Resolutions for a new year

Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish new year) begins at sundown on September 29, a week from today, ending at nightfall on October 1. At that time, twenty-plus people will somehow fit into my not-overly-spacious apartment, briefly acknowledge and toast the occasion as I explain quickly what it means to the majority of the guests, and then eat a large meal while--hopefully--sharing good conversation and the company of old and new friends.

I haven't yet prepared a list of resolutions for the coming year and not sure that I will as I don't feel quite resolved about much. Needless to say, it's been a strange year. Having come pretty close to leaving this planet on a couple of occasions this Spring, I'm not quite sure what "it" all means, why I was left to spare, and what I should do next. On my better days, I'm grateful to be around for another year. I'm happy that I'll be here for another occasion to eat noodle kugel. Who wouldn't be?

So here's one of my grandmother's prized recipes: Fabulous Noodle Kugel (Please note that it's actually the Prizewinning Recipe of Mrs. Eugene E. Smith, Tuscon, AZ; Source: Kosher Recipes for the Holiday and Everyday)

This is from a recipe book that came from my maternal grandmother. It was compiled by the Pacific South Branch of the National Women’s League of the United Synagogue of America, et al. Sponsored by the Southern California Gas Company (imagine PGE putting out a cookbook with Kosher recipes…wouldn’t EVER happen!). The prizewinning recipes—including the kugel—“were chosen from hundreds submitted by housewives throughout the Southwestern U.S.”

1 lb. broad noodles, cooked
1 c. sugar
1 lb. cottage cheese
1.5 tsp vanilla
1 c. white raisins
7 eggs
3 c. milk
1 pt sour cream
¼ lb. melted butter

Mix all pudding ingredients together in a large bowl. Pour into a large dripping pan and refrigerate overnight, or at least for 3 hours. Consistency will be loose before refrigeration but will set when chilled. Sprinkle with cinnamon before baking. Bake at 350 degrees for 1.5 hours or until golden brown on top. Serves 15.

Enjoy and happy new year to all.