Elinor Olifant is Completely fine

 

Meet Eleanor Oliphant. Chances are, we all know someone like her or perhaps have a relative who shares her quirks. She struggles with social skills and cues. She tends to say exactly what’s on her mind, regardless of the setting. Her life is carefully planned and structured to avoid unnecessary interactions with people. Weekends are spent with her creature comforts: frozen pizza, vodka, and phone calls with “Mummy.” And yet, in her mind, everything is just fine.

A chance encounter with Raymond, the awkward and chronically unkempt IT guy from her office changes her well-ordered life.  When the two stumble upon Sammy, an elderly gentleman who has fallen on the sidewalk, the three become unlikely friends who rescue each other from the lives of isolation they have each been living. Raymond’s patient warmth and clumsy compassion gradually help Eleanor confront the emotional wounds she’s long kept buried. Slowly, through shared acts of kindness and quiet companionship, the three start to mend the loneliness that had long been part of their lives.

Living in a retirement community, I see shades of this story all around me. Living here has brought me into contact with so many wonderful people, neighbors who genuinely care for one another and offer support in small, meaningful ways. That sense of camaraderie is something I deeply cherish. This type of interaction can be life changing for some.

Of course, like any community, there’s a small minority who seem to find satisfaction in complaining or stirring up conflict. Whether it stems from personal unhappiness or simply a difficult disposition, their negativity can cast a shadow. Maybe a chance interaction in their life, can change their attitude. Still, I try to meet it with understanding, even if I don’t always know the reason behind their behavior.

As for me, I’ve reached a point in life where I no longer take time for granted. I don’t know how many days I have left on this earth, but I do know how I want to spend them: being happy, helpful, and kind. Be Kind to one another!

If you have not read Elinor Oliphant is Completely Fine, consider adding it to your reading list.  I really enjoyed it. And please comment if you have read the book.

Yacht Rock

 

I was driving and listening to the radio when the radio host introduced a song as a perfect example of a Yacht Rock song. I must be living under a rock because I had never heard this term used before. I just let the classification drift past me giving it very little thought.

Then on Sunday while listening to the K104.7, 70's on Sunday show Jack Kent used the term again.  He said the song Baby Come Back by Player was perfect Yacht Rock. This caught my attention. Still, unfamiliar with this phrase, I did what anyone would do, I Googled it.

In case you're in the same boat (pun intended 😃😃😃) Here is what I found.  Yacht Rock is a subgenre of soft rock that gained popularity in the late 1970's and early 1980's. It is known for its smooth sometimes nautically themed, breezy vibe. It often blends soft rock with elements of smooth jazz and R&B. Whether or not it mentions sailing or yachts, the music evokes a sense of leisure and laid-back sophistication. Think Michael McDonald, Steely Dan, Toto, and yes—Player.

As I read more about the category, I realized I’ve always gravitated toward soft rock for exactly that reason. Soft rock has always been my go-to for mood-shifting. When the world feels chaotic, I turn to those mellow harmonies to regroup and find inner peace. There’s something comforting about the emotional honesty in the lyrics, and the way the music invites you to slow down and breathe. 

I would be interested in your feedback on the term "Yacht Rock" Have you heard of this term before?  Or is it just me who never heard of it before?

The label doesn’t matter much to me; I just know that soft rock, Yacht Rock included, keeps me company—whether I’m sailing through my day or stalled in Charlotte’s gridlock. So, if you’re ever in need of a musical escape, I highly recommend diving into the world of Yacht Rock. It’s not just a genre—it’s a vibe. And who knows? You might discover you’ve been a Yacht Rocker all along.

- Sips Happens: Sangria Edition

 

Our Sips and Apps club decided to explore Sangria for our July meeting. Sangria is summer in a glass, vibrant and refreshing. What I found especially surprising was how customizable the drink can be. Born from Spanish tradition, it’s more than just a drink; it’s a celebration. With its deep red hue (the name comes from sangre, meaning blood), sangria blends wine, fresh fruits, and a splash (or maybe more than a splash) of spirits into a punch that’s as festive as it is flavorful.

Whether you’re sipping a classic red version with oranges and apples or experimenting with white wine, peaches, and basil, sangria invites creativity. It’s the kind of cocktail that pairs perfectly with tapas, laughter, and long evenings on the patio. And the best part? There’s no one “right” way to make it, just your way which was proven by the variations of Sangria we all got to sample. All by the way were wonderful.  This is the list:

• Raspberry Sangria made with red wine, raspberry liquor and brandy
• Watermelon Sangria made with fresh pureed watermelon and wine
• Limoncello Sangria made with limoncello, white wine and Sprite 
• White wine with fruit
• a traditional Spanish sangria
• a champagne spritzer sangria

Our Gathering would not be complete without our food pairings. There were empanadas, prosciutto and cheese on French bread, chocolate hummus and strawberries, Taco pie. layered dip.  Not sure if I have forgotten any but I have pictures. The Sangria was fantastic, the food was delish, and the company was golden.

Looking forward to next month, Cocktails!

Alzheimers- Frightening

Alzheimer’s and cancer terrify me—and I know I’m not alone. Sadly, I’ve had far too much personal experience with both. I’ve watched my father slowly transform from a vibrant, brilliant man into someone who no longer knows where he is, who we are, or what his life once was. Thankfully, his Alzheimer’s didn’t strike early; it crept in more gradually, beginning in his late 80s.

