Lunch with the Barefoot Contessa

     At work, I hardly ever eat lunch alone.  But sometimes I just want my own company without the gossip and chitchat.  Today was one of those days.  I needed to be alone.  I needed to think and plan.  I needed free energy and an open spirit.




     I entered the lunch and turned on the toaster oven.  I have prepared my lunch the night before and wrapped it in foil for the next day.  I took out from my lunch bag a homemade bagel pizza topped with tomatoes, spinach, onions, fresh garlic, mushrooms and lot of mozzarella cheese.  I popped into the oven and turned on the television to the Food Network.  There was the Barefoot Contessa preparing a delicious lunch for an old friend.  As I watched her dice and chop, my pizza was bubbling in the oven.




     As she anticipated the excitement that her guest would show when she presented her dish, I thought about my lunch ready to come to the table.  The garlic had already filled the lunchroom and waffled down the hallway to the offices.  The Barefoot Contessa made a lovely tablescape with fresh flowers, chic dishes and silverware.  I wiped down my table and took out the plasticware.  She poured a nice wine into clear wine goblets to match her meal.  I poured water into a plastic cup.  No wine for me at work.




     I placed my pizza on the plastic plate as the Barefoot Contessa's guest arrived and marveled at the meal presented.  I looked at my creation and marveled in anticipation of the flavors I have instilled on that simple bagel.   The  Barefoot Contessa and her guest bit into the dish and groaned with pleasure.  I bit into my bagel pizza and closed my eyes to savor all the delicate ingredients.  Slowly, I let out my own groan of pleasure. 




     I really enjoyed my bagel pizza.  Eating while watching the Barefoot Contessa made it just a little more enjoyable.   I was alone but not alone.  My lunch was not only enjoyable, but relaxing and educational.   I learned a new recipe for a future lunch thanks to the Barefoot Contessa. 

Comments