Neckbones

    
I was recently discussing  the angel contributions I made with my Santa. As we both thought of our childhood desires around food and food privilege, we talked of meals we seldom eat, but bring us good memories.  I mentioned neckbones.

Later that day, he came home with what he called "then and now" meals. He brought Neckbones and a Duck.
My grandmother used to make excellent neckbones. She boiled hers.
It made the whole house warm.

I decided to cook them on a Sunday, because It would rain and I could take all day.
I didn't have stove top space to boil Collards, pintos,and neckbones all at the same time, so I braised them in a Dutch oven.
They came out cooked to perfection.
As we sat and ate, I felt like my Big Mama was right there. I felt like she was smiling and hugging me. I felt her assurance and acceptance with each bite.  It felt good.

As my son tried them for the first time, we spoke of our heritage and tradition. I told him that many cultures honor their ancestors with food and meals.

One day, I hope his children will remember me by my best meals, and feel my love on a rainy day.

I remembrance of Susie Mae Dunson.  Abundance Always.

Bliss