Confessions of a Foodie

I am a self-proclaimed foodie. I can pour over a menu like it was the next hottest book on the NY Times Best Seller list. Before I go on a trip I research the restaurants in the area, and if the menus are available online I’ll print a copy of them. So yes, basically my itinerary revolves around where and what I’m going to eat.

Not only is the flavor of the food important to me, but so is the presentation. That is why meals in my home are major events. From the tableware to the type of beverage being served. In my opinion all these contribute to the experience of the meal. I have a friend who finds this a bit overwhelming. She is more of a solitary eater. Happy to have a moment to catch a bite of leftover pizza while standing at the kitchen counter. Recently our families spent a week together at her vacation home. The first day we were there I began planning dinner before we had even finished breakfast.

“So what about dinner tonight?” I asked. “We could just do something quick and easy, like spaghetti,” she suggested. Okay, I’ll run to the store after we clean up from breakfast. “No need, there’s pasta and sauce in the pantry.” I wrinkled my nose. “Bottled sauce. What brand?” I questioned. “I’m not sure, probably what ever was on sale.” Uh oh, I thought silently. I walked over to the pantry and assessed the contents. Then I opened the fridge and sighed. “Hmmm, we need to go the grocery store,” I told her. “What? Is the stuff not there?” “No it’s there, but we need garlic, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, dressing, ground turkey, bread, wine…” I ticked off the list. Her eyes widened. “All that?” she squeaked. “Yes, and maybe some flowers and candles for the table” I added. Beads of perspiration began to break out on her forehead. “We eat on trays in front of the TV,” she stammered. "Well it’s no problem we’ll just move some chairs around so everyone will fit at the table." That’s when I noticed she was clutching the counter. “Are you all right?” I asked. “Buh, buh, buh,” was all she could utter. “Don’t worry,” I assured her. “I didn’t forget about the dessert.”

Despite the difference in our styles, I am happy to say that we survived the week together. I still believe a good meal can bring together family and friends. It’s been that way all through the ages. Food…drink…people. So whether or not you are a foodie, I hope you take some time to enjoy at least one meal together with your loved ones. Happy eating!

Posted on Skirt.com, October 29, 2009