Off Topic: Reflection
Admittedly, I knew that I would go off rails with this blog because cooking alone couldn't sustain me in terms of content. So this is a non-cooking post.

One of the things that I actively try to do is catch myself in moments when *life is really good.* No outstanding worries like an albatross around my neck, everyone I love is healthy and happy (or, at least not abjectly miserable), and I am where I want to be at the moment.

Right now is one of those moments...let me paint it for you.

Toddler W is playing quietly in the gravel in our sun-dappled back pavement patch behind our house. The weather is 72 degrees and sunny. I feel the warm rays on my shirt's back as I sit and type this on the laptop (because WIRELESS), while sipping on an ice cold Diet Coke from the fridge (because ASPARTAME). I sit glad in the knowledge that work and the stress that it brings doesn't start for another 4.5 weeks, but also glad in the knowledge that I have work, as well as its good benefits and ample vacation. I know that soon W will likely take an extensive nap, which I may take beside him.

So, moment recognized as good. And now the toddler whines...the moment may be coming to an end.