Today was my dad’s birthday.

I made him Vegetarian Borscht with Garlic Pampushky. I picked up some Ukrainian Sour Cream (сметана) to serve with the borscht. It was a really yummy & healthy meal! He really enjoyed it & was happy that I made it for him. It made me happy that he was eager to try it.

I have been waiting a long time to try to make it and today seemed like the perfect reason!

My mom made Ukrainian Poppy Seed Cake for his dessert. They were waiting until after they went out on their date to eat it, so I am anxiously waiting to try it- but it looks and smells amazing and I, of course, love poppy seeds!!

Last week his sister, Ірина, came to town to visit so I made a batch of homemade Varenyky for her. My uncle complimented them big time and said that it was like Grandpa Joe was still alive. My dad & Irene laughed about a memory they had of him making Varenyky alongside a pint of vodka. When the Varenyky was finished, so was the vodka.

I really love to cook the traditional Ukrainian foods for my family. I want to bridge the gap between the old generation and the new. I want to bring back core memories for my my dad and his sister, and make new ones with my kids and future grandchildren to carry on the tradition.

Irene told me about my бабуся, Olga, and that I reminded her of her mother 🥰. I never got to meet her, but always wished I had. I know she is with me as a spirit guide though.

I’m very grateful for another year with my dad, and being able to make these meals for him. It makes me so happy to do so. I’m grateful that he is still in good health & I hope for many more years to get to cook for him.

Until next time ♡ Mama Morozov