Many decades ago in another time and place, 

When I, a young girl in my own special space,

Learned math and science and a great love of books

But with three women at home, did I need to cook?

And then as a teen there was good old Maine High,

Where I was serious and so quiet and shy.

Math, science and English were the subjects I took,

And avoided that subject that could have taught me to cook.

And then on to college, and friends oh so fine.

In the subject of biology I always did shine.

But having a dining hall to provide me with meals,

Cooking and baking just had no appeal. 

And then on to marriage and as you might guess,

Cooking was part of my great blissful quest,

And I found herself in a kitchen so small,

I could stand in one place and take care of it all.

And on to my children, the dear ones I love,

I provided them meals beyond and above.

I worked at good cooking all day and all night,

And accomplished a skill that was way out of sight.

And so now my family returns every year,

For a Thanksgiving feast prepared with much cheer,

But for the rest of the days, dear Tom wants to shout,

“What do you think this fine kitchen’s about?”

Well, I answer so sweetly with love and great cheer,

Each morning I do make coffee, my dear.

And once in a while ice cream we prepare,

And just in case we get hungry its there,

But you know I would rather write if I could,

And now that it’s Christmas some shopping is good.

There are books all saying they have to be read,  

So to go out to eat makes more sense instead!