January is a time of many resolutions, many among them culinary. Regardless of your skill level at the stove, it never hurts to go back to basics and focus on rudimentary recipes that are the building blocks for so many other dishes. These aren't too complicated or expensive, and once you master them, we reassure you that you'll use them over and over again. Here are 10 fundamental dishes that Read more

You know us; we're always trying to keep it farm fresh around here. Besides apples and pears, squash is one of my favorites when it comes to cool weather produce. With squash it's all about variety — there are more than a few to choose from, and they are really versatile when it comes to preparation. They also taste great — sweet, creamy, and hearty with a big side of nutrition. Squash is an Read more

Potatoes are a starch available year-round, but with rutabagas, turnips, parsnips, and yams taking root, there's no better time than now to enjoy the good old spud as well. How should you use them? Well, if you had more than enough mashed potatoes over Thanksgiving, try eating potatoes a different way. Here are a bunch of our favorite ideas. Read more

Before Fall's gone entirely, don't forget to enjoy the best of the moment's fruit and vegetable bounty. Here are five affordable, versatile favorites to seize before the season's over and some of our recommended ways to cook with them. Read more

You don't have to worry about a shortage of pumpkin puree, but you will likely encounter the dilemma of what to do with a half-used container of solid pack pumpkin. Sure — you could make the traditional pumpkin pie, but why not think outside the box can? Here are 10 wonderful ways to use pumpkin. Read more

There are countless things to be grateful for in 2011, but let's face it: the best way to be thankful on turkey day is to kick back, bond, and have a drink (or three) with loved ones. To take Thanksgiving entertaining to the next level, match your courses with deserving wines and start off with cocktail hour. Don't forget to refill your ice trays, because we've got 10 tipples that are guaranteed Read more

Today, our sunny, extended Indian Summer weather in the Bay Area has turned to chillier, gray skies. For me, this always signals the need to wrap up in soft throw blankets and light a fire in the hearth. This week, I'm inspired by images of cozy homes that emanate warmth and charm. See what I'm loving this first week of November. Read more

Even though you're staying warm in bulky, oversized sweaters and bikinis are pushed to the back of the closet, you shouldn't skimp out on core strengthening exercises. That's right — now's the perfect time to get a sweater-ready six-pack with these five tummy toning moves. Besides helping you attain fantastic abs, these exercises will help with strength, balance, and posture. Read more

Saying goodbye to the sweet treats of Halloween may be hard, but we're making a mental move into Thanksgiving, the Fall harvest, and the holiday spirit. There's plenty we're obsessed with (and grateful for!) this November, from family-oriented books to a sweet pie revival. Click through to see what picks we're craving at the onset of the holiday season. Read more

Fall table settings and elegant lake views top the list of my favorite outdoor spaces this week. See what else is inspiring me, and then get outdoors and create something beautiful at your own home! Read more