Re-post: Elusive, part 2

When you last left me, I was standing outside a bakery. The lights were off and inside, I could see a girl wiping the counters. It was all I could do not to grab the door, shake it, and wail... "But I WANT A BIRTHDAY CAKE!" I went home and dejectedly ate a cookie instead. Stupid universe. How long does the whole birthday thing last? If you finally get your cake 2 days AFTER your birthday and you buy it yourself, does it count? Or...

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Re-post: Elusive

My birthday is tomorrow. It will be the first birthday I've ever spent without my husband since I turned 21, and the sixth without Anne. This story always makes me smile because sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you just can't seem to get yourself a birthday cake. My 39th birthday proved to be one of those. I'm not sure what it is about birthday cake. Whether it's the candles, the delicious treat, or the fact that it acknowledges a birthday, I don't know, but I love everything about them. Whatever it is, cake is...

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Update

On January 25, 2018 our beloved John passed away from complications caused by a virus. It was absolutely unexpected, sudden, and left our family reeling. I have gone from learning how to be an empty nester to now, being a widow. It's a very strange place to be. I was with John my entire adult life and married to him for 24 years (our 25th wedding anniversary was this summer). Learning how to cook for one is... very different.Food was/is love in this house. From his favourite cookies to chicken stews and apple crumble, almost...

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Goodbye, For Now

Over the past week, my family has been struggling with some news and it is with a heavy heart that I'm going to close down Chasing Tomatoes indefinitely. I thought that maybe I could maintain this space but I realized today that I can't be tied to writing when my family needs me now more than ever. You will still find me on Instagram, Twitter, and my personal Facebook pages. Thank you so much for all your support, love, and opportunity over the years. I've learned so much and had so many great experiences that I'll never forget. Much...

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Wheat free Fruit Crumble

Fruit crumbles are probably one of the easiest desserts you'll ever make, and a fantastic way to use up leftover fruit. What drew me to them initially was that I've never been a fan of pastry, so a traditional pie has never been my thing-not to mention that pastry making was kind of my nemesis for awhile as I learned and practiced how to make it. Years ago we used to go to a little restaurant that would have all kinds of crumble choices;...

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Honey Mustard Harissa Chicken Breasts

I love easy chicken recipes, especially ones that can be made ahead and set aside for later. These chicken breasts are fantastic re-warmed on a hot late summer night, sliced and tossed into a salad, or tucked into a bun for a sandwich. The best part is the topping uses only 3 ingredients, so you can make it when you don't have much else in the house.  I love to have a little extra honey mustard sauce on the side at the table for...

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Spiced Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cups

Last week I was missing in action, mostly the result of some nasty allergy experiences. When I have a bad one it usually sets me back for a few days or up to a week, and instead of playing catch up I decided to let things go. You were fine, right? Of course you were. Anyway, moving on! Being diagnosed as allergic to wheat, corn, soy, and rice really limited the snacks I could eat, and sometimes a girl just needs something, you know?...

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