I believe there is immense value in supporting homegrown talent. People with extraordinary gifts are the driving force behind an area’s culture, heritage, and future direction. That is why Louisiana Cookin’s annual Chefs to Watch is such special event! Chefs to Watch is a way to acknowledge the up-and-coming chefs in the Bayou State. And since 2002, we have seen …
Dealing with challenges in life is never what we dream of spending our energy on. I find myself thinking, “Really—another obstacle?” I would rather be doing something fun! Challenges often mean something consistent in our lives is in one way or another changing. And with every shift in our normal comes a new decision to make. Now, I much prefer …
It’s official—we need a good laugh today. I have to share with you the concert experience I had last year. Dear friends of ours had invited us to go to hear a wonderful artist in concert. The night came, and we were dressed up and in our places all ready for the concert to begin. Right in front of me …
I have blogged about monograms for a long time. I think with our Classic Sewing magazine and the machine embroidery monograms that we offer, beautiful monogram designs naturally catch my eye. Sunday before church started, this couple came in and introduced themselves, revealing that both of their first names started with Rs as well as their last name. Without thinking …
I have been to France twice in my life, and each time, I fell in love with so many things in this dreamlike country. When Cindy Cooper told me she was editing her book on French Country style, my heart rejoiced! For those of you who know me, you know I adore all things colonial and British (insert my affection …
I have pondered this so many times this past week. Am I an encourager? We meet people all the time that cross our paths, and some are a permanent part of our daily life. Just as our lives change, so do the lives of others. I have noted that there are people that make us feel so loved and valued …
As August winds down, our wonderful fresh veggies and stone fruits are gradually going away here in the South. Oh, how we will miss them! As harvest season approaches for apples, pears, and pecans, I am already planning my fall recipes. My grandparents were farmers, and every fall we prepared ourselves for the “picking up” pecan season. I always thought …
The other evening, Neal and I were sharing the story of his banana sandwich with our friends. Now on the surface, a banana sandwich is a simple thing. Bread, mayo or peanut butter, banana—done! NOT at our house. First, let’s talk about the sandwich itself. I am assuming a banana sandwich is a national favorite. At least it is here …
So many of you send me the most wonderful notes about issues you have enjoyed, and I truly love them and do read each one! Many of you ask the same questions, which have led to this blog post: What all do you publish at Hoffman Media? How many magazines do you have? Those are two fantastic questions, and I …
Taking afternoon tea simply never goes out of style. There is just something extra special about celebrating a moment with a tradition that has stood the true test of time. Yes, the custom originated in Europe, but this drink has ties around the world. And that is exactly what our new book Tea Parties Around the World by the editors …
