This curated blog is devoted to discovering “how-to” ideas, recipes and other helpful tips from civilian women of the World War 2 era with its years of intense need and community spirit.
My recipes and instructions have been updated to work better with the modern palette and preferences, but they still maintain the spirit of the Second World War era—economical, practical and helpful.
I hope you will be inspired by these glimpses into the world of the 1940s, with its marvelous women who kept things running smoothly on the home front and overcame to achieve Victory. Enjoy!
Rationed Fashion—Making Do in World War 2
During World War 2, fighting on the home front included much more than keeping a home together. Foods were not the only things rationed.
New Year’s in Wartime: Partying Like It’s 1941
A look at how the 1940s generation celebrated New Year’s during World War II.
Holiday Realities & A Special Recipe
A friend’s very special holiday memory and recipe, plus two wartime alternatives
Triple Treat! Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding & Two Extras
My Granny’s classic banana pudding recipe
Veterans! We Salute You
Looking back at events of the 1940s brings the realization of what millions of individuals, for the common good, chose. Whether in times of war or peace, our veterans have similarly been the buffer between us and evil.
Double-Quick! Ten Oddly Delicious 1940s Beverages
Recipes from a 1943 American cookbook, written for women who have begun working away from home and need quick beverage options to go with meals
Instant Dinner! Beef & Mac From Freezer to Family in 30 Minutes
Answering the “What’s for dinner” question in a hurry.
Remembering Queen Elizabeth II
She was born Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor, in a house at 17 Bruton Street in the London neighborhood Mayfair, on 21 April 1926.
Child’s Play! 2 Easy Ways to Make Craft Dough
Two easy ways to make craft dough for children’s celebrations or everyday play
Leftover Coffee? Coffee Jelly! A Delicious 4-Ingredient Treat
How to make a delicious 4-ingredient treat
Classic! An Old-Fashioned Meal in 3 Steps—Macaroni & Tomatoes
This summer, if you want a real treat, learn how to can vine-ripened tomatoes, make yourself a quart, and try creating some culinary art of your own. I promise I’ll stay in my own kitchen.
Grow Your Own! 5 Ways to Garden
Whether in war or peace time, if you have any space—even a container or two—learning to grow some of your own food is empowering.
Remarkable Radish! How to Make a Mighty Soup from 1 Mini Ingredient
Cooking the radishes makes them less spicy and more earthy-sweet. Combined with yummy potatoes, this soup is dreamy.
Juicy! How to Make 1 Great Tomato Juice “Paw & Maw Style”
This juice can be water-bath canned for long-term storage, or placed in the refrigerator for use within 7-10 days. Remember: Great juice relies on fresh, ripe tomatoes.
More Moo! How to Make 4-Ingredient Pantry Pancakes
These can be made any size you like but are especially good on the small side, filled and rolled crepe-style. Fast, easy and yummy!