A New Baby and Waiting On A New Baby
I’m so thrilled to announce a new addition to the Paula Deen family: Blogs. I’m talking a no holds barred peek into the world of the Paula Deen Team. My talented assistant and Design Director, Brandon Branch will be blogging about Southern Style and how to achieve it. Senior Food Editor, Libbie Summers, is bringing back her highly successful blog, Something To Chew On, talking about food in a way only Libbie can! Online Editor, Jonathan Able, will take you on an adventure where you never dared to go: the dating life of a single guy and cooking for one with his blog, A Table For One. My Creative Director, Michelle White, will fill you in on the world of creating a brand and her team member Evan Russell will show you some really fun stuff that goes from a doodle to a logo. Y’all I have such a talented team here and I know you will fall in love with each of them! And, as if that weren’t enough, I’m particularly excited about a new section of the website designed just for moms—a place where new and seasoned mothers can share their experiences, laughing, learning, and, yes, sometimes even crying together. And best of all, my beautiful daughter-in-law, Brooke, will be hosting this section.
As Brooke and I both know, being a mother is one of the greatest gifts and greatest challenges life has to offer. But let’s be honest, I’m about 4 decades removed from diapers and lullabies. The other day I tried to play tic-tac-toe with my grandson, Jack. He lasted about two minutes, before he wanted to play with some electronic doohickey called a “Leapster.” It would’ve been fine if I could’ve figured out how to turn the damn thing on. So I’m not even gonna pretend to know how it is for mothers to raise their children these days. It’s not my place. Mothers-in-law already get a bad rap for sticking their noses in places they don’t belong. So I’m just going to sit back and enjoy my grandchildren, and leave the hard work to their parents.
But some things never change—even the most well meaning mothers make mistakes along the way and it’s easy to beat ourselves up, thinkin’ that everyone else is doing it better. I can remember believin’ all the other new mothers were getting a good night’s rest while I was up 5 or 6 times a night feelin’ like I was caught between a dog and a fire hydrant. I thought they were making their own baby food and swaddlin’ their baby’s behinds in cloth diapers. Years later I realized that the truth of the matter is, we’re all just doing the best we can. Just nobody admitted it back then.
Today, new mothers have all of these great resources that I never did, most of which come in the form of other moms. When Brooke and her girlfriends get together, they cover the gamut of childrearing—from toothpaste to preschools. There are so many choices to be made, I don’t know where these moms begin, but somehow they make it work. I’m so proud to say that Brooke is an incredible, loving mother. She doesn’t just “make it work,” she makes parenting her work—her most important job. She puts Jack first in every choice she makes; her wants or needs are second or third or somewhere even further down the line. So of course I jumped at her suggestion to create a community for mothers on the website just in time for Mother’s Day. From raising families to raising hell, Brooke and four other fabulous Mommy Bloggers will be taking turns sharing their parenting trials, tribulations and celebrations with you. My dear friend Martha Lee will share planet-friendly parenting tips. My very talented Online Community Manager, Lisa Scarbrough will promote parenting-on-a-dime for recession-ravaged homes. Andrea Goto will keep it real (and funny) with her no-nonsense approach to mothering, and Christina Hall will share her touching experience as a working mother with a very special little girl. None of these women claim to be experts at parenting, but then again, who is? Lord knows I wasn’t, but I truly believe that when you put your heart and soul into your children, they’re all the better for it. These women reflect that.
On behalf of Brooke and myself, I invite you to check out our new “baby” and let us know what you think. You may find some answers to your childrearing concerns, or perhaps a tip or two for a rainy-day activity. But what I promise you’ll find is a group of mothers who are struggling, like us all, to do the very best they can.
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Reader Comments:
Ms. Paula, I have followed you and your career for years now, and have never felt compelled to write, but I just saw a promo of an interview with you to air tomorrow on Extra. You, my dear, always a lovely woman, are truly gorgeous now. I don't know if it's the loss of 30 lbs., or the aura of blissful control you now exhibit over your life, but I am so happy for you. You radiate joy. And if you will live a longer, healthier life and have many more years to spend with your children and grandchildren, well, I couldn't be more thrilled for you! You're inspiring to all of us who watch you!
By Pamela on May 16, 2012
I absolutely love, love, love!!! Paula's Party!!! What has happened to that show?? I really looked forward to watching the show and really miss it!! Is it going to come back? Natalie
By Natalie Cox on May 08, 2012
I know it is a long shot,Paula, but would love it if you could come by my shop, Mom's Table, here in Roswell (where you shot some Smithfield spots) the next time your schedule brings you to the Atlanta area. As much as your cooking, I admire your savvy business sense and know you would have some suggestions on how to take my business to the next level. Short of that, please take a look at my website if you can, and let me know what you think. I admire you greatly, and we have much in common, including our love of a big-bird pet!