 Alice on the other hand is a fifty-year-old cognitive psychology professor at Harvard, an expert on how the brain works, frequently called upon to present on her area of expertise. One day during a presentation, she finds that she is at a loss for words and momentarily loses her train of thought.  Shortly after this episode she goes for a run, one that she has down countless times.  She stops at a usual place when she decides to head for home, she realizes she does not know where she is.  Alarmed, she makes an appointment with her physician who delivers the devastating news.

 Alzheimer’s! The irony is heart wrenching.  A woman who has spent her entire career studying the mind is now facing a disease she knows all too well. From there the author takes us through how Alice copes with this diagnosis, as well as how her husband and children navigate the disease with her.  

What struck me most was Alice’s plan for dealing with the overwhelming changes ahead. And it left me with several lingering questions. One being, if you make a plan for something like this… can you truly carry it out? 

It certainly is a lot to think about.  This book is not new, having been published in 2009. But if you have not read it you may want to pick it up, it is a good book.  I prefer it to the movie.   Feel free to leave comments.  

Goodbye to a once cherished friend.

Recently, I was at a mahjong gathering with my buddies. We were huddled around a spread of deliciously prepared snacks on the host’s center island. All the women are excellent cooks. Somewhere between bites and banter, we found ourselves strolling down memory lane and the topic of dinner came up.

In my house growing up, dinner was usually my responsibility. Later, when my grandmother moved in with us, she shared the cooking duties. Our meals were simple: a protein, a starch, and a vegetable. Nothing fancy but always satisfying.

My parents were married for 60 years before my mom passed, and they had a beautiful relationship. One of the ways they kept it real was by having a monthly date night. We always knew one was coming when my mom returned from Waldbaum’s with two Swanson TV dinners tucked into the grocery bags. Their date nights were our treat nights.TV dinners felt like gourmet feasts to us. My favorite was the turkey dinner, complete with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and a cranberry something-or-other. My brother always went for the fried chicken.

TV dinners were invented in the 1950's by Swanson who had a ton of leftover Thanksgiving Turkey and needed a clever way to use it up. Their solution, a full dinner packaged in a divided aluminum tray that could just be placed in the oven and served as is straight out of the oven. Soon they expanded their offerings by adding Salisbury steak and fried chicken.

This was in late 60's.  By the 1980's other companies such as Stouffers and Banquet entered the fray. With the rise of the microwave, they adapted their packaging and cooking methods to suit the faster pace of modern kitchens. Swanson stuck with its tried-and-true recipes, while Stouffer’s introduced meals that were noticeably more flavorful and appealing. As a result, Swanson began to lose market share.  I think you can still find a Swanson's dinner, but they are rapidly disappearing from the supermarket freezers.

These days my meals look a lot different.  Inspired by the women I share fun gatherings with; I am inspired to working on improving my cooking skills. 

The microwave didn’t just change how we cook: it changed how we live. Meals became faster, more convenient, and increasingly personalized. But with each family member pulled in different directions by busy schedules and endless activities, mealtime has shifted. It’s often a grab-and-go affair rather than a chance to gather around the table and talk. 

The ritual of shared dinners has faded, replaced by quick bites and solo plates. And while convenience has its perks, something meaningful has sadly been lost in the process. I find myself craving not just better meals, but better moments. Maybe that’s why I treasure the laughter and shared bites at my wine club. It’s not just about what’s on the plate—it’s about what’s around it. Dinnertime growing up was always a great time to touch base with members of the family. I try to make sure we eat dinner together a few times a week just to keep the tradition alive.

 

Celebrity Book Clubs

 

Celebrity book clubs have become a large part of our literary culture. They spotlight authors who otherwise might remain under the radar.  While well-known authors such as Louise Penny, Stephen King or James Patterson dominate bookshelves, celebrity picks often come from debut authors with compelling stories.

Three celebrities in particular have emerged as literary curators: Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, and Jenna Bush Hager. Their book selections frequently land on bestseller lists, and each club has developed its own distinct tone and personality.

Oprah launched her book club in 1996 at the height of her daytime reign and to date has chosen over 100 books. What made her approach unique was that she chose a book asked people to read the book and encouraged them to join her for an in-depth discussion and exploration of the book while watching her show. 

Her books tend to lean toward serious literary fiction, memoirs and classics chosen for their thought-provoking themes.  I find that her recommendations elevate my book choices. Many of her books are a challenge to read but worth it since they leave a lasting impression.

I enjoy reading books that are emotionally rich, and character driven.  A few of her picks that are my personal favorites are Jewel, The Reader, Where the Heart Is and Becoming.    I appreciated her reintroduction to many of the classic such as The Heart is a Lonely Hunter, East of Eden and The Good Earth, books that I first read in High School but enjoyed reading again this time through an adult lens.

Reese Witherspoon launched her book club in 2017 through her media company, Hello Sunshine. The tone of her book club is very different from the Oprah Book club. I feel the books are more accessible and entertaining with a clear mission: to spotlight stories with women at the center.  Her selections often span contemporary fiction, thrillers, and historical novels and it is apparent that she chooses many of the books to adapt them into a film or series. I often find I am casting many of the characters while I read the book.

