What’s for dinner?

Valentine’s Dinner and Continued Surprises
I had no plans for Valentine's this year, which is the only reasonable way to spend the day. We celebrated on V-eve with his … [Read More]
What’s for dessert?

“Double Treat” Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
I don't need bookmarks in my cookbooks. They naturally fall open to the most oft-used pages, guided by oil stains and batter … [Read More]
In the Fresh Domestic Kitchen

Birthday Cupcake Planning
My company asked me to make the cupcakes for our CEO's birthday party/Indians' home opener celebration lunch on Monday. Which was a compliment to me, because they could have just as easily bought a cake. My boss keeps joking that I should open up a bakery in the back of the office -- and I kind of wish he wasn't … [Read More]

Pear Lime Ginger Tonic
My smoothies are always the result of whatever fruit I have, joined by any accompaniments that may or may not complement the fruit. This morning, I think the result was pretty tasty. Not sure if these approximations will get the same result, but it went something like this: 1 tray ice cubes 1/4 cup pear juice 1/2 … [Read More]
In the Fresh Domestic Garden

Blue Jays and Spring Flowers After the Rain
Cleveland's latest rain prompted the last reluctant flowers into bloom, opening their blossoms to the drink up the spring showers. … [Read More]

Plant Progress: Day 5
The company flowers and African Daisies keep coming up. Joining the green ranks today: Some Simpson’s Curled Lettuce. They don’t … [Read More]
Around Town + Beyond

How I Got the Grocery Store to Pay Me for Shopping
Yes, you read that right: I got the grocery store to pay me for buying name-brand toothpaste. And believe me, I don't work for Giant Eagle. I'm just a savvy bargain shopper. First, a disclaimer: I don't usually buy groceries at Giant Eagle, because I know that you can get better deals on better quality perishables … [Read More...]

What to Pack in a Camping Bin
When I decide to go camping, it's usually a spontaneous, last-minute idea. To make it easier to take off on an outdoorsy trek as soon as nature calls - without forgetting any essentials - I keep a big plastic storage container packed with most of my camping supplies ready to grab and go. What to pack in a camping … [Read More...]




