Chris Neidecker wrote:
>
> Well, my husband occasionally calls at the last minute and says he's
> bringing home a friend, but: [snip]

This doesn't happen often, but it has occurred enough so that it really
does not create undue pressure. If I gave that impression I was
writing imprecisely. We know each other's limits, and we know what
kind of challenges we enjoy rising to.

> [snip] I love the roasted pepper and
> almond idea, and the homemade egg noodles -- WOW! You did yourself
> proud.
>
It was just a little showboating, which seemed to be called for at the
time. Not that there's anything tough involved. I'm not great at
homemade noodles, but once I tried it and experimented some, I found
that you can produce something enjoyable without a lot of effort.
Plus, I like the minimalism of flour, egg and elbow grease. (and a
pinch of salt and a few spoons of cold water)

I was expecting to get other people's stories of turning out something
entertaining on short notice. Frankly, I'm surprised at the vehemence
with which some say, "no way!" Every relationship is different, I
suppose. -aem