With the , it’s time to enjoy a new season of fresh foods. If you are looking for a short escape, try a retreat into the kitchen to learn some new techniques and enjoy new foods.
Visit the , keeping an eye out for in-season, unusual, or new-to-you foods. You might find that you really like grass-fed local-grown beef or celeriac, a funny-looking vegetable similar to celery. Talk to the vendors to see what they recommend and how they like to cook it.
For ideas on cooking with your new ingredients, try Alice Waters’ book The Art of Simple Food. Much more than a simple cookbook, this book provides many lessons about cooking with fresh ingredients. It begins with simple instructions for salad dressings and oils and works its way into bread and pizza dough, soups and pastas, and eggs and fruits. The book’s glory, however, is its vegetable section, which highlights each in their season with helpful instructions and tempting recipes.
So pick up some beautiful local food, pour yourself a glass of wine, and enjoy a personal cooking lesson from Alice Waters. It might just be the most tasty night off you’ll ever savor.
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If you find a babysitter or caretaker that you appreciate, ask them if they would be willing to put on retainer. A simple monthly payment can ensure that you have a weekly, bi-monthly, or monthly guaranteed date (or mom’s) night. Your sitter also has the advantage of guaranteed employment and a chance to continue a relationship with the children in their care.