By Mark Eglington

Every kitchen tells a story. And, every family has recipes and cooking experiences that can make us laugh, rediscover precious memories and sum up all that’s great about getting together. After all, it’s with foods that we love that memories are made, and celebrations happen. Whether it’s Uncle Jim’s smokey ribs or sister Betty’s warm brownies and fabulous birthday cakes, there are some foods and special treats that just bring us together and spread happiness.

During these past few difficult months as we’ve been self-isolating, caring for each
other and finding new ways to stay in touch, sharing food has continued to play a special role in our lives. Many of us have eaten more meals at home than ever before. We’ve
tried new things, found comfort in old favourites and developed a newfound appreciation for our farmers, truckers, butchers, bakers and grocery store workers who keep food supplies flowing. We’ve learned to say “thank you” to those who’ve taken time to prepare a breakfast, lunch and dinner for us. We’ve shared pictures of our homemade creations, enjoyed cocktails and appies chatting with friends over a Zoom call, dropped off fresh baked goods on a neighbour’s porch and picked up groceries for parents and grandparents. Some of us have even planted vegetable gardens.

Life, as we knew it, has changed and, while we’ve been at home, efficient kitchen appliances have become more important than ever. (Only the bathroom has had more use!) We’ve needed our fridges to keep food fresh and nutritious for weeks at a time. Our dishwashers, ranges and convection ovens have been doing double duty and, what a blessing my fabulous new steam oven has been.

People have told us too that their fun-loving colourful SMEG toasters, blenders and coffee makers have brightened up their days! And, it goes without saying those of you who have SMEG retro fridges in your man caves and bars had extra capacity to stock up for games and movie nights.

So lessons learned. Hang tight, social distance and keep caring and cooking for those you love. We’ll get through this and maybe a few more of us will have learned how to cook like Mark McEwan and fold laundry like Marie Kondo.
ela.ca

For over 15 years, Mark Eglington has been passionate about European-manufactured best- in-class appliances. By day he’s the President of Canadian-owned Euro-Line Appliances; by night he can be found entertaining friends and perfecting his cooking skills.