At the top of my New Year’s resolutions for 2019 was “more couch time with friends and family.” I know I am not the only one feeling more and more disconnected, even though it appears that we are evermore connected—potentially 24/7, even—through social media. Staring at a screen, watching from afar, is hardly a true connection, it seems.
Even to us “foodies,” the quest for the perfect post of an exotic dish served in some impossible-to-score-a-reservation destination may be losing its luster. An interview I recently heard on National Public Radio confirmed that the quest for social media “likes” has become one more source of potential angst and an addiction for which some are seeking treatment.
That’s not to say that we aren’t still enjoying those delicious meals, and libations …. We are just truly savoring them, in the presence of our dining companions. An indicator of a great gathering these days is that our devices are put away. It’s a beautiful thing to turn “look at me!” into “see me.”
So far, my “couch time” resolution is paying huge dividends. The cold, rainy days of winter made it easy to cozy up with friends in one of our homes, cooking for each other and engaging in deep conversations. I have also heard from a handful of readers that they have been preparing and enjoying recipes they found in Edible Marin & Wine Country—Nissa Pierson’s Braised Ginger and Apple Crusted Pork Loin from our Fall 2018 issue has been a particular favorite. You can find all of the recipes we’ve published over our almost 10 years at EdibleMarinAndWineCountry.com.
With the arrival of spring, I am looking forward to venturing a bit further afield. The great news is that we do not have to travel very far in our area to encounter exciting new sights, experiences and tastes. For most readers, all of the farms, ranches, makers and restaurants we cover in Edible Marin & Wine Country are easily experienced within a short drive. 
If you’re smart, you’ll check out the Edible Road Trip to West County in this issue and then follow writer Melanie Haiken’s lead as soon as possible, before these “undiscovered” gems of Sonoma County are filled with other hungry and thirsty visitors.
I look forward to seeing you OUT there!
