I'm Back!

I'm back. Starting with a bad kidney stone attack (an occupational hazard) a few weeks ago, I needed some time to step back, recover and get myself back in order. In the process, I have re-examined a few things and re-prioritized parts of my life. Food will always be important to me and I hope to continue to convey that here, though regretfully, for the time being, at least, with significantly less frequency than I had been maintaining.

I still plan on reporting on significant meals, interesting experiences and the general world of food and life. I don't, however, plan on continuing my "Taste of the Week" as it was. Rather than a self-imposed weekly post of one item of interest from the prior week, I plan on posting a "Fine Food Find" when I encounter a specific food or drink item or dish that really excites me. Some weeks I will likely have a number of items, while others I may have none. I will be interested in feedback on this approach vs. the "Taste of the Week."

I still hope to post the occasional video (I have a couple that I am working on), interview and of course Congress report (I have to find the energy and time to return to the Starchefs 2009 ICC if people are still interested).
 Good news is that most of the money received via the Mugaritz Stagieres' Knives Fund is now available for distribution, which will happen shortly.

i appreciate the get well and other good wishes that have come to me over the past month. I have suffered kidney stones on multiple occasions. Most of the time, they passed quickly and easily, allowing me to become a little cocky about them and lax in trying to prevent them. There have been a few occasions, though, such as this most recent episode, during which I have been sorely tested and severely humbled. This last bout was not only physically painful, it was emotionally draining and forced me to think quite clearly of my own mortality and how easily something seemingly relatively innocuous could morph into something dire and life-changing.

For those readers who have lost interest and moved on, I don't blame you. For those, who are still around, I thank you.

Comments

[foodplayerlinda]

Glad you're back John and relieved that you're feeling better. Your readers will stick around for your thoughtful comments and observations and beautiful photography, so take care of yourself first.
I'll miss "Taste of the week" but look forward to "Fine Food Find" and yes, please! more videos.

[John Sconzo]

Thanks, Linda!

[Marco Romano]

Well Doc, it's not easy limiting oneself. Unfortunately, that goes for many enjoyable things in life. However, the day that I have to give up eating hot peppers, I don't know what I would do! To be honest with you, I had a hard time keeping up with your wonderful food experiences.

[jazzngas]

I'm glad you're back in the saddle. Our paths cross rarely but I really do appreciate your insights and opinions. You probably don't know this, but your posts have led me and I'm sure many others to restaurant experiences that we would not have without you. Aldea comes to mind right away. Health matters the most and allows us to live life to the fullest. Your recent scare touches all of us that read your excellent posts. My best wishes to you and please keep up your great work!

[Ted Niceley]

Boy, 'Doc, The 2010 ICC shouldn't be too big a problem, should it?
Your coverage is the best!!!!
I'm looking forward to whatever you feel like giving us.
Feel better.
Ted