My kids are growing up too fast. All at once my heart feels both proud and broken. My Max recently reminded me that he will be turning “double digits” this year. Ugh, that is quite the milestone for both of us! This week I needed to cut the grass and Max enthusiastically said he wanted to help. I was only cutting our front yard with the push mower and laughed inside as I ...
Caesar Salad (on the Ides of March!)
Caesar salad is by far the favorite salad in my household. When my kids were younger, they called this a "crouton" salad, and they intentionally targeted all of the homemade croutons in the serving bowl. Now, I don't often add croutons. It really doesn't need them. Occasionally I will really mix things up a bit and add tomato, other vegetables, or grilled meat. If you want ...
Great Grill Rub- an essential ingredient when the weather is fabulous
Warm weather is here! And as my windows find themselves open to welcome in the fabulous Spring breezes, every evening they also seem to be welcoming in the mouthwatering fragrances of grilled food. Often this influence from my neighbors has led to a last minute menu change for our family. Having a tasty multi-purpose grill seasoning on hand is the secret to quick success. ...
Mock Mashed Potatoes
My friend Jeanine recently underwent an extreme makeover of her eating habits. Due to health problems she was commanded by her doctor to make drastic changes, eliminating all carbohydrates and most dairy from her diet. This has been a real challenge for her. I'll have to admit that I too get a bit overwhelmed when I read the long list of things she cannot eat. Since making ...
Spiced Pear Cake with Honeyed Whipped Cream and Toasted Walnuts
Birthday cakes are so much fun to make, especially when they are for someone special to you. This week my mother hit an undisclosed milestone and my family (including her younger brother who shares her birthday) gathered to celebrate the incredibly large number of years she had achieved. (Just kidding Mom—everyone knows you are still a spring chicken!) When I told my ...