• Spring bouquet on an Easter table set with blue glasses and a floral tablecloth
    Living

    The Beauty of Putting Things Away

    On Easter Monday, after flowing conversations and plenty of overflowing plates, I set about the task of putting things away – my favorite blue faceted glasses, drink pitchers, serving plates, and other pieces. It struck me just how much I love the day after a celebration when I have time to feel the spirit of the gathering again. I’ll recall witty comments, sweet little moments, and the love poured into each other as we enjoyed so many delicious dishes. There is a joy in putting things away. When I host holidays, so much care goes into each choice. From the menu to the flowers, I love offering the foundation for…

  • hand holding a yellow tomato in a field of yellow flowers
    Food,  Living

    Feeding the Soul | The Link Between Cooking and Mindfulness

    As a child I was fascinated by the beautiful hands of the women in my family as they kneaded dough, arranged chicken in a vegetable-laden stock pot, and offered plates of their latest delicious experiment. Once I began cooking, I realized the immense pleasure to be found in sinking into each moment in the kitchen. Far from focusing on the final dishes, I have always enjoyed the transformation of ingredients each step of the way. Often I’ll light a few tapers while I cook, a pre-event to the meal I’m about to serve. Now being a teacher of meditation and cooking, the link between these two areas is a realm…