The place mats were prints from Grant Wood landscapes. And I remember day after day being drawn deeply into the paintings, going into them and becoming part of them. As I gazed into my favorite place mat I would walk towards the artist's classic puffy lollipop trees and shrubs. I’d explore the little Inn or general store. I sat by the creek which ran along the stone building and watched a horse and buggy progress toward the willowy bridge. But then I was snapped back to the kitchen table as a glass of milk and a plate of bacon and eggs from Mom would obstruct my view. To this day Grant Wood renderings launch me into a nostalgic transcendence.