When it comes to holiday entertaining, I am incorrigible. Recently, one of the discount retail stores had snowmen ceramic cups for hot chocolate and the cups are perfect for a Christmas arrival gathering. Whether my guests wanted hot chocolate (infused … Continue reading →

Finally, Christmastime greets us with cheer. It is so much fun to share international entertaining traditions from other countries. For example, Scandinavia offers the tradition of drinking Glogg which consists of wine with cinnamon and spices, served hot. The cold … Continue reading →

If you need to stretch a meal and feed the family masses back to back after Thanksgiving, it’s time for Chicken and Dumplings! Boil a whole chicken in the crock pot, with fresh herbs, celery and a whole onion, kosher … Continue reading →

Put together a family recipe book and let the youngest members of the family decorate the cover. It’s a keepsake in so many ways. Stories and photos can also be added or added year after year. No one makes it … Continue reading →

Make plating interesting and artful. OK, anyone can toss a piece of turkey on the plate. Consider some interesting concepts such as stacking or artistic designs. Stacking can be done with a baked base of an acorn squash ring, filled … Continue reading →

When one writes a blog, it is because that person feels passionate about a subject and enjoys writing. To my readers, please know that I have just finished my newest book: The Language of Good Table Manners. It is a … Continue reading →

Finally, the snowfall has arrived to the east coast and in the Rocky Mountains. It’s time to snuggle near the fireplace. During the chilly season, I move a smaller dining table to hearth to enhance the dining experience. Seasonal weather … Continue reading →

It’s the Halloween harvest season! I once asked an older friend why he liked to watch scary movies. The answer was that during the Great Depression, life was scary; so, watching a scary movie took his mind off the scary … Continue reading →

It’s the season of pumpkins, scarecrows and blackbirds! Design the table with autumn’s glory and fun themes. Make an easy theme with my “Blackbird” Pie. Pre-bake a pie crust in a pie pan. This can be done by weighting the … Continue reading →

Mix it up a little – no, really mix it up with pancake batter. Pancakes are not just for breakfast. Try non-sweet pancakes for dinner topped with roasted chicken pieces. Pour the homemade “syrup” of crushed pineapple, butter and nutmeg. … Continue reading →

Take control of your family life by hosting a Family Bonding Night. So, it’s time to turn off the electronic devices. Plan for an evening of conversation, games to play and live entertainment from family members. The children can create … Continue reading →

During cooking school in Burgundy, France, on Saturday evenings, we would take turns reading poetry or literary excerpts by candlelight. The candlelight gave the authenticity of past eras, before electricity. It also allowed everyone to give their full focus on … Continue reading →

It may be because it is my favorite time of year, but I love the seasonal change to autumn. The holiday planning commences, the menus change, and get-togethers are more frequent. I am frequently asked, “What should I cook!” That … Continue reading →

Admit it.  The loose hems and missing buttons have stacked a few of your favorite clothing pieces in the back of your closet. Call your neighbors and call your friends; it’s time to host a Stitch-it-Up Party. Visit a button … Continue reading →

OK, it’s time to put your back to the north and seek the last rays of the summer sun – with a pool party. It’s been a summer of great times with friends, some drama – well personally, more drama … Continue reading →