Why is there such a surprise over the increase in food prices?  Why the indignation?  Why not take it in stride?

I wrote an article some time ago about how our food system was on the edge of a knife.  The food supply could fall off that thin, razor sharp edge, at the whisper of a breeze.  Whether it could be a delivery system strike or a natural disaster, the food supply chain is made of weak links.  And, we should not be surprised when a link breaks.  We are on an even thinner knife edge now.

We have all been tied together with this food distribution system.  Now, we are surprised and dismayed by the high cost of wheat and other foods.

We are in a pickle.  The heck with food miles.  Let’s talk about saving what farmland we have in our own backyards!  Let’s stop building Homage (ho-medj), the cookie cutter suburban sprawl.  That land is virtually lost forever for agriculture.

Yes, we are in a rough period with the rising energy costs and how that ties into our food costs.  Now, part of the thin edge of the knife is the state of the economy.  As things get tighter, the folks controlling the distribution of food have more and more power.  One truckers strike could cause calamity to the cities and suburbia, but the rural areas will also suffer.  The closer we are to the food we consume, the more power the food consumers will have.  The more security as well.

That is why we shouldn’t take these price increases as a matter of fact.  But we had better take them in stride or we will lose our power.  As for indignation, what good will that do, other than give us high blood pressure and resentment?

We need an even keel in our policy makers’ philosophy.  You encourage that by writing to your congressional representatives, as well as the state and federal agencies that impact your food availability.

Keep me posted on what you think…Hall Hitzig aka The Crazy Baker

Repeatedly I hear folks telling me that it is really hard to cook just for yourself.

I can readily agree.  At this point in my life, I live with my wife and frequently our children drop by for a meal.  We easily cook for each other.  My wife, Amy, sometimes suffers cooking blocks where she finds it difficult to be motived to cook. I, too, suffer from that, but usually I call it lack of choice in the ice box or cabinet.

But cooking for one does have its challenges.  Sometimes it seems pointless.  Why not eat out of a can or frozen package?  it’s so much easier:  cooking and clean-up takes as long for one as two; plus there are leftovers to deal with and, even for one, lots of dishes.

Why is this?  Is cooking and eating really a social act?  Do we prepare food for the recognition or the pride in preparing food ourselves?  Where does the justification and satisfaction come from when we cook for more than ourselves?

When I was young I remember coming downstairs early in the morning to find my Mom had been in the kitchen early, blanching and peeling peaches.  All by herself, working away.

But peaches were only the beginning of the meal.  Mom would also serve eggs, bacon and fresh squeezed juice.  It was a large menu for a group of chilfren, and sometimes guest, who all expected this service.  Where did Mom find the motivation and creativity?  And, with very little thanks or recognition. 

I don’t think it’s itellect, but more instinct.  It has to be a basic, almost primordial gut command.  And now, my sisters and brothers are exactly the same!

I think some of it is taught; maybe the art form or the menu at least.  But not the need to produce food for others, but not ourselves.

So, back to my first question:  Why don’t we like to cook for ourselves?  Are we not worthy of our own art?  Don’t we need our own respect?

I suspect its pride in front of others and lack of respect for ourselves.  Or, maybe it’s just plain laziness.  We do often eat out alone and eat well at that.  Or, is eating out a hedonistic respite from cooking for one?

I see in myself a lack of inspiration when cooking for one.  But why?  That takes me back to pride.  Let me show off! I can create this and produce that.  You see, I did this for you!  Hmmmmm….., I hate to say that about myself.  But I can’t come up with any other excuse.

Is there another reason I could use?

Perplexed in WV - Hall

www.thecrazybaker.com     

sales@thecrazybaker.com                                                                                                                    

In our new blog, the Essence of Food, we want to share our thoughts with you on all aspects of food.  And we’d love to hear back from you, as well, so we can get a conversation going about how food is so vital in our lives. 

It’s not just fuel for our bodies, but it’s fellowship, love in action, caring and compassion, time shown for a loved one and so much more.

It’s also political and spiritual; art and science.

So, while I’m here baking “luscious” desserts and giving the world sweet indulgences, there’s also much more to who I am as The Crazy Baker, aka Hall Hitzig.

And that’s what I hope to share with you in our blog.  Over time, you’ll also get to know my wife, Amy, and get a first-hand glimpse at what makes a small business like a bakery operate successfully.

I hope you check out our website: www.thecrazybaker.com and see for yourself what we have to offer.  It’s all luscious. 

Back to baking…Hall