Bk 2 - Chapter 36 - Dinner with Mom

Natalia

My mom called and invited herself to dinner. Why do parents always do that sort of thing? Daniel arranged for her to come in through the back entrance, thank God. She didn't need to see all the craziness that went on in the lobby or wade through the long line out front. I didn't get the feeling that she was judging me too harshly. Whew. Having a boyfriend at all and then moving in with him within days of my arrival had to be a shock. But I know that curiosity must be killing her, so I figured, why not have her over and get it out of the way.

Daniel and I made chicken and dumplings, one of my favorite comfort meals. I made it the way Mom would have, so hopefully she finds no fault with it. Daniel helped me cook the chicken to make the stock and we chopped vegetables for the stew. I had a bowl of dumpling mix ready to drop in once Mom got here. If we put them in too soon, they will get soggy. Nothing worse than a soggy dumpling. I also made a pitcher of sweet iced tea, Mom's favo