Chopped that stress away...

Lately Dexter and I have a new show obsession - Chopped. Thank you to Food Network for sponsoring an hour filled full of anticipation, tension, and lots of unique food combinations. We sit and watch and critique these professional chefs as though Food Network had contacted us and inquired our opinion. For 60 minutes we really feel like we know as much as Julia Child or Bobby Flay. It leaves us hungry for new ingredients and me a bit empowered in my own kitchen. I see these chefs romp about and toss this and that together and something almost always splendid is the result. I sit there and think, I'm going to try that - or something very similar. :)

Tonight was one of those good cooking experience nights. I felt like one of those Chopped chefs. I was bouncing around the kitchen with such ease. I had at least four things going at once with just the right pace. I would add a dash of this spice, a little of this to make a type of sauce - and not to brag too much, but my steaks were the perfect kind of juicy. It was one of those perfect nights in the kitchen. Even the clean up was quick and easy-like. Such a pleasurable experience. It really melted the stress of this week away.

I truly believe that each night in the kitchen is a toss up of how it will pan out. Pun intended. :) It will either be smooth and accomplish much, or it will seem as though disaster has struck. When I am stressed about those uncontrollable stresses at work, I enjoy a productive night in the kitchen where I leave feeling completely in control and as though I created something wonderful. And all those yum noises and 'this is so good' comments from Dexter really made my night! <3 It took me from feeling a bit tense, to relaxed and very thankful. Thankful for the great dinner, and for the great guy I got to share it with.