I’ve read many of Reese’s picks and enjoyed them all. One of my personal favorites is First Lie Wins, which I’ll explore in a separate post. 

Jenna Bush Hager launched her Read with Jenna book club in 2019. Her selections often feature debut authors and focus on themes of family, identity, and resilience. I imagine her love for reading was passed down from her mother, Laura Bush, and her grandmother, Barbara Bush, both strong advocates for literacy.  I will share more about of Jenna's picks in a future post.

These books club have created a space for new authors. Their recommendations provide books that encourage people to read and share their thoughts especially in book groups.

I’m a member of two book clubs myself, and they provide wonderful social interaction. I love gathering with my groups for lively discussion, laughter, and yes, some adult beverages and tasty munchies. That just adds to the ambiance and warmth of the experience.

 

To the Earl of Sandwich-- Thank you

 

Sandwiches have been around a long time but credit for the sandwich as we know it can be attributed to John Montagu the 4th Earl of Sandwich. Allegedly, while gambling, he asked to have meat placed between two slices of bread, so he did not have to leave the game he was playing.

People put the darndest things between two slices of bread. I recall visiting a site with young teens during my time as a consultant. This site was in Brooklyn New York and the teens came from homes where peanut butter and jelly was affordable and a staple. The teens had chosen to learn a trade instead of pursuing college. I remember sitting in the cafeteria with the center director, and we struck up a conversation about food. Turns out we were both Foodies.

He shared a story that caught me by surprise. On one occasion, the cafeteria served lobster—a rare treat. To his astonishment, the kids took the lobster and slapped it between two slices of bread. He thought it was absurd, but I saw it differently. Even though most of these kids  were never in New England where the lobster roll is well known and beloved they made their own version.

Since semi retiring, I have more time to have lunch with friends. I am now on a pilgrimage to find places that make one of two sandwiches.  One is the Rueben/Rachel sandwich which has always been a favorite of mine. The other is the Croque Monsieur.

Let's start with what makes a perfect Rueben.  The Reuben, is all about the combination of bold and balanced flavors, where the crunchy toasted bread meets the melty cheese and corned beef (Rueben) pastrami (Rachel) combination. 

Whoever is making the sandwich must start off with a good rye bread.  Thinly sliced corned beef, preferably cooked onsite and not the deli variety is added next.  You want a generous layer of meat, thick enough so that the sauerkraut does not overwhelm the meat. Then comes the cheese. Domestic or imported Swiss are fine choices but gruyere takes it up a notch.  Lastly, Thousand Island or Russian dressing is added.  The entire sandwich is then grilled until it is golden and crispy.  Crispy is the magic word.  The bread must be able to hold all those glorious ingredients.

When I lived in Maryland, there was a great sandwich place that set the gold standard for the Reuben called Full On.  It is located in Rockville, Md off Norbeck Road.  The Corned Beef is house made and they use Thousand Island which is my preference for a Reuben. If you are ever in the area, give them a try. 

Now that I live in Charlotte my goal is to find a place that makes a Reuben similar to theirs. I will keep you updated on my quest.

When I first sat down to write this post, I was going to discuss the Croque Monsieur as well as the Reuben. But as I sit here writing, I have decided that it needs a dedicated post. So keep your eye out for it.

Sips and Apps Great Beginnings

Previously, i mentioned that I am part of a wine group in Maryland. It is so great getting together with my friends drinking a glass of wine, sharing a bite and just sharing stories and laughing together.  Unfortunately, I am not able to share as much time since I have moved. But we do make an effort to get together a couple of times a year.

Not to worry, since I moved to North Carolina, a group of ladies in my neighborhood recently decided to form a wine club. So, you can imagine just how thrilled I was when this opportunity came along here in my new home. Sharing good wine with good women "you had me at hello". Count me in! I

We chose to give each meeting a theme. I think it adds a touch of intention for sipping's and a bit of consistency. We felt we wanted to spotlight and savor a specific varietal. For our kickoff meeting we chose the Cabernet Sauvignon a bold and full-bodied wine.

Now, any self-respecting woman knows the first cardinal rule of drinking which is, Don't Drink on an Empty Stomach, that is unless you are prepared to hear a roomful of women singing in your great room.  Come to think about it there was some singing, the music vibes were definitely flowing.  So, we made it our mission to find foods that paired well with our lovely Cabs.

A Cabernet Sauvignon with its bold full-bodied flavor, of black cherry black currant, plum and blackberry is surprisingly easy to pair.  Its robust nature invites rich savory bites and as we discovered the right pairing doesn't just complement the wine, it completes it

After a bit of research, we landed on delicious options which included roast beef crostini, smoked salmon crostini, glazed meatballs, caprese skewers and dips.  I tried to capture some of the wonderful pairings in the photos. 

As the evening continued and the ideas flowed as freely as the wine, we found ourselves thinking beyond just one varietal. Why limit ourselves when the world of wine and spirits offers so many delicious possibilities? So, we decided to expand our focus. We also decided to name ourselves the Sips and Apps Group further expanding our horizons.

