Autumn is one of my favorite seasons, and I especially love the celebration of Oktoberfest. Here's a recipe for soft Bavarian pretzels that's easy-to-make and will have you donning the lederhosen. Or maybe not! But you and your loved ones are sure to enjoy these warm-from-the-oven pretzels. Kids love making them too. Makes 16 large pretzels 1 tbsp. sugar 2 tsps. salt 1 package active dry yeast 4 ½ cups all purpose flour 4 tbsps. butter, melted and cooled ½ cup baking soda

Even though the calendar says that autumn is approaching, hot weather reminds us it’s still summer here in Southwest Florida. This refreshing salsa is the perfect snack for cooling down. Stir in chopped cooked shrimp or crabmeat for added flavor. Makes 1 1/4 cups 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp. lime juice 1 tsp. chopped cilantro 1 tsp. black sesame seeds (optional) 1/2 jalapeno, seeded and minced 1 scallion, trimmed and minced 1 cup watermelon cubes, diced 1 bunch water