I have a very "mixed" family; my family tree looks part kudzu, part tumbleweed. Nonetheless, each family member is just that—a part of the family. And each has had a unique influence on me.

Jean Cate, the mother of my step-mother (who I call "Mom"), passed away on Tuesday, while I was in Mexico. Her body had rejected a bone marrow transfusion from her sister, and had been rejecting medication for several weeks; despite the noticeable decline in her health, her passing leaves a void in many lives.

I was not close to Jean (aka Nanny), though I’ve always been quite fond of her; few people are as kind and warm-hearted as she was. At her request, she’s been cremated, and no service will be held in her honor. This being so, I offer a reflection on Jean’s impact on my passion for food:

• Jean could cook, and loved to do so. She enjoyed rich, flavorful foods. She worked with several famous chefs, and shared several recipes and cooking tips with me. True to her English roots, her last full meal was sharp cheddar on toast.
• Jean encouraged me to pursue culinary arts as a career (it was a career path I considered for quite a while). Though I ultimately chose somthing much different, I continue to cook, and I occasionally write about my favorite eats.
• Jean helped stock my kitchen with all the necessary tools. When I graduated college, my parents rewarded my GPA with a kitchen gadget shopping spree. Jean’s position at a major retail store, and her suggestions for what I needed, stretched the total by an additional 60%; I’ve purchased few items for my kitchen since, and don’t foresee any major culinary needs for many more years.

In celebration of Jean’s love of food, I’ve posted her recipe for cornbread to TasteFresno.

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