The Overall Sensory Experience

Snowed lightly most of the day, followed by a blast of intense cold air late in the afternoon. Word is that it will only get colder, and remain that way, for some days. We've slipped into the pit of winter.

But as long as ComEd keeps the electricity flowing to switch on the gas heater, we'll be OK here in our dwelling, which simulates temps on the African savanna over the last three million years. Or something along those lines. All I know for sure is that it's more than 50 degrees Fahrenheit warmer in here than outside the walls, and that spread is expect widen over the weekend.

Our electricity also powers various entertainments. Lilly and I are still working our way through the first disc of Newsradio. I have to like a show with heaps of throwaway lines like this (from "Goofy Ball"):

Dave: I don't think people are scrutinizing us as much as you imagine.
Lisa: I'm sure that's what the Rosenbergs said.

Natural gas, on the other hand, cooks our food, including the delightful Ajinomoto brand Chicken Gyoza Dumplings, made by Ajinomoto Frozen Foods USA Inc. of Portland, Ore. I wouldn't have thought that frozen gyoza would be so good. Also simple in preparation: put in a hot skillet, add a little water, cover with a lid, cook for five minutes.

Best of all, the package tells us the following: "It is not unusual to find batter coating chipped from the gyoza. This should not affect the overall sensory experience of the product." Which is absolutely correct.