Memories of Nana
BY JACK KLAUDER
My Nana, a remarkable woman, had some extraordinary traditions I recall fondly half a century later. One was what we called the “Juice Bar.” This was the fun practice of ordering a very unusual drink from her.
“What would you like from the Juice Bar?” Nana would ask. The children would reply, “Tutti fruity berry juice,” “coconut cream and custard,” or anything and everything they could think of. The more outlandish, the better, as exercising our imaginations was the main point.
“Just try not to notice that every drink, no matter what bears a striking resemblance to orange juice or, on occasion, apple—an enjoyable tradition, to be sure.”
I recall a visitor being initiated into the game and requesting “roast beef juice.” Nana nodded her approval at how quickly the guest had caught on and their original response.
“Pickles and watercress,” “banana graham cracker,” and “honey, rutabaga, and ginger ale” are all good examples. It never actually mattered how feasible (or not) the request was. Your order would be taken, and you would be presented with your unique beverage. Just try not to notice that every drink, no matter what, bears a striking resemblance to orange juice or, on occasion, apple—an enjoyable tradition, to be sure.
Another custom that remains firmly fixed in my memory was simply called a “Performance.” When we arrived at our grandparents’ house, each child was required to give a presentation to them. Anything was acceptable: a song, a skill, or a school paper that received a good grade. It was a moment to demonstrate, be center stage, and focus on others.
When we were young, my sisters might do headstands and cartwheels while I would engage in pushups. I do recall shocking my grandparents as a child, laying on the floor, legs up, placing my hands on the back of my knees, and making “farting noises” as I kicked my legs up and down.
We gave it more thought as we grew and would recite poetry, share a song, or tell a story. One of my sisters was a great singer, and in her teens, she would often bring her guitar and perform an original or a John Denver number. At Christmas, my siblings, Karol, Kathy, and Kim, always loved to perform the classic “Sisters” routine from the beloved movie White Christmas. Karol and Kathy were cheerleaders, so we certainly saw our fair share of cheers, complete with pom-poms.
“Thank you, Nana, for your incredible investment in your grandchildren and all the beautiful memories you created.”
I recall that, as a teenager back in the 1970s, I once sang and played Simple Man by Lynyrd Skynyrd. Those lyrics, “Come sit beside me, my only son, and listen closely to what I say,” seem very appropriate to these special bonding times as I think about them today.
Over the many years, I believe our performances encouraged greater confidence in public expression and the learning to receive and give attention without too much narcissism or jealousy. These sessions were not competitive, as everyone’s and every effort’s efforts were valid. It was always done in the spirit of fun.
And now, for my next Performance, I will attempt to concoct the ever-enchanting “strawberry, mustard, and anchovy juice.” Thank you, Nana, for your incredible investment in your grandchildren and all the beautiful memories you created.
