Sunday, November 27, 2016

Genealogy Blog Party: Chickie Pitcher and Butterscotch Brownie Traditions

Elizabeth O'Neal's Genealogy Blog Party continues this month by celebrating family traditions.

This adorable ceramic chickie pitcher has been a tradition in my husband Wally's Wood family for nearly 80 years. Originally, it was filled with fresh milk to lighten coffee after dinner. These days, we fill it with half and half--but it still puts a smile on our faces because of the whimsical chicks and the memories from holidays past.

Interestingly, Wally's mom, Marian Jane McClure Wood,  became a ceramic artist years later--taking lessons from famed ceramicist Edris Eckhardt and specializing in animal sculptures, reflecting her love of art and animals.

Another long-time tradition in hubby's family: Grandmother Floyda Steiner McClure's Butterscotch Brownies.

The recipe, shown here, has been passed down for several generations. It makes a delicious dessert alone or a special treat topped with ice cream and whipped cream. Happy holidays!


12 comments:

  1. My mother in law also took some of those popular ceramic classes. My son's favorite Christmas decoration is the little tree she made, which proudly sits on the desk in his room each holiday season.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Linda, happy to hear your mom-in-law's ceramic tree is still part of your holiday tradition! My husband and I always smile when we pour from this adorable chickie pitcher. Happy holidays!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Love the adorable chickie pitcher. I love unique family traditions.

    ReplyDelete
  4. What's amazing is that this little pitcher (holds about 6 oz) is in perfect shape even after nearly 80 years! Colleen, thanks for your comment.

    ReplyDelete
  5. The chickie pitcher is quite interesting! And 80 years... that's fantastic. (I won't ask what the chick in the back is doing...) I'm going to try the brownies! I have at least one kid (grown up) who loves butterscotch and will be extremely appreciative that you shared it.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Well, reading your comments tells the rest of the story. What wonderful care you have given such a precious keepsake. It is cute and the vintage chicks are adorable. Wonderful traditions... especially keeping a recipe going.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Fran, many thanks for leaving me a comment! The recipe is as treasured as the cute chickie pitcher, I can assure you. Happy holidays to your and yours.

    ReplyDelete
  8. That pitcher is adorable. It's clear you've taken excellent care of it so others can enjoy later as well. The recipe sounds good. I'm sure it's a hit with everyone. Thanks for sharing these treasures. :)

    ReplyDelete
  9. Hi Nancy, thank you for taking the time to visit and leave a comment. The recipe has been in my husband's family for more than 50 years...these days, we "a la mode" the brownies for extra holiday fun.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Marian,

    I want to let you know that your blog post is listed in today's Fab Finds post at http://janasgenealogyandfamilyhistory.blogspot.com/2016/12/follow-friday-fab-finds-for-december-2.html

    Have a great weekend!

    ReplyDelete
  11. It's an honor to be included in your Fab Finds, Jana! Thank you so much and I wish you all the best for this holiday season.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Karen, I hope you try and enjoy the butterscotch brownies. They are a bit dry so do add ice cream or whipped cream. Have a great holiday season!

    ReplyDelete