Cupcakes are everywhere. Whole TV shows are devoted to them and my two kids can’t get enough of the little confections. Personally, I think it’s time to show the lowly muffin the respect it deserves.

I was driving to Chicago a few weeks ago with my friend, John and my son, Max. We wanted to buy a gift for friends we were going to visit, so we stopped at a "kitschy" little apple orchard and bought a pre-made pie.

When planning my weekly meals, a quick glance at the calendar revealed that the logistics of Thursday’s dinner would be a challenge. My husband and I were both scheduled to work until 6:00, our girls each had soccer practice and there was a bonus school meeting thrown in there, too. No time to spare!

Growing up, my mom took my three siblings and me to the apple orchard each fall. It was a special thing to look forward to after the school day, and made for its own September adventure. I can still picture all of us – lined up in our red plaid school uniforms, studying the vintage apple-picking machinery displayed in the building. The smell of apple pies hung in the air.

Potluck season is finally here! In fact we have planned a potluck for this weekend. I always have a question about what to bring. I thought this time I would make a quick, easy side dish, Southwestern Macaroni & Cheese, that everyone could enjoy!

School is here again, with its millions of meetings—sports orientations, curriculum overviews, parent get-to-know-you events, and class meetings. These meetings generally happen at 6 or 6:30, so things get rushed if I want to serve dinner and have time to clean up before heading out.

About a month ago, I married my best friend. It was no doubt the best day of my life, and I couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful ceremony and reception. But now it’s back to the grind. While we are still in our "honeymoon" stage, we still face the same issues most couples do- including figuring out what to have for dinner every night.

One of my favorite childhood memories was eating cinnamon and sugar toast. My mom would mix the butter in a small bowl to soften it, and then add a sprinkling of cinnamon and sugar.

Our oldest child is headed off to his second year of college this month. He and several buddies are sharing a house which means most meals are eaten at home rather than in the college cafeteria. Over this past summer, that meant at least one 19-year old guy, my son Tony, needed to learn how to set up a kitchen and gain a few skills.