A TASTY
TRADITION
When Laurie Crouse was growing up, she and her parents
always went to see the grandparents at Christmas time. Since both sets
lived close to each other, they would rotate staying with one and then go
to the other set for lunch. Laurie was an only child and was never an early
riser, so almost everyone got to see her face when she saw what Santa had
brought for her.
As Laurie grew up and got married, other extended family changed, as
well. Loved ones passed away and others aged or moved away. Of necessity, some traditions have changed. These days, Laurie’s parents come to her
house on Christmas morning. Her son Rivers has followed in his mother’s
footsteps in the late-riser category; so, most of the time the grandparents
have been there to watch him discover his stash from Santa. Starting their
morning late, Laurie typically cooks brunch, combining breakfast and lunch
into one preparation.
Later in the evening, Laurie, her husband John, and Rivers head over to
the home of Laurie’s folks and enjoy “Rudy Burgers” together. “These are
actually fried hamburgers that were the recipe passed down from my dad’s
mother. There are no other burgers like them. My staff and friends even beg
for leftovers!” The tradition of having the burgers for supper came from
John’s side of the family. His mom loved the tradition. “She said with three
children she was just too tired to make anything else.” So, while she was still
living, she also went to John and Laurie’s in the morning and on to Laurie’s
parents’ house on Christmas afternoon.
Traditions and special family moments are very important to Laurie. As
an only child, she remains very close to her parents. While John was not an
only child, he, too, grew up in a small family. Since Rivers in an only child, as
well, Laurie doesn’t ever want to miss the memories they can make together
on any occasion.
This Christmas, all the Crouses are looking forward to spending Christmas morning together for their morning ritual… then going to get “Rudy
Burgers.”
Laurie Crouse lives in Florence, where she owns and operates Top Hat
Special Teas. She is married to John, and they have one son, Rivers.
SHEMAGAZINE.COM
DECEMBER 2015
23