Here Comes Christmas

I couldn't be more excited for Christmas this year. For some reason, regardless of the cold weather, decorated store fronts, carols streaming on every radio station, and the absurd bombarding of online sales filling my inbox, it doesn't quite feel like the season. Nonetheless, I still cannot wait.

Perhaps it's because this year has been such a significant year for change. I feel like a completely different person than I was this time in 2009, yet I'm not. I'm still me. I'm still the girl who likes to come home after work and cook. I'm still the girl who looks forward to running in the morning before taking on the day. I'm still the girl who gets butterflies on Sunday evenings and settles them with honey tea. While I'm still that girl... I haven't hardly been doing those things. Literally time is just not on my side these past few months.

Well, my friends, that is all about to change over the next 10 days. I'll be in Lambertville and will have nothing on my mind but cranking out homemade pasta, hiking through vast fields, running along the river, and loving every second of my family and friends. I may actually write! I may actually be able to sit at a coffee shop and work on some sort of a transcript for some kind of a book! I may actually be able to whip up some butternut squash ravioli filling and make cookies with Eliot! I may actually be able to spend an entire day making a 3 course meal for my parents!

This is going to be good, this is going to be really good.

And yes, I will post before New Years to reflect on 2011. It's not time to say goodbye to a year that has taught me so much, so I'm going to squeeze every last second out of it.

All in a year...

December 1st marks my one year anniversary of living on my own. It has been a year filled with trials, tribulations, change, consistency, love, laughter, tears, fears, rough tides and peaceful waters.

I find myself sitting here this Wednesday morning, mid week, at a cross roads. My mind is racing in unnecessary directions yet I have focus. My career is taking the center stage right now and it's not about making a million dollars, but about doing what I love. Cooking, writing, learning - I feel like a forever-student, and that isn't a bad thing.

I'm planning trips, mapping out my book (children's books, perhaps!!), meeting new people, listening to inspiring music, reading motivational literature, hell I'm even dancing! Moving... just keep on moving because eventually all of this will settle down, which will be fine. For now, however, I have no intention of stopping or taking a moment for granted. Everyone in my life and every experience, good or bad, is a blessing.

Thankful

Yesterday was one of my absolute favorite holidays, Thanksgiving. The table was overflowing with turkey, potatoes, sauces, ham, corn, beans, and other staples. Faith, my beautiful neice, bounced on her mothers knee and giggled at her brothers obsession with pomegranate seeds. We all laughed and reminisced, ate and drank. It was perfect.

It wasn't until dessert time when Eliot started complaining about not liking apple pie (he doesn't like the sugar on top and would prefer to just eat raw apples - good boy!). I explained to him how lucky he is to have a piece of apple pie in front of him. How fortunate he is to have all of this food and family around him. We explained that there are some children in the world who are not as fortunate and this is why we give thanks - for all of our blessings. I think, for a 3 year old, he somewhat understood and said he was thankful and then took a bite of the pie.

Whether he understood or not, hearing myself say these things made me more thankful. I think we all lose sight of all we have. While it isn't the material things I'm thankful for it's the amazing family I have, the supportive and loving friends I have, and the incredible good food and wine we share together. I'm blessed. We all are.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Dear Life...

Dear Life,

You've been trying to get my attention and I've been out for the past two weeks enjoying late night dinners, cocktails and wine, concerts, and deep conversations with good friends and family. You've been trying to get me up to run and I've been laying in bed until 7am; reluctantly crawling out of my comfortable sheets to half ass a yoga sequence and mentally prepare for the day. You've been trying to get me to read literature and I've had my i-pod on a loud volume repeating The Decemberists, Rilo Kiley, Neko Case, Nina Simone, and others.

But I have to ask, isn't this all part of you? Since the marathon finished I've been on full speed ahead trying to catch up on the social experiences I had to miss out on while training. Well, I am tired now and I am listening to you.

I'm ready to think fully about my career. I'm ready to think fully about writing my book. I'm ready to think fully about organizing a food-sensory curriculum for schools or plotting my dream cafe's business plan. The funny thing is that these goals and realities never left the spotlight of my mind and heart - they simply just were not on the front burner. They are now, so do not worry.

So, Life, here is my proposal for this week: When I get back to Brooklyn today I'll do my grocery shopping and clean my apartment. I'll cook, watch movies, and do yoga all day. Tomorrow morning I'll run and get back on my schedule. I am a creature who thrives on routine and now I need to learn how to integrate my social life into my daily/weekly plan.

Life, no matter what anyone says, you are a good listener and I'm glad we had this little conversation.

Yours Truly,
Kendra

Food and Mood Link? I believe it...

I think this is a really interesting article published in the LA Times the other day.

While the report doesn't fully support the definite link between food and mood I think it does a fair job explaining the scientific end of it.

Take a read. What do you think?

Really, LX TV?

I woke up yesterday morning and felt like my body had just been through war. My ribs were killing me making it difficult to breathe and I had a slight fever. I ran the entire way Sunday and while I didn't reach my goal time (I made it in 5:14:48), I was very proud to not have walked AND I beat Jared from Subway.

But what I want to talk about was a segment I saw on LX NYC last night at 5pm. For those of you who do not know LX NYC is an hour long magazine news style show on NBC which took place of real news programming (it's basically a morning talk show in the evening). There was a segment about beating obesity with fat and it was sickening to watch.

The headlines sprawled out words and graphics about fruits and vegetables perhaps being the reason we are fat and shining light on the health benefits of red meats and fried food. I just about threw up while watching and was so disturbed at the composition of (mis) information and footage.

The piece was based around a book about obesity (I looked on their website and found it very difficult to navigate anything from their program) and while they did preach portion size (which is the only bonus) I felt that every bit of information was taking 5,000 steps back. Viewers/Consumers are confused enough with the abundance of information out there. We do not need to start believing that high fat foods and no exercise are the key to loosing weight. The last thing we need is someone telling us that fruits, vegetables, and exercise are making us fat! Are you kidding me?

I am not a health expert but I do my research and I work in media. I believe in book reviews, but do not preach their message. A line was crossed and while I'm kind of appalled, I hope others who saw it are too.

Thankfully the saving grace is when Sara Gore and her co-host both commented on not necessarily believing all of the information in the piece BUT saying portion size is very important for any intake. But seriously, who did that one get past?

Marathon Eve Ponderings

As I rode the N train back into Brooklyn tonight I gazed down the East River and spotted Lady Liberty. Her light reflecting in the evenings water and her strength standing strong against the cool fall air. There she was placed and there she remains, alone. I realized I felt lonely. I realized that I've been lonely for a while and, for now, I don't really mind.

Two nights ago I was waitressing at a book launch and had a rush of loneliness. It's a feeling reminiscent of my restaurant days which I actually used to love. My favorite was working on Sunday nights. We played jazz over the sound system, the ambiance was low and romantic. Couples and families swooned over deliciously rich meals, wine, and fine conversation. I remember watching them as I brought and cleared their plates and thought, "someday, I'll have that". Whatever "that" was and is.

So you may be wondering, "what the hell does this have to do with the NYC ING Marathon?". A lot, actually. Tomorrow I feel like I'm crossing a line. I will no longer be a non-marathoner, but a marathoner. It's like a right of passage into a community I've always admired. I can feel lonely all I want because when I'm on the road or trail nothing matters but me and the course ahead of me.

Today I met Bart Yasso at the Running Expo. I had just read about him and while we talked briefly about Lambertville, he signed my Runner's World Magazine. Tonight, while coming home from my pasta dinner with running friends, it hit me that he ran for loneliness too! A man who was always shunned by his father - he ran and pushed his body to ease the pain.

We are not so far off, Bart and I. While my parents always supported me, they won't be here tomorrow. Actually, none of my family will be here. Friends, yes, and thank God for them. But family, no, they have their own things going on (kids, church, etc).

So here I am. In less that 12 hours from now I'll be on my way to Staten Island. In less than 24 hours, I'll be a marathoner. I'm sure this sounds like a pitiful post, but I promise you it is not. I'm actually very content and very happy and very excited about this experience. Now, off to write my dedication miles!

