In Baba's Tiny Kitchen

As a blizzard brews outside, Baba’s tiny kitchen is filled with warmth, family, and food

It’s almost lunchtime in Baba’s tiny kitchen, and eager tummies rumble. Outside, there’s a blizzard brewing. But inside, red borscht simmers on the stove, pierogi sizzle in butter, and sauerkraut bubbles in the oven. The scrumptious smells say, “Ready to eat!”—but the family must wait until Dido comes in from doing the farm chores.

While she anticipates lunch, a young child finds ways to stay patient. To her, Baba’s kitchen isn’t just a place where food is made. It’s also a favorite spot for hide-and-seek, a cozy reminder of springtime flowers, and a space where everyone is willing to lend a helping hand.

At last, Dido bursts through the door in a rush of cold air that sweeps the room. But the comforting smells of Baba’s tiny kitchen soon take over once again, and the whole family tucks into a hearty winter lunch. Inspired by the author’s childhood visits to her Ukrainian grandparents’ farmhouse kitchen, in Baba’s tiny kitchen, a little space can feel enormous when it’s filled with love and family.