As the hub of our family of two adults, four kiddos, two cats and a dog, our kitchen is a busy place. I am frequently interrupted mid-recipe, which is why my recipes are written with a focus on the immediate use of the prescribed ingredients. This format makes it much easier to find my place after the inevitable interruption.
Licorice (pictured above) is a remarkable “tri-pawed” cat who lost a leg in an accident involving a car and his former habit of sprawling on asphalt at dusk (black cat+black roadway+dim light=bad odds). He inspires me in his agility and his sheer presence. There really is nothing quite like a large, purry, confident black cat.
Licorice often sprawls on the floor in front of the heat register and sometimes he finds an odder place, such as the placemat drawer pictured above. Sometimes he attacks my ankles, which makes me yelp if I am barefoot and laugh if my ankles are covered. I have no idea why he does this.
Licorice took a months long hiatus from the kitchen when we added Roscoe, our nearly two year old English setter, to our crew. After deciding that teasing the dog was much more fun than hiding in the basement, however, Licorice once again graced us with his presence. He makes us smile. In a setting that can so often be stressful with a busy family that needs to eat before running off to school or practice or activity, it is good to have a reason to smile.
It can also be really good to have some excellent, soothing music. If you like classical music, or if you have an open mind about it, you can check out my Spotify playlist.
