New Blog Thoughts on Cooking, COVID, and Friendship

January 09, 2021.

I’m still looking for editing work, but now that the president has requested much more production of the COVID-19 vaccine, things seem to be opening up again and gradually returning to ‘normal.’ Last week, I called my doctor’s office. An automated message said vaccines were available and asked if I wanted to make an appointment – I got one the same day. My first vaccination was on St. Patty’s Day. I received the Pfizer, and aside from a bit of ‘site pain’ where the shot went in, I feel great!

Regarding my GillyCanCook website, I am really enjoying working on it. It’s great to finally have my photos and recipes all in one place. Maybe in a year or so, I’ll consider turning the best ones into a cookbook. Fortunately, I am becoming much more familiar with the nuances and techniques involved in building my website – I hope people subscribe and provide feedback. I’ve been posting a lot of new recipes lately. I think my next two will be: Apple Pie or maybe Lemon Meringue Pie, and a Creamy Tuscan Salmon.

Saturday, I met my buddy MG for a hike in Griffith Park, grabbed a nibble at the park restaurant kiosk, and did some catching up. We met on Fern Dell Street, walked to the Trails restaurant, ordered sandwiches, and ate at a picnic table under the shady walnut and mountain mahogany trees of Griffith Park. We both had a Caprese sandwich and lemonades – it was delightful: French bread, mozzarella, tomato, basil, a drizzle of olive oil, S&P. (The sandwichelier said there was a smear of vegan mayonnaise on the bread, but we couldn’t see it or taste it.) I think I would add a touch of aged balsamic for sweetness – but it was delicious. A sandwich should be epic – that’s not a comment on size (though it can be). It’s a comment on the flavor.

I would say my philosophy in the kitchen is that cooking should be straightforward, using the very best ingredients you can find/afford and getting into it. After all, it’s going to be delicious! Cooking doesn’t have to be scary or complicated. There are really just a few basic techniques for success, and everything revolves around those. My goal is to show you those basics in a simple manner that makes you think, ‘Sure, I can do that.’

That’s all for now. Remember, your feedback is welcomed and appreciated!

Chat soon,
Gilly 🍴

Remember, food is fun. So, let’s get cooking!