What happens after Labor Day

The first week of September, Labor Day was almost a week ago, and the fall wheels are already in motion. School is back in session, Raphael has begun harvesting their grapes (Sauvignon Blanc clusters at right), the air carries a brisk chill and pumpkins are popping up at all of the farm stands on the North Fork. I absolutely love this time of year for the colors, the excitement and the overall bustling atmosphere. It's totally energizing.

First, I would like to start my post with a big "thank you" to my dad, Brian and my brother-in-law, Jeremy for providing delicious dinners for me and Roger this week. Things have been so busy, it's nice to have some creative minds working on dinner for me once in a while. My dad shared sweet and flavorful marinated salmon steaks that we broiled. We topped a classic Sang Lee salad mix with Asian Sesame vinaigrette dressing and the tender salmon that was nicely seasoned with dill. Excellent dinner!

Another evening, I stopped by my in-laws house to pick up Roger and our doggies. When I entered the house, the aroma of a simmering tomato sauce wafted to the door. It suddenly reminded me of my grandmother's Sunday cooking. We couldn't resist staying for dinner. The sauce...and the meatballs were perfect.

So, I suppose I should share an interesting recipe that I tried out tonight. This one falls under the quick-fix, "spice up a boring dinner" category. Tonight's special addition was Spicy Sweet Corn Relish - a little late in the season for this idea but nonetheless, it was helpful to the all-American hot dog dinner that Roger requested.

Spicy Sweet Corn Relish

Saute the following ingredients:

• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1 can kernel corn
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1 small diced tomato
• 1 diced jalapeno pepper
• 1 tbsp of sweet relish
• pinch cayenne pepper powder
• pinch of cumin
• Red Hot (splash)
• salt and pepper to taste

Be sure to simmer covered so the flavors have a chance to blend well. We put this over Ball Park Franks but it would be great over sausage or paired with a white flaky fish, or even as a vegetable side dish.

For now, let the brisk wind ignite your senses, and let your fall cooking and decorating ideas begin.