SUNDAY

As I am getting dressed at 10:00 in the morning on Sunday, my stomach is growling and the only thing that I can think of is how hungry I am. I try not to go in the kitchen because I know once I open the refrigerator; I will fill my belly with junk food that will spoil my taste buds for the big dinner this evening. The least favorite part about today is that I actually have to help prepare the food. When I was younger, I had to do nothing but taste test! Now I have to cook my famous Mac-N-Cheese as my ma calls it. It’s a simple recipe but she can never seem to get it quite like mine! Noodles, cheddar and mozzarella cheese, a cup of milk mixed with one egg is all you need.

I finally arrive at my parent’s house at noon. I have to stay on their strict schedule in order for the food to be ready in time, by the time every one arrives (Sisters, nieces & Nephews). We usually celebrate with immediately family on smaller holidays, unlike Thanksgiving. When I walk in I feel scorching heat like I am arriving in Las Vegas in the summer or something. It’s the oven that’s been on, all night cooking the big juicy Turkey and the three pound ham that’s covered in cloves. There is the Oldies music station playing in the kitchen and I hear the T.V. in the backroom, most Sunday dinners consist of either a football or basketball game day. The counters are filled with ingredients from olives to cabbage. I try to mentally prepare myself for the long day ahead of grouchiness just because everyone hungry and they don’t want to wait (no patients!). Actually now that I think about it, I’m full before the food is even ready. Since I am in the kitchen, I get the opportunity to sneak bites here and there, filling me up unknowingly!

The feast is DONE! Everyone is here. Telling jokes about everyday life and catching up. The dining table is set. We have 10 entrees laid across lined up as if it were a buffet (Ham, Turkey, Mac, Cabbage soup, Deviled eggs, Potato salad, Mac-N-Cheese, Baked Beans, Greens, and lastly yams!) A whole day’s work went into this delicious feast. Not only do we cook, we create memories and keep our family Sunday dinners going week after week!