In the kitchen with Granny

These are probably some of the happiest memories for me, in the kitchen with my beloved Granny. Granny never complained when I was around and was always so very happy to teach me anything and everything.

I did not have very much vision when Granny was alive, but nevertheless she never made me feel as if my lack of sight was a problem. I would help her to chop vegetables, mix ingredients in the large bowls, and the best of all, I helped her in my own way at Christmas to make the Christmas cake and other types of holiday goodies. I was probably one of her favorite tasters.

I would turn on the radio while we were in the kitchen and she and I would listen to the soap operas together. She would read the papers to me while she worked, half of her attention focused on me and the other half on her task at hand. She and I would chat for hours at a time about anything and everything and she never stopped describing things to me.

Granny was my eyes in those days. She even taught me how to write and, boy, what a great and patient teacher she was. She even taught me how to tie my laces and all of this was done in the kitchen. Granny never seemed to tire of my questions and concerns and I never tired of her advice, suggestions, and questions.

Whenever I smell the baking of cookies, I think of Granny, and whenever I smell those wafting stews and curry dishes, Granny comes walking into my memory. Ah yes! My beloved Granny in the kitchen.

I’m Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day and urging you to go out there and share my thoughts with others. Visit www.nfb.org to learn more.