Dear Maga,

Today was only the second time that I was holding the mixer making sure that your famous pumpkin cake would be at our Thanksgiving dinner. As each teaspoon of cinnamon or cup of sugar was added, I couldn’t help but think about what this cake has meant to me over the years.

1 box of yellow cake mix: Sometimes, the shortcuts in life are okay to follow as long as you come out on the other side unharmed.

1 cup of margarine (melted): When life seems as though it is solid, in an instant it can all melt away. Don't give up, because when combined with other great things, it will bring you back together.

4 eggs: Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Or what are some of the effects of the decisions that I made thus far in my life? What are the decisions that will cause greatness to fall upon me?

1 can of pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix): I’m not always 100% perfect, but I’m always 100% of who I am.

2 teaspoons of cinnamon: Adding even just a pinch of anything to your life, can change it entirely.

1/2 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 cup of sugar: Sweetness comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors; don’t judge others by what is on the outside, but what is inside.

12 oz can of evaporated milk: A key player in some of people’s favorite desserts. You were always a key player in my life. A key player is there for you, loves you, and believes in you always.

1 cup of flour: Flour provides the structure in baked goods, just like family provides the structure for who we are and who we want to become.

Thank you for the many years of having this dessert at our Thanksgiving dinner. Thank you for sharing the recipe so a little piece of you will always be at our table.

Love and Miss You Every Day,

Your Granddaughter