Fun foods for any weather

This week is hodgepodge week, with recipes I’ve been given and served from friends, plus a new one that I’ve found on my own!This first recipe is for the most delicious soup that Tammy Hays made and brought over one day when I was feeling a little under the weather, and it really hit the spot!

Birthday burgers and cookie balls

Last week, I was happy to receive three new recipes from friends that I’ll share today. This first recipe comes from interior designer and friend, Dawn Hearn (a great cook!) who made it for her brother’s birthday. Instead of beef, these burgers use ground chicken and are delicious!

Wake up to a great breakfast

Last week and weekend, I got to spend in Austin with my grandsons Jack and Cole while Cate and Bill were traveling. Then I went to Dallas for a close friend’s daughter’s wedding. While there, I stayed with college roomie Rebecca and husband Ronny.

Cook's Corner: Grandkid’s favorites make for savory (and sweet) treats

Last week, I had fun taking care of grandsons Jack and Cole while Cate and Bill were on a trip, so today I’m sharing some of their favorite kinds of foods. Unlike many kids their age, they both really like vegetables and disdain bread, but of course still love chocolate!

Elevate your Easter feast with these side dishes

This Sunday is Easter, when traditionally here in the South, many gather for a big noon meal after Sunday worship services. This year, I am unable to host such a gathering, so we are going out for lunch.

Cook's Corner: A dip, two drinks and new noodle dish

This week I have two recipes, as promised, from the Mardi Gras dinner recently, plus two more that may seem familiar but are new to me at least!This dip is made of hot-smoked salmon (available at the grocery store) and is candied a bit to give it the most wonderful flavor.

Cook's Corner: Start your day right during the holidays

This week I’m going to share some ideas for breakfast or brunch, all of which can be made ahead and either refrigerated or frozen, making holiday mornings easier to pull together.

Cook's Corner: Thanksgiving leftovers present a world of possibilities

I know Thanksgiving day is Thursday, but I’m thinking ahead to after the dishes are done and the leftovers are refrigerated. What to do with them after you’ve had them reheated at least once?

Thanksgiving planning: Sometimes, what’s on the side is just as important

Today, it’s side dishes on the menu, ready for their supporting roles for the big meal in which turkey is the star! I have new recipes gathered from friends and family, along with a few of my all-time favorites.

Cook's Corner: Thanksgiving-friendly sweets to add to a holiday menu

This week and next, I’m going to share recipes I’ve collected from family and friends that have become favorites, as well as a few new ones that I tried and really liked this week. All are Thanksgiving-friendly if you’re looking for a different taste to add to your traditional holiday menu.