My wonderful friend Melinda asked me a couple of weeks ago to go with her to a wedding shower in Hereford. I of course said yes. She's the one getting married by the way.
On Sunday afternoon, she and JayJ, and his mom (Pat Magallanes), and I loaded up in the car and headed out to Hereford. Now I'm crazy about small towns, but I wasn't really sure what to expect from this experience. Would we see Lou Reed cow tippin'? Who knew. I knew one thing for sure I was coaxed (not that it was necessary) with homemade Tamales!
We arrived in Hereford. On the way I noticed one specific thing that reminded me I grew up in a city, the tractor leaving the church. This for me seemed quintessential to a small town TEXAS experience right at that moment. Astounding! Getting back to it....we landed at her mom's house, and took a load off. Immediatly, Melinda's mom pulls out these perfect cinnamon and sugar coated heart shaped cookies called Corazones. I had barely just sat down...I love this place already!
A few minutes later we head to the church for the wedding shower, because in small towns everything happens at church! I know, my grandparents live in a small town! I went to more small town functions at a church than I care to remember. This one was super special though because it was for my friend Melinda. What a special time too! Some of the girls sang her a song, we played a game, and had wonderful refreshment. The most wonderful Tres Leches Cake! And a wonderful lady prayed a beautiful prayer over her and JayJ!
Now then, after the shower was over, we went back to The Leal's house. We started with getting all of the wonderful tamales into a pot to steam. Then it was decided what we would have with it...eggs, tortillas, and pappas or potatoes. The pappas were crispy and hot. The eggs were done right...a little runny. The tortillas were freshly made and just bought from the "mexican" store (so called by all Herefordites). The TAMALES, they were full of flavor. The meat shredded not ground was tender and wrapped in dough and husk. It was like unwrapping a little Christmas present for my mouth! I even got to take home left-overs with love! I deffinetley devoured those today! We drove home and I was a little sad to be leaving. It really did feel like going home, except I never did live in a small town, or have homemade Tamales.
It's really no wonder that I love anything that has to do with other cultures and thier food, but I love, absolutely adore, the deliciousness of authentic homemade Mexican food. I will take a family meal over texmex any day. This experience was sensational. The love of good food and family, the beautiful relationship of mother and daughter, and mother and son! Everyone helping in what my PaPa Fouse called "A 2 butt kitchen". It was crowded and warm and full of happiness. And I have to say that one day I hope that my own kitchen is that way or already is!
