
Socca and Churro bask in the warm glow of our remodeled kitchen.
References to my spouse as “Wonderful Husband Charles” might prompt some readers to wonder, “What’s so great about that guy?” Well, for one thing, he is a skillful handyman with an eye for detail. In the past year, he’s crafted several handmade wooden boats before turning his attention to updating the kitchen in our 1959 ranch. I’ll take credit for some of the planning, but the execution was all Charles. Wonderful Husband Charles!
We’ll be putting in the finishing touches over the next week or so, but I’m already enjoying the open expanses of countertop and efficient workspace in my cooking. Even doing the dishes is more pleasant– check out that sink (or is it a bathtub?)!
In related news, I have an announcement that may surprise some readers: I’m no longer consuming meat or dairy products. Yes, that includes cheese. No more cheese for me. In an effort to be kinder to animals, to the earth, and to my own body, I’ve changed my diet and my hobbies. Essentially, I’m learning to cook all over again, and it’s really exciting! My first attempt at vegan baking was a flop, but I just pulled a batch of peanut butter cookies of the oven that I’d be proud to serve any of you.
My support of small farms remains; I believe that industrial animal agriculture is a major cause of animal cruelty, human health problems, environmental damage, and questionable government policies. Removing them from my life at this time is a choice about which I feel peaceful and satisfied.
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Thanks, Maeg! I’m re-learning how to cook… I still think that cheese, butter, and dairy are delicious, and it’s a fun challenge to make tasty food without them. Thanks for the suggested reading.