Cast Iron Griddle

Cast iron griddles and memories

last a lifetime; sometimes longer,

if passed down.

Heat griddle on burner,

acrid metallic smell, dollop of grease,

sudden sputter of shortening and steam.

Pancake batter plops circles spreading,

fragrant, bubble and coffee-colour,

crock of dark beans bakes slowly.

Brown bread cools, yeasty aromas,

frying pork chops sizzle and snap,

spatula scrapes across cast iron.

Flip pancakes and chops, add

seasonings, create pan gravy

and the Saturday nights of childhood.

Photo and words are mine.