Monday Musings: Kitchen Comforts

Each woman's kitchen has a different "feel" to it. Each elicits different emotions and can be recalled with unique sensory details. I've tried, in this poem, to give you an experiential taste, if you will, of what it's like in six of my life's favorite kitchens.

My mom’s kitchen

A place of cozy clutter

Dishes prepared with love

No recipes—just a little of this and a little of that

Robust smells—Spanish rice, spaghetti, potato salad

A welcome location for laughter

Haven of the heart

My aunt’s kitchen

Eggs on the counter

Homemade berry preserves

Apple pie—perfectly mellow and luscious

Comforting fare—stack of bread, cole slaw, chicken n’ dumplings

Crossroads of deep thought and tender mercies

Berth of blessing

My grandma’s kitchen

Small, neat, and orderly

Friendly jar with oatmeal cookies

Ordinary provisions—tuna sandwiches, American cheese, dill pickles

Humble pocket of generosity

Corner of kindness

My friend’s kitchen

Long-handled spoons in a crock

Designated drawers and domains

Simple pleasures—limes, salsa, full-bodied coffee

Concourse of magnanimous mirth

Station of solace

My daughter’s kitchen

Compact, colorful, welcoming

Clean dishes air drying

Delightful dishes—always something new to try, sweet, crunchy, varied

Grateful nook of homespun bliss

Hamlet of hospitality

My kitchen

Crowded workspace

Country cottage décor

Mom’s specialties—wraps, Chicken Monterey, alfredo

Accommodation of spontaneous snacks and stories

Hub of curious conversation