I remember when I first came up with the idea to make my kitchen nautical themed. So many people put bubbles and fish in their bathrooms, and I was like “Lame. I’m doing something else.” I think it started with a fish wine opener that I bought at Goodwill for like, $3. (Although I used it the other night and…well, you get what you pay for!)
I spent my last Christmas with my grandmother in 2010. I think after all the years that she spent loving to cook, it probably made her a little bummed to know that while I was living at home, I never showed much interest in learning. The most invested I got was making killer omelets on weekends and baking Spritz cookies (I haven’t touched that press in years.)
Last Christmas, some of my prized gifts were my apron and shell sugar and whale creamer set (I’m not joking). I also got squirrel whisks. I know they’re not nautical at all, but I can’t say no to squirrel shit. Anyway, my grandmother had/still has quite a kitschy collection of salt and pepper shakers, and so I asked her if I could have a set, since I was a broke college student and she had so many that hadn’t been used in years. (It’s a great line to use) Since she was getting older, it was easier for her to let go of things she didn’t care about anymore. My mom wasn’t too thrilled, as she had always liked the seashell salt and pepper shakers I had picked out. But, after almost a year, they’re still front and center on my stove. I can’t cook an omelette without ‘em!
