We had a gorgeous 75 degrees sunny, Carolina blue sky day in Charlotte today. That alone begged me to get outside rather than spending time in my favorite place, the kitchen, But the reality is that it is December and a time of year during which more people than ever are sick, overwhelmingly busy, and [...]

Just look at this place. How could you resist? We stumbled across it in the Back Bay area of downtown. Any handmade sweet treat your heart desires plus delightful gifts to bring back home for the neighbor that got your mail or your housesitter! L.A. Burdick Chocolate Shop & Tea Room http://www.burdickchocolate.com/chocolateshop-cafe-boston.aspx 220 Clarendon St. [...]

Roasted vegetables have become a staple in our household and swayed my children as well as myself to eat certain previous untouchables. Suddenly, thinly sliced eggplant makes for delicious, smoky chips and cauliflower tastes like popcorn. Broccoli is addictive and onions are less pungent. The natural moisture that evaporates in the oven brings out a sweeter, [...]