The Brookfield Scene
Janet, a Town of Brookfield resident, has lived in the Elmbrook area for nearly 40 years and is an avid gardener and volunteer. Her blog focuses on the city and town of Brookfield – past, present and future.
Giving Thanks
By Janet Wintersberger
Friday, Nov 24 2006, 03:44 PM
Thanksgiving is a chance to appreciate the things we have and the people in our lives. This celebration often includes gathering with friends and family to share a meal. Holidays give us a chance to build family traditions that we recall for years to come.
Growing up, my family's holidays were shared with aunts, uncles and cousins. Homes were smaller then but we still gathered together. There was ever so much food to eat.
In the 50s, preparation for the meal began with a drive to the "turkey farm" to select a fresh turkey. That tradition ended frozen turkey became available at local food stores. While the turkey farm did not survive, the "Wellinger Stuffing" recipe has transcended generations.
While I was growing up, two holidays stood out. Neither featured turkey. One holiday my mother prepared a goose a grandfather shot. It came complete with feathers which soon filled the basement. The second speciality was lutefisk served in honor of a Swedish grandparent . The unpleasant scent of the cooking fish still yields a grimace among my siblings.
Time passes and older generations do too. Be sure to share your memories with your families as you build your family's traditions.
If you recall the name and location of the "turkey farm", please let me know.
