meals and memories

When my niece was turning twenty one she asked me if I would make her an 'Aunty Julie cookbook' as our present to her for her birthday.  I have always loved cooking and especially for others.  I was very excited, what a wonderful gift to create.  I have also always loved that people love to come to our home for the cooking, its a very special feeling.  As my brother says "you always know you're going to get a good feed at Aunty Julies".

I got working on it never expecting it to take so long - her birthday was the end of last year - that's the embarrassing part.  The thing is, I didn't know when to stop.  I wanted to have pictures of our family through all the years, stories of special occasions, traditions that we have maintained and little hints, tips and quotes.  I'm so happy with how it's turned out, although the more I think, the more I could add.  

I find myself sitting, flicking through the pages, looking at the pictures and the memories each and every one bring back.  I have laughed and I have cried.  I 've been happy and I've been sad.  I feel privileged that someone wants to share these times.  

And now, the orders are flowing in!

One hundred and forty six pages and over eleven thousand words later, its done.  Some final touches to the cover and assembling, is all that's left.  Hopefully this will be done in the next few days.

Soon I can show you the happy face of one very special young lady who had such a wonderful idea!

Have a lovely day and don't forget to make some memories :)