Comparing first and second observations of my kitchen

¶ … Kitchen: The Second Observation

Upon entering my kitchen for a second observation, the first feature I notice is the bright orange walls that remind me of summer. My eyes are then drawn to the wide window with light pouring in. The window has a deep ledge and on this ledge sits a small potted cactus that my brother purchased several days ago. As I look around I notice the large stainless steel appliances and how they compliment the wide expanse of granite countertops. The double-door refrigerator consists of a cold water dispenser and an ice maker. It is five feet tall and four feet wide, but it is built in so it does not overpower the kitchen. It also consists of cheery wood panels that blend well with the rest of the cabinetry. Other major appliances include a microwave sitting above a convection oven, a dishwasher, a wine refrigerator, and a gas cooker directly beneath a stainless steel vent hood. In addition to these, several small stainless steel appliances sit on the countertops, including a coffee maker, kettle, and toaster. The sink is also stainless steel and features a dual temperature faucet and a garbage disposal. As I look to my left, I see the accessory shelf that consists of a stick blender, electric mixer, coffee grinder, food processor, knife block, and chopping board, as well as baking trays, glass mixing bowls, and a collection of stainless steel and non-stick pots and pans. Finally, I look towards the exit of the kitchen and observe the two short corridors, one leading to the laundry room on the left and the other leading to the kitchen balcony on the right.

Differences between the First and Second Observations

After comparing my first and second observations, what stood out the most was the order in which I described certain features. During my first observation, I looked from one end of the kitchen to the other and described the features that I saw in the order that I saw them in. I also described more technical elements, such as measurements and brand names. During my second observation, I described the features that I saw in the order that they drew my attention. I focused less on the elements of each piece and more on how they worked together as a whole.

Although I mentioned many of the same features during both of my observations, I did leave out the cherry wood cabinetry and the deep window ledge during my first observation and the floor space during my second observation.

Final Thoughts

This assignment has shown me how differently I can perceive my world from one day to the next. My emotions impact the way I think and process information, and how I rank elements in terms of importance. As a result, I need to reflect on the assumptions that I make in both my personal and professional life to determine whether or not I am looking at the situation objectively, or if my emotions and mindset are impacting my judgment.