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I launched this blog in 2008. My mini-me.
Cooking with Kian: The only Chinese cookbook you’ll ever need
January 15, 2016
Just in time for Feb. 8th’s Lunar New Year! A new Chinese cookbook has me serving up elegant dishes that are shockingly simple to make. What an emotional bonus. Finally, […]
Indian cooking spices up mother-daughter bonding
December 30, 2015
When my daughter and I take cooking classes together, the power struggle and bickering stops. Our generational divide closes as we surrender to the instructor and the magic of food. […]
Planting my 1st vegetable garden, thinking of Dad
November 3, 2015
Once upon a time, gorgeous yellow lillies bloomed in my front yard. Then, I ripped them out to grow veggies instead. The urge to try farming in some small way […]
The price of freedom: My $9k dream vacation
June 22, 2015
Running away from home for a 10-day painting vacation in France came with a price — $9,079.80, to be exact. But it’s what I wanted to do. I had a […]
Honfleur offers 12th century charm & more
June 10, 2015
Just arrived in Honfleur! It’s easy to see why the Impressionist painters loved it here. Between the ancient architecture and gorgeous light, I’m inspired too. This seaside town is located […]
5 reasons to love the Hastings-on-Hudson farmers market
May 23, 2015
It’s that time again here in my hometown! The farmers market is setting up for the summer at its outdoor location overlooking the Hudson River. There’s something special about buying […]
Chuang Yen Monastery — a giant Buddha in the Hudson Valley
May 6, 2015
With the older folks in my family dying off, I’m going to a lot of funerals. They’ve become affectionate occasions to catch up with relatives. The latest gathering surprised me […]