Safran

Way too small... Put that one on the "get when it's on sale" list because it can be handy for some things.

Yes, Marlene, 5 qts is an excellent choice - roomy enough for pot roast, coq au vin, carbonnade de boeuf, and many of the Molly Stevens recipes, yet not so big that you won't be able to lift it. I can't lift one of my larger ones once it's filled. That's unsafe. Did you say round or oval? Oups, you did say oval. Good choice!

Marlene, snowangel's right. Get the book, you'll be delighted.

Happy to hear that you and your kitchen are connecting! Looking forward to seeing pics. Regarding Tupperware, had you thought of nice sturdy wicker baskets to house them. You could then have a system where the baskets are tucked by the ceiling of your pantry and could be brought down by a simple pulley system, like one of those bamboo shades. That way, your Tupperware is devided by group: freezer, fridge and lunch but hidden in these funky baskets. Just a thought. Tupperware is something we all need yet it's so frustrating to try to store the stuff. Maybe Fifi or andie have thoughts on the subject. Good luck!

babyluck, what's happening with the kitchen??

I really really like the house and the setting. Hopefully, the new house next door won't block too much light. As for your present kitchen....wow....I am tolerant of most spaces and can make do, but yours is beyond what anyone could work in. Good luck with the renos, plastic off any room that isn't part of the work, stuff rags under doors etc to stop dust from finding its way in the bedrooms. This will be a treat...even just seeing this kitchen disappear will be worth it!

Yikes!!!!!! Perhaps it's time to find a new "potluck circle"!!!

Another one for All About Braising by Molly Stevens.

What a sweetie that cousin is! Nothing like a nice gift for the kitchen to make one happy. Enjoy!!!

Don't have one, don't want one.

At this time of the year the outdoor fridge has become the outdoor freezer here in Ottawa. I've rigged a high shelf in the unheated garage to cool stocks etc. and to freeze whatever doesn't "fit" in our small freezer chest. We also have little furry friends that like to sample and partake....this way, everything is safely stored.

Glad you got yourself a new LC! At that price, it was indeed an excellent deal!! And isn't All About Braising an excellent book!! Have fun, and let us know which recipe you plan to make in your new LC.

Looks good Marlene!

Am looking forward to those pictures, Marlene. I've never done pork stock so this is another cooking class for me!

Barilla

1. yes 2. Mostly Martha, but also most food scenes in a film...

Good morning from Canada, Andy. I've been eyeing that mug too! Looking forward to your blog!!

Hum, alu wiring is never good news... new granite countertops?????? Oh I'm soooo envious! What made you choose granite? And this room that you framed, what will it become?? And I do hope the Kilz works!!

Yes, those basting spikes DO work well!

Also, at a flooring store, you might have better chance of getting an end of roll at a good price, if your area isn't too big. Is it a big surface, and have you thought about colors?

snowangel, what kind of floor have you decided to put in??

Andie, I really like your stocking stuffers!! But indeed, that OverBoiler Clip seems perfect...I'll be hunting for a few today! (one for me, and the others for friends, of course) Thanks for the tip!

Oh bovie, you will Home Baking! And thanks for the tip about hamiltonbooks.com!

Marlene, it's time to add another relationship to your circle....you need a butcher who will order you anything your heart desires. Yes, a Girl needs diamonds, but she also needs a butcher. How do you find one? Yellow pages and footwork...you have to interview them, basically, and once you've picked a butcher shop, always work with the same person. He'll get to know you, and will be better able to meet your needs... Also, once you've found this gem, take good care of him.... pamper him, bring him coffee those wild mornings before Thanksgiving or Christmas when you go pick up the turkey you ordered from him...

I made the Raspberry-laced chocolate cake....excellent, elegant and easy! When serving, add a tablespoon of whipped cream, and bit of raspberry coulis... Yes, they'll be asking for seconds...