This is a day of rememberance of those who fought for our freedom.  Today, I was saddened to hear from Bob Oakes on NPR that one of every four homeless people in New England is a veteran.  There are many ways to help the homeless year-round.  This is a good time to get started and continue throughout the year.  Some of the ways to help were mentioned earlier in Sweet Tooth.

I remember my grandfathers (grandpa:  Sonny/Cyril and Zaida-Jack) constantly throughout my daily life.  Sometimes it’s a piece of music, usually a violin solo or an aria that takes me back and I can hear my grandfather’s voice humming or singing along.  Sometimes it’s a scent; someone walks by and leaves a floating scent of aftershave that reminds me of Zaida.  Other times it’s a snack.  My grandfather’s lived an ocean apart and were very different people, but they were both grand in their own way and lived a life so different from anything I will know or experience.  They both fought in wars that sound like tales from “fantasy” lands ages away.  I don’t think anyone can imagine what it is like no matter how much you read or see on the news.  But I don’t remember them for their wars.  They had my respect, love and awe for who they were more than what they did.  It’s the moments sharing a meal together that I remember most.  I remember feeling so important doing my “job” making fresh squeezed orange juice for breakfast.  Whether I was five or sixteen it still felt as important and special.  One thing that always reminds me of my Zaida is bananas on toast.  I sometimes have it for breakfast, it’s a great snack, and on “just one of those days” it’s a perfect dinner.

Adding fruit to a savory snack is a simple way to brighten a meal.  There is something so delicious about a warm buttered piece of toast with a cool, sweet banana on top.  Now if you’re one of those banana-phobes then try something else.  I just had a conversation with my daughter about why some people just don’t like bananas.  It’s just a very distinct strong flavour.  Then try a slice of apple with cheddar or add clementines to a salad.  Strawberries are on sale at Market Basket this week they are great on cereal, in yoghurt, and even in salad with a little balsamic vinegar.

Enjoy this beautiful fall day.  Reflect on those that you are remembering in whichever way feel right for you.

Bon appetit.  ttyl your BFF (Boston Family Foodie)

For more info: Pie in the Sky, Community Servings
Home Sweet Home,  Cambridge Housing Assistance Fund
Thank Local Thank Local, On The Rise