For our July meeting, we’re turning our attention to Sangria—that vibrant, fruit-filled Spanish classic. The idea of Sangria practically begs for sunshine and good company. Here in North Carolina we have been experiencing hot weather. So whether the Sangria is made with red, white or rose, we felt it would match the summer vibe and invite creativity and great conversation.  

I will keep you posted on Sangria night.

I Beg Your Pardon, He Never Promised us a Rose Garden

 

Rose Garden Prior to the Trump's residence

When I was six years old, my family and I traveled to Washington, D.C. At the time, Mrs. Kennedy had recently refreshed the White House interior, and much more of it was open to the public. The Rose Garden had also been updated—it was a peaceful, elegant space, destined to remain the backdrop for countless historic moments.

I fell in love with the city instantly and vowed I would live there one day. You might wonder how a six-year-old could possibly know something like that—but for me, it was a spiritual connection. I just knew.

Fast forward twelve years: I applied to Cornell University and received a letter from admissions saying that, unfortunately, pieces of my application had gotten separated. The fall semester was full, but they invited me to consider attending in the spring instead.

Eager to start my college journey and be out on my own, I quickly applied to the University of Maryland and was accepted right away. The rest, as they say, is history. I never lived in New York again—most of my life has been spent in the Maryland and D.C. area, just as that younger version of me somehow sensed it would.

Donald Trump is now in the White House.  For some reason he decided to pave the Rose Garden.  His justification for this in his own words:

  "You know, we use [the Rose Garden] for press conferences, and it doesn’t work because the people fall,” he said at the time.

"The terrain can be wet, and the soft ground can be an issue for some," Trump added. "Women, with the high heels, it just didn’t work.”

The Rose Garden holds deep historical and emotional significance for many, especially for someone who has spent so much of their life in the DC area and has a personal connection to its beauty. It is a jarring transformation.  It is more than just landscaping, it is a shift in how we honor Our past.  To take away such a treasure and replace it with gravel is so wrong on so many levels.  All I can say is that I am heartbroken.

Please tell me what you think.

The Lost Art of Map Reading

Map-reading is quickly becoming a lost art. Growing up, I’d be in the passenger seat. My dad would hand me a map and say, “We’re going to X, Y, or Z—find it and get us there.” This skill turned out to be my secret superpower.  I worked for a company that had me traveling four out of five days a week for two years. This was just before GPS systems like Garmin were available. I’d fly into a city, grab a rental car, pick up a paper map, and navigate to every location without a second thought. No satellite guidance—just me, my sense of direction, and a trusty road map.

Last fall, I spent nearly two weeks in Europe, feeling confident I’d checked all the boxes on my packing list. I had started making a packing list when we started travelling with a one-year-old and I have been using them ever since. Let me emphasize, I am very good at creating and following my lists. But there was one small detail I overlooked—my phone. I didn’t think I’d need it much since I wasn’t planning to make calls. Turns out, even if you’re not dialing anyone, online access and texting are absolutely essential. Not having texting or internet made me feel less like a savvy traveler and more like someone trying to navigate with a paper map.  Folks, Google maps is an absolutely essential tool to have when you are travelling anywhere.

Without maps on my phone, I felt like Granny from The Beverly Hillbillies, wandering Beverly Hills with no clue where I was going. And finding a real map? Nearly impossible. In Brussels, I went to the Hilton’s front desk and asked for one. They handed me a "map" that was absolutely useless.

In Brugge, my luck changed, when we joined a tour group.  The tour guide was about to let us loose for some alone time in the city and was discussing where to meet back.  He said to type in the meet up destination and then as an afterthought he as a courtesy, asked if we all had Google maps.  

I sighed quietly and nodded no hoping to go unnoticed. But no such luck. Next thing I knew, he clamped a hand on my shoulder and, loud enough for the entire group to hear, declared, “For those of you who don’t have Google Maps, there’s a visitors center with paper maps—if you can read one!”s.”

All I can say is those who laugh last, laugh best. I headed to the visitor’s center, picked up a paper map, and we wandered all over Brugge without a single wrong turn. We made it to the meet-up point with time to spare, no tech, no stress, just a little old-school navigation.

Fortunately, sightseeing in Brugge came early in the trip.  Even though I can use a map, I still possess very good Tech skills so the very next day, I went online and added a European plan to my mobile carrier.  From that point on, navigating the rest of our journey was a breeze.

Here’s my point: learn to read a map—a real one. It’s a satisfying skill to have, and when the digital fails, it’s paper that saves the day.

Creative Cooking

Now that I have more time on my hands, I’m shifting gears from years of left-brained, analytical work to awakening the right side of my brain. Lately, that’s meant diving spatula-first into the world of cooking. 

The women in my mahjong group and book club? Culinary powerhouses. And my Wine Women of West Virginia crew? They’re basically a living Pinterest board of charm and inspiration. I love exploring their boards. With muses like these, how could I not be whisking up something new?

I’ve never been much of a rule-follower when it comes to cooking. Maybe it’s the Gemini in me, but I’d rather stir with instinct than measure with precision. A while back, I took a class called Cooking Without a Recipe, led by a chef who encouraged us to trust our senses and take chances. He taught us which ingredients are go well together and which ones shouldn’t be left alone in a room together. Most of what we cooked that day was objectively... not good. (Trying to be diplomatic) But the freedom of it was exhilarating.

