Happy New Year

Rain has replaced snow for the time being. I am hoping the new year will bring more of the white stuff. Cold rain is not my cup of tea.

On the last day of the year we are staying home (well, interrupted by a quick trip to buy a new DVD player this morning...why do those things always die at the most inopportune times?). We will ring out the end of the decade with pizza, movies, games, cheesy German shows and, of course, some bubbly.

Wishing all a healthy and happy new year!

Season's Greetings

We are busy prepping for our traditional Christmas Eve Mexican feast. Cilantro, avocados, and tamales will be dancing in our heads as we sleep tonight.

And wherever you may find yourself this year, I wish you a Merry Christmas!

In the spotlight

Buying meat
Markthalle, Stuttgart, December 2009

My favorite place in Stuttgart, hands down, is the Markthalle. The first time I walked into this year-round, indoor food market it took my breath away. Stalls, packed together, selling foods from around the world. The colors explode and the smells entice. On a busy day you will be sandwiched in like a sardine, jostling amongst the people to buy the treasures on your list. And yes, it's all worth it. The Markthalle is like Alice in Wonderland for foodies.

But the Markthalle is not without it's competition. Stuttgart has it's share of places that vie for my affections. Some were even featured in the December 2009 issue of Bon Appetit magazine. If you haven't seen it, click here.

Hot coffee and candy canes

If you're lucky you can find a candy cane...before they all disappear.

The snow is blowing outside. Beautiful, perfect flakes...as if they were each made be hand. A crisp -2°C (28°F), perfect weather to be an indoor spectator and sit with a cup of coffee.

The hectic season

Apple-Cranberry pie

Over a month since the last post. It was a month filled with good things like a visit from my mom (we're trouble when we're together) and lots of yummy food (how great is Thanksgiving).

And now, here I sit addressing Christmas cards, wrapping gifts and preparing for the next round of holiday madness. I could make a promise to post more, but knowing how things pop up this time of year, I won't. Instead I will say that I'm going to try to be better about it...really.