In the spring of 2012, I bought a camera. I was headed on a fancy vacation with very dramatic scenery, and thought this was as good an excuse as any to buy myself a grown-up camera. Cue the dramatic scenery! It really looks like I'm standing in front of a fake background, doesn't it? My only specifications were: Light in weight / as ... view more
tips
My Utensil Crock Oatmeal Station
It has been raining in Washington, D.C., since April 27. Not constantly, but a lot. Every day. News outlets report that it didn't rain on Thursday or something, but my hair begs to differ. It's been unpleasant, and cloudy, and foggy, and misty for as long as I can remember. After driving rain during the day Friday, we did have a little respite ... view more
Party Tips: Warm Cookies
What beats a plate full of cookies? A pan full of warm cookies, straight out of the oven, served to a crowd in a get-em-while-they're-hot fashion. When planning a recent party I threw in my apartment, I got a little lazy with the menu. I have been trying to focus on make-ahead items for parties, so I can spend the time immediately before ... view more
Party Tips: Meatballs + Manicures
Sometimes when I have people over for a get-together, I am a mess at "game time." As my first friends are arriving, I am generally not wearing makeup (or shoes), my sink is filled with dishes, and I'm lucky if I haven't thrown two armfuls of clothes in the bottom of my closet to hide them from sight. Something is simmering on the stove - three ... view more
How to: Roast Garlic
For the occasion when raw garlic is just a bit too edgy, try roasting it. Roasted garlic takes on a completely different flavor. It is sweet and rich, and great in dips like hummus in place of minced garlic, or spread directly on a steak. If you are having a small dinner party, place a few roasted heads of garlic around a warm baguette fresh out of ... view more
How to: Roast Peppers
While roasted peppers are easily found in stores and are great in a pinch, if you find fresh peppers at a decent price, it is more cost-effective and healthy to prepare them yourself. They will also taste fresher - and there is no substitute for that! Turn on the broiler in your oven and set a rack 4 to 5" below. Cut peppers in half lengthwise; ... view more