A new season means a new look for Zen Foodism….

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And a word on the meaning behind my banner: During our 2 weeks in Japan last year, one of the most compelling and meaningful days was the one we spent in Kyoto visiting Buddhist temples. Ryoanji boasts, in my opinion, the most gorgeous and serene grounds - perfect for meandering and meditating. This is the home of the classic Zen Buddhist rock garden.

Around the corner from the rock garden is a little fountain with four simple characters that translate to mean, “You shall be contented.” I remember gazing at the tiny fountain, feeling comforted and, at the same time, awed by its powerful and optimistic creed.

While I’m certain that the Buddhist monks didn’t intend for their contemplative message to apply solely to gluttonous meals enjoyed with multiple glasses of wine, I do feel that the message applies to my philosophy about food.

Frankly, I haven’t really found a way to be content with life yet, but I do put an awful lot of effort into feeling satisfied with almost every bite I choose to eat.

What a simple, powerful, and unequivocal goal for life… “You shall be contented.”