Straight from the pages of Winter In The High Sierra comes my first cooking video. 

This week, I'm bringing you into my (wife's) kitchen (eek!) for something a little different – and very close to the heart of storytelling. 

Inspired by the quiet, overwhelming beauty of the High Sierra and the timeless magic of handwriting, I’ve created a video tutorial on how to make your own pine cone ink. More specifically, Bandit & Lou’s Ponderosa Pine Cone Ink.

Yes, real ink—all natural and from the wild. 

It’s part science experiment, part ritual, and part wacky fun. Whether you’re a journaler, letter writer, or someone who loves natural crafts, this simple recipe brings a little more wonder into your creative practice.

And if you’ve already picked up a copy of Winter in the High Sierra, this ink is the perfect companion for scribbling notes in the margins or penning your own inspired thoughts. Do try it—and send me a letter using your pine cone ink! I’d love to hear from you.

Many thanks for your support of Winter in the High Sierra. It’s truly a special story to me, and I hope to you, too.