In the Kitchen (and more!)

Yesterday I actually had some time at home. I was able to watch "House" from Tuesday night. I ate some sweet and sour ginger soup I bought at the health food store, and it was yummy. Grace loved it too. I gave her a spoonful of mine, then she climbed on my lap and took over eating it. Then for the first time in at least a week I was able to do some baking. I had some pumpkin in the refrigerator I needed to use, so I made the pumpkin muffins from VWaV. My god, it felt good to be cooking again! I missed my measuring spoons and cups. Grace stood on her chair and did all the stirring, as usual. We ate the batter out of the bowl. It was very cathartic. It really made me realize what a foodie I have become. I spend a significant amount of internet time reading other people's food blogs, finding recipes and learning about vegan food and nutrition. I crave the way it smells when I saute onions and fresh garlic. I read cookbooks for fun. And it feels so good...I have to do something with this.

Other stuff-

-My students at work have been missing me. Apparently they even discussed it at their Boy's Group meeting with the social worker. My heart feels so full...

-The outpouring of people willing to help out in any way, and people that I have to call and email with updates about Garrett also warms my heart and brings me to tears. I appreciate it more than you will ever know.

-When I was finally able to get groceries the other day, they were out of kale. I literally stood looking at the place where the kale usually is for like two minutes, as if it would magically appear there. I have been craving kale, which sounds weird, but man, Grace and I can share several big bowls full of the stuff that has been cooked with a little garlic. I bought some collard greens instead. Hopefully they will be good.

-Yes, sometimes I do eat food without Grace.

-Last night I watched "The Office," and at the end I laughed so hard that my stomach hurt, tears were rolling down my face, and I couldn't breathe. It's going to be one of those things that pops into my head during random moments and gives me the giggles.

-Those muffins were insanely good. Are you sick of me raving about this cookbook? Too bad. They were fluffy, moist, and Jesus, is there any better combination than pumpkin and mollases?? I dare you to find one.

Here's to a positive attitude despite the obvious hardships and the fact that there is now snow on the ground. Everything is going to be just fine.