Mise En Place

First you review your recipe - do I have everything I need in sufficient quantity? Do I have the proper tools ready and at hand?

Then one gathers. The sieve is in the dishwasher - get it out. The bowl is in the cupboard. The pot is dirty - wash it. I will need six spoons, but have only two - have the basin filled with soapy hot water for washing them.

Then measuring, and preparing - two cups of chopped potatoes, one stalk of celery, chopped. A tablespoon of salt. Each thing called for made ready and set out.

Then I am ready. Then, can I cook.

Mise en place of the mind is more difficult. How does one know what the recipe is? What the ingredients? What preparations are required for a day? For a lifetime?