a moment in time
It's been an action-packed summer for sure. Bookend trips to the gulf to visit my dad, wedding celebrations across the country, end-of-year school plays on the west coast, concerts on the mountain, rodeos, baby showers, a trio of littles' birthdays, mini-staycations atop nearby canyons, and the very exciting arrival of our our newest granddaughter!
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perfecting the "done before they arrive" party- a work in progress
What's turned out to be the highlight of my summer entertaining isn't what's served alongside but rather what's slathered on this grilled chicken. I read this recipe for dijonnaise grilled chicken in the New York Times and was dubious but decided to give it a shot. Boy oh boy am I glad I did. It's turned into a summer staple. Not only is it a
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perfecting the "done before they arrive" party- a work in progress
Why is it that as summer days grow longer, so does the list of activities filling those daylight hours? From the heat of afternoon to early evening, you find yourself racing from one place to another, dashing to get it all in. One of the biggest challenges can be getting those weeknight dinners on the table. Here's an awesome riff on shrimp tacos
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perfecting the "done before they arrive" party- a work in progress
For many, Memorial Day marks the official kickoff to summer entertaining. How fun that I could fill my mountain home with my youngest daughter and her growing family and friends. There's something special about having littles and pups running around. It also calls for a well-planned approach so that your barbecue will come off without a hitch.
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dinner for two
The new year blew in as powerful as a Santa Ana wind. Time has literally flown, a gusty whirlwind of real highs and lows. My 2025 has been marked by wildfire evacuations (all are now safe), baby’s steps turning into toddler dashes, sudden loss, milestone birthdays, first swims across the pool, illness and recovery, and exciting new career paths.
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a moment in time
My dad is truly a wonder. 92-years-old, living alone, and thriving. We talk almost every day, mostly about what he’s making for dinner. But two weeks ago the conversation pivoted to the brewing storm that was projected to make a direct hit to the Gulf coast of Florida. With each passing day the news grew more dire. Months earlier I had made plane
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food detective
Certain milestones deserve distinct celebration. As our new reality gave way to a new location, I knew I would need to find a proper place to ring in my husband’s 70th. Those who know Dave, know he loves his “brown” liquids. Luckily our new hometown is home to High West Distillery. What I didn’t know was that they have this lovely little cottage
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a moment in time
It’s crazy how an unforeseen event can turn your entire life in a different direction. At the end of February, I had to jump on a plane to attend to a family matter. Five days there I received a hysterical phone call that our apartment in Chicago was ruined. I had trouble understanding the urgency of what might have happened. I tried to reassure
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food detective
A series of atmospheric rivers have been pummeling the west coast of California and barreling into the Inland Empire. Our once sunny, dry oasis has become wet, drank and frigid. Sweaters donned and fireplaces lit, it’s time for some good old fashioned comfort food. I adore shepherd’s pie, but it’s been eons since I’ve made it. So I poured myself a
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dinner for two
One of the ways I show love is by making meals for others. It’s such a gift to have a full table with everyone gathered around. But now with our children’s lives progressing and families expanding I often find myself traveling to their homes. This fall I had back-to-back weekends visiting my daughters in LA and Park City. Lucky Meemo got to babysit
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Wherever I find myself, I’m happiest with a full dining room table. As a former professional chef and caterer I want to share what I’ve learned over the past three decades of entertaining. On this site you’ll find tricks of the trade to help even the most harried of you pull off a seemingly seamless fête. Come join the conversation! read more →