I find myself wondering how these cookies would do if maple syrup were substituted for the brown sugar - might just try it. (Best to use a grade B medium amber maple syrup for the best maple highlights.)

*That* I can do!

More complicated than I'm apt to try ... and I have limited storage space. But it sounds lovely.

Please give instructions on how to successfully freeze figs!

Rough (uneven) dice figs, mix with very good quality balsamic vinegar, season with a touch of salt and black pepper. Serve on crostini topped with melted Manchego.

The Last Report of the Miracles at Little No Horse by Louise Erdrich
- the writing is beautiful
- the narration, simply stunning

I suspect it's not quite what you're asking for but you might take a look at Carolyn Forche's "Against Forgetting"