Soup of the Day

Recently we've been talking a lot about soup. It could be the time of year, cold weather definitely brings to mind a hot bowl of soup. Or it could just be state of mind, there's something so comforting about the idea of soup. It brings to mind nourishment and sustenance. It's a reprieve from frustrations and stress. It's an escape from all of the little pinpricks that poke at you all day long. It's an instant of self indulgence that you don't have to share with anyone. When the soup is placed before you, steaming in its bowl, its fragrance wafting though the air, there is a pleasureable prickle of anticipation. As the aroma teases your nostrils you feel your mouth begin to water and a faint but insistent rumble emerges from your belly. Take a moment to look at it, the soup needs to cool, and enjoy the colors and textures dancing before you. Cradle your hands around the bowl, absorbing it's weight and heat. Feel the silence fall around you like a curtain as the world disappears. Inhale deeply and let the scent intoxicate you. Lean forward with your spoon and let it slide through the bowl scooping up the perfect mouthful. Blow gently so you don't burn yourself. Then taste your soup. Part your lips and let the soup flow over your tongue as the flavors explode inside your brain. Chew gently. Savor it like a fine wine, reveling in the changing textures and flavors inside your mouth. Let it slide slowly down your throat. Feel it warming your insides. Breathe deeply and capture the essence that lingers long after the soup has disappeared. Relax. Lift your spoon and do it again. It's all about you, alone with your soup.