I frequently take the Garden State Parkway and sometimes need change as I do not use EZPass. Today was one of these occasions when I did. I could not miss the fact that as on numerous occasions of late the tollbooth attendant does not talk to you, look at you or aknowledge your presence in any way. I personally feel that they are performing a customer service job and do not act accordingly.

Clotilde Dusoulier of Chocolate and Zucchini shared some useful tips for a simple yet chic picnic in her most recent column (August 24) on NPR's Kitchen Window. She includes a recipe for herb muffins. So read on and get ready for your 'dejeuner sur l'herbe' to paraphrase the famous painting from Edouard Manet.