Fran's Table

I love a good party. Even in the darkest times -- and maybe even especially during the darkest times -- gathering together with people we care about is a beautiful thing. Whether it's a dinner party, a cocktail (mocktail) party, a last-minute, thrown together casual party, or a get-the-crystal-out party -- they are the stuff of life. (Good, bad, or indifferent). In this episode of Fran's Table, we're talking to a gifted, veteran party host. Amanda makes a great argument for parties -- j...

I have a problematic relationship with Thanksgiving. I could point to several issues that influence my experience of that holiday, but whatever the reason(s), I find consolation in the fact that I'm not alone in my feelings about this particular event. And I've asked my fellow Thanksgiving hater to Fran's Table to hash it out and maybe even resolve our misgivings about Thanksgiving. Sit down, there's plenty of room -- join the conversation.

I pulled a table into our front yard and sat down with friends and family who came by to visit and maybe even carve a pumpkin. I'm not much of a pumpkin artist, but I hauled out my microphones to get people's thoughts on favorite treats (and memories) from Halloween's past. If you listen carefully, you can hear folks hacking away at their pumpkin projects while we talked. At the end, I weighed in (privately) with my own controversial candy preference. We're carving pumpkins and chatting -- pu...

I am a one-trick pony when it comes to baking. But I'm lucky because I happen to be related to an especially inspired baker, and she's with me today to tackle the great art of baking. And other things, too, of course -- because this is Fran's Table. Join my special guest and me to talk about baking, desserts, colossal failures and epic success. Grab a seat!

Sometimes a dinner party is in order just so I'll be inspired (required) to clean and organize my kitchen. But mostly it's about the people you bring to the table. Well, and the food. And -- maybe just a little dash of drama. But all in all, dinner parties are a lovely thing, and I've invited my lovely friend George to chat about all things "dinner party" Grab a seat and join the conversation...

Sometimes my table is a mess and I entirely lack inspiration to cook or eat. But that's OK. Maybe the solution to my lack of inspiration is to reach out to someone. Maybe call or text or plop down next to someone I love and ask them "what do I want for dinner?" Because even if I don't get inspired to cook a fabulous, seasonal, homemade meal, I'll have connected with whomever I've asked that magical question. And that's the deal, right -- to connect. AND to figure out what the hell I want for ...