Popcorn, History & Freezing Temps

 

The temperatures had plunged into wintertime lows last week. So I wrapped myself in a heavy sweater and took care of business inside, rather than where it was cold outside. When the weekend came, the temps rose, becoming more seasonal. So I embraced them… by sitting out on the patio, drinking my raspberry tea... listening to the birds chirp, and watching squirrels scurry across the front lawn. But for some reason... I still didn’t want to venture too far from my comfort zone, by leaving the premises… even with the warmer weather. So I stayed firmly planted at home. Not even the CDC lifting the mask mandate made me budge. Instead I dug in my heels and decided to binge watch the History Channel on that night.  But first I needed refreshments. You have to have refreshments when you binge watch. I decided a peach tea to drink this time, instead of raspberry would be tasty. Then, ripping open a big old box of microwave popcorn, I bought for quarantine last year… I made myself a bag. As per my special requirements after it was popped… I added half a stick of melted butter and ¼ bottle of parmesan cheese into the bowl, along with the corn. It smelled delectable. I carefully carried it into the family room, anticipating it’s yummy goodness. Then I got myself comfy, cozy... situated on the couch. I tuned in the TV station of choice and started stuffing my mouth with popcorn. I was sooo happy to just be kicking back and relaxing. Also to be putting aside all my health problems and such. About 15 minutes into my bliss, I shifted my foot that had fallen asleep, to another position… forgetting it was attached to the leg… the big bowl of popcorn was 'precariously' sitting on. In less than a second... the bowl went KABOOM.  Popcorn, coagulated cheese and butter was all over my carpeted floor, everywhere. Before I could scream Boo-Hoo… my grey tabby had jumped from her perch and was licking up butter, cheese and attempting to inhale popcorn, literally inhale… no chewing. This was not a pretty picture from any angle, and I was worried the cat would get sick. My hubby came to the rescue with a small garbage bag, as I scooped up the contaminated popcorn, dodging Mira’s attempts to block me.  The 5 second rule did not apply any longer... so the taste of popcorn on my tongue was now erased, long gone. Such a shame. Finally, managing to outsmart the cat… I put the remaining popcorn inside the bag my hubby was holding, so he could cart it away, hiding the situation's catastrophic effects. It had all been my fault. As I looked at the empty bowl, and saw my TV show flicker from the screen… I got a tad bit angry that my evening had been ruined like this. Que Sera Sera, I thought. I picked up my flavored tea from the end table and went outside to clear my head. I stood there on the stoop looking up at the stars. I took in some fresh air and contemplated life. It’s the little things that bring joy. And tonight… unfortunately that joy had been fleeting and I was disappointed. Not to worry, my gut told me. There is always tomorrow...