A toaster is a small but powerful electrical appliance that has found its way into kitchens all over the globe. By using radiant heat, this device can turn ordinary bread slices into mouth-watering golden-brown toast. Essentially, a toaster features slots for inserting bread and heating elements, typically made of nichrome wire, that generate the necessary heat to achieve the perfect level of toastiness.

Most mornings, I adhere to a well-practiced routine in my kitchen. I begin by toasting two slices of bread for myself and then an extra slice for my loyal companion, Augie Dog. This morning ritual has become ingrained in my daily life, even though the reasons behind it might not always reflect favorably on me.

I carefully place the slices into our four-slice toaster, designating the one at the far end for Augie. Once that slice is set aside as his, it unmistakably becomes his very own. I butter it separately from mine and cut it into quarters. If someone were to ask me to eat Augie’s toast, I’d probably feel quite uneasy – in my mind, it’s exclusively Augie’s, the cherished toast of my beloved canine friend.

The margarine I use on Augie’s toast is the same as what I spread on my own, and the bread undergoes identical preparation, touched solely by my hands. Nonetheless, I think of this slice as uniquely Augie’s. He particularly relishes it when I add a layer of peanut paste before serving it to him.

Augie Dog takes immense pleasure in his morning toast ritual. He knows that once a slice is designated as his, it transforms into his special treat. Whether it’s the buttery flavor or the peanut paste topping, Augie’s excitement is palpable as he eagerly anticipates his breakfast delight.

At its core, a toaster is a simple machine, using radiant heat to convert plain bread into crispy, golden slices. Yet, in my morning routine with Augie, the toaster assumes a deeper significance, enabling a ritual that extends beyond mere sustenance to encapsulate the emotional connection we share.

From Augie’s perspective, the toast I make for him each morning likely holds special meaning. Once that slice is earmarked as his, it acquires a sense of exclusivity, almost as if he has already claimed ownership. The added butter and peanut paste surely make it even more irresistible to his canine taste buds.

While the primary job of a toaster is to make toast for people, in my home, it serves a dual role. It not only provides me with my breakfast but also helps create a special treat for my beloved Augie Dog, who eagerly awaits his morning slice of toast.