Turn of a screw,

I always tell myself I like the easy answers best. I open myself to all repair options when faced with a drip or other repair problem. My gauge is broad, from the wrecking ball at the high end and the flip of a switch at the easy end. But for me, any problem I can solve with the turn of a screw is a win. Since it could easily be a very complex solution, it's akin to "for want of a nail, the war was lost." Looking for the easy answer in a system that begs for a complex solution is how we end up with theories of space aliens building the pyramids.

Around my building, I have daily issues that need to be fixed. I like to think I can fix 85% with a simple turn of a knob, adjusting a timer, or changing a light bulb. Where I get into trouble is the things I could do but shouldn't do myself. I blame Youtube for giving me the gift of the gods. The video makes it look so easy. The youtube guy taunts me to break out the caulking gun. Be warned, mortal man! Some powers meer men should not weld. So if I turn a knob and it does not fix a problem, I am torn between trying to fuse the lighting bolts or asking for help. If a repair job requires something sticky, gooey, or paint, I should get a vendor to come in and apply their magic.

Intelligent people are easily seduced by complexity while underestimating the importance of simple ideas that carry tremendous weight | Pabrai, The ultimate pragmatist: by way of James Clear 3-2-1 newsletter  

My current project

Today my husband is having a holiday lunch at his office. He offered to make the green beans and yams dish we love. There is peanut sauce involved. We don't have a written recipe in hand. The sauce has always been more of a taste and season affair. I have taken charge because I want it to be good, and I want to pull off the same dish for his family on Thanksgiving. Sorry Law Office Family, you are our guinea pig today. I have modified an online sauce recipe that turned out great.

Start with a tablespoon of chopped garlic; fresh is best. Cook it until it turns color in a tablespoon of plain cooking oil. Next, add one cup of coconut milk, two tablespoons of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and a tablespoon of sambal oelek chili paste on low heat. To this, whisk in one cut of creamy peanut butter. Lastly, I like to add 1/4 cup of store-bought Thai peanut dipping sauce. It stays in the fridge for a few days so that you can make it in advance for easier production.