Grandpa Sandwich

Ask anyone that knows me and they'll tell you I'm not the emotional sort - not given to outward bursts of emotions and certainly not overly sentimental.  Truly, however, I am both of those things at heart.  Growing up I was taught that those things weren't "good" or "wanted" so I have learned to wall myself off from outward displays, but deep down, my roots are what they are and I love how I am.

My grandparents both passed away many years ago - my grandmother on Christmas Eve of 1986 and my grandfather shortly after the 4th of July, 1990.  Growing up I have many, many fond memories of them - especially my grandfather whom I loved more than anything. 

My grandfather and grandmother at their wedding

They were a wonderful couple - through everything in all their time together loved each other with all their hearts

So many of my meals you don't see me posting about have roots in what they cooked for me when I was little.  One of my favorite breakfasts is something my grandfather used to make me:  cottage cheese and sour cream mixed together with a little sugar.   Or bananas and sour cream.  I get such strange looks when I mention it to people but to me that is the ultimate comfort food.

My grandfather on the left, his brother on the right, 1990

This morning was one of those mornings that I had a warm flashback of something my grandfather would make for me, and then let me make him when I lived with him the last year of his life.  Simple, but to me, comforting, a bagel with sharp cheddar, tomatoes and a little butter.

Doesn't look like much, but to me it brings my whole childhood back - and gives me pause to think of my grandparents fondly.  And in turn, share that love with you.

Are there foods that bring you back in time?