There has been so much in the news these last few days about the deaths of Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson. While the loss of those two celebrities may be big news, the demise of my long time friend, The Big White Bowl, will have a huge impact on my daily life.
Mine is a loss only a cook will understand. The Big White Bowl has been a part of my life for a very long time. I can’t remember exactly when it came into my life, but I think it was Christmas, 1972. My first husband had a charming way of giving me small electric appliances as gifts. And while I really liked that Kenmore Stand Mixer, it was The Big White Bowl that came with it that stole my heart.
The Big White Bowl was made of glass. It was the perfect size and shape for mixing just about anything. The Big White Bowl and I made a good team, and prepared countless meals for my family together over the years. There have been hundreds of meatloaves, pancakes, corn breads, biscuits, cakes, salads, and others too numerous to mention mixed in that bowl. Sadly, I could only find one picture of it in my vast photo collection.
The Big White Bowl moved many times, and has traveled all over the country with me . During the period of my life when I was divorced and moved 15 times in 5 years, The Big White Bowl helped comfort me and my children with many batches of Chocolate Chip Cookies. It was always lovingly wrapped and cushioned during each move, to protect it from harm. The Big White Bowl lived most of its life in Georgia, but has also lived in Florida, Texas, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and spent its last days at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.
When I came home from work last night, FabGrandpa announced the death of The Big White Bowl. He stood there hanging his head in shame, while he told me that he broke The Big White Bowl while he was washing the dishes. While I cried over the tragic loss, FabGrandpa went on to say it was an accident, and that we would try to find another one to replace The Big White Bowl.
I’m sorry, FabGrandpa, we may find another bowl, but none could ever take the place of The Big White Bowl.
Anonymous says
This really put all things in prospective. They may have been celebrities but they were just people like you and me. What a great story and I really enjoy reading your writings.
Janice Evans says
awww. . .this is a really great story, thanks for sharing your angst. . .I could feel my gut wrenching as you told about FabGrandpa hanging his head. . .
You should submit this somewhere. . .to some magazine. . .
Gaelyn says
This is certainly more devestating than the loss of singers and movie stars. The Big White Bowl brought comfort. I'll keep my eyes open for a replacement when I hit the thrift stores.
Karen says
Gaelyn: Thank you so much!
Patty says
I have a few of those favortie bowls too. They just don't make them like that any more. Try a thrift store to see if you can find a replacement. I know it won't be the same, but it's like a puppy, you lose one and learn to love the next one.
Sally in WA says
Sorry for your loss, Karen. I totally understand how you feel.
Yarntangler says
Karen, thank you for putting this whole week in perspective. I am printing this one to take to Jim in the hospital as he has been the one responsible for similar events in our personal lives.
I agree with the idea that this one should go to a magazine-quickly.
Jody says
R.I.P. Big White Bowl
So sorry for your loss!
Jody
Dee says
awwww. sorry about the bowl….
what a cute post.
Beverlys Blitz says
this is one of my favorites. You are a joy. Bev
Linda's Place says
sorry you lost your "BWB". I have a yellow one, though not as big as yours probably was, that I have had since Alan & I got married. It is the sole survivor of a set of 4 mixing bowls that came from Sunshine Department store in Hawthorne Plaza. While I am not as attached to mine as you were to your "BWB", I completely understand your loss.