Monkey See, Monkey Do

Last week was the first 2008 session of Essen Kinder Kids Cooking Camp. Five energetic boys and two more reserved girls added over 30 new recipes and countless techniques to their cooking repertoire. In addition, they experienced a premier organic farm firsthand and created a party for their families. And they had a blast. One of the campers summed it up best, "I'll definitely be back next summer. Definitely."

As an observer, it's amazing to see how much these 10-14 year olds develop in just five consecutive mornings. On the first day, we leveled the playing field. Some of the kids have been cooking for years, usually because someone in their environment cooks. Many are interested and do it when they have the opportunity - rarely. Others think they might like to cook, primarily because they like to eat, and have never even laid eyes on a recipe. By day 5, they're all chopping with the confidence of an Iron Chef, explaining to one of the teachers why they're flouring a board before rolling pastry, and setting a buffet with flair. And they were still telling me how much fun they were having. Unbelievable!

Well, this week Essen came into my family and I'm kvelling (that's yiddish for beaming with incredible pride for those about to Google "kvell."). Many of you know Essen in many ways stemmed and continues to evolve from my own personal learning with a busy family and the consistent challenges to put things on the table each day that please most. My son, at his request, was a part of last week's Essen Camp. He fell into category C - never read a recipe, never cooked, never cared. I assumed he was interested in the Camp because of a deep seated fear I may not fill the spots and to spend more time with me (wishful thinking and I'll go with it!). Anyhow, Sunday morning we were all snuggling in bed and I asked him what he thought of the week's experience. He answered quickly and defensively, "It was fun and don't expect me to do any cooking at home. I like to cook with other people." Translation = I'm not taking your place so you can sit and eat bon-bon's.

And then something unexpected happened. I was getting ready to make our ritual Sunday pancakes (and freeze most for quick, mid-week breakfasts, of course!), and guess who appears in his still dirty apron, ready to go! Twenty minutes later, my son and younger daughter (she's the one who likes to be in the kitchen) are feasting on Banana Surprise Pancakes they made together - without fighting. Some would say they actually cooperated. And enjoyed each other's company. Guess who's having fun now?!

Farewell, Strawberries. Hello, Summer!

It happened this morning. A little voice in my head whispered to me to swing by one of my favorite farms for strawberries. "They've been around for a good few weeks," the voice urged. "I bet there isn't much time to go," voice continued. "Better get some today as tomorrow's Sunday." "Alright, already," I reasoned with myself. "I'm already late getting home. What's a few more minutes..."

Well, glad I was. This was the last day for strawberries in big boxes. Translation: we've passed the strawberry peak and are gearing up for the summer stuff. So, in case you're like me and planned to buy the big load for freezing and canning the next time you're at the market, better do it right now. Tomorrow's strawberry can be found May 2009.