Consolation Prize

We’re part way into Week Two and it’s raining.  It’s raining so much in Santa Cruz that James is trapped over the hill and has to spend the night at Matt and Dr. Antsy’s.  Hopefully things will clear up and he won’t have to rent a helicopter to rescue Granddad and Grandma Suzy from the mountain.

Meanwhile… I’m tired and just want to watch Top Chef.  And speaking of cooking, James being gone has really shone a light on who is the chef of this family.  Not that there was really ever a question, but it is abundantly clear that Daddy runs the kitchen.  He is the executive chef.  I’m the sous chef in charge of vegetables.  Let’s face it, James can cook.  Partly ’cause he loves to eat.  And partly ’cause he’s one of those maddening people that reads instructions and follows them flawlessly.

Unsolicited, Jakey has been ranking his favorite meals, which goes something like this:
Daddy’s ribs
Daddy’s spaghetti
Daddy’s tacos
Daddy’s hamburgers and
Potstickers

And in the treat category:
Daddy’s chocolate fondue
Daddy’s Texas Sheet Cake
Brownies and
Mommy’s chocolate strawberries (based almost entirely on one Valentine’s Day over 3 years ago when I brought home tuxedo strawberries from a work team-building event)

I must admit, I was a bit deflated when one night Nate lamented, “But Maaama only knows how to make chicken!”

Totally not true.  I mean, I know how to make other things.  Just last week I made asian turkey meatballs, pork chops and sole in parchment paper (thanks to the help of our dear #Team James and Sun Basket).  The food critics were mildly impressed.

Tonight Jake was going through his favorite Daddy foods for the umpteenth time since he’s been away.  He turns and says to me, “But you make the best salad Mom.  The best.”

I didn’t say Whoopdeedo...  But maybe I thought it.