Noni's Kitchen

Peaceful, relaxing day. Church was amazing and I cooked an enormous pot of chicken noodle soup to share with my stuffy nosed adult children. Why is it that I am always happiest when I am feeding people I love. So much so that a few days ago, my 17 month old grandson came over and immediately parked his cute little self on Noni's rug in the kitchen.

When the grandkids snack at my house, they sit on the rug in the kitchen. Of course, I sit with them and we have a snack along with a lively chat about the most interesting things. Usually they are here awhile before they ask for a snack but this time TD just plopped right down on the rug and waited. Adorable! Obviously, Noni was ready with some fruit cups and crackers. It makes me smile that they know the routines at my house. How blessed I am that they are here a few times each and every week. Some would say that the kids are lucky Ron and I are available to babysit anytime. I say the gift is ours that they share our grandkids with us so often.

I remember Ron's mom always in the kitchen when her kids all came home with their families. Silly me thought she was working too hard. Now I get the pleasure she got from feeding those she loved. When Dorothy and Lis came over the holidays and all the kids were together, I was honored to cook their favorites for them. It made me feel loved that Dorothy called ahead with a list of meals and desserts that I had to make while she was here. What better compliment could I have received?

The other thing about spending time in the kitchen when the house is all a buzz, is that I can listen to the enthusiasm and conversations of these special people.  I get to cherish just having them in our home enjoying each other. It really is true when people say that the best conversations occur around the kitchen. Some of my most treasured talks are when we are doing the dishes together.

Can't wait to have juice spilled on Noni's kitchen rug again real soon. What a wonderful life I live.

In Him,
Joyful
1-9-2011