Save your red sneakers!

It’s funny how one image can bring back so many memories. As I was looking through pictures for this week, I caught a glimpse of my red sneakers. As a child, I loved them. As soon as I saw that picture, I flashed back to my Grandpa Z telling me not to go into the garden as it was muddy and I would ruin my shoes. I didn’t listen, and he did his best to clean up my sneakers before my mother got home. I don’t remember what happened after that, but I think my Grandpa was right…those sneakers were ruined. Despite the sad sneaker story, I wanted to share a little about my Aunt Marcia. Uncle Bud and Aunt Marcia got married a bit later than the rest of my Mom’s siblings, and I remember that wedding as Uncle Bud (I called him Uncle Buzz) and I were buddies. Part of their wedding reception (the after party I think) was in our garage- I remember watching everyone dancing. I was spying on them through the kitchen door. Aunt Marcia introduced all sorts of wonderful jello treats into our family. One of our favorites was jello surprise—you know the one that had the bits of pretzels in it. I think that was my first introduction to the sweet/salty combination. Aunt Marcia also introduced zucchini to the family. I was chatting with my mom recently and she remembered having zucchini bread for the first time, courtesy of Aunt Marcia. I still use that same recipe from Aunt Marcia when I make zucchini bread. Words of wisdom for this week—heed words of advice from your elders, as it may save your sneakers or something more important.  Take some time this week to share some love with your family!