My Grandma, Suzanne Kagan
Everyone loves their grandma, there’s no denying that. Their cooking is always the best, they know exactly what to say to cheer us up, grandmas and they are sweetest and cutest people we know. Luckily, I’ve been blessed with a fantastic grandma.
You see, my grandma is not a typical grandma. She is a cool grandma. She texts, she has Facebook, and she swears sometimes (don’t deny it granny, I’ve heard you!) She also happens to be a fashion designer, jewelry maker and amazing cook. You can check out and purchase her fancy purses on Etsy. She’s pretty much the star of the family.
When I was a little girl, I loved her for her endless supply of cookies at Christmas time and when she dressed me up like a doll with the clothes she sewed herself. As a teen, we bonded over iced coffees, thrift shopping and “making beads” as we’d call it, or as my grandpa would call it – covering the dining room table and floor in crystals of all shapes and sizes. Now as an adult, I start to see my grandma as the incredible woman she is: an entrepeneur, an amazing chef, an artist, a diva and an endless source of motivation and inspiration.
To honor her and all grandmothers, I asked her to answer a few questions and also share one of her and my favorite recipe: Secret Kiss Cookies. My grandma got this recipe from her neighbors while living in Milwaukee, WI and has been making them every single year since 1966! This recipe is definitely a family tradition and favorite.
Interview with my Grandma, Suzanne Kagan
When did you start cooking and why?
I cooked with my mother when I was small and enjoyed learning new recipes.
You cook a lot of healthy food and pay attention to what you put in your body. Do you feel this makes a difference in the way you feel?
I do pay attention to what I put into my recipes and it does make a difference on the way I feel…using less sugar, salt and fats help keep us healthier.
You are a lady of many talents and interests, where do you find your inspiration (and energy!) for new projects?
I love to keep busy and got inspired from my mom and grandmother when it came to cooking and sewing. I love going out and looking for new ideas and that keeps me inspired and energized. You helped too, when the two of us got together and started making the pretty jewelry. One exciting project just leads to another. I’m still looking and finding new things to make. It never ends and you feel a satisfaction when you finish a new project.
What is your favorite thing to cook?
I love to make soups, but I think my favorite is desserts, especially during the holidays!
Who inspires/has inspired you in your life?
As I said, my mother and grandmother got me started and it just goes on down the line and makes me proud when I see how you have been so inspired to keep this love of cooking A family tradition ….you especially keep me inspired with your new and inventive ways and methods .. You make me proud.
Thanks granny, you make me proud too!
Secret Kiss Cookies
Live, cook and eat abroad 