I often joked with my friend Pam about having a no-recipe showdown, just the two of us pulling ingredients from each other’s pantries and seeing what kind of chaos we could turn into cuisine. She was a natural at that kind of creative abandon. Life, of course, had its own timing, and we never got the chance. But I like to think it’s still a possibility for us, some lazy Sunday, two friends, a glass of wine for inspiration and a couple of mismatched spice racks, finally giving it a whirl.

These days, I cook not because I need to feed myself, I certainly don't need the calories, but because I am preparing foods for my friends. The women in my mahjong group and book club? Absolute kitchen dynamos. And my Wine Women of West Virginia crew? Endlessly inspiring. Each gathering with them is like a spark—igniting new recipes, new stories, and a newfound joy in bringing people together.

The other day, a friend surprised me with a bundle of fresh rosemary. The scent was bold, woodsy, and wildly alive. Magical! Grocery store rosemary can't compete. Ordinarily, I throw together a quick dish with chicken tenderloins and rotisserie seasoning. It’s what I call a C- recipe nothing to brag about, but serviceable.

That rosemary, though? It shifted everything. Suddenly I wasn’t just making dinner; I was composing. I wonder if Mozart felt this way when he sat down to compose his Symphony in G Minor No 40. (one of my favorites) My creative juices kicked into gear, and I found myself riffing on flavor, fresh garlic simmering, sweet red peppers and rosemary making the kitchen smell delightful. The outcome a solid B. There's still room to tweak and grow but it was good. 

 As you suspect there was no recipe for this chicken but here is the ingredient list, I will leave exact measurements to you.  Have fun!

• chicken tenderloins
• one red pepper
• a small Vidalia onion
• 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• McCormick's Rotisserie chicken spice
• Kosher salt and pepper to taste

Simple but good.

And maybe that’s the real recipe—one part courage, two parts friendship, and just letting go.

. 

Mac and Cheese YUM (a Homage to Mitch)

 Mitch's Mac and Cheese

Once again, I found myself listening to the Bob and Sherri Show, my favorite drive-time radio show—when they brought up one of my all-time favorite comfort foods: macaroni and cheese. Sherri was raving about Ina Garten’s recipe, calling it the best on the planet. And hey, everyone’s entitled to their opinion, we can all respectfully agree to disagree.

Ina Garten is, no doubt, a culinary icon with her cookbooks and TV show, but I’m not convinced she makes the best mac and cheese. That title, in my heart, belongs to a dear friend of mine. Mitch was a firefighter in D.C., and somewhere between saving lives and stirring saucepans, he perfected the most soul-warming mac and cheese I’ve ever tasted. Just thinking about it brings tears to my eyes—it was that good. Gooey, rich, and decadently creamy. I can barely talk about it without getting emotional.

Mitch has since passed, but so much of who he was lives on in the memories we shared, and in that unforgettable recipe. Ina’s version might be great, but in my opinion, Mitch’s was the gold standard. Though if I had to rank a second place, I’d give it to Chick-fil-A’s surprisingly tasty take.

Easy Come, Easy Go (not really)

 

  

Bobby Sherman was the quintessential teen idol. His passing at 81, after a battle with stage 4 kidney cancer, has stirred a wave of nostalgia and sorrow for me and perhaps many of you who grew up in this time period.

Here Comes the Brides really was a product of its time, romantic, and a little wild in its premise. The idea of importing 100 women to a logging town to keep the men from leaving? Today, that would raise more than a few eyebrows. But back then, it was framed as a lighthearted adventure, and Bobby’s portrayal of Jeremy Bolt gave the show its emotional heartbeat. David Soul also starred as one of the Bole brothers in the show. Yes, before he was Hutch, he was one of the Bolt brothers. Great Ensemble!

And who can forget the songs "Julie, Do Ya Love Me,” “Easy Come, Easy Go,” It’s no wonder he graced the pages of Tiger Beat and the walls of so many bedrooms. I saved my babysitting money to buy issues of Tiger Beat. The articles weren’t really the draw—it was the photos of all the teen idols of the day that made my heart skip.

What’s even more remarkable is how he stepped away from fame to serve others—as an EMT and LAPD reserve officer. That quiet heroism says so much about who he was beyond the spotlight.

With Bobby Sherman's passing, I feel like piece of my childhood is gone.

Deep Dish

For all my culinary friends who watch the cooking channel and food network this book is for you.  It is by far no literary masterpiece, and it doesn’t proclaim to be one.  It is a light fun summer read about two chefs that have local cooking shows in the south.

Gina has a show called Fresh Start. She takes your everyday southern dishes and prepares them in a healthy way. Unlike Paula Deen, who famously loves butter, Gina takes a lighter approach—though, don’t get me wrong, I adore Paula Deen and have even tried a few of her dishes. That said, they do lean heavy on the fat and calories.

Tate on the other hand has a show called Vitals, a show with a rugged, back-to-nature vibe.  Watching him, you half expect to have Granny from the Beverly Hillbillies pop up as a guest.   His show is all about venturing into the wild, catching his own ingredients andd then preparing them on air.   MMM MMM Good! Very cave man and very sexy.

