Food

Is it camping if there’s a microwave?

As local forecasters were predicting a coastal heat wave, I made a foray into the Central Valley, where it was really hot. Thank heaven for the perfect climate to bring crops there into fruition! And thank the Lord for field workers willing and able to work in the heat to bring the crops into your favorite local and farmers markets.

It must be getting closer to the summer solstice (June 21), because more folks are sporting their shades — wearing sunglasses, that is. I know, because some have left them behind on the counter at the post office and, more alarming, are leaving their keys there, too.

Keep up the good work - we've received another recipe contribution, making this column a true "readers exchange," a goal we established seven years ago!

We have returned from a memorable experience of seven days in Lourdes, France, with the Catholic Order of Malta, which I found too spiritually profound to relate in this column. However, when we rode through the nearby valley up to the village of Sainte Savin, I was reminded of our upcoming Memorial Day observances by the vision of crimson red poppies studding the emerald ranges, reminiscent of Flanders Fields in World War I.

Traditions meet up with trends when it comes to Nick Ranch Gourmet Grass-Fed Beef. The certified organic steaks, roasts, briskets, ground beef and sausages from this label come from a picturesque ranch in the Pozo hills that has been home to the Nick family for six generations.

When my granddaughters first caught sight of the pre-lit evergreen in the living room, they paraphrased Goldilocks, saying "Why Grandmother, what a big Christmas tree you've got!" Even though it was but two days until Easter, it took some explaining that the decorations actually reflected the Vernal Equinox, Valentine's Day, Chinese New Year, and holidays yet to come.

Judge's verdict: Chile con carne pros' pros and cons