PHOTO: Mary van Balen
“Getting ready for the snow storm?” I asked as I handed the customer her bag of Cuddle Duds long johns.
“Yes, and I’m going home and making a big pot of chili for dinner.”
“I’ll be over,” I joked. She laughed as she walked away, but I couldn’t get a big pot of chili out of my mind. Actually, it sounded so good I decided right then that I was going to stop at the grocery after work, buy the ingredients, and make myself a big pot of chili.
Funny how something as simple as that can lift one’s spirits. I smiled for the rest of the afternoon and enjoyed every moment of browning meat, onions, and green pepper before adding tomatoes and beans. The chili needed to simmer and I treated myself to a cup of tea and time to read some of “The Week.”
My sister unexpectedly stopped by and we visited while spicy smells filled the house. At nine o’clock I ladled out a steamy bowl of chili, topped it with extra sharp cheddar, and crumbled saltines over it all.
Ahh. I uncharacteristically took small bites and savored each one. How often do I eat without even noticing the flavors, textures, and aromas? Too often. I closed my eyes and gave thanks for a place to live, to cook, and for the wonders of chili on a cold winter night.
© 2011 Mary van Balen
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