By Joanne Rooks on April 10, 2012
Paula, I have always wanted to contact you from the very first day I saw your cooking show to thank you for helping me to get through some rough times. When I first saw your show, I was going through a bad break-up and was pretty down. Your smile and your bubbly, and warm personality made me feel better, and I continued to watch your show every day. After I read your book, I even felt more connected to you because you had been through hard times too and you showed that you could pull through any obstacles in life and come out as a stronger person. I love your strength. You are an inspiration to people, and you have a beautiful family too. You would be a nice mother-in law. I wish mine were as warm and caring as you!
By Whitney on February 16, 2012
Paula, Don't listen to the media. Your fans know your true self. Don't change that for anything. My husband, who looks very much like Michael, is also diabetic. I love him and wouldn't change anything about him. I am sure Michael feels the same way about you. Don't be discouraged, we love you just as you are!
By Dawn Cobble on January 21, 2012
Hey Paula, Just want you to know I fully support you on your decision not to reveal your medical situation! You are a highly popular person that we all watch, but that gives us no right to know your personal life whether it is you or your family! I love you and your wonderful receipes and I do fix and eat these food choices in moderation! I have not seen your son's programs yet, but I look forward to watching them! I have loved seeing them on Good Morning America! God Bless you and your family Paula!
By Jan W. Kennedy on January 19, 2012
Ms. Deen - I NEVER post on blogs, but I make this exception because I feel quite strongly about what is being reported with regard to your recent diagnosis. You have no duty to reveal anything you prefer to keep private, nor do you have any obligation to change the way in which you share your gift - your gift of being a wonderful cook. Isn't that what first drew us in? Keep being the warm, caring person you are and, as my husband says, don't let the turkeys get you down.
By G on January 18, 2012
Paula, I love,love,love you !!!! I love all of your food too of course. I tell all my grandkids that you are my best friend and I want to move next door to you. And I really mean that !!! My daughter got me a subscription to your magazine for my birthday. When the magazine came in the mail my grandaughter came and told me that I got a book in the mail with my best friends picture on it !!! Keep up the wonderful work and keep taking great care of your wonderful family.
By Sue Martin on January 14, 2012
Hey Paula, I am a big fan and I love all of your shows, books, cruises, family members, EVERYTHING!! I always come to the show in Atlanta when you and Michael come! My husband and I saw Michael in New Orleans when you were on a photo shoot and we talked with him and his brother at Mother's restaurant. I do really great floral designs like you like and I used to own my own business doing big weddings, parties and events. Since I have gotten over cancer, I have not done as many of the big events but I still do the really big lobby arrangement for our city's concert series that brings in big talent names. I would love to be a guest sometime on your show since I love Southern cooking! I have special diet needs since my cancer and I know there are a lot of people like me that would love for you to design some recipes that they could eat! Please think about some shows dealing with this subject...I cannot have any pepper, white, black or red, but I can have butter! I also cannot have any onion or garlic pieces but I can have the powders. There are a few other things, like tomatoes, raw veggies and citrus. I have a super sensitive stomach but I have revised some of your great recipes for my diet. Thanks for all that you do for all of us! Love you a lot, Susie Ulrey Anniston, Alabama
By Susie Ulrey on November 22, 2011
Paula, I know that you have a recipe for good old fashioned custard pie. I love it and haven't had in years since my Mother maid it. Would you please advise as to where I can find the recipe. Thanks
By Lou Fairey on October 12, 2011
Dear Mrs Paula , im one of your biggest fans i love witching your show and i get good tips i make a peanut butter cake and was wounding if you make them susie cook
By susie cook on October 12, 2011
Paula, I was just watching you on the Dr Oz show and my eyes are filled with tears. Fisrt I want to thank you for opening your heart with us. I have been watching you for years and Im in love with YOU!!! Im praying that God will give you the strenth to stop smoking. When you expose yourself, you shame the Devil. Please know that we have your back and wish you all success.
By Lisa Lee on October 11, 2011
Dearest Paula, I am watching you on Dr. Oz, listening to you talk about wanting to be a non-smoker. I already love you like a sister/cousin/favorite aunt, but now I am loving you even more and admiring you so much for your honesty and being so brave for your commitment to stop smoking. Several years ago you came to Little Rock for a fund-raiser for Baptist Hospital; there was a luncheon, then you shared some stories and time with us. I waited in line for you to sign a magazine, you were so gracious and sweet. I am not a smoker, my health issues are my weight, an ongoing battle! I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
By Debbie Dority on October 11, 2011
LOVE LOVE LOVE Paula!!!!!! Can't wait for the new book October 11. Hope to see you this weekend in NYC for Food and Wine festival. Met your son Bobby in Lady & Son's when we visited Savannah. You are so blessed. Are you filming The Chew on 9/29 at 9 or the 12 o'clock taping. Would love to see you in person!!!!!!
