Debra Borden

When it comes to comings and goings, I would much rather be the one leaving than the ‘leave-ee’.  Especially when someone is leaving on a vacation and you are the one left home doing the everyday. Ugh.  Talk about being primed for an invitation to a pity party.

So, when that happens, I think it’s more than fair to indulge in massages, extravagant meals, and trinkets.  Note to self: I did not mean to do that much damage in Anthropologie.

While I often don’t mind eating out alone, this is a perfect time to experiment with recipes that make you feel IMPORTANT!!!  A time to buy expensive spices like Cardamom and Saffron and specialty vinegars (champagne) and pricey Halibut at Whole Foods.  OMG 34.99 a pound!

For me, it’s a vacation in the kitchen; my inner wild child loves to splurge on decadent ingredients.  And a lot less expensive than a trip to Aruba or an impulsive mid-life purchase like a Harley.  Full disclosure:  The only Harley I’m actually interested in pursuing is a Lab mix rescue dog named Harley at the local shelter.  But just because you’re having an ‘every day’ doesn’t mean you can’t feel like you’re luxuriously seated at the Chef’s table.

If you think it’s not for you, I say, give it a try.  I swear it can transport you (at least emotionally) to a table at that impossible-to-get, trendy new restaurant or even a seat at a White House state dinner.  Not that anyone I know would want a seat there currently but…that’s a whole other conversation for a whole other day!

Today we’re focusing on Food and Feelings, not Fools and Feelings.  Sorry, I couldn’t help myself.  Returning to base.

In my new book, Cook Your Marriage Happy, the first title in my Cook Yourself Happy series, I guide clients towards cooking themselves happy as The Sous Therapist.  So why not have a Cooking Therapy Stay-cay Vacay?  Here are some ideas:

Sushi from scratch.  Get the nori, get the rice, get the bamboo rolling mat & splurge on the Ahi.  You’re worth it.

Watch on YouTube.

Saffron Risotto.  Talk about indulgence.  And this recipe cuts the calories in half! Why wouldn’t you go for it?

Read the recipe.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars.  Does this really need any commentary? Nope.

Read the recipe at Sally’s Baking Addiction

Let me know how it goes.  I stand by my theory that cooking can take you to parts unknown, both inside and out.