The last lecture Randy Pausch gave - “Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams” - was about the importance of overcoming obstacles, of enabling the dreams of others, of seizing every moment (because “time is all you have…and you may find one day that you have less than you think”).

Combined with her own self-journey and growing knowledge in this ever-changing field, my friend Leslie Dantchik M.S, has real answers about nutrition. The basis of Leslie’s philosophy is simple… Moderation NOT deprivation! Check out her blog where she busts popular diet myths and tells us the secret for lasting health.

Treat yourself to Betsy and Claude’s amazing cookies that are safe for sensitive tummies! reat yourself to Betsy and Claude’s amazing cookies that are safe for sensitive tummies! These tender and delicious cookies are gluten-free and safe for folks who suffer from celiac disease as well as people from other allergies.

Harold McGee writes about the chemistry of food and cooking, as is recognized by many food and science publications as one of the top experts. I love his informative and witty blog, but first discovered his writing from the award-winning book, ‘On Food and Cooking’. Harold left academia to share with us the ever-changing field of food chemistry, luckily for us!

“Finding Betty Crocker” gives us this astonishing inside look into the world of America’s favorite homemaker. Susan Marks guides us through the various faces and voices behind Betty Crocker’s iconic image, starting in the 1920’s and bringing us into the modern age where celebrity chefs and their cookbooks share the shelf with Betty.

Deceptively Delicious is filled with traditional recipes that kids love, except they’re stealthily packed with veggies so kids don’t even know! She also provides revealing and humorous personal anecdotes, tear–out shopping guides to help parents zoom through the supermarket, and tips on how to deal with the kid that “must have” the latest sugar bomb cereal.

This book by Harold McGee is a must-have for anyone who is interested in the science, history, and lore of food. Harold presents us with the ultimate reference book that is beautifully written and fun to read! Harold presents us with the ultimate reference book that is beautifully written and fun to read! He covers everything from the evolution of beer to how to on mixing a proper vinaigrette.

At first glance, it appears to be just a parody of a dated entertaining guide, however Amy actually provides us with real, tasty - albeit quirky - recipes from the 70’s that bring back plenty of memories for me. I watched Aunts, Uncles, and friends show up at family functions with plates of classic all-American wonders!

As a professional and home-cook, I have come to appreciate the following utensils and appliances - they make life in the kitchen so much more convenient, and help to save time.

Quality, not quantity should be your guide. A well-made set of 3-4 knives is plenty for a beginner or intermediate home cook. If you want to splurge, by all means check out Korin’s astounding knife collection.