Food and Cooking

One of the most glorious things about upstate NY is the plethora of lilac shrubs. Riding one’s bike through any neighborhood, one's senses are bound to be seduced by the splendiferous perfume of lilacs in bloom. But did you know that lilacs are not only deliciously fragrant, but also edible? AND has health benefits?

Whew! This extended sort-of-winter--but it's-really-been-spring-for-a-few-months-now--weather is draining, yes? What is this feeling we only seem to feel when it seems like it has been winter forever? It's called SAD and studies show you can eat these foods to feel better.

"Water pie is a sweet pie made with just six ingredients: water, flour, sugar, vanilla extract, butter, and a pie crust. Like other recipes that originated during the Great Depression, water pie stretches a handful of ingredients by turning them into something substantial."

I suppose I could grow a small container garden on our apartment balcony. I suppose one tomato plant is better than none. And maybe I will. Or maybe, I'll have time (I don't) to take my Townsquare co-workers up on their offer to start an office garden. Who knows. My point is, the title of this post is "5 Things I'm Planting in my Imaginary Garden". And right now I don't have an actual garden so, we'll stay with the theme. I've added pictures from my actual gardens past, just because.

Husband, Teenager, baby kitty and I have been living in Utica for about ten months now. And yet, I've discovered there are a few things I miss from living in the Philly Metro area. I put together a list of 10. This is part 2. :)

There's so many great dining options that sometimes, we find it's hard to choose. Hopefully if you're visiting Rome and are looking for dining options, this helps.

Who doesn't like free - am I right?

Maybe it's the fact that ooey, gooey cheese is always covering the top. Maybe it's the bread pieces that soak up the delicious broth. French Onion soup is the bomb dot com.

If you go anywhere outside of Central New York and mention "Riggies" - people are bound to look at you like you have seven heads. It's a staple for us!

What is your go-to fast-food restaurant? Everybody has one. Lately the tides have turned on the most popular one, at least in New York State.

After months and months of speculation, it's finally been determined what's moving in to the Orchard Shopping Center in New Hartford, New York.

They took to their Facebook page to share the big news with their customers.