A New York producer from the cooking channel is looking for a new show and has his sights on these two chefs.  He comes up with a brilliant concept having a Food Fight on TV and so Gina and Tate Square off.  May the best chef win. 

This book was written during the cooking channel heyday a time when these shows inspired want to be cooks like me.  I loved watching Rachel Ray whip up her 30-minute meals and Sandra Lee was truly inspirational as she prepared dishes on Semi-Homemade.  My family appreciated many of the recipes I prepared after seeing these shows.

Deep Dish by Mary Kay Andrews is a cute, quick read that you can polish of at the pool in no time.

Broadway in 12 minutes

Growing up on Long Island we were just a train ride away from NYC.  Lucky for me my parents were avid theater goers, so we went to see many shows. Whenever I was asked what I wanted for my birthday, my answer was always the same—I wanted to see a show.  

I kept the playbills to all these shows for years but when we downsized and moved into our new house, I had to let them go. (I still question my decision).  Before parting with them, I took one last look and discovered some very interesting details.

In 1968, when I was just a child, my birthday gift was a ticket to see Fiddler on the Roof. According to the playbill, Bette Midler was playing the role of Tzeitel. I remember her being wonderful, though I was in early elementary school and hadn’t realized exactly who she was at the time. Back then, she was simply Bette Midler—she hadn’t yet become the Divine Miss M.

Years later, I had the chance to see her perform again. This time, a live performance at Merriweather Post Pavilion. The show was outrageous, electrifying, and just as wonderful as I remembered.

I don't know about you, but YouTube has become an obsession for me.  With so many viewing options, it's a treasure trove of entertainment, travel and learning.  I have discovered some brilliant comedians, picked up knitting and crochet techniques, taken cooking classes and enjoyed music and musicals.

If musicals are your passion, you'll love this 12-minute compilation featuring some of the best moments from various shows. It’s absolutely worth your time! Bonus: it features James Corden, Emily Blunt, and lin Manuel Miranda. What more could you ask for?

Thomas Jefferson was a foodie

 

Thomas Jefferson has to be one of my favorite figures in Colonial History. He was a multi-faceted individual. At sixteen, he entered the College of William and Mary and graduated two years later. In addition to being a politician, he was an inventor, architect, horticulturist, and a musician (he played the violin). So, when I was searching for a non-fiction book, this one immediately caught my attention.  If you are ever in the Charlottesville, Virginia area go see Monticello his home where many of his inventions are on display.

Jefferson, as you may know was the second Vice President under John Adams and then went on to become the third President of the United States. He was one of the Founding Fathers and one of the principal authors of the Declaration of Independence.  He held many positions in the United States government including the first Secretary of state and the "ambassador to Europe" which led him to take up residency in France. I am sure many of you studied him and other historical figures in school.

When the French added their might and army to assist during the Revolution they brought with them their cuisine which Jefferson immediately enjoyed.  Sadly, the colonists were not adventurous and did not share his love.  It wouldn't be until years later that Americans would accept French cooking.  In fact, Americans can credit Julia Childs for making it popular in the 1960's and to this day it is incorporated into many of the dishes eaten here in the US.

ryui3France was a perfect place for someone with a more discerning palate such as his. He took his slave James Hemings with him and paid for James to be an apprentice in a French kitchen.  His hope was to bring the cuisine back to the colonies and incorporate it into everyday dishes. While Jefferson embraced French cuisine, the colonists were far less adventurous, and his enthusiasm for it wasn’t widely shared.

The gentry and some of the middle class had plenty to eat and it was not uncommon to be served a huge breakfast and dinner.  A common breakfast according to this book was freshly baked bread, corn pone, pancakes, cold ham, chicken and several types of hash. Coffee and tea were both served. My breakfast of toast and coffee pales against the early colony breakfast. Dinner was lots of meats, veggies from the garden, salad etc. Not well seasoned but plentiful. Compared to their hearty breakfast, my Thomas' 100 calorie English muffin with peanut butter, feels sadly lacking.  But one must maintain her girlish figure. 😂

I may have gone on and on, but if you're looking for a concise history of Jefferson and his era—without getting too deep into politics—this might be the book for you. Naturally, it centers on cuisine and the relationships among the people of his time, offering a fascinating glimpse into daily life. It also provides an account of pre-revolutionary Paris, painting a vivid picture of the city premodern times. 

Here is tidbit I picked up while reading this book. The fork was nearly non-existent in the colonies. People ate primarily with spoons, knives or their fingers. While the  Virginia elite adopted the fork, it took time for the practice to take hold in the colonies. A study by Lorena Walsh and Carol Stammas showed that between 1700-1709 3 to 8 % of Virginians owned a fork.  By 1778 that number increased to 21% among the poor and 52% among the middle class. 

Of course, forks have their place, but there's something undeniably satisfying about eating with your hands, don't you think? Whether it’s the crispy perfection of French fries, the comforting warmth of a fresh slice of pizza, or the simple joy of tearing into barbecue ribs, sometimes, food just tastes better when you ditch the utensils.

