Writer's Block: Mark my words

[fabrisse]

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Yes. In my private life I talk about "paying rent" for the life that I've had. I've worked a suicide hotline, volunteered at events large and small for organizations as varied as New England Leather Alliance and the Smithsonian, and I've tutored in math, social studies, literature, and, currently, technology. I'll take time off from volunteering every once in awhile -- sometimes due to outside circumstances, sometimes due to burnout -- but I always come back to it. I don't know whether this will be a lasting mark or not, but I hope the world is better for my being in it.

I probably wouldn't have responded to this question today if I hadn't heard of the passing of Marian of Edwinstowe.

The lady has left behind a huge legacy. Her home has been shared with many of my friends for greater or lesser periods of time. Her talents as a baker and her dedication to historic cookery are legendary. I've spent time as an assistant in her kitchen, both for the Battlefield Bakery and for dayboards and feasts. Safety was always her first concern, and that's important in a busy kitchen, but she always took the time to explain things -- the why behind the step being performed.

When I did my first dayboard (and my deepest thanks to Morgon who helped me stuff sausages and Rhonwen who still won't even look at a parsnip thanks to me), Marian took the time to tell me what she thought I'd done right and make suggestions for my next one. I was so zonked from all the work that I never feel that I thanked her properly for taking that time and being so kind.

Several of my friends learned to bake scones from her. I'm not a baker, but I hope one of them will take the time to teach me Marian's way of the scone and in time that I will share it with others. Because good food may be ephemeral, but the meals, and the cook who brought us together, are long remembered.

RIP

Comments

[eanja]

I had not heard about this- I knew she had the ongoing health problems, but didn't know her that well and am not in SCA circles. I've been to parties there, of course- New Years and others, and had a lovely conversation with her just a few months ago when she had a book sale and I bought several volumes on baking and gardening and general crafts.

I'm sorry that I didn't know her better. And if you ever do learn her scones, please do share it with me, because they were always reliable wonderful.

I don't know if her husband will think about posting to the more general Somerville list. If you hear about any sort of more broadly open memorial or remembrance going on, could you please let me know?

[fabrisse.livejournal.com]

I may be begging for bedspace from you next weekend. I'll let you know as soon as I do about the Memorial Service. I hadn't realized that the great book sale, etc. were planned because she knew she was dying until someone mentioned it to me late last week.

[riverfox.livejournal.com]

I'm so sorry for your loss. :( *hugs*

You've definitely made an impact in my life. I don't know what I'd have if it weren't for your charity and friendship. :)

[fabrisse.livejournal.com]

I appreciate it. You've been a huge help to me, too, sweetie.

[riverfox.livejournal.com]

{{{{{{{ big hugs }}}}}}}}

So, how're you doing on the story front? Finish any stories for me to post? :)

[sunspiral.livejournal.com]

The qualities I most knew with Marian were her grace and hospitality, through occasional encounters and some visits to the Buttery over about 30 years. She'll be missed and mourned by a lot of people. I hope to attend the memorial service.

[fabrisse.livejournal.com]

I'll be at the memorial service.

She was a great lady.

[(Anonymous)]

There is also crash space w/ me if needed.

Nancy

[fabrisse.livejournal.com]

Thank you. I'll see you on Sunday.