of a person’s journey through life. A slideshow or video montage can be played during the service, featuring moments from childhood, family gatherings, significant achievements, and cherished adventures. Music that was meaningful to the person can play in the background to evoke deeper emotional connections. You could also set up photo displays or memory boards throughout the venue, allowing guests to view and reflect on different aspects of the deceased’s life. 3. Curate a Personalized Playlist Music plays a significant role in setting the tone for a funeral service. Instead of sticking to traditional hymns or classical pieces, create a playlist that reflects the musical tastes and favorite songs of your loved one. Whether it’s a favorite genre, an artist they loved, or songs that marked key moments in their life, these selections can add a deeply personal layer to the ceremony. 4. Display Personal Mementos Displaying personal items that were important to your loved one is a great way to add a personal touch to the service. These could include: Hobbies and interests: Display items related to their hobbies, such as sports memorabilia, instruments, books, or art supplies. Clothing or accessories: A favorite jacket, hat, or scarf can be displayed or even worn by close family members as a tribute. Awards and achievements: If they were passionate about their career, community work, or a special cause, displaying awards or recognitions can highlight their accomplishments and the impact they had on others. 5. Encourage Participation Encouraging guests to participate in the service can make the experience more interactive and heartfelt. Invite attendees to contribute readings, poems, or songs that remind them of the deceased. This collaborative approach brings together diverse perspectives and personal connections, creating a sense of unity in honoring the individual. 6. Virtual Memorial for Distant Guests In today’s digital age, a virtual memorial allows people who are unable to attend in person to be part of the service. You can live-stream the funeral or hold a separate online gathering where friends and family can share memories and pay their respects from afar. This ensures that everyone who cared for the deceased can participate, regardless of location. Personalizing a funeral service is about honoring the unique qualities of the person who has passed and creating a meaningful, reflective space for friends and family to grieve, celebrate, and remember. Whether through music, mementos, or shared stories, these special touches can transform a standard service into a lasting tribute that reflects the spirit of the loved one. By focusing on what made your loved one truly special, you can create a service that not only commemorates their life but also brings comfort to those who are grieving, allowing everyone to come together in a meaningful celebration of life.
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