Expiration dates

 

Everything and everyone have an expiration date. As you approach a certain age, which I am rapidly approaching, that realization becomes increasingly clear. The interesting thing about expiration dates, though, is that they’re not always exact. Take food as an example, a container of milk might have today’s date printed on it, but that doesn’t mean it instantly spoils at midnight, it only may spoil at midnight.  In reality, the milk may be perfectly good for a few days, another week, or maybe two.  

With humans it is a little different.  For the most part, your expiration date is thankfully unknown.  It is like playing Russian Roulette, Click, Click, Bang, Gone. Off course many of us will live long lives but many of us may not. 

 Several of my friends faced this uncertainty when they were diagnosed with cancer. They fought long and difficult battles despite being told they had only months to live.  One friend, after enduring major surgery and aggressive chemotherapy for stage 4 metastatic breast cancer was told she was in remission only to find out one week later that it had metastasized to her brain. Still, she continued the good fight and because of this she was finally able to go to the Stanley cup finals and watch the Washington Capitals win!  If you follow the Caps, they make it to the Stanley Cup finals but are eliminated in around the second round.

Another friend had pancreatic cancer. He kept going to the doctor who repeatedly dismissed his symptoms as simple stomach issues. When he finally was tested, the diagnosis came too late, he had already passed the window where chemotherapy might have extended his expiration date. If his expiration date had just been extended even one or two days, he would have seen the birth of his first granddaughter. Granted pancreatic cancer is a death sentence but, in this case, the medical community failed him by not listening. OK, enough of this heavy talk and back to expiration dates.

I read a book all about human expiration dates that I think is a perfect summer read.  The book is called Expiration Dates by Rebecca Searle.  She is the same author that wrote The Dinner List, which I wrote about on April 23. (Also a great summer read).

The book follows Daphne, a woman who believes the universe has a plan for her—one that reveals itself every time she begins a new relationship.  Each time she receives a slip of paper with his name and the exact number representing their time together, their expiration date. Yet, she has always wondered if one day, there would be a slip without an expiration. 

Then, day after a blind date she finally does. The slip contains only one thing, the name Jake, her blind date.

As their relationship unfolds, Daphne starts questioning things and the plot continues.

Exercising when retired

 

In April, 2020 we were in the midst of the COVID Pandemic.  Everyone including myself was struggling to stay sane.  We all were searching for things to fill our time and trying to exercise was a priority.

Going to a gym was out of the question. It wasn't even an option.  Even now, working in the healthcare profession, I still feel uneasy being in a gym environment. I am diligent about wiping everything down before and after I work out.

Just recently I revisited a post I wrote on April 27, 2020 and re-watched the video that I shared with you. Even though we’ve returned to a "normal lifestyle," this video still feels incredibly relevant to me. The creator's perspective on age resonates deeply making me realize that, by her definition I've officially stepped into the "elderly" stage. But being "elderly" is just a concept; one I choose not to accept. It is simply another phase in my life's journey, full of wisdom, humor, and quirks.  Age is a state of mind.  If you feel old and act old, you will be old.  I prefer to take a different path.

Aging sneaks up on us—it’s something we don’t always notice until a moment like this makes us stop and reflect. If anything, it means I have lived through experiences worth sharing

This woman created this wisdom with humor and wit.  Please watch this video.  

Jello Salad

 

I grew up in the 60's and Jello was a staple in my house.   Every year, when it was our turn to host Thanksgiving dinner, my mom or I would make a Pineapple Jello Salad—a dish that wasn’t just any ordinary Jello creation. I started making this dish when I was in elementary school and I was proud of my contribution to the dinner.  It was a true showpiece, holding its own beside the turkey, cranberry sauce, and stuffing.

What made this particular salad so striking? It was all in the design and presentation. To create it, you needed a can of pineapple slices (it must be slices), drained of juice, with the rings left inside the can. Then, you'd prepare a small red Jello (it must be red—there’s much debate over which flavor works best) according to package directions. Once slightly cooled, you’d carefully pour it into the can, covering the pineapple rings. After refrigerating until firm, the real challenge began—getting the slices out intact.

Here is my tried-and-true method: Invert the can onto the plate you plan to serve it on. Make sure it is centered on the plate. Using a can opener open the bottom of the can.  Using a sharp knife free the Jello from the side of the can. Slowly lift the can up and hopefully the pineapple slice log stays intake. Place it on its side using the pineapple as your guide.  I must confess my family wasn't particularly fond of this dish but my mom and I both agreed that it made the table look pretty and we loved it. 

You might ask me why on Earth am I reminiscing about Jello Salad?  First, many of you may have never encountered this vintage dish. Second you may ask, why bother making something so boring there are recipes like Strawberry Pretzel Salad which are far superior in both looks and taste?   Click on this Strawberry Pretzel Salad for the Taste of Home Recipe. Lastly you may ask why now, it's not even Thanksgiving? 

I was inspired to write about this salad because I just watched Leanne Morgan who has a hilarious take on Jello salad and when to eat it.  While I could paraphrase what she said, I would rather you hear it from her. The clip just brought back some wonderful memories of gathering with my family and remembering those who are no longer with me. Food, especially something as distinctive as Jello salad, can be such a powerful connection to those memories.

In addition, if I can entice just one person to make the sliced pineapple salad my work here is done.  All kidding aside, I would love to hear if this recipe was part of your childhood, when you ate it and if you used red Jello and if you haven't watched Leanne Morgan yet, add it to your play list.  

