Different things inspire me to cook - cool, rainy days, company coming, cooking shows on TV. Today it's just cool, the rain came last night, so rather than turning on the heat (yesterday we ran the AC), I warmed up the downstairs by firing up the gas range, something that doesn't happen much during the warm months when sandwiches and salads prevail. Mike came in from the gym to the aroma of pork tenderloin, sweet potatoes, apples, and cornbread baking in the oven and turnip greens simmering on the stove top. He thought he was hallucinating. Even my dogs begged for cornbread until I gave them some. It was a very satisfying meal.

The stove is not the only thing in my house to be neglected lately. If I did nothing but clearing out clutter and cleaning for the next three days, I doubt I could get it all done. The cooler weather is energizing, though, so I'm planning to be very busy for a while trying to get ready for the holidays.

For the two of you who were curious about the choices I made yesterday I'll tell you, I only did the things that were "good for me." Not typical, I know, but every once in a while I actually behave. And the scale rewarded me this morning with a lower weight. So now you probably know which temptations I resisted. And my teeth are cleaner, too!