Friday, July 27, 2012

Cookies for Cody Online Bake Sale and Cookbook Auction


The little boy you see here is Cody Braisch, the nephew of fellow food blogger and personal friend, Stephanie Weaver. Since last July, Cody has been battling a rare type of cancer called neuroblastoma and was until recently in remission.

About a month ago, Stephanie asked me to participate in an online baking fundraiser called "Cookies for Cody" to raise money for Cody's cancer treatments. Then, sadly, this past Sunday, Stephanie said Cody was no longer in remission. There are no more treatment options for him.

Cody asked for a carnival, and this past Sunday, his family and friends rallied to make that happen. (You can read more about it here.)

Although the tone of the fundraiser has changed, it is still going to happen, as Cody's parents have incurred over $15,000 worth of medical bills.

Today, I'm asking you to help Cody's parents by bidding in Stephanie's online auction. It begins today and lasts through August 5th. Click here for full details.

Over 50 bloggers and bakers (including me) have volunteered to bake traditional, vegan, and gluten-free cookies to donate to bidders. There are also about 50 signed cookbooks and other culinary gift items available for auction. All proceeds will go to Cody's family.

You can also donate directly to the family at codybrasich.com. Please include "Cookies for Cody" so Stephanie can track donations.

Thank you for your consideration. Please keep Cody and his family in your thoughts and prayers.



Thursday, July 12, 2012

Making the Case for Beets


In my latest NPR piece, "Making the Case for Beets," I explore the deep-seated antipathy towards beets. People have said they taste like, metal, dirt, even smelly socks. That's some hard-core beet hate.

The piece has caused a lot of beet buzz with many comments both praising and bashing beets. I'd love to know where you stand. Do you love beets? Hate them? Let us know, either here in the comment section or over at NPR's comment section.

And don't forget to check out the four recipes I've included.


Red Rice, Roasted Beets, and Greens


Raw Chiogga Beet Salad with Honey-Lime Vinaigrette


Beet Smoothie


Gingery Roasted Beet and Sweet Potato Soup