Thanks to Palidor!!!!

Once again, the thoughtfulness and generosity of my blogging community humbles me.

Today, I received a wonderful box from Palidor, author of Crazy Asian Gal. The box was bursting full of 13 different spices, including star anise, whole cardamom, and Palidor's dad's curry powder. Many are spices I cannot get where I am or are so exotic I couldn't afford them at all. Some, like the macha powder, I'd never heard of! Also in the box were some gourmet hot chocolate mixes and some Halloween candies. My office smells wonderful!

Palidor, thank you so much! I am very much looking forward to using these spices in different ways, and learning how to cook with them. The oncoming winter requires lots of hot chocolate, so those are going to be very nice when the cold weather hits.

You are so very kind, and I can't tell you how much I appreciate this gift!

Shout Out!

One of my bestest and oldest blogging friends, and friend in real life, even though we've never met, is Captain Karen of Voyages of the HMS Swiftsure. I cannot say enough about Karen's wit and honesty, and now she has a food blog!

Karen's food site is Cooking with the Captain, and it chronicles her adventures in the kitchen. Karen is trying to increase her repertoire and also decrease her dependence on take-out food in an effort to make healthier choices and save a bit of money.

Please go and say hi! She'd love visitors and feedback!