When I was a kid, I always requested the same cake from Mom, a white box cake, with light blue icing and decorated with cherries. It wasn't that I liked this cake so much, it was that I thought it looked pretty. I loved blue and I loved cherries. Eventually I moved on to dark... Continue Reading →
It’s All Fun and Games
Dear Readers, It's been a long time. You must be wondering if I have forsaken you. No, I have not. I have not forgotten you either. The times, they've been a changing. There were some health issues, some family issues. These have straightened themselves out for the most part. Then came major life changes. Most... Continue Reading →
Photo of the Day . . . When the cat’s away . . .
. . . the mouse will cook bacon! Orecchiette with sauteed (in virgin olive oil) brussel sprouts, onions, tomatoes, garlic, thyme, black pepper and bacon. Topped with Parmesan/Reggiano cheese! It's quick and easy! And I don't think a recipe is needed for this one . . .
What is a Blog?
During my break, I did a lot of thinking about my blog. Naturally, as soon as I decided to take a break, I found many things I wanted to write about. But I realized that I still needed space. This morning, I decided to reinstate my last article. I had removed it, not because of... Continue Reading →
Pickled Beets & Apple Salad Recipe
A few days ago, I was hungry, wanted something healthy, and I didn't want to go to the grocery store. I looked in the refrigerator and saw three jars of pickled beets and fruit. Thinking I should start eating them, I searched the internet for recipes and came upon many recipes for beets with apples.... Continue Reading →
Pancakes from Scratch – an easy New Year’s Recipe for Expats
Happy New Year! Are you wondering how to make a lovely breakfast this New Year's morning, but as an expat, don't know how to make pancakes without a box mix from Aunt Jemima or Bisquick? Well, do I have news for you! Here is an easy recipe and all of the ingredients are readily available... Continue Reading →
Discovering Creativity – and a Recipe: CHIPOTLE TURKEY TACOS WITH CHARRED CORN SALSA
People often tell me that I am a creative person. I can't disagree with that. I love many things that one would traditionally call creative, music, arts, etc. But I don't agree that a person is only considered creative if they participate in these fields. I mean, if you really like to work on cars... Continue Reading →
Altitude – could it make all the difference?
Many of you are aware that I am not a baker. Remember this post, To Bake or Not to Bake? In fact, I don't even like cake that much. Now a nice pie, that's a different story! Lemon Meringue, blueberry, pumpkin . . . Anyway, my husband loves cake almost as much as he loves... Continue Reading →
Kabak Mücveri (Turkish Zucchini Fritters)
I actually published this recipe last year. I had tried it at a friend's place and then scoured the internet for this recipe. I made it again this evening, substituting the feta with goat cheese. Loved it again! It's a great way to get your vegetables in! A couple of notes: The first time I... Continue Reading →
Roasted Red Peppers Recipe
There is nothing that makes a salad pop like adding freshly roasted red peppers. I just love their smoky flavor. Once you have tried them, there is no going back! And they can be used in so many recipes. Tonight, I am going to add them to my crepes stuffed with creamy mushrooms and swiss... Continue Reading →
Need a Quick Dinner Suggestion?
In Turkey, I find that there is no such thing as a "quick meal" for the most part, unless I am ordering for delivery. Sure, there's brinner (breakfast for dinner) and there is a small selection of cereals. But the idea of making a quick sandwich doesn't really exist for me. The lunch meat selections... Continue Reading →
Valentine’s Day Story and a Lemon Meringue Tart!
Another Valentine's Day has come and I decided not to celebrate it. We have two anniversaries this week, 9 years since our first date and 3 years since our wedding. It's just two much to have 3 days to celebrate back to back. We have somewhat of a tradition where I bring up the story... Continue Reading →
Valentine’s Day is Upon Us . . . get out the Chocolate!
Like many typical American women, I grew up loving Valentine's Day! I find that I don't make such a big deal about it anymore now, but I still recognize it. (Come on guys, I wouldn't lie to you.) In all honestly, just after Valentine's Day is my wedding anniversary and the anniversary of the day my husband... Continue Reading →