Claudine Shannon-McDonald

As a young girl, mealtime was always very special to me. It was my favorite time of the day. My mother stressed good table manners and respect. No arguments were allowed at the family table! All seven children had a regular seat at the table, and we had to get along or else we would be asked to leave! My mother's cooking was the best, so we always wanted to be on our best behavior. Or at least we tried. Mom cooked from her heart and soul. My sisters--Cora, Margie and I were responsible for setting the table every day for breakfast before school and at dinner.

Eating breakfast together as a family was a daily tradition. My mother used to say: "It is the first meal of the day, and it gives you energy and strength for your entire day". The girls sat on one side and the boys on the other. My father sat at the head of the table and my mother at the other end. Before any meal, we would gather around the table and have a prayer. You couldn't even look at your food before Daddy or Mom blessed it. Once the food was blessed, we would spend hours, or as much time as we had, sharing our dreams and future plans over a great meal. Again, the rules were no "NO ARGUING" and everything had to be positive. Dad did not like negativity, especially at the dinner table.

One of my favorite treats at the table was hot bread--biscuits, rolls or corn bread that Mom would make. Having hot breads with your meal is a southern tradition and Mom's were the best in Montgomery! In fact all her meals were great and the tradition of eating together has transcended from generation to generation in my family. I have so many fond memories of those days in Montgomery, and I suppose my love of food and tradition lead to my love of cooking and wanting to share my gift and passion with all who will listen. Breaking bread and sharing good times over good food is such a wonderful gift from the soul.

Went on to college, married life, starting my own family and traditions, and teaching the art of fine and traditional cooking. I share those memories and lessons in my cookbooks.