R.I.P., Dear Spice Grinder

Sometime during MoFo, I was making us a batch of dhal for dinner, when the inevitable finally occurred: my ancient spice grinder shorted out, made a sad little "pop" sound and a tiny spark, and died. You have surmised from my MoFo theme that I am a sentimental person, and this ugly beast was very dear to me. (A spice grinder that only a mother could love). The thing is, this was my parents' coffee grinder from as far back as I can remember.

Mommy's little helper

My parents both enjoy coffee, and I remember the distinctive sound of the grinding beans, then the gurgles of the coffee machine as their coffee was made each morning. At some point, I learned to help by scooping the beans and grinding them. It was so fun!

as you can see, this little device was very well-loved

Way down the line, my parents must have upgraded and my mom passed this little grinder along to me. I usually have my coffee ground when I buy it (I know, I know), but I put this grinder to great use as my spice grinder. Over the years, I've made countless batches of spice blends for Indian food, Persian food, MoFo posts, experimental creations... and it has served me loyally. In recent months, it had become finicky... I had to hold the cord at one exact angle in order for the motor to function.

cue the bagpipes

And then, the end came. I will miss my loyal friend, which is now snug in the trash bin. And I will go out, and forge a new friendship with a new spice grinder. Onward!