Growing up in Souther Indiana, my mother made sure that my brother Bob, my sister Kitty, and I learned the basics of cooking. Bob was the toughest as he didn’t like a great variety of food. This didn’t change until he spent four years in the US Marines. After that he would eat anything and everything. So, when we left home, we were prepared not to starve.
Martha’s mother ruled her kitchen. She was an excellent cook, but essentially did everything. When Martha and I got married, I assumed she would take care of the kitchen even though we were both employed, and she did take command.
Everything she prepared for us I complemented her for doing. And, she always said, “You are just saying that”. No, I wo9uld reply, if you really screw something up, I will let you know.
One day she prepared this dish, I think she started with round steak. It looked funny, and it smelled a little funny. I honestly tried to eat it but couldn’t. I said “I’m sorry” and set my plate on the floor next to me. Sam our dog came up, smelled it and walked away. Martha said, “Well I guess i have been told”.
Fortunately, by the time the kids arrived she was the best. I still miss her goulash, tuna casserole, crispy potatoes, roasts, pasta, cakes, pies, and all the other stuff she made, too numerous to list.
