A new start

[MartianDestiny]

As far as household stuff there are two things that make me happy every time I use them:
1) a GOOD set of knifes (even just 2, a chef's and a paring). Something nice that can be resharpened, hold an edge, and get really sharp. Personally I have Wustoff (and get a new one every Christmas from my wonderful step-mom )

2) Salt and Pepper grinders. I can't believe how much better things taste with fresh salt and pepper, and if you can get them in bulk it's no more expensive than the pre-ground stuff.

If you aren't a microwave person, yes, a toaster oven would be a good investment for heating up leftovers (you'll have a lot of them as a single person if you cook. I cook 2-3 times a week and eat leftovers pretty much the rest of the time).

Other than that (and slightly, but not totally, irrelevant) my dog! Seriously, can't live without her, for many reasons. Not the least of which is that she makes me less edgy when I'm alone (I jump at every little noise at night when I'm alone, but not so much with her around).

[Wahine]

This is exactly the kind of feed back I was hoping for.

I don't use a microwave and that's why I was thinking toaster oven. I have plenty of counter space for it. My new kitchen is one of the only things about my new place that can be labeled as spacious. I have lots of cupboards too. I haven't had a toaster oven since I was a kid. But I remember it being pretty handy. I'm definitely going to look for a convection toaster oven. Great idea.

Good idea on the cast iron! I think I may even be able to get some cast iron cookware from a friend that is high quality but he doesn't use it anymore.

Good knives are essential and I hadn't thought of that.

Salt and pepper grinders - yes definitely.

Lise - I actually have that cookbook and the crock was one of the only things I took with me when I left. I couldn't live without mine. As for the sofa, that gets to be the decision of the new BF if and when he moves in. The living room is his turf. The kitchen is mine. I have a feeling that he'll get exactly the kind of sofa you're talking about though.

Good suggestions on kettles and coffee solutions. I don't usually make coffee for myself at home but I do often have guests and I should have a way to make it.

Rice cooker - I'll have to think about that one. It may not be essential for me.

Dog - I wish. The dog issue was actually one of the things that made me realize I had to leave my previous relationship. I can't have a dog right now, I don't have enough time for one... but I will one day.

[Becky]

2) Salt and Pepper grinders. I can't believe how much better things taste with fresh salt and pepper, and if you can get them in bulk it's no more expensive than the pre-ground stuff.

Oh, most definitely! This one is my favorite!