It's the holiday weekend. Many will be spending time with their families. In honor of family, I'd like to share something really special-the recipe for my Aunt Alma's donuts.

These donuts are a cardiologist's nightmare, but there is no better donut in the known universe. But they are part of all that was good in my childhood.

Back in 1996, Aunt Alma was getting along in years and living in a long term care facility. I drove 300 miles, in part, to hear some family memories-and to see if I could leave with her donut recipe.  She rattled it off faster than I could write.  Aunt Alma has now passed on.  But I hope this recipe lives on forever. Now I will share it with you.

Aunt Alma's donuts 

2 ½ cups white sugar

1 cup cream

beat these thoroughly and set aside

In another bowl, beat

4 eggs

½ tsp nutmeg

2 tsp baking powder

2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

Mix together all of the above.

Then add "enough flour to roll" (about 8 cups)

Fashion into ropes and then a circle or use a donut cutter

Deep fry in lard

Most dieticians will tell you that an occasional donut-for those in good health and in the context of a well-balanced diet-is OK.

 So, after you've had a complete diagnostic work-up, and have your doctor's blessing and your portable defibrillator is tuned-up, make and enjoy this wonderful donut. It's heaven in the shape of an "O."