It’s been a while…. I have not blogged into the Universe lately. The current level of negativity, pessimism, meanness and anger is a little bit too much to navigate! So, what do I do? As always, I RETURN TO FOOD!!!

I watch baking shows pretty much daily, as my current entertainment and past time. Watching talented folks create wonderful, amazing treats, warms my heart and soul. I love to observe the artistry, skill and technique that goes into great baking! The finished product is so often a genuine work of art.

I have had several culinary experiences recently that have renewed my delight in eating ethnic foods in NYC.

I have found that it is not only the different cuisines and tastes that excite me, it is the INTERACTION AND ENGAGING with FOLKS OF DIFFERENT CULTURES. SO MUCH IS TO BE LEARNED ABOUT THE WORLD.New York City continues to be and will always be THE CULINARY MELTING POT OF THE WORLD!

I have had the good fortune and blessing of living the majority of my life in this incredible City. I have seen neighborhoods come and go. Just yesterday, I walked through St. Mark’s Place in Manhattan (also known as 8th st).

I grew up not far from there. I walked these blocks often as a teenager, when this block was a completely different hood and vibe. It was what I called “hippy land” for many, many years. Yesterday, was probably the 3th or 4th transition that I have . The block was filled with several different Asian restaurants;c instead of the Sock Man, and the many drug paraphernalia stores. Kind of mind blowing to. me…..

My husband and I decided that this current transition is a good one; as the Chinese soup dumplings were outstanding!