MY BEST CORNBREAD

The delightfully custardy, reliably delicious cornbread I've been making for every potluck, picnic and party for the last 15 years.

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Hello! Happy Friday.

My husband just drove off to the mountains with our kids for a night of camping. It’s the first night I’ve been alone in my house overnight for yearrrrrrs. I’m celebrating by wiping every sticky fingerprint off the counters and windows, plopping into my favorite easy chair in the corner of my bedroom, and writing to you. (I know, my life is super exciting—don’t be too jealous.)

I thought about hosting a raucous lady hang in my yard tonight while it’s all blooming and gorgeous. I thought about the peach-studded cake I would bake, the wine I would serve, and the platters of lovely homegrown vegetables. But as the hour of their departure neared, I realized what I needed most right now is margins. Margins to think and dream —not to do, but undo.

To be completely still.

Margins, actually, are what a good many of us probably need. More borders between work and home life. More wiggle room between commitments and obligations. Room for spontaneity and listening to ourselves about what feels right — right now.

That’s my wish for all of us, at least for what’s left of summer.