Childlike Summers

Remember when we could play all day, and our curfew was "come home when the street lights come on"? I sure do. I grew up in a small town and I could ride my bike everywhere (as long as I didn't cross the "big" highway) and not come home until supper time, then be right out the door again. Hot sunny days spent on my swing set, riding bikes, playing w/ neighborhood kids. Warm evenings spent at the ballpark either playing or watching, playing in the sprinkler, roller skating around town (yes, actual roller skates, not Rollerblades). These are all things I remember about summers gone by. And when I think of these I think of those meals mom always saved or the hot months. Chicken wings on the grill (my dad's are awesome, and so easy), macaroni salad, corn on the cob, and for dessert--one of my dad's favorite things for mom to bake. Home made shortcake. Just thinking of it brings a smile to my face and a growl to my stomach. Honestly, I have never made it-probably b/c those sponge cakes in the produce section are so convenient and usually $.79 in the summer!! But if I want GOOD shortcake, this is it. She was telling me the other day dad was asking for it, and I knew it was time to get the recipe from her and give it a try. I have excepted the fact it will not taste as good as hers, nothing I makes of her ever does, but I'm okay w/ that, as long as it's close. Plus it gave me a reason to take Alex strawberry picking for the first time! He had so much fun and can't wait to go again! With strawberries coming in season, and how beautiful they are this time of the year, I am sure this will show up on our menu multiple times this summer!

Mom's Strawberry Shortcake
2 c. flour
1/4 c. sugar
4 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/3 c. shortening
1 egg
1/3 c. milk

Preheat oven to 450. Grease and flour a 8 x 8 cake pan or pie plate. Sift dry ingredients. Cut in shortening until mixture is crumbly. Mix egg with milk and add to mixture. It will still be crumbly. Press down to even out. Bake for 12 minutes until toothpick comes out clean. Serve with macerated berries, whipped cream and/or ice cream.