Aunty Alvina

This recipe was given to me by my dear, sweet Aunty Alvina.  She passed away today at the ripe old age of 94; she would have been 95 next week.

Aunty Alvina in 2004 with my children

She was an amazing woman with a beautiful disposition.  I'm convinced that the key to her longevity was her ability to always look at the bright side of life.  I believe that God honored her with a long, healthy life because she always cared so much for others.  She married my Uncle Joe, a widower with two small children, when she was in her 20's. They later had another child.

I always admired their marital relationship, and I remember that I asked for her best advice when I was getting married.  She told me to remember to honor my husband's family as if they were my family, too, and to split our time evenly between both of our families.  Alvina means "wise friend" in the Hebrew language, which definitely described her.

Aunty Al was a fabulous cook, one of those people who can take simple ingredients and make them into the most delicious comfort food.  This recipe is made with pantry ingredients, but it doesn't taste like it.  It is a recipe I pull out often, and whenever I do, I think of Aunty Al.  In the past several years, when we would visit her in the summertime, we would always go to breakfast at Cracker Barrel because she loved their waffles!  And I love hers....and her.  I will miss you, Aunty Al, but I know that you are rejoicing in the presence of Jesus our Savior tonight.  I cannot wait to see you again in heaven.  XOXO

Aunty Alvina's Belgian Waffles

(click here to print)

2 cups buttermilk biscuit mix (such as Bisquick or Jiffy)

1 large egg

3 Tbsp. vegetable oil

12 oz. can DIET 7-Up OR Sprite OR club soda

Preheat oven to 200 degrees.

Lightly oil a Belgian waffle maker.  While it is preheating, mix all ingredients.  Pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto waffle iron and close lid.  Cook until golden brown, 3-5 minutes depending on your waffle iron.  

To keep waffles warm while making others, place in preheated oven with a sheet of foil between each waffle.  Serve immediately with toppings of your choice.