First Person Singular by Wendy Braitman

Very Practical Advice

Image from Designcrush

Retro Tools

For years, I’ve owned a small hand grater that I use mostly for parmesan cheese, but also when I need zested lemon or a pinch of nutmeg. The grater is so gnarled. Recently, I replaced it, except the new one doesn’t work nearly as well, and I find myself reaching again and again for my beat up old gadget. What’s your favorite retro tool?

Ceramic artwork by Katharine Morling

Renewal 2014

It’s no coincidence that the overlapping holidays of Passover and Easter with their message of hope and rebirth arrive at a time of year that mirrors the metaphor. Here in L.A, the coming of spring may not elicit the same palpable thrill as in wintrier climates, but it’s still inspiring to soak in all the light. Are you feeling it yet?

Image from newyorkshitty

Gabriel García Márquez, RIP

Such magnificence. Next book, rereading 100 Years of Solitude.

Who Do You Love More?

Comic by Doghouse Diaries

French Macarons are making their debut

Drizzling chocolate was a last minute improvisation as a way to hide imperfections. We’ll see what the Seder crowd says.

Stepping Out, part 2 (The Seder)

For the first time ever, I’m going to a restaurant for Passover. The group with whom I usually celebrate the holiday are away, and though I could’ve orphaned myself out, I decided to try something new. I heard about a wonderful eatery in Los Angeles that does a special Passover meal, and thought this could be a fun adventure. I’ll be sitting at the bar with a friend. I’m giddy about it. Menu below:

Passover Seder 5774

Matzo Ball Soup, lemongrass broth, spring vegetables
Asparagus and Spring Radish Salad with hard cooked egg

Main Course, Choice of:

Jar’s Signature Pot Roast carrot, caramelized onions, fingerling potatoes
Sautéed Alaskan Halibut fava, scallion, horseradish mashed potatoes

Dessert Course:

Assorted Macaroons,
Chocolate Eminence and Lemon Cheese Cake

Photo by Ghislain Amar

Breathless End of Week Zen

Check out more stunning photos here. Happy weekend!

Storytelling

Last night, I visited with a large extended family who had just lost their beloved 98 year-old relative. It was a poignant gathering of people telling stories about an amazing woman. For a moment I wondered, who will tell my story? And then I went home and had a martini.

Artwork by Anatol Knotek

It’s the Season to Crack Some Eggs

I’ve decided to go out on a limb for Passover this year by attempting the French Macaron. In preparation, I’ve read blogs, watched videos and got so wound up about it, that I did a test run. The initial batch was okay, but not noteworthy. My pastry bag technique could use some work, and I overwhipped the whites. Even as an experienced baker, this is a hard one. Any French Macaron veterans out there?

Photo by Selah Time