Hi Reader, To everyone who has served, supported someone who served, or lost someone in service: thank you, from the bottom of my heart. Happy Veterans Day. To honor two of my favorite veterans, my grandpa (Papa), who taught me how to cook, and my father-in-law, who loved to eat my food, I thought I’d share a few of their favorites, along with some of the memories of them I hold near and dear. Inspired by My Papa The Internet’s favorite baked beans. My Papa’s old-fashioned recipe will make...

Hi Reader, My Thanksgiving checklist keeps the big picture in order. But what actually makes the day feel easy is sneaking little pieces of it into the cooking I’m already doing in November. My family has four make-ahead dishes that have to be on the table. Here’s exactly how each one gets done a bit at a time. Instant Pot Applesauce (My daughter’s MUST-make): One night while I’m prepping dinner, I throw chopped, unpeeled apples in the Instant Pot with a bit of cider or juice and let them...

Hi Reader Halloween is this weekend, and between costumes, trick-or-treating, and the inevitable candy overload, I like to keep meals pretty simple. One of our favorite traditions is to make a big pot of chili before heading out to trick-or-treat. It's hearty, easy to make ahead, and can stay warm until everyone is ready to eat. Plus, I figure a good meal before all that candy isn't a bad idea. 😉 And while chili is always on our Halloween menu, I have a few other easy recipes and fun treats...