June has arrived and I am celebrating the gifts in my yard - more a gift from Mother Nature and less a gift of my gardening abilities. Really, this just happened - I think we've had the perfect weather for my particular plants. Just thought I'd share: and, one year later, a return to the Serendipitous Georgetown garden (see my post … [Read more...]
In the Sink for a Drink – Savoring the Last of the Easter Hot-House Hydrangeas
It is no secret that I covet all that is alive with color and reminiscent of Spring and Summertime during those dastardly months of barreness and darkness. And so, I was lucky enough to scoff up a few of the remaining hot-house hydrangeas which were at the Farm in Green Village for Easter for some early Springtime color explosion-in-profusion, inside the house. They are now gracing my kitchen island and entryway table, for maximum … [Read more...]
If Only……. “Reactions” and Undervaluing High School Chemistry
a great reminder of the "value" and lessons of chemistry This morning I was scrolling through all my facebook feeds on food (that's a good one - "Feeds on Food" - should I copyright it?) and came upon the picture, shown below of the seared duck breast with apricots. That sent me back to a thought I had yesterday about the value of Chemistry in cooking and baking........ When I was in high school, I took the required Chemistry class and, … [Read more...]
Michael Ruhlman on Passion vs Inspiration – In the Kitchen and in LIfe
This is what the cold dew does to these blooms! Omg, I think my Morning Glories are on their last legs! Ouch! This is very sad for me. I love just checking on them every morning when I walk out to the garage - they've become like my little pets....... Ok, I know... There are still many buds on the plants but I think tonight it's going down to 34F and today could be it! I may actually cover them up. It's definitely looking like … [Read more...]
Why We Love “Indian Summer”
Perfect juxtapostion of two seasons!!! Well, this morning I felt like today was going to be an "Indian Summer" day! My body can sense when the barometric pressure has gone up and I spontaneously wake up earlier and alert and happy! (We won't go into what happens at the opposite end of the barometric scale - perhaps there is a job in this for me with the Weather Channel?, I digress) I went out snapping pictures while everything was still … [Read more...]
It’s Still Summertime, but…….. Transitions at Home and in the Kitchen
Wow, today is the 27th of August! This is usually a mixed blessing for me. I am usually sad to see the Summer coming to an end and the amount of daylight dwindling. But this year, I am definitely happy to have the hot weeks over with, hopefully windows open and no more air conditioning, and turning to a more cozy and cooler feeling. It is a nostalgic time for me at home - I feel like Christin belongs at Field Hockey practice and the kids … [Read more...]
A Study of New Jersey Hydrangeas
Before it is too late, to showcase the tremendous range of color, and because I just can't help myself, herewith a study of my hydrangea collection today: … [Read more...]
Folly – Summer is as Summer Does
I am a great one for waiting for the "perfect" day of weather, no matter what the season. I realize this is "follysome" -ok, that is not a word... but it should be as it describes me perfectly. The definition is not flattering by the way. I don't know where the phrase "noun is as noun does" comes from but I guess it to mean whatever the "thing" does is exactly what it "is"..... sorry, are you following this? My mind works in mysterious … [Read more...]
It’s a Dog’s Life on Nantucket
Yesterday, my daughter, Christin and I flew over to Nantucket for the day. We had a lovely time together which included a fabulous lunch at Straight Wharf Restaurant. The Gazpacho and Swordfish Tacos were really delicious. I could eat this lunch over and over again - this is a no-brainer. The Gazpacho included some lovely, small red grape halves, , a nice little bite of heat, and was the cool and refreshing treat we hoped for. A great … [Read more...]
A Tribute to My Mom on Her Birthday
Birthday Bouquet for Mom!!!!!! Today is my dear Mom's birthday - she would have been 90! Happy Birthday, Mom! She is the person, more than anyone else, who ignited my passion for cooking in general, and baking in particular. I owe her a tremendous "Debt of Gratitude" - the title of the cookbook I began when she was in the throes of Alzheimer's Disease. I hope I will finish this book someday and close that cathartic experience. I am … [Read more...]