A last-night smorgasbord in Riga, Latvia, became the perfect send-off after four full days of sightseeing, stairs and local adventures. Like comedy improv, the meal came together through friendship, instinct and spontaneous contributions, creating a one-time experience that belonged only to that kitchen, that evening and those friends.

Cooking chicken and rice together this summer gave my son and me a little bit of structure, a shared goal, a creative playground that led to exploration and learning, time to tell stories and get caught up on each other’s lives, and some damn fine meals.

I won’t miss the pink tile or the tight spaces, but I wouldn’t trade the memories we’ve made here in this galley kitchen for anything.