In a world that appears so fragile, with so much anger and self-absorption, it is pizza that keeps me grounded Even if you do your best to ignore the news, as I try to do, it’s hard to escape the feeling that we seem to be descending into madness on a…
Get Caught Trying
Learning to define yourself by what you like rather than by what you do not The comedian Tim Minchin once gave a commencement address at the University of Western Australia, wherein one of his bits of wisdom was that young people should avoid defining themselves simply by what they dislike. He implored…
The Casual Comfort Of Champagne And French Fries
In celebration of the simple wonder that is sparkling wine Bells tinkled lightly as the door opened, and an older couple walked into the cafe. “Bonjour,” they said as one. “Bonjour,” came the chorus from staff and patrons alike. It was just past nine in the morning in Paris, and…
Pacing The Cage
Supercharge your writing with a daily walk I have never been a fan of gratuitous exercise. If the options are sitting or moving about, I’ll go for sitting every time. I’m not lazy, exactly; I just don’t feel the need to run around to make myself look or feel busy. Sitting works…
When Food Writing No Longer Features Actual Food
The missing poetry, passion, and sensory exploration of contemporary food editorial.
Maybe The Grinch Wasn’t All That Wrong
Struggling with finding peace in the midst of Christmas chaos It’s almost Christmas, and it’s snowing. I have a fire going with last night’s leftover wood, fresh coffee in my cup, and Annie Lennox is on the stereo, warbling on about nightingales, shepherds, and snowflakes. There are four grandchildren in…
The Job Of Being A Professional Storyteller
Telling stories for fun and profit in the cutthroat world of serious business The title on my business card reads, “Raconteur.” It’s a somewhat archaic term that simply means storyteller, but it’s a hell of a lot better than consultant. The word itself has a rapscallion air to it, as if describing someone…
Why’re You Drinkin’ Like The Night Is Young
Why’re you drinkin’ like the night is youngWhy’re you drinkin’ like the night is youngThe kids are in the bed and the day is long doneSo why’re you drinkin’ like the night is young— Holly Williams Searching for a new perspective for enjoying the experience of dining without booze There is a…
Christmas Means Comfort
A meditation on the food that means home to me, and my ongoing battle with one pesky rooster It finally feels like the Christmas season to me. I still have work to do before the end of the year, but it’s going to be winding down soon, and I’ll have more time…
The Rewilding Of Christmas
In my efforts to reignite joy in the holiday season, I discover the magical promise of Grandie’s Eve.