Blessed by Family and Baby Bear Stew

It has been a really great experience reflecting on the legacy of my family this past week through the posts about Baby Bear Stew. Not just reflecting with amazing food and recipes, but the legacy of tradition, togetherness, and love. It is a joy to have the privilege to be in a family that enjoys being together, loves caring for one another in unique and creative ways, and loves to carry on family traditions.

It only makes sense if my first reflection is the way my family was always prepared to have a few extra people at the table. And I know that this tradition was not just a result of an excess of food (which was usually the reality at every meal), but an overflow of love.  Now when I cook, I have the same problem of preparing more than enough and can’t seem to figure out how to just cook for two. And we seem to always have an abundance of cookies and treats as well, just in case someone stops by or we have to go to someone’s house.

Now not only did we have lots of adopted friends who became like family members as well as unplanned visitors, my family has always loved hosting parties too.  There is a joy that comes with inviting people into your house and your world to love them by hosting, cooking, and entertaining.  And that tradition has been passed down from generations to me and my sisters. That is why the Baby Bear Stew Cookbook is so handy, because it is rich and full of love, good food, and memories.

Lastly I want to touch on the creativity that exudes from the legacy of my family.  People didn’t just get together and write books or cookbooks as often as they do now.  But years ago, my family decided to print and distribute the Baby Bear Stew Cookbook to share the love of our family with others.  I can think of countless memories and creative ways we used this cookbook to give gifts and bless others to share love, compassion, kindness, and generosity.

I want to continue on the legacy of creativity, generosity, love, hospitality, and selflessness.  Family heritage and stories can bring such splendid memories for one’s own family but these stories and memories also need to be shared with others.  Stories and people are the best way to share and spread love.

What in your family has been passed down that you want to share with others?