Michelle1968's Profile

Thank you for the lovely meditation.

That would make a great gift for my boyfriend, who doesn't like to read without high wattage directed right at the book!

I agree with TopTurtle. Grinding pepper should not require electricity, rare earth metal batteries, etc. Sheesh.

My sister-in-law is out of work, and I'm not exactly rich, so this year we decided just to buy presents for the kids young enough to still believe in Santa Claus. All the rest of us understand that material things are not what makes the season. We can still be together, make homemade gifts, cook, and enjoy each other.

Although I wish things weren't so hard for so many people, I'm actually glad that the economy is making people re-assess their values on this front. And charity donations are the best gifts to give those "people who have everything" on your list.

I generally follow the outline described above, but the best tip I've found was from Cook's Illustrated, for their French Style Pot Roast. Take a whole bottle of red wine (it's okay if it's cheap, really) and reduce it in a sauce pan down to 2 cups. Use this as your braising liquid, and it is so very, very good. Rich wine flavor without bitterness or too much acidity.

Earl Grey truffles - and many variations - have become a holiday staple of mine

Earl Grey

Lovely red color

good for wood floors

Lovely design