a little nuthatch visits the birdbath
Solo
The other evening, I stood outside, embraced by the cool fog that gently rolled in. A profound stillness settled over the land, with every bird and beast quiet in the twilight. I shared this tranquil moment with a lone turkey vulture, its dark silhouette gracefully circling the canyon before gliding west into the mountains for…
Lighten up a Classic: Chicken Bolognese
A sale in the meat aisle led to a chicken bolognese creation, which surpassed my expectations. Simple to make with ground chicken, tomato, and aromatic herbs, this recipe provides a hearty but light dish. Happy Eating!
The Luck o’the (1/4) Irish
I am a descendant of the Fanning clan. Our people came to the “New World” in time to fight in the Revolutionary War. And while they are just a quarter of who I am, I am fascinated by their history and who they became in their new homeland. So, on March 17th each year, I…
Brie Pasta with Duck Confit & Yuzu Marmalade
A delightful evening in Sonoma led to the creation of a decadent pasta dish using duck leg confit and creamy brie. Rehydrate the duck confit, cook the pasta, prepare the brie, combine, and plate to create this indulgent recipe. Garnish with toasted pine nuts, lemon zest, and parsley for a perfect finish.
Don’t Think Less of Him
Late in the day, there was a break in the rain. The drumming of raindrops was quickly replaced by chirps, chitters, and birdsong. I looked up from my computer to see rays of light catching on a small spot of yellow — a lesser goldfinch. He sat stoically while his olive mate foraged for the…
Back in Flight
Thankfully, months of hard work with the right physician, the right physical therapist, the right occupational therapist (and the right budtender) has diminished pain to a manageable stage. And I have brought out the camera again.
Childhood Treat: Oatmeal Cookie Sandwiches
These cookies made us feel like kids again.
Gourmet Go-To: Mixed Mushroom Lasagna w/Red Wine
Gooey mess of mushrooms and cheese –you can’t go wrong.
Dutch-Oven Goodness: Stovetop Golden Smothered Pork Chops
A childhood favorite, smothered pork chops impressed the author’s partner. Instead of baking, a stovetop version was crafted in a Dutch oven, yielding a delightful dish for four (or two with leftovers).
Old School Chicken and Dumplings (soup style)
December 2023 called for comfort food. Plus, we needed to use our new Lodge Dutch oven. I had been thinking about the dumplings of my childhood and thought this fit the bill. We were very happy with the results, and it has that soothing old-fashioned flavor. It tastes even better the second day when the…
Dreaming of Summer: Spicy Gazpacho
Whenever I make gazpacho for my family or friends, I tell them a joke that is older than I am:
A man calls the server over to his table at the restaurant.
Man: Waiter, my soup is cold.
Server: It’s gazpacho.
Man: Ok. Gazpacho, my soup is cold.
Living Life Forté 