Stand strong, Lady Liberty, stand strong.

Just a few more days...

It is so close I can taste it!

Against every urge to roll over and hit snooze for the 5th time this morning, I got my butt out of bed! After five sun salutations and some light yoga, I laced up those running shoes and zipped up the ol' rain coat. Rilo Kiley helped me through two rainy miles and when I got back to my house, I wanted to go back for more. I didn't. I held back, went inside stretched, ate a juicy orange, and got ready for the day.

I'm ready for this marathon! I'm scared to death, but I'm ready. I probably could have trained harder than I did, but it's too late to look back on that now. I have to keep moving forward and exercise the two most powerful muscles in my body: the heart and the brain. It is imperative for them to be on the same team.

There aint no backin' out now! November 7th will be a day I'll never forget. I keep saying I'll never run another marathon because the training is so grueling... but I take that back. I can't imagine my life without long, peaceful runs.

Focus and Faith

When we are ready, the message or lesson presents itself and we can embrace it.

Waking up this morning was difficult. I had a long, but wonderful weekend and it caught up to me. To bed at 9:30pm and awake at 7:30am. Instead of running, I needed yoga. I needed to breathe deep and be in silence.

When I opened my email I had a new message from Yoga Journal. The subject, Heart Healers. I cannot go on with what it was about but it was comforting and spoke directly to my soul.

I'm continuing to focus now. The marathon is in a few days and I've been great with running and nutrition. I'll put in a few miles this evening, so I'm not worried. Bottom line is this: I'm not going to beat myself up anymore. If I want that peace and positivity I've experienced in the past, I need to appreciate the struggle and doubt I'm in right now. The enlightenment will not be the same, it will be its own strength and understanding. Faith is what I have now. Focus and faith.

5.84 Miles in 56 Minutes

Finally a run worth writing about! I didn't even bother yesterday because I was so fed up with being cranky and negative. However, I'm back in the groove!

The marathon is next Sunday (what is that, 9 days away - clearly my even my counting was off!) and I'm as nervous as anything. It's coming whether I like it or not... so I guess I better just like it!

That's really all I have to say.

12 Days

AHHHHH!!! I could scream right now! I read my ING Marathon Handbook before bed last night and kept having dreams that I woke up late and missed the start! Then I had another dream I made it to the start line but when I got to the locker room at the end (there will be 0 locker rooms, mind you) I couldn't remember if I finished the race or not!

THEN I woke up late and tired this morning. I tried to mentally prepare myself for my morning run but just felt the weight of making it to work on time which is stupid because I'm always at least 20 minutes early for work.

Here's the reality. The run was terrible. I felt like I had cinder blocks for legs and as if my lungs were working against me. I only made it 2.89 miles and that is just NOT acceptable. I guess I need a new approach. Running is my haven, my positive experience! Running is the calming moment of my day when I don't have to think about anyone - but I can't help thinking about EVERYONE and EVERYTHING now. I just want to scream, SHUT UP!

There was one good thing this morning - so I'll focus on this and stop complaining (its not very becoming). When I entered the park I heard a Mocking Bird call. Usually I associate this with the spring and yet it is currently the fall. It was a comforting reminder of my favorite fact of life: this too shall pass. This season will lead into the next and then the next after that. Time keeps moving and thank God it does. Nothing is forever - a bad run, a bad day (or month in my case), a bad decision. Nothing. This too shall pass.

So, here's to tomorrow! Here's to tomorrow's run being better than today! Onward and upward - because this chick is done swirling downward.

Marathon Countdown: 13 Days

Sunday was a terrible run. Saturday was supposed to be my 10 miler, but instead I opted to lounge around until 10am before heading to Lambertville. I went to bed early and awoke Sunday morning tired, unmotivated, and unfocused. I did put in 7 miles along the river but they were the longest 7 miles of my life and I wondered if I would make it to church on time and alive.

Today was slightly different. I awoke with a somewhat clear mind and fairly sore for some reason, but ready. As I stretched, prepped my gatorade for return, and laced up my running shoes I felt like an athlete and couldn't wait to hit the road.

I ran exactly 3 miles in 29 minutes. Not terrible, but not the best for having a marathon in a few weeks. Regardless - I did it.

For the next two weeks I am committing myself to writing every day about running. I will run Tuesday through Sunday (10/26 - 10/31) this week and Tuesday through Friday (11/2 - 11/5) next week. I am COMMITTING myself to something because it seems I've been having a problem with that lately. I am COMMITTING myself to a schedule and to eating right and to not drinking. I am COMMITTING myself to putting this run first and everything else second.

Here's the deal. I have been having a really hard time figuring out my life path, lately and the fact of the matter is when I'm running it is just me. No texting. No emails. No Facebook. Nothing except for the thoughts in my head. Most of the time as I wander through this city I wonder what the hell I'm doing here? I completely lose who I am and where I've come from. But when I run - much like when I cook - I'm transported.

I'm not fast and I'll never win a race, but to be back in this athletic mindset is amazing. I would love to have a coach and perhaps someday I will take that next step when I've settled down. For now, however, I just need my will, my sneaks, and the road (or trail) before me.

Yoga, An Idea, and the Beating of My Heart

Last night I went to sleep with every intention of waking up for an hour jog. I've been good about running and feeling great in prep for the marathon. However, something kept me inside this morning. Looking back to about an hour ago, I needed to not go fast this morning, but to take it slow.

I rose out of bed in silence and darkness. Peace, actually. Rolled out my yoga mat, lifted the curtain to let in the dim light, and proceeded to notice my breath and stretch. At first, it was a bit difficult to really get into the motions. I was going through the poses mindfully, but with an attitude. Eventually that shook away and left just me and God on the mat. It was a very beautiful and inspiring experience. Then something happened.

While I was preparing for yoga-mudra (the yogic seal at the end of your practice) a thought popped into my head and resonated. Simplicity. Usually you dedicate your daily routine to something - peace, a person, light, God, etc - at the beginning of your practice. But as if it were a message from above the idea, not the word, simplicity filled my entire being.

As I came up from yoga-mudra, I bowed my head to pray and another amazing thing happened. There, in the silence of my little apartment in Brooklyn, NY I sat on the floor. There, in the silence of the morning I could hear the beating of my own heart and feel its vibrations throughout my body. My breath inflated and deflated my chest cavity changing the tone and rhythms of my heart as if waves lapsing the shore. I sat and listened and filled myself with the moment's harmony.

Simplicity. Huh.

And now, I am here sitting with you waiting for my tea water to boil. I can't help but to think this idea of simplicity may be part of the "answer" or "path" I've been searching for. We are bogged daily with consumption and wants when all we really need is here within us.

I do not need a fancy pair of shoes to go for a run. I need a will. I do not need a fancy gym to exercise. I need creativity. I do not need 500 channels of television. I need other activities. There are a million examples on a moment to moment basis and they are distractions. Distractions from what is really important and what is really necessary.

We take ourselves and each other for granted so often we fool ourselves into believing the next gadget will make life more simple and convenient. I'm afraid, however, convenience is a path toward laziness and dependence. I am guilty of this, we all are. But I'm going to change something. I'm going to change something small every day in my life to turn this around.

Aaaaaah.

Honey Toast and Warm Apple Cider

This morning I woke up slightly uneasy. I'm not really sure why as this weekend was very relaxing. Yesterday I made watercress soup while crocheting and listening to jazz. When the soup was ready I curled up on my couch with a bowl of the good stuff and watched You've Got Mail with a few glasses of chardonnay. Hardly a stressful way to spend a Sunday evening.

In order to regain some of that peaceful charm from the day before I placed two hardy slices of bread under the broiler while I warmed apple cider on the stove top. I do not have a toaster, nor do I have a microwave. It's really nice, actually, only using my oven. I've never used one piece of equipment so much. Sometimes it can be a bit to wait for, but in the end it makes me slow down and anticipate the deliciousness before me!

So I drizzled honey over the toast and poured the cider into a mug my mother bought for me. As I licked the honey spoon clean I couldn't help but to think of my grandmother and how she would give us a teaspoon of honey before bed when we were little.

