Sunday Pancakes

Okay, this story isn't really about pancakes, but rather family traditions and routines we all cherish. For those of you who have stayed with us previously, our Sunday tradition is typically to serve our popular Creme Brulee French Toast. It's definitely the most requested recipe of any dish we serve.

This story is about little things people can look forward to and enjoy in these busy times. We just returned from a trip to California to visit our daughter and son-in-law, family and friends. We pack a lot of socializing (and eating) into a week and we love every minute of it! There's one family friend that I've known since I was a teenager and we always make a point of visiting with her. She's now in her 90's, lives on her own in the same house and still a bundle of energy. Quick witted with a bounce to her step that is quite impressive at her age.

As we visited, she shared stories of her travels of when her husband was alive and the neighbors that still live on the street. Clearly everyone on the block keeps on eye on her and help as they can. She's always interested in what's happening at the Inn and the breakfasts we prepare. She shared that she usually only eats oatmeal and raisins for breakfast (maybe those oatmeal commercials are on target -- she's in her 90's!!!). But every Sunday she treats herself by cooking pancakes, bacon and coffee. She'll prepare a nice dinner each Sunday evening as well. At that moment I realized how important those weekly rituals are... to treat yourself to something special... to take care of yourself... to look forward to another Sunday with pancakes.

Her house is always immaculate with a nice sparkling pool in back. Bill asked if she still swims and she responded with bright eyes and a smile, 'yep, I took a dip just last month'. In the next breath she confided that her dip was a little unexpected as she reached for something at the edge of the pool, lost her balance and fell in! Not only that, it was the deep end! Then she chuckled that she made her way to the shallow end and managed to get out. With no one in sight, she peeled off the wet layers and likely walked into her house regally, like nothing had happened. Our dear friend definitely has a sense of humor.

So in closing, think about the little things you look forward to each week. Then promise to never stop doing them. And when you can, take a little time to help a neighbor who lives alone, a senior citizen without family, or actually hand-write a note to someone you haven't seen in a long time. Those moments will last a lifetime.