Toast Please

I have to say it really is the most simple things that bring the greatest joy like watching the sun set on Sanibel Island. Smell can drive such a strong memory. I had a peanut butter and raspberry jam sandwich for lunch and it took me back. I think I remember at one point boycotting pb&j's and insisting on bologna when I was little. What was I thinking?!? I keep a box of crayons at work just so I can take a whiff.


The toast smell is a favorite of mine and the dogs. Vegas and Molly are dignified beggars but certain foods make them rabid beggars and toast is one of them. It's my Dad's fault. When the two Iowa Retrievers cohabitate with the three Florida Retrievers, and it's breakfast time, it's TOOAST time. Dad makes one slice for himself and one whole slice for each of the dogs. Dad and I butter the toast for each dog. This part, is important. If you've watched Paula Deen or Ina Garten cook, butter is important. The dogs then sit patiently waiting, creating small pools of drool, until Dad finishes breakfast. At the end of the meal, they all eat toast. So in Iowa now when the toaster comes out of the cupboard and the toast smell begins to permeate the house, Vegas and Molly are front and center.

A peanut butter and raspberry jam sandwich; a brand new box of crayons; toast with butter, orange peels, real gardenias - it's all good.