Endings

For music, try the the famous French Baroque composer Rameau's [1683-1764] works, starting with his “Pièces de Clavecin Suite in E Minor: I. Allemande: I" [1706], the first of a set of works, on the harpsichord.

For food, at the mid-point where we near the end of summer, I yearn for autumn. Suddenly summer is too much. It's a natural mental switch that allows you to look forward to the coming season, I think. I finally realized to just flow with it. Accept change, look forward to it. Make gâteau Tournusien, from Tournus of Saône-et-Loire in the mid-East of France. It is often made with meringue, almonds, vanilla buttercream and nougat inside.

Then make the ultimate frosty treat: Dominosteine. In Europe [Germany/Austria] it is a reminder of Christmas and holiday time. One great recipe has it made of Lebkuchen [gingerbread], marzipan and -- here is incredible PetitFourBoutique variation on the recipe.

Of course, a must read is Grace & Poise. Just a lovely place to read and enjoy. It's so often something you can imagine thinking yourself, brilliant in its concise wisdom.