By Maureen B on September 28, 2011
To the person that posted this comment: "i truly don't mean this in a disrespectful way, and even though it sounds harsh; I don't know how else to ask. With the reality of so many people being overweight, do you not think it is irresponsible to offer recipes that are so rich in calories and not healthy? By promoting the use of so much butter, having it appear as if it is a "fun" choice for cooking.......I find this very irresponsible to the community. when the butter selection comes in to the picture on the cooking show, such a deal is made of it, almost promoting the more the merrier. i find this insulting. people that are in the public eye and are highly respected, like Paula for being an excellent chef, and I agree she is, should promote healthier lifestyle recommendations. This is my opinion. being from the South, doesn't excuse or explain the wrong lifestyle cooking choices. By Anonymous on July 03, 2011" DON'T WATCH THE SHOW!!!! I am from the south & we do not eat a stick of butter at every meal!! You clearly do not know the meaning of moderation.
By tgd46@bellsouth.net on September 27, 2011
thanks Paula for sharing your family with us. I love all of them. My mom and I especially love Michael. You two are so cute together. And I love to see you with your sons. I have a son and they are the greatest! Love you Paula and your show!
By brenda lee on September 07, 2011
Babies!!!! Yay
By Ashley on August 05, 2011
I just read the comment regarding Miss Paula's cooking style and the use of butter in her recipes, and I don't mean to be disrecpetful to the writer of this comment, but have you ever heard of moderation? I spend the majority of my days eating a healthy diet, full of fruits, veggies and lean meats. I walk three to five miles every day. I love my life and once a week, I treat myself and indulge in a Paul recipe (sometimes two). This week, it was the Chicken Basil Bread Pudding and the Potato Chip cookies, can I just say those cookies were decadent?! Step one - share - spread the wealth of a glorious meal and desert. Paul never said you had to eat the entire recipe or pile your plate full. One of my guilty pleasures after a work week is to indulge in a nice long walk, enjoying the beauty of the Colorado Rockies....and a Paula Deen Recipe. Pure Heaven
By Logan's Mimi on July 19, 2011
How do you keep the crust on fried chicken? I remember seeing a show where you gave a tip on what to do to keep the crispy part on fried chicken. Help???
By Mary Lou Varney on July 10, 2011
i truly don't mean this in a disrespectful way, and even though it sounds harsh; I don't know how else to ask. With the reality of so many people being overweight, do you not think it is irresponsible to offer recipes that are so rich in calories and not healthy? By promoting the use of so much butter, having it appear as if it is a "fun" choice for cooking.......I find this very irresponsible to the community. when the butter selection comes in to the picture on the cooking show, such a deal is made of it, almost promoting the more the merrier. i find this insulting. people that are in the public eye and are highly respected, like Paula for being an excellent chef, and I agree she is, should promote healthier lifestyle recommendations. This is my opinion. being from the South, doesn't excuse or explain the wrong lifestyle cooking choices.
By Anonymous on July 03, 2011
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Great article Cindy! I am fortunate enough to have two athletic children, who can be very competitive at times. They have heard me say many times, life is about choices, those big and small, they all matter. I am so glad that my children chose to play organized sports and become part of a team.
Karen in Winning with Humility and Losing with Grace on May 22, 2012 at 9:59 pm
As always, great information, just in time for an upcoming wedding! A wedding is such a special day for couples and those invited should feel privledged to share in their big day.
Karen in The Best Wedding Guests on May 22, 2012 at 9:10 pm
Dear Sweet Lady, You are my all time favorite Chef. I've tried a lot of your recipes and loved everyone. I really admire the relationship between you and Michael. Not many real and true love stories out there today, good to know that it's still that way between some folks. I want to personally congradulate you on all you have accomplished thru your life. I admire you. Sure hope you have a great day.... Thank you for reading.....Sincerely...Yvonne Taylor
Yvonne in Behind the Scenes at Cooking with Paula Deen Magazine on May 22, 2012 at 5:52 pm
As usual, great information!! All of your blogs on weddings have been very interesting. I will definitely print this one for my children. Looking forward to the next article!
Ann in The Best Wedding Guests on May 22, 2012 at 5:42 pm
My son is now 7 years old. He is a January baby, and it seems he is always snowed in on his birthday. We celebrate at home with a cake and ice cream, some presents etc. Nothing big, just him, his brothers and sisters and us, his parents. However, we do Birthday in July. He can invite 5 of his best buddies for a day out(No gifts allowed). Some times we do a BBQ with swimming at the lake. Some times we go to Chuck E. Cheese, I give them $10 each and let them play video games for 4 or 5 hours. I did this with my older kids as well. (They are 24 and 22 now) and it worked well. They don't expect huge parties, their friends don't expect party bags for Birthday in July. Nothing over the top, and they get to have fun on their day.
Tamara in The Birthday Beast on May 22, 2012 at 3:55 pm
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