It's a peaceful day. After a lovely evening with two girlfriends, I'm enjoying a day when the house is still pleasantly tidy, Inspector Gamache is waiting on the table, and leftovers will make for a tasty dinner.


I'm one of those people who can get a bit agitated if too many things are scheduled on the calendar. I need quiet time in my own nest; call me an introvert.


As for the company I had, it's a treat to have guests who enjoy food and are willing to have me test out new recipes on them. A free copy of Chatelaine magazine landed in my mailbox this week and the cover featured tomato soup with red peppers, onions and carrots in it. Surely all these vitamins and nutrients will turn me into a tower of good health.


Along with stuffed zuchinni ("zuccanoes": with brown rice, mushrooms, almonds and more), a green salad, fresh rolls and some baking, the dinner went well.

Should you be at all interested in trying a new recipe, the tomato soup is here and the zuccanoes here, as well as in the book and magazine pictured.