The only time my husband and I get anywhere near arguing is in the kitchen; we have learnt that if one of us is cooking, the other should keep out! We both like cooking (we both like eating) but we have different ways of doing it.
Spouse A: are you going to put some extra water in that?
Spouse B: No
Spouse A: It looks a little dry.
Spouse B: It’s fine.
Spouse A: Do you want me to give it a little stir?
Spouse B: If you must.
Spouse A (stirs and tastes) Do you think you should add more salt?
Spouse B: No it’s fine.
Spouse A: it seems a little…. dull… as if it needs a little more seasoning.
Spouse B (silence but chops more furiously)
Spouse A (mollifying) I’m sure when it’s finished cooking it will be fine…. shall I put these tomatoes in?
Spouse B: No thank you!
Spouse A: Shall I chop them up a bit?
Spouse B (loudly) I like them like that, thank you!
Spouse A: I’ll just go and read the paper, shall I?
silence
Spouse A: I’ll just go and read the paper.
(exit spouse A)
Lois Elsden 