The Child Who Tries to Make Everything—From Library Books and Home Economics Class: Kotori Diary, Episode 32

My child used to make all sorts of things while looking at books from the library. Not just cooking, but crafts as well. Even in home economics class, they would surprise the teacher. Seeing my child try to 'make everything' made me feel like they were growing up.

A world expanded by library books

My child and I often borrowed cookbooks from the library.
"Mom, I want to try making this!"
That one sentence started our cooking sessions, using books as our textbooks.
The home economics textbook also had recipes, like cakes made in a rice cooker, which we tried together at home.
Opening a book, gathering ingredients, and checking the steps as we went along—I think that time gradually nurtured my child's 'attitude of trying to make anything.'

My cooking cards

Actually, I still have and use the cooking cards I made back in high school.
A pancake recipe.
I still use that recipe today.

Reflections written in home economics class

My child loved the cooking practice in home economics class and would write reflections on the lessons.
"This is the first time I've ever eaten something this delicious."
"The dashi broth was so flavorful, it was incredibly delicious."

They wrote about the nuances of flavor and cooking tips in surprisingly fine detail, and I couldn't help but laugh while reading them.
It made me wonder if people would think, 'Maybe she doesn't feed her child very good food at home?'—a thought that crossed my own mind, too.
But I'm sure it was a delightful reflection for the teacher to read.
My child was simply writing down, with honesty, the moment they felt something was delicious.

They taught me about the power of living and the essence of cooking.

Trying to make everything

My child tries to 'make it myself first' for everything, not just cooking, but also crafts and making tools.
Is there something I can use as a substitute?
Is there a way to apply this method?
The way they think while working with their hands hasn't changed since they were little.

I believe library books and home economics class built the foundation for that kind of thinking.
And perhaps there is a part of me that is similar.

The power to live

The attitude of trying to make anything is the very power to live.
If you don't buy it, you can make it yourself.
If you use your ingenuity, you can manage.
I am so happy that my child has developed that sense.

I am grateful to the library books and the home economics teacher.
And the time I spent working with my hands alongside my child remains a precious treasure to me.