About the Author
Everything Has Its Place; Even on My Plate!
As a kid, I did not like my food touching on my plate. My mac and cheese had no business touching my collard greens or rice! And in case you are wondering whether my food touches now that I am an adult, the answer is absolutely not.
On Thanksgiving or any other holiday, I reach for the divided plates. Better yet, I will volunteer to bring the paper products myself!
So, parents, if your child is not eating, it might not be because they dislike the food. Sometimes, it is simply because the food is touching—or gravy, ketchup, or another runny condiment has wandered into something they wanted to keep separate. Ask them. A divided plate might make a difference!
“All shut eyes ain’t sleep.”
Be careful what you do when you think no one is watching. Just because someone’s eyes are closed does not mean they are asleep—or unaware of what is going on.
Someone may notice more than you realize. It could be someone you know, or someone who knows someone who knows you. This is a very small world!
Gullah Geechee Recipe
Charleston Chewies | Yield: 16 chewies
Ingredients
½ stick (¼ cup) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing the pan
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 large egg, lightly beaten
¾ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter an 8-inch square baking pan.
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
Add the brown sugar and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth. Stir in the beaten egg.
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Fold the flour mixture into the brown sugar mixture, then fold in the pecans, if using.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is soft but no longer wet.
Let cool completely, then sift confectioners’ sugar over the top. Cut into 16 squares.