licking the "beaters"

Beaters?

Well, that's what we called them as kids.  I think the correct term is "hand mixer paddle" or something like that.  Just like the correct term for "Whimpies" is Sloppy Joes (My husband often reminds me of that). ...Sometimes when you grow up using one term to describe an item, that is what it will remain to be called no matter the corrections.

Anyway.............. :)

I think there's a special kind of art or science in licking the beaters.

My kids do it wrong...they're just learning. ;)

But I've had experience.  Lots of experience and I think it's safe to say I've mastered the art of it.

It's taken years of practice...but I will go ahead and share my knowledge with you:

Hold beater upright. 

Start at the top and lick off any big scoops Mom may have left behind.  (That's the easiest part.)

Lick the outside of each of the four quarters that make up the 'square.'
Curl your tongue, then squeeze it into each vertical section - starting at the bottom and working your way up.
Turn beater horizontal then suck on the beaters small crevices until you get anything left behind.

Easy, right? :)
Cale will usually get most of the beater clean, but it will also be all over his face. 
(...He's getting better.)
Megersa manages to get some in his mouth...but also gets batter on his face, his hands, his tray, the walls....
Clearly, they need more practice!
I suppose I'll have to continue to bake until they can achieve my level of excellence. :)

Anyway, while baking cookies today, I was thinking that cooking/baking for me has changed.
The quantities, the ingredients used. 
The love.
I often cook for enjoyment of myself, but nothing makes me happier than when EVERYONE is enjoying a meal.
"OH MAN!!  MEATLOAF?!  YOU'RE THE BEST MOMMY ((hugs, hugs, kisses, kisses)). 
And it doesn't take much.
As their skill improves, most likely their interest will wane.  But I hope to hold on to the little things that make them unique.  The things they say incorrectly.  The time spent in the kitchen with them (because lets face it - as we add to our family, I'll only be here more and more). 
Just living and loving....and licking the beaters with my kiddos.
(THEN bathing them when they are filthy.)