Gosh, I miss you guys. I miss this space here. I know I haven't been away that long, but life has been so very, very busy. Which is good, because it means I have lots of work. But my creativity in other areas is a bit lacking, especially in this space here. Not so much the posts, but more the thought that goes into it is what I miss. And, of course, I miss hearing your lovely thoughts!
I wanted to post about something the little one and I find so grounding amidst a busy stretch in our lives, and that would be the kitchen. We bake, we eat, we clean, we play...it is something that consistently brings us all together, and inevitably ends in something yummy. It's no wonder that baking day is on the first day the little one arrives back home. We have a moment to settle in, then it's straight to the kitchen!
I guess it's the process :: gathering wholesome ingredients, measuring, pouring, stirring, mixing, taste-testing, and then watching as whatever we are making slides into the oven. We are so very focused on the act of baking in the moment together that it creates this immediate bond where we feel the love we have for each other without ever mentioning a word. There are always many kisses from the little one while I help her pour and stir, and I typically feel her tiny body leaning into mine for a pat on the back. She's a good helper and I look forward to our baking days all week.
Today we started with morning surprise muffins. My mother and I used to make these for special treats. We sweeten ours with honey and use homemade jam, or jam made without sugar. The jam is placed in the middle, so when you bite into it you are surprised by the sweetness inside! They are delicious.
Then there was clean up (she helped wash the dishes), sweeping, putting the ingredients back in their places, and setting the timer. I love how involved she is in the whole process, from beginning to end.
Dinner included roasted asparagus (yum!) because the little one spotted it in the co-op and wanted to bring a bunch home. It was so, so good.
And after dinner we made macaroons dipped in chocolate. Oh yes, it was a very yummy day indeed. I think I may have to end this now so I can go grab another...
I hope you are all enjoying your week! Until next time...
