You’re probably wondering if I’ve lost my mind. Why I’d be gushing about a ratty looking Club Aluminum Dutch oven that’s seen better days. Especially when I have a fancy stainless steel set that cooks just as good or better. I bought it years ago at a garage sale for next to nothing. It was used, so all I had to do was keep the inside clean. The wear on the outside gave it character.

I can’t count the pot roasts it’s held. Or the cold winter days when it simmered on the back burner all day, filling the air with a heady fragrance of chili, stew, pinto beans or potato soup. It’s been used to make popcorn, caramel corn, fudge, cream pies, and mountains of mashed potatoes. Or potato salad.

When I moved to a smaller house, I thought about getting rid of it. I didn’t really need it anymore. But here’s the thing. I couldn’t let go. Too many memories. Nights when the family gathered around the table and ate together. Holiday meals, parties, barbecues and family get togethers.

Yeah, I think I’ll hang on to it.