KEEPER OF THE KEYS

I have recently been reminded of an old cookbook I bought in the late 70's titled "Laurel's Kitchen." Much of the cookbook I disregarded, as the recipes were really intended for a vegetarian lifestyle (of which I was not), and the authors were very much into meditation and guru's and the like.(which I also was not)
But there was one chapter that really impacted me called "The Keeper of the Keys".
The authors talked about the role of the woman in the home and how important that role was.

I began asking myself if I take the role of wife, mommy, and homemaker seriously, or am I just playing house. For years I thought that Hamburger Helper and a can of green beans was putting a decent meal on the table. (those that know me now would think that is the biggest joke!!!)

After I got saved in 1978, the Lord began changing my priorities and slowly, over the years, I became the woman I am today.

But this journey is far from over!

In the past 10 years alone I took piano lessons, learned to knit, taught myself to sew, planted my 1st real veggie garden, ran 2 5k races, got my 1st brood of chickens, homeschooled my children, buried both my parents, my father-in-law, my step-father and my only sister.

I have moved out of my "comfort zone" in the kitchen. I now crave foods I had never before even heard of!
Indian cuisine. Mediterranean foods. Meatless entrees!

Veggies like kale, chard, eggplant, and rutabagas are now on my weekly shopping list!
(3 years ago I couldn't point out a rutabaga if my life depended on it!)

Now what lies ahead for this "keeper of the keys"?
Not completely sure, but I think I have some ideas.

I have been asked to teach a cooking class on frugal cooking from the garden.
I will be starting a new blog for my local CSA in the next few weeks, focusing on using what's new in the garden that week.
My grandson, who has been living with us for the past 20 months, will finally be going home to his mom, so I will have a whole lot of time to pursue other interests.
A new batch of hens will be arriving in the next few days.
The gardens will get some extra attention.
My bicycle will come down from the garage storage area, and I will be getting some much needed exercise!

I DO know that I will spend very little time watching the news, or TV in general.
I have been accused of burying my head in the sand by those I love.
No matter.
I have peace of mind when I lay my head down at night.
My mind is NOT filled with the latest murder, abduction, rape, stock market numbers, or serial killers.
I see enough to keep me informed, but no more.

Most important of all, will "the heart of my husband safely trust me"?
And will my children "rise up and call me blessed?"

The keeper of the keys...my journey continues.