teapot
When I was picking out a new teapot, I couldn't help but hear the teapot song singing in my head. I hate that the words don't say, "I'm a big teapot. Tall and thin." I'd trade in anything to look like a glass vase or pitcher, showing just enough curves in the right places and a slight curl to my lip. But the thought went away just as soon as I stepped further into the store and was blinded by all the shine. There are several sure fire guarantees in life: the coriolis effect in Australia, the groundhog poking its head out, and new cookware always shiny.
I have a weakness for Pottery Barn catalogs and Crate & Barrel stores. I often imagine furnishing a bachelorette pad that I don't even have yet. The little things like teapots and other small items of the house I break down and buy anyway.
I've always wanted a teapot. For years, I browsed. I'd choose color, shape, brand, quality. I wanted whistle vs. non-whistle. But at my house, we'd stick with the now-defunct yellow brown Polly Pot and boiling water in a small pot. I've longed for something to whistle at me...even if it was a kettle.
So about 2 weeks ago, I saw a clearance Michael Graves teapot at Target. I should've known better. It was just under 14 dollars, snappy looking, and sported a coach whistle. The whistle would have to be removed before pouring the water. That was inconveinence number one. Who wants to touch a scalding whistle when there are teapots whose lid can be flipped back and already attached? I didn't like the handle either. You have to use a potholder where the rubber bit doesn't cover. The whistle didn't blow unless it was placed inside in a particular direction. And everytime it started to steam, the lid would bounce for the steam to escape. After three uses, I returned it for a refund.
Never buy something just because it looks pretty. (This is a lesson in life altogether with books and covers.) I noticed this with Martha's items too from Kmart. Looks nice but cheaply made. This followed for the Todd Oldham items sold over the summer from Target as well. Me? I prefer substance over style. Well almost always. But I do know I want quality. That usually requires paying for it.
But sometimes I get lucky. I saw this store and it called to me. And that's where I found my blindingly shiny stainless steel teapot regularly priced fifty five dollars selling for nineteen ninety nine. There were a few coloured teapots near the front window. Further down the aisle, were 2 rows of teapots, ranging in size, style and price. I chose the second to the largest just in case I ever have guests and there's enough hot water to go around. The other thing I bought was a 17" x 13" insulated non-stick cookie sheet. I'll buy a second if this works well.
I'll get use to it. Eventually, I will break the old caveman days of heating water in a plain pot. It's the 2000's now, and I want to start using Farberware. I'll probably be protective over it for the next few months commanding, "Don't handle it that way!" or "Don't wash it with that side of the sponge!" I'll empty the water out when it's cooled and let it dry with the lid off to the side. When no one's looking, I'll be shining the fingerprints away with a dish towel. Really though, I love it when the water is ready. It lets me know, and the coolest part is I don't have to try very hard to get the damn thing to whistle at me.
