Her Apron

I am baking a home-made, chocolate birthday cake for my son-in-law in Denise's apron today. Each time I put this apron on, I am inspired by her enthusiasm for cooking, not ordinary things, but delicious and exotic meals. Her spice rack was a journey through the world. She had them all....and used them all.

This green and white striped apron, with all the smudges and stains, brings Denise back to me. While we visited Joe and Denise during her last weeks, I knew she would never wear the apron again. So I asked Joe if I could have it as a memento of Denise. He thought I was crazy, but nothing says Denise to me like her apron. It is a symbol for me to always try my best because she always did.

I love her and her work ethic. She never settled for the ordinary, and wearing this apron challenges me to be a better cook. Cholly and I have enjoyed some of my finest meals, thanks to the apron. I am online now, looking for a recipe for French onion soup. I've never attempted it before, but I have many onions in the cupboard and instead of letting them go to waste, I thought.....what would Denise do? You know she wouldn't throw them out. She was very frugal.

Your grateful sister-in-law.
Bridget