RECIPE FOR MUD PIES

When sent outside to play, I would often make mud pies.  To make mud pies, you need a pan or dish of some sort, plus a plastic spoon from the sandbox.  You can use a large serving spoon from the kitchen if your mom doesn't catch you.  Two essential ingredients are some handfuls of soft dirt, and one or two cups of water from the garden hose.  Give it a big stir and it's done.  Other possible ingredients are small sticks and stones, a handful of sand, or some leaves from nearby bushes.  Give your dollie a taste.  She'll probably like it.  But if you offer some to your little brother, he'll probably make all sorts of disgusting sounds of refusal.  Oh, well, you can't please everyone.

Kathy Keroson is the author of the two-book memoir series, "My Hometown - Naperville," available at myhometownnaperville.com.  Kathy's Book Launch Open House is April 27, from 1-4 at the Pre-Emption House in Naperville.  But sorry, due to food restrictions we won't be serving mud pies at this event.