My Dad and food
I always wondered where I got my love of food from, especially my love of cooking. Growing up, Mom did most of the cooking, but every once in a while Dad would grace us with one of his Mexican specialties- Carne Asada, Carne Guisada, ‘Migas (Chilaquiles to some) and the ever popular, tacos and burritos.
Over our Thursday lunches, Dad and I often discuss the progress of the book, which Dad starts the conversation with “how’s the book going?” While technically the book interviews are finished, I often find myself grabbing a napkin or four to take extensive notes about whatever story Dad “remembers” that day. Lately, food has been the topic. I learned all about C-rations. When I mistakenly called them “MREs” (Meals Ready to Eat) I was quickly corrected “C-rations”. We talked about the types of C-rations, the unpopular ones, the most popular ones (hint, there was much less variety than today’s MREs). How they were hoarded and traded. How each one included cigarettes and toilet paper (the essentials!) How when times were desperate, everyone donated their last few cans to make a hobo stew.
Due to our schedules, we aren’t going to be able to have lunch for the next 3 or 4 weeks. I’m sure I will see my Dad over the next month, it just won’t be as special as our lunches.
Joanna Nunez, Author 