My husband and I are home now, having returned from two weeks in Florida. We had a great time of business/pleasure. We really enjoyed the beach this time and, of course, the great seafood. So fresh.

The rest energized us, recharged our batteries.

Today I am so happy to be back in my home though–the fireplace warming the living room, music flooding the house with joy, and comfort food steaming on the stove.

Wayne requested homemade bran muffins. I also made a pot of tortilla soup for the week as well, using the wonderful spices that I brought back from Israel. Amazing aromas are filling the air, cumin, cayenne, garlic, turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg–lovely. (I should have been a chef!)

I will make ahead a special beverage made with lemons–for Shabbat guests–since it needs to steep for five to seven days. And I will roast the eggplant for the babaganoush, a Middle Eastern favorite–for Shabbat as well., trying to get a few things done early.

It’s cold outside, but it is so warm in here. And I am, well, so happy today.