Tues Ten 033010: Pantry Surprises

Has anyone noticed that I’ve gotten unusually sentimental and nostalgic in my Tuesday Ten posts lately? Yep, I’ve been looking back over the last several “lists” in this category–the one that was conceived as an easy and quick-witted way to post on Tuesdays–and found a super-sized helping of provoked thought, infused meaning and best of times. Naturally, I’d like that “theme” to pass quickly. I’m probably more prone to sentiment and nostalgia than most, but every Junkie needs a break. And, that’s what Tuesdays were intended to provide. I’m in serious need of a marshmallow-style list at the moment.

Good news! Poor organizational skills to the rescue. For this week’s list I give you a Tuesday Ten: Pantry Surprises… pleasant or otherwise, they shocked the heck out of me.

1. One empty box of Cheez-It crackers. What?

2. Two jars of peanut butter… creamy AND extra crunchy.  Equal opportunity “kiss” cookies.

3. A disproportionate number of Zoo-pal knives — alligators, beavers and such. You know, they’re the eating utensils with handles shaped like animals. The knives, forks and spoons all come in one box. I’m guessing the forks and spoons were used for various birthday parties and living room picnics. But, really, who turns their preschoolers loose with plastic knives? And, really, what can I do with said knives once the forks and spoons are gone?

4. Keebler fudge-lined ice cream cones. HOW has this escaped my attention?

5. A can of peach pie filling that is bursting out of its aluminum seems. Expiration date = sometime in 2007. Gross and solidifying my homemaker of the month award.

6. 1/2 package of white chocolate bark. Was this from Christmas? For making chocolate covered pretzels? It’s a good thing chocolate doesn’t go bad. Now, let’s see if I have a 1/2 bag of Rold Golds to match.

7. One plastic package of “Crazy Straws.” This has great potential.

8. A 5 oz package of Mahatma Saffron Yellow Rice. Holy Grown-in-the-U.S.A! Where have you been hiding? And, where are my pork chops?

9. Four half-eaten boxes of Wheat Thins. Does anyone check the pantry before making the grocery list? Who does the grocery shopping around here anyway? Oh. That would be me.

10. An enormous box of 13-gallon tall kitchen bags. Will be putting those to good use very soon.

Alas, no Rold Golds. Sigh.