CatherineJop's Profile

Love my Globals: Japanese and German hybrid seems like a good blend for the elevated home chef.

Another helpful tip: keeping a container (bin, box, bag) permanently in the closet for reject clothes. Though regular (seasonal assessment) is still a must, I find that it's easier to get rid of clothes as I go. That is, when I'm getting dressed, sometimes pick up an item, try it on (or not), and decide against wearing it if it doesn't fit, looks worn, out of style, etc.

Sometimes I tend to rationalize keeping something when I'm going through my closet to discard en masse. Being able to designate it as "removed" when I'm in the midst of my negative feelings towards that ill-fitting stained blouse is much easier. Plus, it doesn't really take any extra time.

As for small space solutions, my small townhouse has teeny tiny rooms and nearly non-existent closets. I had to decide whether to make the 2nd bedroom an office, guest room, or closet. Ultimately I went with closet-- I keep a makeup vainity in there as well, plus all my jewelry. It's easier to keep tidy when I'm not making space compromises with everything (plus keeps my makeup out of the humidity of the bathroom). Also, keeps my bedroom extremely peaceful.

I received a cookbook as a gift entitled "Chef in My Backpack" by Nicole Bassett. Though the book is designed for eating on the trail in more of a camping scenario, I've found it helpful for cabin cooking. The book describes how to partially pre-cook and pack your meal, and then finish preparing and assemble at the camp site. Nothing really groundbreaking here, but the recipes are simple, delicious, and can be made with minimal equipment. Easy to multiply for a bigger group, too.

I review the book and make a recipe here:http://cjopling.blogspot.com/search?q=camp#!/2011/09/1515-project-week-seven-zucchini-and.html

Cbus represent! Love your kitchen... especially the fun baker's rack. Great job on your floorplan pic, too!