After 12 years as the Working Mom columnist, this old mom is retiring from writing this article. There are no specific reasons to share other than my son is now 22 years old and I am hoping there is a mom out there with smaller children and a busy home and work life who wants to take over as the Working Mom 2.0 (smile).
What a ride! It has been very therapeutic and rewarding to share my antidotes and family humor through this column. From having my husband’s friends ask me to continue to write about him or readers say they scan the Journal for my column each week, this little writing career has brought so much joy over the years. I can vividly remember seeing the advertisement that the paper was looking for a food column writer and remember my written entry being about how all of the working moms on the bus from Mayo Clinic to their home were on the phone with family talking about what to take out for supper, what was in the crockpot, or where they were stopping for groceries to prepare supper. For many busy moms, it is a never-ending chore; with their tired feet and mind they start the nightly ritual of providing food for their family but, if you are that wife that has a husband that cooks, count your blessings!
To make this very clear for all who have asked, my husband has a slim recipe list consisting of a mean grilled cheese, frozen pizza, or boiled ring bologna but doesn’t include a “recipe” for grilling out, unless you don’t mind a ¼ inch of char on your food. Cooking is not in his wheelhouse, BUT, thankfully, all outdoor house and lawn maintenance, carpentry, and all other outdoor upkeep IS his “thing” and I would rather take a sharp stick in the eye than be asked to take over his chores—so, thanks honey, I will cook.
Thanks to all of you who have stopped me to say you tried a recipe in my column or can relate to my rants about family, husbands, or children. I have found many kindred spirits through this column and am thankful for the love of talking food and how it brings people together. With today’s social media influence and food videos, it is humbling to know how many people still read their local paper, which is a real testament to the Fillmore County Journal team and their support of the local communities. I will forever be grateful for my time as the Working Mom columnist and, who knows, maybe our paths will cross again. Hey, did I hear that they need an official burger taster for Fillmore County? If the rumor is true (wink), I’ll dust off my computer and be back in a flash! Take care everyone and get that supper on the table.
Signing off with one of my favorite recipes: The Recipe for Happiness.