I miss her so very much and I don't doubt that is where some of this loneliness is coming from. I guess I'm still grieving and the only way to connect to her again is through the food she used to make. So here is the short list of dishes to make:

1. Homemade Pasta - I have her pasta roller. In the box there is a Christmas Card from my Great Grandmother, Gammy.

2. Italian Love Cake - We are throwing a birthday party for my mom and aunt (they are twins) and I'll be making this!

3. Roasted Chicken

4. String Bean Casserole - I kind of created my own version of this.

One Day

Today is the day I can clear out my fridge and pack it with new, fresh, yummy and exciting ingredients! I have every ounce of my being dedicated to grabbing coffee and then heading to the West Side Market for some good old grocery shopping.

It feels like forever since I've been able to spend a day cooking. Who knows, perhaps I'll even treat myself to some nice new Tupperware for freezing sauces and soups! Work is piling up and the weeks are jam packed with early mornings and late nights. I'm tired of falling into a food rut and need those bright, invigorating flavors back to warm the soul and keep the mind on the ball.

Last night I babysat Hilary and Theo. Hilary and I carved a large pumpkin and Theo separated the seeds. We toasted the seeds with olive oil and salt then combined them with popcorn and treated with cinnamon and sugar for a tasty movie treat!

I love hanging out with these kids. They are so sweet and get so excited with our little food experiments. Popcorn is so versatile and really allows them to get creative. Theo asked me to add some dried cranberries to his which completely fixed whatever sweet/savory craving he was having!

So, Sunday. It's a beautiful fall day here in New York City and I suspect I'll purchase a mum or two, a few pumpkins, and the best of the gourd, leafy green, and root harvest!

Time to get to it!!! Ciao!

A Study That Supports My Theory!!

Well, FINALLY I have some media to share with you!! This short article is from my METRO paper this morning:

Come on, taste the noise

A study published in Food Quality and Experience says high levels of background noise can affect people's palates - perhaps explaining why airline passengers often complain that food on board is bland. The research blames the roar of aircraft engines.

Dr. Andy Woods of Unilever headed an experiment wherein volunteers were blindfolded and given a range of foods to taste while being exposed to different levels of "white noise."

The volunteers had less acute sensations of sweetness or saltiness the louder the noise became, said Woods.

Now, I'm going to look into Food Quality and Experience. Sounds like a publication I can get behind!! But staying on topic, this is why we get so much more out of a meal when it is not being consumed on the go.

The snap of string beans

Friday night I hurried to Whole Foods in Union Square to pick up roughly five pounds of string beans, bacon, onions, parsnips, fennel, carrots, and two roasting pans. I ended up beyond exhausted by the time I got home and only had enough energy for cleaning and chopping the carrots and parsnips while an Amy's mac and cheese heated in the oven. Once those were done, I plopped in front of the TV to watch an interview with Angela Lansbury (sp?) at the Paley Center on PBS. Then I passed out.

Why do I share this? Because I still had SO much work to do in preparing my contribution to the Claeys' family Oktoberfest the next day.

I woke up Saturday fairly well rested, threw in the laundry and prepped my mis en place for the "German" style string beans my mom swore was a family recipe (though looking back I never remember these at the table). Regardless, I rinsed the beans and almost fretted snapping the ends off of the overflowing bowl. Once I got started, however, I didn't want to stop.

The sound of their snap and the fragrance which was released brought me back to when we all sat around the table in Grandmom's kitchen snapping beans. I closed my eyes, held onto the memory for as long as I could, whispered a little prayer, and then continued on with the dish.

As the fennel, carrots, and parsnips roasted with some apple cider in the over, the bacon rendered it's fat for the onions I was about to caramelize in it. The beans were flash boiled so to remain their firmness. Once all was finished, the beans and onions were mixed together, the roasted veggies were spread around the side, and the crispy bacon crumbled on top.

I don't know if this was a family recipe, but it may be now!

Cookbooks

Though I find it very difficult to follow directions, I love cookbooks. I have the same problem with gardening. I'll read each step, collect tid-bits of information, and then make up the rest.

The funny thing to me, however, is that I've gotten into collecting cookbooks. Particularly cookbooks which reflect how we ate in "Old America".

When Mike and I were in Hunterdon and Bucks County for that crazy week in June, we visited a farmers stand to pick up cheese, fruit, and other treats for a picnic. At the checkout line I noticed an old, plastic ring bound cookbook entitled Bucks Cooks: The Artists' County. Below the title was a typical Victorian drawing with little, but much detail and was followed by the tease A Gourmet's Guide to Estimable Comestibles with Pictures. Seriously though, for $10 how could I pass this up!

We went on our picnic and as he played photographer and skipped rocks on the river, I laid back on an old rock and flipped through the pages finding recipes from Martha Washington on. It was a treasure of insight.

Next, when my mother and I traveled to the Mother Earth News Fair, I new I had to walk away with some culinary tangible. We came across an Amish Country stand who sold bird houses and other out door trinkets made of wood, some quilts, and then a table filled with knick knacks. On this table was my prize: The Esh Family Cookbook.

When I finally returned to Brooklyn a few nights later, I laid in bed and read through this families food history. The recipes here were quite different from the wholesome and of-the-earth meals of my latter book, but they told a story. And at the end of the day, don't we all just want to prepare and share a dish which tells us a story and invites us to create our own?

Cream of Potato Soup...

...and an hour conversation with my best friend took over my evening.

The abrupt ring of my phone cut through my spud scrubbing concentration like a hot knife through butter. The other ingredients spread across the counter revealed an orange light and I scrambled to answer.

"Hello", I said in a somewhat startled, yet very zen voice.

"Hey!", she said with excitement and almost relief.

We haven't talked in what felt like years, though in reality it had only been a few weeks. Her life has changed this past year - she graduated with a masters, a new teaching job, a wedding to plan. All big changes. My life has changed - I moved, I'm moving again, I quit my old job and started a new one. All big changes.

The potatoes were boiling as I minced garlic, prepped the leek, herbs, corn, apple, and cream. Looking back I probably would have caramelized half of an onion and then added to that the garlic, leek and herbs. Let those come together and then added the potatoes, apple, corn and cream... but like other things in life should've, would've, could've. Oh well. I'm happy with the results and will just know for next time!

So what do the two have to do with each other? Nothing really. Except they were both really good.

And yes, pictures of the soup are to come!! Cheers!

Soul Food

As most of you know, I spent this past weekend with my mother in Somerset, PA (Seven Springs) at the Mother Earth News Fair (how fitting). I presented my first two workshops on the topic of Food Sensory & Expression. It was one of the most wonderful experiences of my life which I owe to all of those who attended, participated and shared.

First, I need to comment on how awesome it was to spend three days with my mom. Growing up, she was the one who drove me to gymnastics every night, attended all of my meets, school & New York plays, coached us in cheerleading and led us in girl scouts. How selfish of me to think she didn't emotionally support me as I got older and moved to the city. She was, literally, my wing-man this weekend and it brings tears to my eyes how uplifting and spiritual it was with her.

Secondly, I am awe inspired by the passion others felt for food sensory!! I was afraid my message would blur between my ability to ramble and the fact I really do have so much to say... but it didn't. Each person who sat in participated and shared their food experiences. It was truly beautiful and taught me so much about what I want to address next time and how I'll do it! (For example - more food and only one session... two was ambitious for my first time).

Mother Earth News, I thank you. Thank you for giving me a great excuse to escape my incredible city to sit out in our beautiful country. Thank you for giving me an excuse to savor delicious local produce, drink homemade wine, listen to other people's awesome stories, smell wood burning in the distance and the aroma of the forest around us, and feel the sun and breeze on my face.

This is what life is about. Taking chances and savoring every bite. Thank you.

A Duck and An Octopus

This weekend, Mike spent 18 hours painting a 7 foot Octopus on Franklin Avenue in Crow Hill. Other artists painted their scaffold space with everything from graffiti to sunflowers. It was the first time in a long time I've felt that involved in the community... and it was truly wonderful!

Well, to celebrate my man's first piece of public art, I made quite the elaborate dinner last night and I didn't screw it up!

