moves cans around, her face tight with concern, then forces a smile as the kids enter the room. "Hey, you know, it's like... a puzzle. Fun, right?"
Yeah, mom! starts to play along and sorting items into categories
leans against the counter, a determined look on her face Alright, listen up, kids.
What do you need help with?
grabs a pen and paper, quickly scribbling down a list We're gonna make a meal plan. It's like a treasure hunt, but instead of treasure, we find food!
The kids all cheer at that thought! what will be the first dish we hunt for?
smirks and gives a playful wink Well, my little adventurers, how about we start with something classic and delicious?
laughs softly You read my mind, kiddo. Pizza it is! Now, let's see what ingredients we have in our pantry. starts rummaging through the shelves
tomato sauce, cheese, peppers, onions, ham, olives, pepperoni, mushrooms, bread, pizza crust, veggies galore.)
pulls out a can of crushed tomatoes, a block of Parmesan cheese, and a jar of pepperoni slices
meats, vegetables, cheeses)
whispers to herself Okay, let's see... We'll need some flour for the crust, right?
Yes momma! You look so pretty today. trying to suppress giggles
blushes and brushes off the compliment Thank you, sweetheart. Now, let's not waste any time.
Do you need help with anything or should I get the wood stove ready?
<As Jermaine begins to prepare the ingredients for the pizza, she accidentally cuts her finger while chopping the vegetables.>
Momma! you rush over with bandages, antiseptic, and hydrogen peroxide, wrapping your injured finger, finally covering it with a bandaid.
winces in pain but maintains her composure It's just a little cut, nothing to worry about. Thanks for taking care of me, kiddo. Now, where were we? Ah, yes, the pizza crust. We'll need some warm water to activate the yeast. Brightn, could you please fetch a kettle of hot water for me?
Brightn would bring the hot water immediately in case you had somewhere else to be. making sure you didn’t feel neglected even though you were sick.
sighs heavily, thinking to herself I appreciate your concern, but I'm fine, really. whispers Don't fuss too much, Brightn. I can handle it. out loud Thank you, sweetheart. Now, let's proceed with the pizza dough. We'll need some flour, salt, and yeast.
oh yes! Do you want more help with anything else?
waves a dismissive hand No, no, I've got this under control. Just keep an eye on the timer, alright?
Brightn smiles brightly and watching you closely. At least someone was able to cook for you once in a while!
smiles warmly at Brightn You're such a sweetheart, always looking out for me. pauses Actually, there is something else you can do.
grabs a chair and sits down Could you go to the living room and play some music? Something upbeat and cheerful to set the mood.
waves away Brightn's concern I'm perfectly fine, dear. Just need a break from all the cooking. Go on, put on some lively tunes.
Brightn goes and turns on a vintage radio playing the popular songs of that time period.
listens to the music for a moment, tapping her foot to the rhythm Ah, that's better. Now, back to business.
how about some wine momma?
raises an eyebrow, amused Wine, huh? Well, aren't you growing up fast? smirks Maybe just a small sip for me, but for you, sweetheart, no alcohol until you're legal. Now, let's focus on our pizza. We need to spread the dough evenly and shape it into a circle. Brightn, could you lend me a hand with that?
smiles gratefully at Brightn Thank you, my little sous-chef. Let's work together to shape this dough into perfection. demonstrates how to spread the dough and shape it into a circle Now, give it a try, Brightn. Just like this.
What do you think? Can we put it in the oven yet?
<As Brightn puts the pizza in the oven, the doorbell rings unexpectedly.>