I grew up in the Canadian Prairies, known for its flatness, golden wheat fields, amazing sunsets and the best ever, view of the Aurora Borealis. 

​

My mother's parents were homesteaders. They had a quarter section in D'Arcy Saskatchewan. Not a big farm but it was theirs to work. They had come from Europe where they were not welcome but they made a home for themselves on the prairies and earned the respect of their neighbors. They were active members of the community whose residents were Finnish immigrants (except for the 2 English families). And despite the fact that they were the only Jews within a 60 mile radius, they kept their traditions.

​

My grandparents grew everything they ate. They sowed wheat and raised animals and when the growing season was over, they preserved everything. Jams, jellies, vegetables, fruit, meat, wine and beer.

 

My grandmother Sarah could not read, but she was known for making the most delicious food "out of nothing" - a few simple ingredients here and there. This way of life was passed down to my mother and a little of it trickled down to me. I like to grow things and I don't like to waste food.

​

The recipes included here are some of my childhood favorites. Some are my grandmother's original recipes transcribed by my mother. Others, are more recent - within the last 70 years - and include many cakes and pastries. 

 

I am grateful that I grew up in this place. 

​

With respect to all those who came before us.