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Writer's pictureDragana Krstic

...with cup of tea and grandmas cookies

A package arrived today from mom and dad.


My dad returned few days ago in Michigan from his travels to Serbia. He immediately sent me a package for Arizona; favorite cookies that my grandma made and packaged for me. Something like vanilice (similar to mexican/italian wedding cookies), filled with walnuts cream and dusted with sugar-powder. Super delish and not overly sweet. Even creative to make.



Almost 10,400 km of travel, the cookies survived after such a long journey to reach me: Serbia - Michigan - Arizona. They are very tasty and perfect with chamomile tea for breakfast or after dinner. The cookies made my day and inspired me to write this journal. Remembering, how much this big gesture made me appreciate the little things in life overall.

My grandmother celebrated her 90th birthday in October. She is on my father's side of the family. During my childhood, I gained a wealth of cooking knowledge from her in the kitchen. Currently, she has 12 grandchildren, the majority of whom reside in Serbia. We consider ourselves fortunate to have her in our lives. I have vivid memories of our time together when we lived in Kosovo. She took care of many of us, imparting essential survival skills through activities like tending the garden, working outdoors, grinding flour, and baking bread. Single mother at a very young age, she successfully raised four children. As I write this, I am filled with gratitude for her resilience in the face of life's challenges. How gracefully she adapted to all the changes life brought her way. Perhaps one day I will delve deeper into her story, but first, I need her permission and, of course, the recipe for those cookies :-). Despite not having seen each other for 9 years, I am soon traveling to Serbia, where we will reunite with smiles, sharing stories and enjoying a table laden with festive dishes.

I love you Baba

See you soon!


Yes, lately I have been longing for my grandparents and ancestors. I occasionally have dreams with my grand grandpha, whom I had a special connection with. He was from my moms side. When he passed away in 2019, he came into my dream, holding my hand and telling me that my journey continues and whatever my heart desires to do it will become. Very kind, giving and always smile on his face. He was very known and respected dentist in Detroit area. One thing he would always criticize was food. He would try all the foods, whatever is served in front of him and once he is done " ovo nista nije valjalo", and just historically laugh. Meaning " none of this food was good" haha! Yup, he was a foodie.


I love you Deda Thank you for watching over me!


Much love my dear readers. Whatever you are feeling lately, write about it. It will fill your heart with kindness, and you will feel more present and appreciative of the simple truth. I tell my daughter that she is lucky to still have grandparent in her life and to cherish and treasure each and every moment spent with them.



Yours truly,

Gasija

Journal 036







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