I bought my garlic press in 1991. I know. I still have the receipt. Saving receipts and manuals in an orderly fashion is a behavior that my father ingrained in me long ago. I can put my fingers on just about any piece of documentation for most of my purchases in about 2.3 seconds. Even for items I no longer own. Scary, I admit. And I have to say that this new era of electronic, online purchasing is putting a real crimp in my system. But I figure someone out there is somehow saving it all for me now. In fact, I have no doubt they are saving more about me than I care to know.
I chose my press for it’s simplicity. It is solid stainless and fairly sleek. If you ask me, there is nothing worse than a plasticy, clunky kitchen gadget. But what ultimately sold me on my press is that it is German made. And if you want something to really last, get a German to make it for you. Yet another belief instilled upon me by my father.
Truth be told, I don’t actually use my garlic press that often. Generally I prefer to crush whole cloves with the blade of a chef’s knife, mash it up a bit, and add it to the pan that way. But if I’m using the garlic raw, or adding it to a dressing, I’ll pull out the press. So the other night, when I was making a simple vinaigrette to drizzle over a roasted beet salad, out came the trusty German press.
My subjects were all lined up on the cutting board and things were moving along nicely. But when I got to the third clove, something bad happened. That nice pressure you get when pressing down on a clove disappeared. Things went limp. And when I pulled my hands apart, they came away with a handle in each. Busted. Who knew you could snap a handle off a stainless steel garlic press?
No worries, I thought. I’ve got the receipt! I dug it out after dinner, but there was no discernible warranty information attached to it. The small cooking store I purchased it from is no longer in business. Surprised by the price I paid for it, I decided the busted press was worth pursuing. I googled the company – ZACK – but didn’t turn up much. The next day I made a call the headquarters of ZACKusa in Hollywood, Florida. I’m still not entirely sure what language the receptionist was speaking. It wasn’t German, and I’m fairly certain it wasn’t Spanish. All I can say is that it was one heck of an awkward conversation. But we finally agreed on a three words: broken, e-mail, photo. I was to e-mail a photo of the broken garlic press.
I did as instructed, but in retrospect, I’m not sure what my e-mail was meant to accomplish. That part of the conversation was a little bit vague. It’s been a few days and I haven’t heard anything back. I put my sad looking press back in the drawer, just for old time sake. I’m still hopeful something will come of it, but I also accept that it might just remain an expensive, busted, non-replaceable garlic press.
And that’s okay. I’m comfortable with “it is what it is” theory. My eyeball has taught it to me in a really big way. Again, and again, and again. I’ve written about my eye before, and unfortunately, things remain dire. I am heading back to the University of Minnesota this week for another surgery. Maybe this one will be the ticket. Or maybe it won’t. But if nothing else, my eye has given me the gift to accept things for what they are. Which is not to say I give in. That’s different. I still do my research, and I ask loads of questions. I put forth a big effort. And I do my best to stay positive. But when I’ve done all that, and my eye still feels busted – well, so be it. It is what it is.
It’s nice to at least try and apply this attitude to other aspects of my life. The business of letting go has never come easily for me. I tend to dwell. But I’m learning, bit by bit. And I welcome the overwhelming relief that comes with true acceptance.
Garlic Pig 
I’ve heard a similar story about a pen! I wish you could be my life secretary.
Dear Jill,
I will hold you in my thoughts and prayers and send healing love your way as you go through your next surgery. I hope there is a miracle.
Anne Fischer
Your words have me crying with the direness and hopefulness at the same time. Prayers of love and all the best.
That must have been one tough little garlic…just like you?
Dear Jill, I hope all goes well this week. Love and positive thoughts are winging your way from hearts in Washburn. You inspire us. Ann
Oh Jill, I’m sending really wonderful karma your way for best wishes and successful surgery. A miracle could happen and I’m hoping and praying that it will.
Hi Jill,
Hope your trip to Minneapolis is successful. Sending chi and prayers to you.
Peter
Thanks so much everyone for your good thoughts and kind words. Things went well and I am home recouping. More news soon!
Thank you for another wonderful post. I’m glad to hear things went well with your surgery. Sending you blessings.