If you didn't know, I tried (really hard) being a vegetarian for quite sometime. I bring this up because it means I haven't cooked animal protein (successfully, at least) in a long, long time. However, last night, 9/19/2010, I broke that dreaded curse and cooked such a savory, juicy, and flavorful duck breast it made Mike cry tears of joy (not really, but close).

Fat side down on a sizzling hot pan, the fat magically rendered slowly away from the meat. Mike and I stood around and watched. I couldn't believe my eyes at the perfection in the pan. I threw in some fresh garlic, a sprig of rosemary and let the duck do its thing.

On the side I prepared some perfectly steamed red potatoes, carrots, and celery with thyme, garlic, and a dab of butter.

The duck was just about finished as I prepared my mis en place for the glaze: fresh orange, shallots, garlic, rosemary, red wine, and balsamic vinegar. I removed the meat and let it rest, reserved the glorious duck fat, and went right in deglazing the pan. The aromas were quite incredible and I could not get the smile off my face.

While plating I decided to line the top of the duck with some thinly sliced fig. In my opinion, the perfect compliment to the delicate drizzle of sweet and sour glaze.

We savored each bite, each sip of wine, and every moment we had together.

Mother Earth News Fair

If you happen to find yourself in Silver Springs, PA next weekend, make sure you stop by the Mother Earth News Fair. I'll be conducting two writing workshops titled Food Sensory & Expression (Parts I & II). It is my first public presentation... ever. I am so excited to finally talk about reconnecting with our food experiences - both culturally and personally. I only hope I can deliver my message articulately and effectively. I am both nervous and honored to even be involved in such an inspiring, sustainable, and positive event. Wish me luck and feel free to send me any tips you might have.

Listening

A lot of being a good cook is listening to your food. A lot of being a good runner is listening to your body. A lot of being a good person, in my opinion, is listening to your heart.

My problem is that I'll do really well with running, really well with eating, really well with not spending money.... and then I trick myself into thinking I deserve rewards. Right now, my body is sore, my fridge full of un-cooked food, and my debit card is hiding from me.

Then again, I am human. For the record, all I bought for myself were a pair of yoga pants, a new mat, lunch, and a week of yoga.

So what do I do? Well, I give myself a good talking to and I listen very carefully. Then, I pack some food for the day, make tea, do some yoga, and go to work early.

FINALLY!!! The Baba Article is Published!

Check out the story here for my Edible Queens debut!

A year ago, I sat down across the table from Baba. She handed me a recipe with her warm smile and walked me through each step. It was the closing chapter to my life in Queens.

I hope you enjoy!

6 Miles, 60 Minutes & Coffee as Grandmom Liked It

I often confess to a million thoughts running through my head when I run. Today, there was a focus.

It started as I headed down Park Place on my first mile. I passed a man collecting bottles from the trash and recycling discarded from those who live in the brownstones. Only to be gathered by a truck and taken to a dump, this man rummaged through taking the five cent deposits. His income? I thought. Perhaps. Or, maybe he has greater insight as to where these plastics and glass end up. Why wouldn't we receive the five cents back... we pay for it! Unfortunately, people see it as inconvenient and wasted of time for only a bit of change. However, this man wasn't above it and I applaud him for this.

Next my mind settled on my Grandmother. She's only been gone for a little over a month and my mother and aunt have her house almost prepped for sale. They've convinced themselves this is what she wants, and I believe it to I guess. But my grandmother wasn't so different from the man I passed on the street this morning. She wasn't above anyone or anything. She befriended everyone she met and though she didn't posses what most would view as valuable, she was the richest woman I know. Rich with love and warmth, comfort and strength.

I felt empowered as I ran thinking of her. It made me proud to be her granddaughter and made me miss her so much I couldn't even feel my legs.

Now I am here, rambling on to you. As I poured my coffee about ten minutes ago I recalled how she liked it - sweet with milk. She would refer to her coffee as creek water after a rain.

On with the day.

Jack Goes Boating

Phillip Seymour Hoffman's directing debut, in my opinion, is a success. I love New York films that make the city feel as lonely as I believe it to be sometimes. The cities various locales play a supporting role as do swimming and cooking.

Everything the four characters want and need are provided by NYC. Whether those desires be pure or tainted, honest or jaded - they are available and accessible, with a price. The price is what sheds the clothing from our characters, making them vulnerable to each other and themselves.

I have to say some of my favorite moments involved food (go figure). The cooking scenes where Jack (Hoffman) abandons his comfort zone and enters the Waldorf kitchen to learn how to cook a meal, to him grocery shopping for ingredients, to the references of him practicing this meal in order to make it perfect, were compelling and romantic. My favorite, actually, is when he is imagining the steps of the recipe and going through the motions. This is so beautiful, it could have been a choreographed dance.

You'll have to see the film to understand what all of this means - I don't write reviews. But, I will say this, I want to work on a film. I want to work in a film with culinary significance so I can experience the gastro-cinematic capabilities from behind the camera. I want to make sure the audience members taste an au gratin through the screen; feel the chopping of parsley through the speakers; smell the aromas of a real dinner over the popcorn and soda.

Jack Goes Boating opens this Friday.

Stamina

I'm not naive enough to think I'm the only person to ever suffer from lack of stamina. Quite frankly, I don't think it's lack of stamina as much as lack of time!

Mike has started his new job and establishing himself in our new town. While we're still looking for an apartment in Montclair, I can't help but what wonder what my next big move will be. Yes, the marathon. Yes, the Mother Earth News Fair event. Yes, cooking. Yes, writing. But when will I be able to combine these passions into what-I-do?

Perhaps, it does all come down to stamina. If you want something bad enough, you have to dedicate yourself to it. I want to run this marathon - therefore, I need to train hard. I want to be a writer - therefore, I must write every day. I want to get my yoga teaching certification - therefore, I must put in the time. I want... therefore I must... That's it.

My favorite things to cook are soups and sauces. You have to be mindful when you are layering flavors because if you aren't, they will be ruined. It may not be tedious measuring or following intricate steps in a recipe, but it is about smart experimentation. What works for you, works for the soup or sauce. But you must be constantly observant and focused.

If I were to define the role stamina plays in my life, this would be it. The way I make soups and sauces is how I have to focus on my own life and my career. I must be mindful. I must be smart.

What I think about when I think about running

I cannot run with music. Music, for me, is too nostalgic and doesn't allow me to focus on the here and now, but on a time when I was doing something other than running.

When I set out for my runs, I have no idea what I'm thinking. "Ok, I'll go 8 miles... or maybe 6... I wonder what the air smells like today... If I get a cramp, it's ok to stop and stretch." These and millions of others rush through. But then I hit the pavement (or sidewalk) and I only think about my posture.

It is supposed to rain today so the contrast from one side of the sky to the other was great. Deep indigo lays over Manhattan while a bright sun poking through a feathered blue sky dances through the foliage on the street. As I said the other morning, this is magical.

I begin to meditate on life and how to live to my fullest. I approach Prospect Park and it occurs to me that after the NYC Marathon I probably won't run here for a very long time. My bags will be packed come December 1st and I'll have a new home in New Jersey. So, the question rises again, "how am I to live to my fullest potential while being both successful and happy".

The age old balancing act.

However, I am not in New Jersey right now and I have a great job on The Electric Company. No, right now, I am in Prospect Park and my legs feel like cinderblocks. There must be about 200 dogs running through the open fields. It is as if I came upon a secret society - they are prancing around in all of their canine glory. Sprinting, jumping, peeing, pooping, playing.

Some of my friends get upset when a dog is off their leesh... I personally don't mind. In fact, seeing these dogs makes me think of Jake, but I don't get sad I just envision him running right next to me occasionally looking up for approval to go join the group. "Go ahead", I'd say to him with a but-you-come-right-back tone.

Anyway, I'm back home now. Of course my legs loosened up as I was mentally finishing. The most important thing for me to remember now as the marathon is less than two months away (yikes!), is NUTRITION. I'm not a super hero, nor am I a vegetarian anymore (woops!). Eggs, goat cheese, an english muffin, and coffee. Honestly, I hate admitting that I need coffee... I don't need it, but I love it too much.

