Route 1 meanders through the Big Sur region of California, segmented into various state parks and state reserves. You pass a half-mile of densely wooded hills, sunlight blocked by the sequoiadendron giganteum, the coastal redwoods. A nondescript National Park kiosk heralds a change in scenery. The next half-mile is marked by motels, signs promising lower cabin rates and tent sites “right on the river!”
Read moreSPICED BAKED APPLE CHIPS
Some of the best, most brilliant recipes are the most simple. (Perhaps that is also true of many things in life). But finding out how easy it is to make homemade fiery-red beet chips, or a silky-smooth hummus, is always such a revelation to me.
Read moreBUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP WITH MISO AND COCONUT
This soup is a love letter of sorts to many things. To autumn -- and its vibrant, hearty, filling produce -- and to new jobs and new people who inspire me, and to remembering to appreciate the small, quiet moments. And in those small, quiet moments, to give to others when you can. Give material things, but also give your own self: your heart, your excitements, your thoughts.
Read moreAPPLE YOGURT CAKE
"I think this is the best one you've made," he said, gently scraping his fork against the white dessert plate. He gathers the crumbs in a pile and presses the fork against them -- the cake is so moist that the last bits stick together. He scoops up the last bite.
Read moreBRAN MUFFINS
When we were little, our dad used to sing us the "do you know the muffin man?" song on weekend mornings. He also used to feed us hot buttered English muffins quite a bit too. Coincidence? I think not.
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