I interviewed my mother about this story just a few weeks ago when I visited her in Chicago. Though I always knew that my grandmother was at the center of both stories, I never knew that we were the same age when both of came so close to dying. I now believe, more than ever, I was a part of Hahlmuhnee’s redemption story. Given everything my grandmother did for me, I feel so glad that I could be that for her. I also miss her so darn much and sometimes, I could swear I see her in me, as if she’s possessed my body when I’m cooking, washing the dishes, even when I’m doing my makeup. I suppose this makes sense, since so many of my memories surrounding my grandmother are of her doing exactly these things. This Strawberry Shortcake Trifle recipe was developed directly in response to how much I dislike the dry, crumbly texture of a class strawberry shortcake. I love strawberries. I love whipped cream. I love cake. I mixed them altogether with a little lemon to bring out the brightness of the ...