There you have it... that's what I think about when I run... Sometimes.

I know this hasn't really been media-centered the past few days, but it's coming, I promise. Right now I'm marathon-minded so please bare with me.

A Tajine for you and me

The air is cool and I can feel Autumn approaching. It'll be here soon and I will not deny my excitement.

This time last year I was traveling from Seattle to San Francisco. I called Portland home for two days and hiked the Red Woods for a too short amount of time. It was the vacation of change and acceptance. My best friends were with me and that is all that I needed.

This time of year, 2010, is proving to be no different. Acceptance of growing up, getting older, taking on new responsibilities, and life in general... I wouldn't have it any other way.

Mike and I took the 4 train into Manhattan together. I got off at Union Square and he continued on to the wedding he was about to film. "Babe, remember, this is someones special day! Someday we'll have a special day too!"

I got off the subway and to my surprise there was a street fair! I LOOOOOVE STREET FAIRS! I bought a new shirt for $12, 3 used CD's for $10 (Ten Thousand Maniacs, Blues Traveler, and Pete Yorn), and a Tajine for Mike! I raked each stand as if to find a treasure. I had nothing in particular in my mind for him.... just knowing I wanted to give him a gift. I came across photos from our relationship, men's jewelry, food... and then, the Tajine.

Handmade in Morocco and soon to be the holder of a stew lovingly made in our new home. The stand-owner drew a recipe on the back of my shopping list. The only thing I could do was smile. Soak in every ounce of warmth was whispered to my heart.

Michael is an eclectic man after my heart. I expressed my fears and concerns this morning. What did he do? He came over, held me, and assured me all is OK. Life is as it should be, because it is.

Wow... I cannot wait for the meals we will cook together. Who knows what that tajine has in store!

15.6 Miles

At 5:45 this morning Danielle's alarm went off. The three of us (myself and the two Danielle's) rolled out of bed, filled our water bottles, laced those running shoes, had a few laughs, and headed out onto the Riverside Drive.

There is something to be said for Manhattan in the early morning. It is a sight you really have to experience for yourself. The way the sky dances with the rough Hudson current; the breeze from close by bistros waft coffee and fresh baked goods through the air; the sound of our sneakers tapping the pavement. Peace.

When we finished, I attacked the McIntosh apple who sat on the counter awaiting my return. I swear that apple tasted sweeter than I ever remember an apple being. The juice rolled from my mouth down my chin and I was entranced. I must have looked like a savage to the other girls (but they love me so it doesn't matter).

Tonight for dinner? A bottle of wine, my man, some homemade guacamole, chips, and watermelon. It really is all about the simple things in life.

The Batman

I'm tired today. We all have those days and for me this is it. If I had it my way, I would curl up on the couch with some delicious soup and either watch a movie or read a book.

I've been staring at a computer screen since I got to work screening episodes and just had to leave. There was nothing that I was craving for lunch so I went to The Diner. It is this magical place across the street from my office which feels more south-Jersey-truck-stop than Manhattan joint. And I love it for that.

My place at the counter was comfortable and my waiter was a sweet fatherly man. So, what did I want? I don't have a lot of money, so went straight for the kids menu. I noticed that the choices were named after super hero and cartoon characters. Immediately I remembered how embarrassed I would be as a child ordering those items by menu name. I recall the Big Bird was hot turkey with mashed potatoes and gravy - I made my mom or dad order it for me.

But, alas, here it is in front of me and I just want to make sure he'll let an adult order from the kids menu. He did. Ahhh, The Batman: grilled cheese, french fries, cup of soup, drink, and dessert for $4.95. Holy moly!! That's perfect!

To be honest, I really need to pay more attention to what I put in my body as I preach to the world about fresh food. However, sometimes you just need a grilled cheese and fries with ketchup for dunking. And that, my dear friends, is what I got.

This doesn't have to do with me telling you what I ate for lunch and you not caring, it's deeper than that. For 35 minutes I was transported to a completely different place, both by ambiance and taste. Now I want to revisit my earlier fantasy of vegging on the couch in sweats, but I am back at work... and I need a cup of detox tea to keep me going.

QUICK!

In order to get the 9/02/10 posting that I've promised, this is going to be short and sweet.

Tonight marks one of the first evenings where my friends and I noticed my future absence in late evening wine affairs. Once my address reads Blah Blah Road, Montclair, New Jersey, I will no longer be able to order another glass, but only ask for my portion of the bill. I will not be staring at my phone for text messages inviting me to my next destination, but looking at a train schedule.

And I'm looking forward to this? Oh yes, I am.

In my mind I don't envision the storybook lifestyle, but a new beginning. In fact, this new life is so vague the only thing I imagine are whatever vegetables are roasting in the oven and Mike. I can taste the parsnip and squash soup... and I see his face sitting across the table from me.

This is exciting stuff.

Today, Ryan and I saw I Am Love. Tonight, we drank delicious wines from Italy and nibbled on bruschettas, crispy artichoke with mint pesto, and zucchini flowers. A truly fun New York City afternoon and evening... but these are coming to a close.

Oh, New York City... you and your dining experiences!

Oh, I'm back alright!

Quite the hiatus, I must say. But I'm back and I have lots to talk about!

Between training for the NYC Marathon, working on my article for Gastronomica Magazine, creating a Food Sensory presentation for the Mother Earth News Fair, working on The Electric Company, and eating (a lot!), life has been pulling me into a million different directions. The birth of my niece, Faith, and the passing of my grandmother, Evelyn, has forced me to really take life by the balls and figure out my next step. I didn't think I could write anymore... and then realized that was bull because I'm meant to write.

I admit, cooking has not been top on my list in these hot months. My lovely apartment is truly better in the fall, winter, and spring when I don't need an AC. All though I have made more gazpacho then I ever thought I'd be able to consume. The garden my landlords put in is in full bloom and has offered up a truckload of sungold heirloom tomatoes, swiss chard, sunflowers, and herbs.

Aside from our own plot, my coworkers also brings in treats. Paul shares garlic from his garden upstate and Ryan has figs daily from her landlords tree. Holy crap. These are true testaments to fresh-is-better. I savor every moment I get to spend with this unbelievably powerful produce and feel like the luckiest girl in the world. Seriously, the nectar which oozes out of the figs is like nothing I've ever experienced.

A lot of what made me stop writing is the idea that I didn't feel qualified to talk about any of this. I felt under qualified for a while and couldn't fathom anyone caring what I had to say.

And then something happened the past few weeks. I realized I am qualified to talk about food because food is for everyone. I don't need a degree to know how to eat. There are so many articles, claims, advertisements, TV shows, stores, and whatever, telling us how and what to eat, that we've forgotten.

When I first started this blog it was to bring some of this media to light and to make sense of it. Well, I'm back and I'm ready.

Hope y'all are ready!

I love grocery shopping

As I've mentioned before I am blessed to work above a food Mecca, the Chelsea Market. In addition to which there is an awesome Western Beef right across the street on 16th where they have a fantastic spread of fresh produce! On Mondays, I'll take a five minute break to browse their online circular. Tuesdays, I usually use my lunch hour to browse their aisles.

While slowly strolling my way through I am at times pleasantly surprised by both the price and ingredients of several items. One of these items being corn tortillas which come in a 25 pack (or so) and literally consist of corn, water and lime. Delicious! Not to mention, their avocados are usually $.89 and ripen beautifully over a few days. Their plantains rock and they even have banana leaves!

So tonight I am heading home with Jersey string beans, sweet potatoes from the south, peaches and apricots from South Carolina, a few tomatoes from Canada, and some California blueberries - just to name a few items. And even cooler is that my grand total came to $11. Very excited for a fruit salad and some veggies! Can't wait to see what kind of sandwich I'll be able to invent for tomorrow!

Action!

Life is whatever we make of it. If we choose to be busy, we will be. If we choose to be happy, we will be. I believe we were born with both choice and control. It goes without saying that the universe places us in situations and environments that are beyond us, however, we are responsible for ourselves. Me for me and you for you.

