It's Finally Spring (Outside)

Hi folks -- so, it's like, boiling outside right now (a whole 74 degrees):

And yet, here I am inside, wearing a fleece:

(Note: Actual amount of zipperage may be exaggerated for dramatic effect.)

Sharp-eyed readers may see my Darth Tater in the background, although I have to admit, that's not his usual spot -- I moved him so he could be in the shot.

Oh, and don't bother scanning my whiteboard for clues or trade secrets -- I haven't updated it in a few months.

Moving on, I will get this week's Guest Editor's picks up in a bit. In the meantime, since it's spring, check out this entry from our buddies at Slashfood; as you're going about your spring cleaning, here's a guide to basic things everybody should have in their pantries.

It's simple stuff that you use everyday, and it's also stuff that's essential if you find yourself having to cook something on short notice. (And that bit about dried pasta lasting a really long time? I can vouch for that -- I still use boxes of pasta from supermarkets that don't exist anymore.)

Of course, there are essentials, and then there are essentials -- now that the food is covered, let's not forget the drink -- from last Sunday's Washington Post, here's a list of essentials items for every home bar.

Thanks -- Joe