Mimi's Miracles in the Kitchen

First of all - who's Mimi?

The word "mimi" is the French diminutive for 'grandmother.'  When Quinn, who is now 25,  was born I was very interested in all things French - even considering myself a 'francophile.'  I studied the language of my mother (a Québecoise) in high school, then at Berlitz in San Francisco and finally in southern France.  In my family of origin it was de riguer (the rule) to speak English.  Dad, who spoke German (but wasn't admitting it) and some Gaelic, insisted that, "We are Americans.  We speak English."  So, brother Jim and I lost out on the opportunity to learn any German, Gaelic or French.  How I would have liked having those languages 'under my belt!'  Well, that's history.  I did learn to speak a passable French - and now speak Spanish as well.


Why am I writing this blog?

Here I am again, starting another blog.  Over the years, Jeff, Kari, Spencer, family and lots of friends have asked me for information related to cooking, baking and entertaining.  Now it's coming time to share lots of gourmet and gourmand experiences with my grandchildren as they go out into the world on their own.


Potential topics:

I will be organizing as I go along with the blog - here's a first go at topics:

General Information re:  Cooking and Baking
Tried and True Recipes - "Mary-Pat Specials"
Menu Planning
New Additions to favorites
Lots of Baking - my real passion these days
Cooking and Baking Equipment and Supplies
Staples - to keep in the house
Types of Parties
Ethnic Entertaining - Mexican Fiesta, French Bistro, Italian Country, etc.
Personal Journal - Entertaining Activities, Menus

Entertaining:

1)   decision to entertain

2)   reason for party

3)   decision - date and time

4)   decision - guests - who and how many?

5)   decision - menu

6)   prioritization of preparation activities

7)   invitations and replies - email, snail mail, telephone

8)   plan - preparation

9)   recipe search

10) shopping list - foods, linen and tableware, cookware, decorations

11) preparation of foods, house cleaning, decor

12) alterations due to circumstances

13) prioritization of party day preparations