and eating
October 20, 2009 (Tuesday)
Wanda always did all the cooking at our house. After she was gone, I had to learn how to do it, beginning with buying stuff at the grocery store. I had worked at grocery stores many years ago, but apparently learned nothing about what I was helping to sell. So I was in for an education at the store.
The first thing I learned was that there are a lot of foods already prepared, and either ready or almost ready to eat. Wanda never bought any of that stuff, so I didn’t know it existed. She never bought anything but the basics and made things from scratch. Not that she always knew how to cook. When we first married, she knew little about it. But she quickly learned, and became quite an expert. She loved the Betty Crocker cook book. I always loved her cooking. But even if I hadn’t liked it, I never would have told her so, because my grandfather told me, “Son, whatever it is, and whatever it tastes like, it’s always the best you ever ate!” Wise man.
The second great discovery was the crock pot. I believe you can put anything in that miracle bowl, give it time, and it will come out a gourmet delight. It certainly works that way for me. What a great invention! I love it.
The third great discovery was that I can cook, after all. Sometimes pretty well, sometimes not so hot, but I haven’t missed a meal yet. In fact, before I realized what I was doing, I thought I had to cook a lot and eat every bit of it. I gained 30 pounds, which I have taken off this year, and hope to keep off. Makes it much easier to walk, and has helped my knees, both of which thank me for dieting every time I walk. In fact, weighing a little less helps me feel better in almost every way.
I began this article with the intention of writing about hot dogs. After a little research I decided I’d rather just enjoy them without thinking about it.