It’s the height of the summer season and we all wish for a quick cool-down. Splash around the pool while providing interesting dips. Dips are colorful and allow for socializing. So, while the children are calling out, “Marco; Polo” a … Continue reading →

There are two vivid things that I remember about climbing the peach trees in my grandparents’ peach orchid. First, the essence of the peach scent was impacting and memorable. Second, the wasp’s loved the scent, too, and buzzed about the … Continue reading →

Dripping chocolate soothes the soul. Beat summer at its own heated game with chocolate melt-downs. Many of us grew up with campfire “S’mores” and there is no reason to not bring the “Kumbaya” moment indoors by creating a baked “Graham” … Continue reading →

From my great-grandmother’s barnyard to my culinary destinations in Europe, chickens have served as family sustenance to cuisine creativity. During the searing heat of summer, we tend to serve poultry based favorites. Be the chicken prepared baked, boiled, braised, fried, … Continue reading →

Make the best of the abundant sunshine with multiple pleasurable gatherings. Fun summer activities can include surprises for youngsters such as pop-up road trips to the beach or lake. Organize a dog party, with a wash-down “spa”, to cool-down our … Continue reading →

This week highlights France’s Bastille Day celebration. The citizens, ex-patriots and Francophiles share in the singing of “La Marseillaise” and revel in French cuisine and French wine around the world, on July 14. It is a joyous occasion. Summer occasions … Continue reading →

The allure of the Mediterranean Sea brings forth many gifts from the sea; hence, the inspiration for one of our recent dinner parties: A Summer Dinner in Provence. Provence is a region comprised of charming French cities on the sea’s … Continue reading →

Patriotism is an essential component in life. It generates loyalty, respect and nationalism. The 4th of July is a grand way to bring patriotism to our tables. Try these stellar ideas for creative enthusiasm. Bring the red, white and blue … Continue reading →

The secret to a legacy Shrimp Salad is to use only the freshest shrimp. The second most important thing is to serve it extremely cold. The third coast (Gulf Coast) is known for its support of the shrimping industry. Summer … Continue reading →

The cabbage family has an array of colorful spectrums and varieties. Cabbage serves as the perfect chilled summer food. Its texture enhances a crunchy salad. For more texture, add almond slivers or sunflower seeds to a cabbage salad. Those dense … Continue reading →

What would summer be without vibrant bold red? We’d miss our strawberries, watermelons, pomegranates and raspberries! Accents of summer reds are most distinctive with the growth of red poppies; but, when it comes to setting our summer picnics, our June … Continue reading →

Hearing the distinctive synchronicity of ocean waves, feeling the reflected energy from the sun and breathing the salty freshness of warm air brings us joy. Those aesthetic summer landscapes heal urban strife. The seabirds flock to the shore just as … Continue reading →

Figs, for thousands of years, been associated with the good life. These exquisite fruits were revered during the Roman Empire and treasured amongst kings and queens. The simplicity of transportation allows us to indulge in these great finds frequently. What … Continue reading →

My grandmother loved to put pinwheels in her garden. The colorful spinning spectrum brightens any moment with frivolity. This fun can be created in the kitchen, too. Pinwheels sandwiches are created by pressing a bread slice between 2 pieces of … Continue reading →

The month of May energizes us to remember Mom. Certainly, colorful flowers are traditional and predictable; however, a thoughtfully planned meal will have her remember your kindness year after year. Timbales are small interesting mold shapes that can be filled … Continue reading →