Butcher Block etc.   My dad grew up in the depression, both of his parents were suffering from mental health issues, they were destitute, living in a rural area between a couple of Indian reservations.  He was often hungry, cold, didn’t even own a shirt at the age of 12 until he talked his mom out of a flour sack and made something. Often didn’t have shoes.   When looking for something to get them for Christmas, this issue came up.  They have enough stuff, phone calls, sending them pictures, etc is much appreciated.

They have money, my dad has always been careful with money, raised an amazing garden, stored, prepared. When I talked to him a last fall, he was concerned because they were eating too many TV/microwave dinners.  He was like we canned 80+ qts of grape juice and had no energy left to cook ourselves meals. I was thinking if I canned that much grape juice, I would be tired too.  My parents (in their upper 80’s) have their canning system down, I watched/helped them a couple years back when visiting. My mom uses a walker, and uses it to also help with moving stuff around in the kitchen. 

Sadly my nieces, nephews, son who live in the area do not have the time or desire to learn these canning skills from them. To them eating out is a luxury/splurging, they are not safe driving themselves beyond their neighborhood.  Thankfully there are a several stores, and places to eat out. They do not want to impose on others. They are used to eating home cooked meals much from their garden, homemade bread, etc.  Thus convenience meals are like eating cardboard.

My sister lives next door and was bring them meals over when she could, but later they were like no thank you, but pick up our groceries when you pick up yours.  I found out it was because my sister cooks with rice a lot, and they are not rice fans and were missing out on potatoes.  I let her know, and she is bringing them non-rice meals from time to time.

We got them gift cards to their favorite place to eat close enough for them to drive themselves safely. It was much appreciated.   As looking for options on meal delivery, most of the delivery services where fast food.