Make It Easy On Yourself

Even while he was sick, Papa regularly went to the grocery store to buy me non-perishable food items.  He especially liked to buy things that were quick and easy for me to cook.

"Make it easy on yourself, Liz," he would say.  He meant, "don't get so wrapped up in complex, gourmet living that you forget the simple pleasures of the good life God has given you."  Papa always got his point across in fewer words.  

Tonight, we are eating the last of the pasta he purchased before he died.  He would have loved to meet his great grandson, who is currently eyeing up the bubbling pasta pot.  

Soon enough, little one.  I will buy and cook you pasta in memory of your great-papa.  You will find that pasta is one of the quickest, cheapest pleasures in life.  And some night, if you are ever standing in front of your pantry wondering what to cook for dinner, you may remember the sage advice of a man I wish you would have known.  In regards to daily life, don't get too fancy: "make it easy on yourself, sweetheart."