A Gap-Toothed Fan

I was beginning to find it both amusing and a bit flattering that, during the dinner preparation hour (and it HAS been an hour lately as we seek to do honor and give thanks for fresh CSA produce), the Lump would inevitably begin her "hang on Mom's leg" maneuver that sometimes means that she seeks a new vantage point.

Lifted into arms, she surveys the food preparation: I show her the simmering pan or other project. "Mmmmmm," she lately replies. The truth is, her appreciation is a warming affirmation, particularly as the 4.5 year-old lurking about recently has a more critical appraisal of the well-rounded dinner.

That is, until Friday, when the Lump, lifted up, surveyed the counters. "Mmmmmmmm," she said, looking at a bowl of scraps for the compost.