Cleaning out my book bag, I found 3 packets of soy sauce, a package of Reese's pieces, a small bottle of rice vinegar, a pair of ear muffs for target shooting, 5 chai tea bags, and several cat toys. And this was just in one pocket. Clearly, either my book bag is very well rounded or there is something wrong with me. I would argue that preparedness is a valuable skill, however. There's been many a time when I have rescued a disappointing lunch with a splash of rice vinegar, and one of those tea bags was the perfect solution to a surprisingly chilly day during our Louisiana vacation...


1 1/2 cups cool water1 tsp dried basil