This Monday rerun is from just around the corner, January 2009 – but I think we can all agree that you don’t see oven-mitt puppetry every day, and it’s worth another look. I recall that one particular reader – I’m looking at you, Average Betty – noted that I’d “brought the crazy,” thrilling words for a buttoned-up broad like me.  Original post – with very amusing comments – found here.

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Today, we bid farewell to an old friend. It pains me to say so, but it’s time. Yes.

Oven Mitty has pulled out his last banana bread.

I know. It’s not easy for me either, buddy.

We’ve worked in the trenches together for so long. How long? Let’s take a look.

Good times, and not always pretty. But – look past the scars. This kitchen helper was more than just useful, more than burnt batting – a mitt with real oomph. Sure, he’d run into a burning oven for you. But he could also be tender…

…bashful even.

And the talent! Always with the clowning in the kitchen.

There was The Manatee…

…the Jumbo Jet…

..and of course, The Diving Orca. After the Broiler Grab Incident of ’99, that one was never the same.

If I had my druthers, he’d never go to that big Bed Bath in the sky. But…it’s time.

I salute you too, my friend. I will warmly remember you forever.

Or at least until trash day.