When I was growing up people would come and go from our place all day long. My Parent’s friends, my Brothers friends, my friends and our extended family would all pop in for a cuppa, a chat, a cup of sugar or to borrow some tools.
No one rang first, text messaging didn’t exist.
Mum wasn’t fazed if people saw her in her nightie, with her hair unmade, no make-up on and the breakfast dishes scattered all over the bench.
Dad wasn’t fazed if he was woken by a knock on the door from a neighbour bringing eggs or a friend wanting a coffee.
This was everyday life for us and I didn’t know any different. Until I moved away.
All of a sudden no-one was popping in. Everyone was ringing first or suggesting we meet somewhere.
Now we have text.
Today everyone wants to make plans and I am not so good at making plans. So often friends say, “I would love to catch up, let’s make a time.” I am instantly thrown. Who has spare time? My to do list is terrifyingly long, my mind is constantly swimming with what I need to do next. Making a time seems almost impossible in my unpredictable world that is full of appointments, children, routine and things that need to be done.
“Just pop in” I reply. “Whenever you feel like having a chat or getting out just ring my bell.”
Many of my friends think this is absurd. It has taken a great deal of work to convince them that I truly am fine with this. That I don’t need notice. That they are welcome any time. That impromptu visits are a wonderful thing. That if I am having a flat day and do not feel like company these are quite possibly the days I need these unexpected visits the most.
I also assure them that they needn’t fear. I won’t return the favour. I understand that some people like notice and I respect this. Unless I have made something delicious that they absolutely must try or I desperately need some lemons, I won’t turn up without embracing these new age rules.
What about you? Do you like notice or do you miss the old days where people just knocked on your door?
Apple and Almond Pudding
- 4 apples (I used Pink Lady) cored and quartered
- 4 medjool dates, seeds removed
- 4 tablespoons almond butter*
- 4 eggs
- pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon concentrated natural vanilla extract
- Preheat your oven to 175°C or 350°F
- Place the ingredients into your food processor in the order listed above. Blend at high speed until the mixture is relatively smooth and well combined. Pour the mixture evenly into three ramekins. Bake for 30 – 35 minutes. Serve. Eat. Enjoy.
*Almond spread is readily available in the health food section of the supermarket or at health food stores. You can also make your own, here is our recipe.
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