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I've used knife safes (plastic covers that snap on and off). They keep fingers and knives safe from harm.

Bread, cheese, pizza (wait, that's bread and cheese!)

About 4 times a year I might have some diet pop, but it always tastes very chemical-y to me. Otherwise, I don't drink soda. I make my own with seltzer and fruit juice. Yum!

I don't eat meat anymore, so my favorite burger is made from rice, oats and veggies with lots of shallots crisped for the top. I've also made some pretty tasty falafel burgers topped with grilled eggplant and tahini that win every time.

Excellent piece. Glad to see the writing elevated here a bit.

While the food is really important, the conversation should be equally, if not more so. Find out what this person is really interested in, do a little research, then ask him questions about it over your finely prepared meal. If he doesn't have interest in what makes you tick, then he isn't worth the cloth napkins at the table.

Good luck!

I definitely make better guacamole than I've had anywhere else. I also think I've surpassed my mom in making matzo brei.

I second the whole wheat pastry flour suggestion. However, I don't agree that straight whole wheat in pastry is disastrous. The King Arthur Flour Whole Wheat Baking book has some really fantastic recipes with straight whole wheat and how to work with it to some excellent results.

Thanks for asking, Joyyy.

I've got two food blogs:

Altered Plates -- Focused on baking and cooking with agave nectar instead of other sweeteners. Recipes, how-to videos, product reviews, and book reviews.

Here and There -- This one has mutated from a food blog to one that also showcases garden photos, travel, and more. Also, if you know anyone who is a nurse or who is dealing with a stereotactic breast biopsy, I detailed my experience with the procedure (some nurses are now using it to help their patients know what to expect).

Wow. Seems like that's what I do most of the time -- draw from my pantry, freezer, and fridges for stuff to make. Having a Passover deja vu -- why is this night any different than any other night? ;D

Can't remember when I haven't brought my own food on flights. I usually bring my own veggie or vegan sandwiches, Larabars, carrots, and other snacks. I also always have some kind of bar or crackers in the car for the ride home because my husband usually sleeps and misses the meal. Keeps him from being cranky. ;D

Also votes for Veganomicon, Vegan with a Vengeance, anything by Dreena Burton, and Sundays at Moosewood. Also, you might consider the Angelika Kitchen cookbook. It's out of print, but you can buy it directly from the restaurant. Well worth the price. The recipes are amazing!

I always enjoy these threads. People live in such interesting places. Makes me want to jump into my car and go visit!

I'm in Somerset, NJ, just across the river from Rutgers' (yeah, I know, rotten football season last year) stadium. We can hear the cheering of the fans when the players are doing well. We're also located pretty much in the center of the state, about 1 hour from NYC in normal traffic.