I still don’t know what to make of it: Fitting end to a hectic year, or an omen of what’s to come for 2019? Geez, universe, couldn’t you be a little more clear?

Or less cruel?!?

It happened on New Year’s Eve, as I finished cooking for my wife and daughter. Nothing too elaborate – a pork loin braised in milk, Italian-style. All was going according to plan – the timing, the smells, the taste. Right how I wanted it. In my mind, the perfect night.