knives – when I brought this up at the office yesterday I realized that knives elicit, like many things, both fear and bliss. Fear that you could cut yourself. I have done just that, and in a sink of soapy water no less. Bliss that the knives could be hardened and honed of 32 layers of Japanese steel that would swish through tomatoes, onions and potatoes with only a whisper of effort.
I read a lot of cookbooks, magazines and food blogs. Without fail a good knife is the top item on both kitchen wish and must have lists. When I sent mine off for sharpening it was a sad time but the joy of the box on the porch was worth it.