Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
We are up and moving early today, as it’s De-Box the She She Day. It’s a long story. Mary had several boxes in the She Shed that had not been opened since the move, and I wanted to convert the She Shed into an artist’s studio and tea house. Today, the process began! I am very proud of Mary!
We moved several boxes to the patio and Mary bravely went through them, separating them into keep for herself, send to the kids, and my favorite, trash! It’s a shame that the kids probably won’t hold or cherish the various goodies from their childhood and pass them on.
Mid-afternoon, we enjoyed a glass of vino, which seemed to help the process along!
Our gardener pulled out the corn stalks that were done because I can no longer do that myself. It’s tough to realize that I’m 80 and can no longer do the things I used to do. I’m getting better at recognizing my limitations, and I’m fortunate that we can accomplish those things. God bless my son, grandsons, and our handyman!
After Carlos departed, I took the high-pressure hose and washed out the roots so I could keep the good soil in the garden. The stalks became a lot lighter and were easier to handle. Tomorrow, I will rake the area, replant more corn, and cut and dispose of the stalks.
Mary saw the action and decided it was time for corn chowder.
The last four ears of corn had been on too long and were “starchy”; not great to eat, but perfect for chowder.
Around 5:00 pm, we went inside, and while Mary made the corn stock, I chopped, diced, sliced, and did naughty things to the corn, potatoes, onions, and celery. The knife was flying, approaching the speed of sound.
We had never heard of “corn stock,” so we tried it; it worked. Guess we aren’t as smart as we thought. We boiled water and tossed in five naked corn cobs (the corn was cut off).
The corn looked good, and I filled the bowl with four potatoes, including eight small home-grown potatoes. We used our onions and celery, and Mary added some goodies from the herb garden.
Magic is about to happen!
I was so excited about the chowder that I forgot to take pictures, but let it be known: my bride is truly a Master Chef, totally fearless of trying new things. During dinner, I went back for three bowls of the concoction.
What did the corn say to the popcorn? You crack me up!”
We took some of this delightful brew over to Jeff and spent some time visiting with him.
It was getting dark, and the pool was 95 degrees. Today’s sunshine warmed it up two degrees, so we imbibed.
It was a glorious evening with the moon shining down like a big Cheshire Cat!
Mr. Doctor said no marshmallows this evening, so I had to go without. While dying of starvation, I remained calm and enjoyed a pleasant conversation with Mary.
