A Good Cookbook

There is something about a good cookbook- I love to page through it and plan , especially at holiday time. Of course, that usually means cookbooks devoted to cookies or special holiday feast plans. Usually the books I have that I most enjoy are those with a whole array of complete ideas from the way the table looks to what beverages to serve. Sometimes I springboard from there to compile my own menu and theme, but I like something that gives me the initial spark of inspiration.

I like old cookbooks too, and ethnic cookbooks… especially the ones that tell you interesting tidbits about the culture or how certain recipes fit into the way people serve meals or celebrate special occasions. Sometimes pictures are important and sometimes not.

I use all my favorite cookbooks a little too well. They fall apart and I have to be really careful to keep track of them and usually put them in a folder if they aren’t too large. If they are more substantial in size, a rubber band of sufficient size keeps the pages together. A good recipe is worth saving and passing on. I think that is the reason I appreciate some of those fund raising cookbooks if the group took their time to collate the best recipes. Churches known for their good cooks are especially worthwhile.

There is just something about a good cookbook!