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Bubbie Quote by Susan Wiggs

“Isabel had always enjoyed a house full of people. 'Feed your friends, and their mouths will be too full to gossip,' Bubbie used to say. 'Feed your enemies, and they'll become your friends.' Throughout Isabel's childhood, the Johansen household had been full of people coming over, sitting down for…” quote by Susan Wiggs
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““Isabel had always enjoyed a house full of people. 'Feed your friends, and their mouths will be too full to gossip,' Bubbie used to say. 'Feed your enemies, and they'll become your friends.' Throughout Isabel's childhood, the Johansen household had been full of people coming over, sitting down for a glass of wine or a slice of pie, staying up late, talking and laughing. Bubbie and Grandfather had been determined that she should never feel like an orphan. Except that, despite their efforts, sometimes she had. It wasn't their fault, she reflected as she placed wedges of quiche on plates. There was just something inside her- an urge, a yearning- that made her long to be someone's daughter, not the granddaughter. She never said so, though, not aloud. Yet somehow, they heard her. Somehow, they knew. Perhaps, in the aftermath of Bubbie's final illness and passing, that was why Isabel had become so bound to Bella Vista. Now she couldn't imagine being anywhere else. Her heart resided here, her soul. She still loved having people over, creating beautiful food, watching the passing of the seasons. Even now, with all the trouble afoot and secrets being revealed like the layers of a peeled onion, she found the rhythm of the kitchen soothing.””

Susan Wiggs

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Kitchen of Secrets by Susan Wiggs, 2015

A woman seeks belonging and identity beyond her role, finding comfort in food and community despite inner longing.

In simple terms: Seeks belonging and identity.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate community while exploring self.

Themes

belonging identity family

Mood

nostalgic contemplative

Type

literary emotional

When to use this quote

  • family gatherings
  • self‑discovery
  • cooking therapy

Key Concepts

intergenerational bonds personal yearning

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “home” mean to you?
  • How can you honor both self and family?
A Different Perspective

May ignore personal needs for others’ expectations.

4.4 out of 5 (6 ratings)

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