I took a hiatus because I felt my plate was full beyond what I could handle. Yet again my eyes were bigger than my stomach and before I knew it extra hours at work, a potential part time DREAM JOB, an article for a prestigious culinary magazine, an art installation at Brewklyn Coffee House, a wedding, a new baby, and a "social" life were overwhelming. Here's the kicker: they are all positive, so why did they weight me down? Because I allowed the possibility of something to go wrong (or right) over power the excitement and beauty of each opportunity.

So, take the bull by the horns. It will only be too much if I allow it to be, right? Right.

Amazing.

Now, I'm going keep on this "get stuff done" vibe and create a REAL to-do list. Perhaps I'll read some. Perhaps I'll meditate. Who knows! But whatever I end up putting my energy towards is exactly what is meant to be.

(Can't wait to put my energy towards cooking!! That will have to be another evening, though.)

Peace and blessings.

another hiatus...

Dear Readers,

I have to take a break from the blog. Sadly, I've become way to busy to work on this and will resume in June.

Please stay and eat well!!!

Much Love,
Kendra

What the hell am I doing?

It's 4:40 in the morning and I just cut two leeks. They are currently soaking and when my alarm goes off at 6:20am, I'll skim them off the dirty water surface and throw them into a pot of boiling water. Still, the question remains: what the hell am I doing?

I'm 26 years old and already feel over worked and under paid in a position that is known to be thankless. I'm not saying my boss doesn't appreciate me, but the truth is I'm completely unhappy. Last night Mike and I went to dinner and I spent $78 on mashed potatoes, sauteed broccolirabe, 3 glass of wine, calamari, and his chicken pot pie and beer. What the hell am I doing?

I don't make enough to spend money like that! However, they say that when we are stressed we go into survival mode and bulk up on high carb foods in case we need to run away from the enemy. You can't run away from the enemy if the enemy is the situation you've created for yourself. Because I feel like a big fat blob that has stopped exercising and started drinking way too much coffee, I'm making the leek-cleanse and forcing myself to only drink the broth and green tea. I hope it works.

Clarity, is something I've completely lost. I go through these times, every so often. I bog myself down with too much to do and too little money to really do it. I'm not going to blame myself for everything, but there is something to be said for being unhappy - stop doing what it is that depresses you so, and start doing the things that lift you up.

Ok. It's 4:47am and I feel slightly better. Onward and upward. Water, tea, leeks, and fruit. Go.

The Importance of Catharsis

I forgot how important it is for me to write. I've spent countless days trying to mimic what other food writers are recording and have, in the process, lost my voice. It took going to Breuklyn Coffee House Friday evening to remember why it is I started writing in the first place.

The cafe was crowded with artists and hipsters alike. We all shuffled in and out of each others' way like atoms vibrating almost too close for comfort. The first series of photographs feature women, nature, and mirrors. The grecian-esque style caught my attention and I found myself staring at the black and whites in simple frames. My thoughts were basic and my breathing came to a relaxed pace... finally, art.

Next down the wall was Nella's art. Bright and a little unfocused, I grew connected to the amateur lines and colors. I spoke with Nella after purchasing her poetry book. She is a nurturing and caring Russian woman who lives two blocks from my old apartment in Flushing. Instantly engaged in conversation, I felt a heat flow through my veins, I have to start writing right now.

I went to Franklin Park (around the corner from Breuklyn) and pulled out my notebook. It felt good. Mike met me about an hour later and I felt like a new woman.

Saturday morning I went to Bristen's Eater for breakfast. I wrote. I listened to music. I drank coffee and ate. I left feeling like a new woman.

We get caught up in our minds and have to remove ourselves in order to think clearly. The days become endless minutes of monotonous activity, unless we have a catharsis. Writing is my catharsis and I don't ever want to forget it again.

My experiments went ok...

Tuesday evening I experimented with homemade sweet potato gnocchi and black eyed pea and lentil curry bread.

Well, I should have mashed the peas and lentils better before baking them, lesson learned. However, I did manage to salvage the loaf yesterday when I paired it with boston lettuce and raisins! The curry wraps turned out being satisfying. Next time I do this I'm going to form them into smaller balls and bake them as such.

The sweet potato gnocchi I had high hopes for. Note to self: whole wheat flower is too intense for gnocchi, just stick with white and semolina. It totally overpowered the sweet potato and I really wanted that to be the star. Also when it comes to gnocchi balls, SIZE MATTERS. The smaller the better, in my book. However, a happy surprise was substituting polenta for an egg. I mixed in about 1/2 a cup of polenta and this helped with the cohesiveness of the pasta. Not terrible, but I know that next time will be MUCH better. The sauce, however - a scampi style with butter, sage, garlic, EVOO, and lemon - was super yummy.

Yesterday was also Cinco De Mayo so of course we had our mini Petron station. After a crazy busy day, those shots were totally satisfying and fun.

Back in the Kitchen

Sweet potato gnocchi dough is resting in the fridge for the night and the black eye pea and lentil curry bread is done in the oven.... can't wait to taste!!

A weekend in Brooklyn

Friday, 4/30/2010, was mental health day. After purchasing an awesome new bike helmet and bike lock, the mister and I rode the streets of downtown Brooklyn. The Gardens, the Slope, the Heights... nothing went uncovered.

We stopped by an awesome old school joint on 5th Ave for the classic burger, fries and Brooklyn Seasonal. Delicious. I'm not much of a meat eater but sometimes a lady craves a cheesy, greasy piece of beef... needless to say, paired with spicy curly fries, I was a happy camper.

The rest of the weekend was fairly uneventful food wise... BUT, last night was another superb oyster evening courtesy W & T Seafood. Matthew served up 6 samples of those zinc packed slippery suckers and Billy, Cornelius's bartender, poured me a glass of Chardonnay from LI. Yummmmmm. Fanny Bay, Kummamoto, and Beavertail remained my top favs!

I'm a shucking fanatic!

I have had two unbelievable nights at Astor Center. Tuesday night with Maria Jose de Heredia and last night with W & T Seafood. You know me, I could go on for ages about the poetics of de Heredia's wines, the 1985 Tondonia was out of this world, but today, I need to rant about my new love for oysters.

At first I was intimidated by them... but not after this class! Nellie and Matthew gave the class a thorough background of these mollusks talking us through east to west and back again. The usual Kumamoto and Fanny Bay were top of the listers but the BEAVERTAIL was unreal!!! So big, briny, crisp, and creamy all at the same time. Yummmmmmmmmmm!

I've also discovered my hidden talent of (and love for) shucking! My new favorite stress reliever.

Making Moves....

Last Friday the City Winery cru (ha, get it?) invited me back for bottling. While I couldn't be there all day I did enjoy two hours of shepherding the 2008 Cabernet Sauv into 750 mL green bottles. I have to admit, my fire was re-lit.

Basically, I'm done moping around wanting a change... so I'm just going to make it happen. I love wine and food for many reasons, but mainly because the joy that comes with sharing them with new and old friends is, by far, the best high. There is something to be said for the bond between people when dissecting the meaning of life over a glass of Priorat and a freshly prepared meal.

There is good in this world and if the only place to experience that good is at the table or in the kitchen or in a vineyard, then so be it... I refuse to miss out.

So what am I doing? Well, I'm just going to do it, whatever that it is. But I can say that wishing and hoping are out of the question.

Last night, Marcy and I sat at the Tea Salon in Chelsea Market and swooned for a few hours over art, culture, and the 2007 gold muskateller we were sipping on. This wine blew my mind! I have never tasted anything so well balanced with florals, herbs, minerals, and passion.



At first sip I tasted jasmine and lavender; Marcy had hints of vanilla. Every element was subtle and whispered vivid scenes of the land from which the grapes came. A slight hint of sage hovered over the pallet while honey seeped into your taste buds. Brilliant. Absolutely, brilliant.

This morning, I stopped at Grey Dog in Chelsea. Got my coffee, listened to a little 70's rock while mixing in raw sugar, and left with a smile on my face. Now I'm at work and looking forward to my wine class tonight at Astor with Maria Jose Lopez de Heredia - an outstanding female winemaker from Spain (I believe Rioja).

Life is good, remember... you just have to open your eyes to see it.

