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The Weekly Get Together (Istekbal)

Have you ever heard of forced party?. As I get more and more busy with my business and daughter’s activities, I lament the days gone by when my mom had her Istekbal.  Growing up in Syria, I used to tease my mom about her Istekbal. She use to tell me that was a way for her and [...]

Home Cooking is The Way to Fight Childhood Obesity

There is now widspread agreement that obesity is an epidemic, especially among young people.  That is the tradegy.  Obesity at a young age is a struggle that you never outgrow it.  Of course, along with obesity comes those most deadly adult afflictions-heart disease and diabetes not to mention low self esteem that you have to [...]

Cooling off Period for New Years’ Resolution

I think we should be treated much like gun buyers, who are required to wait a period of time while our credentials are being checked before we can buy a gun.  I wonder if a two week cooling off period shouldn’t be required for those of us who want to jump right in and act [...]

I am not crazy, just covering all bases

Several members of my restaurant staff are from Mexico. I learned from them a novel way of celebrating the New Year. As the New Year approached and we were busy preparing for our lunch rush, I noticed my staff exchanging bags and handfuls of lentils. I had to ask what it was all about. I [...]

Christmas Tradition 2

In Eastern Orthodox faith, Christmas is celebrated two weeks later than in most other Christian faiths. And, of course, although Muslims in the Levant do not celebrate this holiday, they participate in the Santa Claus tradition so their children do not fee left out.  In fact, in Damascus, each neighborhood hires someone to play Santa [...]

Christmas Traditions and Gluten Free Desserts From Around The World

Everyday until Christmas, I will post a Christmas tradition from around the world and recipe for a gluten free dessert.
In France, the Christmas tree is put up and decorated on the morning of December 24th, and the day ends with an elaborate dinner.  In Damascus, the same is done, most likely reflecting the fact that [...]

More Make Ahead Appetizers for Your Parties

As you know by now, I love parties and I love to be part of the fun. When I plan my dinners whether for 4 or for 40, I make sure that most of my foods can be prepared ahead of time to be baked, warmed or served as is on the day of the party. I try [...]