Thank you both for this. A nice change from my friends' emails saying my essay was rationalizations in support of my ego. Here’s a quote from a Buddhist monk which I like: If I offer you a freshly picked tangerine to enjoy,...

be staying in Madison or Milwaukee – there are tons of hiking/natural areas near both of these (Audobon near Milwaukee, Kettle Moraine near Madison, just to name 2), scores of restaurants in both places, and a few...

of the latter, Kettle Valley and Alderlea from right on Vancouver Island. To a lesser extent and with a tad more residual sugar, Gehringer Bros. [may now be renamed], Lang and Gray Monk. In Ontario my personal favourite white is...

Wyeast & WhiteLabs are both excellent. If you want to read more in-depth about the style, get a copy of "Brew Like a Monk" - an interesting tour of the Trappist Breweries which delves into the recipe formulations & methods. Good...

Totally agree about with the popcorn. I go through phases where it’s all I want. My favorite (strange) seasoning mix is basically medium-sweet kettle corn with black pepper and cumin added. It sounds twisted, but man, what...

by various people through magic-marker signs posted along U.S. 41, and can also be found in souvenir shops. But the best place to get it is the Jam Pot, a monastery on M-26 in Eagle River. The monks, who are members of an unusual...

$5, with a garlicky, vinegary, turmeric spice “sauce.” if splurging, reddi-chick in brentwood/sm or honey’s kettle in culver city with a 2-for-1 coupon from the l.a.times. yes, i’m leaving out california...

But I thought I had the patience of a monk! Seriously, your tips are great , and I will try to cool my jets. I wish I had photos of some of the more hilarious attempts I’ve made.