It's that feeling early in the morning when it has snowed all night, the light is just starting to appear outside, my babies are still snuggled in their beds and I have the kitchen to myself. Bliss. Deep, intense joy.
The snow has covered anything I could have used to identify my yard. Inches and inches have fallen and settled the whole world outside my windows into a calm and stunning scene. Trees have bowed their branches down to kiss the ground and my little cedar looks to be resting his heavy tired head on a snowy pillow. Kitty tracks go to the windows, peering around curtains to see if a warm spot is waiting for them. A fat little quail finds shelter on the porch, watching a friend reflected in the window.
I love to pour a fresh cup of coffee, sit at the scarred wood table and flip through an old favorite cookbook. Will it be sourdough pancakes or a big gooey coffee cake? Perhaps fresh buttermilk biscuits with a jar of cantaloupe peach jam. Dutch apple pancakes with a rich cinnamon syrup and whipped cream? Tangy yogurt, mixed berry compote and a sprinkle of crunchy granola piled in layers in a parfait glass. Creamy french scrambled eggs with a smooth swirl of fontina cheese and cracked black pepper. I swear I could make and eat breakfast all day long.
As Christmas is approaching I long to find that one dish that is deceptively simple to make, fills the house with a rich smell and can be snacked on all morning. I have so many memories of cinnamon rolls, ham sandwiches, eggnog and sliced oranges. I want to find the foods that my children will remember and dream of when they grow up. I want to sneak out of my bed early on Christmas morning and slide a dish into the oven to slowly cook and wake the house. I find myself imagining the ultimate Christmas morning feel and wondering how to create it. Often I wonder if it is possible or just a fantasy women have about how we want it to look and feel and smell.
I have surrounded myself with twinkling lights on many trees throughout the house. I have added apple spice candles and warmers. Thick, warm rugs are twining across the floor in my kitchen. My toes wiggle and burrow into their depths and the kitties curl up on them in front of the heat vent. I find that I pull out my heavy pottery bowls and fat wooden spoons for cooking. The big dark pottery baking pans make meals look so warm. Heavy clay dishes and solid silverware make eating more thoughtful. Winter meals will not be rushed and winter cooking demands attention and intensity. Flavors must be richer and textures must be considered. Even a simple broth will be filled with the flavors of garlic and onion, a hearty soup bone and a splash of red wine. My soul finds rest and rejuvenation during this time of year. There will be time for busy frenetic antics in the kitchen come spring but for now I will slow down and add depth and meaning to my home, my food, my cooking and my life.Merry Christmas. May your homes be blessed with warmth and joy.
