How much can one person as a guest screw up another’s kitchen? Apparently, a lot, according to my friends and family who’ve spent hours looking for their pots, pans, and utensils after my departure. At the root of it all was my literal mind, a way of thinking that takes things at face value and interprets advice from my parents in a very direct manner. Things like: “If someone else cooks your dinner, make sure you do the clean up after the meal.” I got that loud and clear and think it is an excellent directive. I also got: “Stop asking so many questions! Figure it out.” So what happens is this: When I’m a guest at someone’s home and the dinner is finished, I’m up cleaning and washing dishes, pots, or pans. Then, after drying, I have a tendency (compulsion?) to figure out how to put them away — especially if I’m at the home of a close friend or family. I do try to figure out what I think is the most logical space within someone’s kitchen. Yet, I have been informed that I have also created quite a bit of aggravation, following my departure, when the chef of the house is trying to find where I put their cooking utensils — often blaming it on the spouse — until they recall my visit! Of course, we’ve laughed about it, but I’m just curious. What’s your experience? Can you relate to this? One side or the other? 🙂
© Dian Griesel 2025 Perception Dynamics Inc.
