DINNER WITH A SIDE OF JAZZ

Something beckoned me to be creative in the kitchen tonight. Not sure if it was the grocery order I picked up on the way home or thoughts of the movie Julie & Julia as I examined the fresh fruits and vegetables at the supermarket or even the delicious bottles of all my favorite red wines that awaited me at my house. I think it was the combination of all three that I infused into my loyal frying pan, along with chunks of eggplant, zucchini, leeks, tomatoes and garlic. They simmered away happily to the tunes of jazz bellowing from the sun room. As I sipped a glass of my favorite shiraz (even thought cabernet is my first choice), I smiled, amused at the thought that tonight belonged to me. Barefoot and sweatpants, hair pulled back and Romel watching attentatively.

I briefly wrestled with the idea of sharing this culinary masterpiece with a friend but that thought evaporated into the air, floating lightly above with the wonderful smells of parsley and garlic and pressed grapes and fresh crusty bread and robusto cheese...I am so happy right now, not only because I had the strength and intensity to prepare a meal from scratch after a long day but also because I enjoyed every bite, every sip, every scent and every moment of a meal created for myself, and by myself, totally alone (except for my pooch), with fullness of heart, as well as belly, and with no regrets for selfishly indulging by candlelight of course!

I am content on so many levels...I hope you are making the most of your night as well...

Cheers