Well, to put it bluntly, cookies are in the oven. Beautiful, chocolate chip cookies. (ok, not so beautiful, I’m still getting used to this oven)

But that’s not really what I’m talking about. I don’t know if I’ve mentioned it on here, but cooking has become my escape. I don’t take as many pictures as I used to, but I cook more now than ever. I love trying new recipes and doing a little improvisation along the way. Alesia and I attempt to eat mostly home-cooked meals, and it makes me feel much better about my place in the world. There definitely is something magical about starting with raw ingredients and ending up with a wonderful, delectable dish.

So as my term as a graduate student is about to start, I find myself on the brink of being insanely busy most of the time. Of course when I’m busy the first thing I begin to sacrifice is my cooking. I make quicker meals, and if I’m too busy, I give up altogether and grab something to eat at a restaurant. However, I found something today that has made me re-think my habits. If you have time, I highly suggest reading this article: Michael Pollen: Out of the Kitchen, Onto the Couch. I always find anything that Michael Pollan writes to be extremely inspirational and motivational. In this article he discusses the recent trend in the increasing popularity of food programs (specifically Food Network programs such as Iron Chef America), while the actual amount of cooking in a given household is decreasing. He compares the octane- and adrenaline-fueled Food Network programs to the goddess of cooking, Julia Child. He points out the difference between the two: a subtle shift from the art of cooking to the art of eating. Everyone loves to see food, but how many people are willing to work for it? Personally, I find great joy in the process, the “alchemy” as Pollan puts it.

So as my career as a graduate student draws near, I’m also planning meals. I refuse to let my professional life spill over into my personal enjoyment of cooking and eating well. Yes, I realize I will have to make some rearrangements, but I know it can be done. So, maybe you all can look forward to an active blog, focused on cooking, life as a graduate student, and more!

Miami, I’m here and I’m ready to make the most of it!

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