We are deeply saddened by the death of our Black & Decker Handy Steamer earlier this evening.  We learned of its passing just as dinner should have been done.  When we realized it had only heated lukewarm it was taken off life support, and our sweet potatoes and peas were carefully transferred to a stockpot on the stove to finish cooking.

This steamer has been a close friend to us over the years.  My husband first used an identical one (loaned from his dad) to cook me dinner very early in our relationship.  This gesture was how my father-in-law knew his son would soon propose.

Four years ago, following our marriage, we moved back to our hometown.  As we transitioned from a condo to a house, we greatly accepted hand-me-down items from family.  At the same time, my grandma moved from a house to an apartment.  This steamer was one of our gratefully received items from her move.  It’s been a staple here.  Used multiple times a week, if not daily.  It is arguably a more important asset to our kitchen than the toaster, microwave, and, perhaps, even the oven.

This hand-me-down from my grandma was preceded in death by her retro Kenmore dryer (2009), and survived by her hand crank mixer.

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers as we learn to cope with this loss.  Memorials will be donated to the purchase of a new, larger steamer to accommodate the appetites of our growing girls.