The Open Kitchen

EB in the kitchen

Early this afternoon, I sat in EB's kitchen watching her make peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches. It was the day after LB's 40th birthday celebration and I had stayed in their wonderful home the night before. One baby was down for a nap, the other was hanging out with dad in the living room, and it was time for lunch.

I have known LB since we were college students fueling up on Little Debbie snack cakes and fountain sodas from the gas station near the theatre arts building at ISU. Last night we shared wild boar ragu and caramelized Brussels sprouts. If sometimes we doubt that we have actually grown up, at least our palates are more mature.

EB apologized for not offering a more elaborate lunch, but as simple as it was, that peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwich was delicious. And, of course, sentimental. PB&J is, after all, a staple of the American childhood... or at least it was before the advent of peanut allergies. I was delighted to eat one for lunch (with chips because it's just not the same without that satisfying savory crunch).

EB has always been beautiful in the kitchen whether making a fancy brunch (above right) or spreading peanut butter on whole wheat bread. She puts thought, attention and care into the food she creates. She and LB both are warm and hospitable, and they welcome company while preparing meals. Their kitchen is... open.

Chefs at Bouley Test Kitchen

I left NJ to attend another decade-marking celebration for a friend and colleague. The event was held at the Bouley Test Kitchen, a space of many uses with an open kitchen of a different sort. A team of chefs crafted complex dishes for a crowd that chatted and mingled around them. The steaming, sautéing, roasting and frying created a warm haze overhead. The chefs were intense and focused, but smiles appeared here and there. And the servers proffered their various dishes on silver trays with hospitality and interest. It was a lovely event indeed.

Although I said last week that 39 would be the last birthday that would count, I am now reconsidering. Perhaps I will keep counting and throw myself a party... if not for 40 than certainly for 50. How fantastic to have your family and close friends in one place celebrating the life you have carved in this grand and vast world of possibility!

Fancy sauce

PB&J