A relaxing morning

I woke up about an hour before my alarm and decided not to turn on any lights or music.

Instead, I walked around my apartment in the dusk of 5:50am, put some water on to warm up for Genmaicha tea and laid back down in bed.... in the silence. When I rose for a second time (only minutes later), I cooked some white quinoa for breakfast.

Quinoa and honey is supposed to be a fantastic boost of protein in the AM... we'll see how it works! Perhaps I'll cut up some strawberries and orange for the experiment!

Have a beautiful day!

Escarole, garlic, criminis, truffle oil, OH MY!

It's the first night I've been home before 7pm without anything to do in a long time. So what to do? I could go for a run.... I should go for a run. The half marathon is this coming Sunday! Nah, I'll go tomorrow morning. I have a 1/2 bottle of this fantastic 2005 Spanish blend, a fresh head of escarole, and recipe burning in my mind. I'm going home to cook, drink, think, write, and relax!

Trompe l'oeil! Gourmet's Diary of a Foodie gave me some deep inspiration. Food that looks like one thing but is actually something else. Ok.... then how do we stop thinking of anything edible as anything but its self? How do we get outside of societies box? It is its own thing. A plant, an animal, a synthetic. Hm, interesting. One of my favorites was the tomato tartar that looked like a real steak tartar.

The end of the show was the most inspirational: mindless eating. Brian Wansink's segment helped me understand food marketing in a new way... and it's making me kind of want to move into this field. Of course I still have my dream of being a winemaker (or at least working at a vineyard part time while owning my cafe)... I'll never give that up. In the mean time, however, what if I practiced what I believe in?

It's like making dinner. What do I use to get the result I want? What is the result I want? If I mince an extra clove of garlic will it make or break? Will the safron be a pleasant surprise? What about the truffle... is there even room for the truffle?!

Such is life! A huge kitchen and a garden full of choices. The trick is that we have to approach, harvest and utilize the precious ingredients before they lose their umph!

Kidney Beans and Boston Lettuce

The escarole scampi did not happen last night... but kidney bean lettuce wraps did! A super easy and extremely delicious meal that is exotic, fun, and different.

All I did was soak dry kidney beans over night and boil them until they "mashed" themselves. I added in some peanut chili sauce (natural peanut butter, chili pepper, cayenne pepper, and oil), washed off some boston lettuce leaves, and topped them with the beans.

Give it a try. Next time I'll experiment with chickpeas or lentils and currys!

I've been slacking

I've been slacking on my writing! I don't know what it is. There are so many articles I've been reading and stories on NPR that really strike a chord with me, but I just haven't had the time to reflect on them and share with you! I'm not even going to try right now because I feel rushed and whatever I say won't make much sense.

This morning I picked up a cup of coffee on my way to the subway. Park Slope is really beautiful this time of year with the blossoming tree lined streets! I realy felt like a New Yorker and appreciated living here.

Tonight - I'm babysitting and am looking forward to sauteeing some fresh escarole scampi and angel hair pasta!

Ok... that's all I got. Until I get a few more minutes, have a great day!

Your's truly in the NY Times!

Ok, ok, so there are over 400 photos featured, BUT mine are #163 & #167. Hey, in this life, we take what we can get!

Make this quick!

I only have a few moments but I wanted to get a several thoughts out that have been swirling around in my abyss:

1. 1 Ingredient per week. I've decided I need to broaden my produce and protein vocabulary by experimenting with 1 new item per week. This week's item will be announced later today... but I think I want to try out some recipes with genmaicha tea (just because I'm obsessed with it right now).

2. NY Times article yesterday about people photographing and chronicling EVERYTHING THEY EAT! I fall into this trend, but I still have to ask the question: what makes the general public care? Well, me personally, I believe that by being conscious of what we are putting into our bodies is the first step to creating a safe and sustainable food system. When we eat mindlessly (ie: while driving, while talking, while working, etc) then it "doesn't matter" what we are fueling up with... when in fact it does. One of the most beautiful aspects of European culture is that eating is an event. It should be. No matter how busy we are we NEED to find time to sit down and eat real food. If it takes a bunch of ego-centric bloggers (myself included) to pronounce this - then so be it.

3. Re-zoning of fast food restaurants in high obesity areas of NYC. Ok - several things here. Yes, it will affect job openings for some who are unable to find jobs anywhere else (that is coming from a woman who was only able to find a job at a Burger King), but let's not make this a negative, people! We need to start wanting... DEMANDING better for ourselves and our community. Change starts from within and perhaps instead of opening up another fast food joint on the corner in that empty commercial lot, how about an indoor farmer market? Home gardening store? C'mon, let's get creative and make the good happen. I'm going to research this more because it's fascinating - we should all have this on our radars!

Alrighty, that's about it for now. And please, I'm not ignorant about low income areas having higher obesity rates because that's all they can afford. I live in a pretty low income area and I see it... but I also see the community garden that opened up several blocks away. I see bakeries opened up by long time community members who are cooking themselves. It's beautiful and it CAN be done!

Easter Eggs and a Birthday Weekend

I haven't colored Easter Eggs since I was a little girl. Well, this weekend, I surprised the dude with a dozen hard boiled eggs and four mugs of blue, green, red, and yellow!

I'll comment more on the birthday weekend... let's just say that I need to detox!

Day 3: Say Yes, Say Yes, Say Yes!!!

Not everyone has to like you and you don't have to like everyone.

I found myself at City Winery last night not for wine making, but for wine drinking and an awesome blue grass show. My girlfriend, Ryan, and I sat feet away from Langhorne Slim and sampled several glasses of wine (if there is any such thing as one-too-many we may have been at that limit).

As I walked in I couldn't help but wonder why I hadn't been back to my internship? Had I said something wrong? Did I not talk enough? Are they not busy enough for me? Well, instead of beating myself up about this I listened to the music. Langhorne sang song after song to me, it felt. Lyrics like "let it flow, let it flow on the outskirts of town"; stories about running away; messages that resonated with everything will be ok. At times I felt as if I were the only one in the bar listening and clapping my hands and sipping my wine.

As it turns out, such is life! We make attempts and they may not always turn out to be what we were looking for... so then we move on and find something else that does turn out to be what we are looking for.

Thanks, Langhorne!

Kendra and the Bean Stalk(s)!

There are 8 mighty bean sprout-stalks! In addition to some young herb and tomato sprouts.

Even in this dreary weather, spring is still poking its sweet head out in Brooklyn!

My First Seder: An Evening With Family

Three #2 express trains passed before the #1 local arrived at the platform. I texted Marcy as the minutes ticked away - was I going to be late?! I hate being late! Especially to dinner! "Don't worry!", she replied, "It's crappy out! We understand". But I was still nervous.

I ran out of the train completely turned around (I've never really understood lower Manhattan) but with the help of a bouncer found my way across the West Side Highway and to Rector Place. As I got out of the elevator I was greeted by the adorable Marcy wearing one of her mother's fading, yet lively aprons.

"Thank you so much for having me, I am SO excited!", I said trying to pull my disheveled self together.

We walked down the hallway and entered a cozy three room apartment where the aroma (which was plowing it's way down the hallway) made it hard for me to concentrate on anything but the meal we were about to consume. Roasted chicken, matzo ball soup, vegetables, and gravy were all being prepared by the generous hostess (with the mostess), Ruthie Brafman (a gorgeous shoe model in her youth). She took a brief moment from reorganizing her humble space to greet me - I was filled with love immediately.

Marcy walked me around the apartment introducing me to her husband, son and son's friend. I couldn't help but ask what the numerous heirlooms were that adorned the walls from top to bottom and she did so obligingly.


As we took our seats, the elegant place settings and dainty wine glasses transported me back to the 30's or 40's. Shaun read the holiday's meaning to us while Michael and Marcy choreographed the Seder plate accordingly. Then something almost magical happened. Marcy requested the prayers be read in Hebrew. Shaun read them and it somehow made me feel really connected even though I did not recognize the language.


