You might even say that the kitchen is both a sacred and safe place for me (go to Leah's blog if you want to understand where I'm going with that statement: http://leah30s.blogspot.com/2010/10/portland-5albuquerque1-safe-places.html
What really brings the Fall season home is a good batch of Pumpkin Empanadas. Here it is nearly the end of October and I had yet to make a batch. It wasn't until the awesome baristas at Satellite leaned out the drive-thru and asked "When are you going to bring us some empanadas?", that I realized it was time. They must have been on everyone's mind, because my DH's employees and coworkers were asking for them too!
How does something so small become so popular, so appreciated? I'm still trying to figure this out! These pastries are simple enough to make, but they are labor intensive. Suffice it to say that there are several steps to getting them just right. Sunday afternoon I made almost 100. (See photo at right) Half went to my DH's work, the others went to the crew at Satellite, E's teacher and my coworkers. Monday, I went to the chiropractor! :) No, this is not a guilt trip for those that want some. It is a gentle reminder to myself not to go so gung-ho when I make a batch. Or 4.
I am asked for the recipe all the time, and I will usually give it to those who ask. E recently asked me what the secret ingredient that I put into the empanadas. I told her it was Love. It is a labor of love to make them. I love to give them away! Bless and be blessed.
I feel the same way about my cakes, too. Most of the cakes I bake are given as gifts. Speaking of cakes, here is one I made earlier this month. I probably should post them more often than I do!
Taste and see that the LORD is good.Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! Psalm 34:8
