Recipe: Jet Lag Congee

Get home Wednesday afternoon. Struggle to stay awake until 8pm.

Wake up thinking it's 6am, but then realize it's actually midnight.

Hear CJ start to cry. Take CJ out of the bedroom so she doesn't (fully) wake up Mommy.

Add 2 cups rice to 16 cups boiling water. Realize you're making way too much congee. Add a bouillion cube for taste.

Play with CJ for an hour as congee simmers. Stir occasionally.

As CJ tires, pick her up, walk her around until she falls back asleep. Let congee cool.

When CJ wakes up again at 4:30, again pick her up and take her out of the room.

Put her on the floor with "educational" toys. As you peel two sweet potatoes, watch her ignore the toys and play with the luggage yet to be unpacked.

Chop the sweet potatoes into 1/2" cubes, checking CJ occasionally. Sautee in olive oil while holding CJ. Enjoy sensation of cooking a meal for your daughter for the first time, then freak as she tries to jump out of your arms into the frying pan. Cook until soft.

Serve congee with sweet potato. Enjoy first breakfast at home (at 5:30am).

--Dan