Next we had a little wine and the matzo ball soup. "The balls are too hard", Ruthie proclaimed, but I had to disagree. It was perfect! You could taste the exchange of this recipe. Being passed down from her mother's mother to her mother to her... and to Marcy. Decades of a full proof soup that doesn't require anything extra or anything subtracted.

Roasted chicken, mashed potato pie (an experiment gone right!), and veggies joined the table that was already holding three generations. As we feasted, stories of wonderful relatives and friends from the past and present were shared. After all, this was a meal about giving thanks.

Around 9pm, once dessert and tea were cleaned up, I thought it be best for me to start my journey back to Brooklyn. Unwillingly I had to leave for the evening but the warmth I experienced followed me home and tucked me into bed.

Sweet Surrender

Sometimes we enter dark spots in life. The reasons may be clear or unclear, inevitable or avoidable, confusing or painstakingly understandable. Regardless of the shadows, however there is always light... somewhere.

I've been trying to figure out where I fit in the food world at the same time as figuring out where I fit into my family as a woman. These have proven to be two taunting and separate, yet strangely similar feats. What it comes down to, I've discovered is finding my voice and fitting together the most elegant way of projecting it. Much like writing or cooking, taking a stand on what you believe comes from trial and error. Sometimes one way works and other times you have to just try it again.

I'm announcing this to you, my dear readers, because I think every so often we need reminders that it is ok to enter these realms of uncertainty and pain. While the things that don't kill us make us stronger, they still suck. Feeling as though you are not alone is, in my heart, the most comforting way to get through any tunnel. I'll pray, talk it out, write it out... whatever. And then when I feel moderately better, I pray again and either go into the kitchen, pick up a book, or go for a run. Anything to keep my mind focused on anything but my problems.

Surrendering yourself to a recipe or a new ingredient is no different that surrendering yourself to... well, yourself. It is unchartered territory that of course you know. The tools are the same but what is scary needs to be turned into an adventure. Whatever the outcome, embrace it - failure or success.

An evening can have a mind of it's own

I find it better not to plan too intensely anymore. This evening I had every good intention of going to that event... that did not happen. Instead a bike ride and a surprising spring dinner occurred.

Let me first start by admitting that I am terrible at riding a bike.... seriously. Prospect Park kicked my ass tonight. I can run this park with ease (give or take), but riding?! Really? I've got to get my butt in SHAPE!

Regardless, I came home and prepared a cheese board with a leyden with cumin seeds and a manchego. Accompanying the random duo were almonds and dried cranberries... YUM! In the mean time, I poured myself a glass of red table wine and cooked up some asparagus, garlic, thyme, lemon, kalmata olive, and fresh chopped tomato sauce served over angel hair pasta.

The evening was topped off with Lidia's Italy, Gourmet's Diary of a Foodie, Jerome Robbins Dance.... and now, alas, reality: putting away my laundry!

Sweet dreams, whom ever reads this!

Tonight's Adventure

388 Atlantic Avenue...

Ancient Food, Ancient Wisdom:
Using Traditional Foods to Create Vibrant Health for Adults & Children
A workshop with Claudia Keel
Wednesday, March 24
Suggested donation: $10

In this workshop we will discuss what traditional foods are and why they are so essential to our health and well-being, as well as for pregnancy and growing children. These traditional foods include enzyme-enriched foods, mineral rich bone broths, animal fats and properly prepared whole grains. We will cover the pioneering work of Dr. Weston A. Price: his study of healthy traditional communities and the underlying factors in a variety of traditional diets that conferred beauty, strength and freedom from disease.

Claudia Keel is an Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist with a private practice in Union Square, Manhattan. She is the co-founder and president of the Traditional Nutrition Guild, a non-profit buying club for traditional foods in metro NY and the New York City chapter leader of the Weston A. Price Foundation.

This will go along perfectly with my Ayurveda studies AND it's close to my house! Double bonus!

A small garden will grow in Brooklyn

This weekend was undeniably amazing. The kayaks were sold to a dear friend, the keys of my last apartment left behind with love and grace. My new chaise lounge has been put together and my apartment is growing more and more into a home. Michael surprised me with a pot of yellow splash tulips and we celebrated the arrival of spring (at 1:42pm on Saturday) with a bike ride and a quaint picnic in Prospect Park.

Yesterday, after a relaxing morning of coffee, the Sunday Morning Show on CBS, and a five mile run, Mr Claeys returned to my kitchen for some grilled cheese and avocado sandwiches and a hearty salad. I even talked him into a little planting of seeds before we headed forth to the streets of Park Slope.

In the style of my grandmother, Evelyn Terrani, I retrieved a 36 count egg carton from Tom's Restaurant and filled each compartment with peat moss and seeds: Chamomile, Sage, Oregano, Thyme, and Cilantro. In the little plastic pots we placed basil, flat leaf parsley, plum tomatoes, and string beans. I tried my best to choose the shade varieties as I don't get a ton of sun... so let's hope and pray for a fruitful spread, shall we!

VIVA SPRING!!!!

The day doesn't need help from me

This week has been one culinary adventure after the next and unfortunately work has been too busy to allow me time to write. Here is a brief rundown...

Monday - Big River: A King Corn Companion premiered in Manhattan with healthy food from the Cleaver Co and a wine/beer selection from New Yorkers. The film was engaging and the filmmakers left me with hope of what documentaries can and should be. Kudos... I have tons of notes and several photos that I'll be able to share soon.

Wednesday - Franklin Park, my local watering hole, had a killer St Patty's Day with $4 drafts, a grill, and warm weather! The grill featured newbies, Dutch Boy Burgers, and had $5 burgers, $12 lobster rolls, and $8 grilled little neck clams. The food was incredible and Angela (I think that's her name) was really chill.

Thursday - Cook Shop with Marcy where we sipped on a killer proseco cocktail and sucked down oysters, Hama Hama, Shibumi and Mt Simon.

Tonight... Mike and I will be attending the opening of My Father's Microcosm, Tel Aviv at the Williams Club. Gastronomica's Darra Goldstein will be guiding a tasting from Shuk Ha'Carmel, Israel's oldest market. I am beyond excited to meet her.

So that is about it. The warm weather was welcomed with open arms and embraced with food, art, and grilling. Spring is here and everything will be ok.

Wine Making: Bottles and Bottles

Sunday, March 14th, marked my second day of City Winery labor.

I was the first to arrive of, what turned out to be 6, volunteers. I stood around, silent and awkward, for about fifteen minutes until the equipment was set. I am not generally a quiet person but when not on my turf, I have a tendency to disappear into the background. Eventually the rest showed up and we put ourselves into a groove of bottling barrel upon barrel of 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon.

I placed myself on the end of the assembly line for the responsibility of wiping down the bottles after they were corked and boxing them up. I placed myself here because I was able to observe the rhythm the corker set for the bottler (a position I was eventually encouraged to take over).

It's backwards, actually. Everything starts the same way, with the dumper. This time, however, they are dumping empty bottles. The empties are placed into the pump which resembles a 12 uttered metal cow. Once the bottles are full with wine, they are handed to the corker who has the duty of checking the level of liquid, caring for the pressure gauge on the corking vacuum, and passing along a properly corked bottle.

The role of cleanliness played a great deal today. Every element from our hands to materials to machines had to be carefully watched so not to be contaminated. In fact, David got upset when someone (who was just trying to help) handled a bag of corks improperly - the entire bag (about 500 corks) had to be thrown out. Ironically, the person who handled the corks happens to be the only person who can handle the kosher wine. Interesting observation.

Note to self: though wine has an alcohol content, it is extremely delicate and must be handled with the utmost care and attention.

Ok, so back to the process. We undoubtedly found our zen and consistent rhythm after inevitable breaks. When levels of wine became low we had to stop and start back up. The point was made that for every hour of work (bottling, labeling, topping, whatever) there is about twenty minutes of downtime for readjustment and replenishment.

David buzzed around us and managed our work with ease and experience. I love watching him. He's been doing this his entire life and around the world.

Perhaps that is why I'm so silent - I really want to learn. I don't want to miss a moment of what they do when a machine breaks down or how they flip a box or even how the stamp is set up. I don't care how mundane the action seems or how insignificant it is... it can't be insignificant.