For most of my 30-year career as a professional (I use the term loosely) chef, it was a rare occasion for my wife, Lisa, and I to attend a social function together. Both of us worked in restaurants … more

“Tis the Season,” I murmur to myself as the aroma of smoke from woodfired charcoal graces my nostrils. I begin to imagine platters piled high with dry-rubbed pork ribs released from the … more

Last week, as some of the first truly warm days of the year finally seemed to be ushering in a real change of season, I put in my earbuds and took a stroll out my front door, heading west toward Lake … more

I feel like I read or saw an interview with Iggy Pop a few years ago wherein he discussed the fact that now that he lives in Miami, he begins his days just after sunrise with a 30-minute swim in the … more

The Norwegians have a word, friluftsliv, for the practice of embracing a life outdoors as a bulwark against the inevitable soul-crushing doldrums of a long, dark winter in a Northern climate. I … more

As with most things in my life, I just jumped in the first time. I knew myself well enough to understand that if I thought about it too much or just took it one step at a time that I would only be … more