The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry

This book has a quirky charm which is why I chose it.  A.J is an owner of a bookstore on Alice Island a fictional town located somewhere in New England.  He opened the store with his wife, Nic, but tragedy struck when Nic was killed in a car accident. Since then, A.J. has drifted through life in a haze, weighed down by grief.

One day a child is left in his bookstore.  From the beginning there is a unique bond between them.  She literally transforms his life in so many ways.  It is almost like she awakens a side of him that he did not know existed.  But the story is not as straight forward as it seems.  Twists that I did not see and the authors character development made for a compelling read. 

E-readers also become a point in the book triggered by a rare visit by A.J's Mom at Christmas who brought each of his family members an e-reader.  A.J. becomes enraged and it is easy to identify with his frustration.  As digital reading becomes more popular, bookstores face an uncertain future. His business definitely is impacted by the device. 

I always thought I would be one of those people who would never give up reading a physical book, but I succumbed to the ease of the e-reader.  It is so incredibly convenient to carry the e-reader, perfect for moments when I need to occupy my time, especially during my recent travels to Europe.  As an avid reader, having dozens of books at my fingertips and the ability to download a new one instantly is hard to resist.

Unfortunately, this is so true.  Gone are the days when bookstores were everywhere each with their own personalities.  I love going to new places and seeking out local bookstores.  One of my favorites was a bookstore is in Duck, NC called Duck's cottage.  Although they are booksellers, they also sell great coffee and mugs. I would stop by in the mornings the week I was there for some java, and I don't mean the software. I picked up a mug and several books including one mystery written by a local author.  I haven't been to the outer banks for a while.  I hope the store has survived.

I really enjoyed the book. The book was published a while ago and I am sure many of you have already read it but if you haven't consider picking it up. 

Netflix recently adapted it into a movie, and while I haven’t watched it yet, it’s definitely on my list. Still, I sometimes hesitate to watch film versions of books I love I don’t want to be disappointed.

Please share your thoughts on the book itself and the book vs the movie.

Story of My Life

Every now and then I get a hankering for a good Romance Novel.  I know the mention of romantic comedy might cause a few eye rolls, but sometimes, a girl just needs to kick back and enjoy a book without expending too much brain power.   Over the years I have suggested romance novels once or twice or maybe more often. 

With so many books in the romantic comedy genre, it’s clear that not all are created equal. For a book to make it onto my must-read list, it has to have the following elements:

• Great and witty characters - The author must develop both main and supporting characters well. I want to know them, relate to them, and feel invested in their story. A sense of humor and witty banter between them also helps.
• A strong story line.  Even if the best characters are well written they can't save a weak plot.  For instance, I just read a book, Something in the Water, that started out with two good characters, a good plot twist but the author did not follow through on some of the most important parts of the story. This book is more of a thriller, so my expectations of the story line was higher.
• Tension between the two main characters who will become love interests.
• A Happy Ending.  The happier the better.  In today's world where happy endings are few and far between a feel-good conclusion is a must.

I just finished a romantic comedy that I really enjoyed entitled Story of My Life by Lucy Score.

The main character Hazel Hart is a successful romantic comedy author whose confidence is shattered after very traumatic breakup.  Not only did her boyfriend leave, but he marginalized her writing capabilities, leaving her feeling incapable of picking up her pen again. Despite this, she promised her publisher another book who has made it clear to, "Get Us a Manuscript or Else!".

Synopsis of the Book Desperate for inspiration, Hazel acting on an impulse, buys an historic home sight unseen and leaves Manhattan for Story Lake, PA. There she meets a group of eclectic townspeople including the man who will restore her crumbling home to its former glory and who will serve as her muse, mentally and physically.  He is a ten out of ten on the hunky scale.

Before Hazel knows it, her creativity is reignited, and a new story just seems to pour its way onto the pages. She is back in business.

This book is a romantic comedy within a romantic comedy, ticking off all my must-have elements. Honestly, Hallmark should be looking to turn this into a movie—though they might have to dial down some of the heat.

If you are going to the beach or sitting by the pool, consider reading this book

Rough as a corn cob

Once again, I was in my car on my way to work.  My radio was set on my favorite drive time radio station 104.7 and I was listening to the Bob and Sheri show. a woman called in and said that she was talking to some people and she had used the expression "rough as a corn cob".  She was met with quizzical looks and began explaining the phrase’s meaning. But by the time she finished, she realized it was probably best left unsaid.

Having lived first Long Island than Maryland, I had never heard that expression myself. That saying just wasn't in our phrase book.  Lamar one of the cohosts, who has become more vocal on air since Bob Lacey's decision to retire a few months ago, started to explain. 

Apparently, corn cobs played an essential role in rural American households with outhouses. I guess but I cannot swear to this never having grown up in an outhouse environment that the Sears Catalog was used to wipe oneself after a "Go".  If the Sears catalog was gone, corn cob husks, conveniently stored in a bucket near the door, were used.  According to Lamar the Sears catalog was a preferred, smoother option. But when that rean out, corn cob husks were the next best thing.  All I could think is how much it would hurt to use a corn cob husk on one's bottom.  Although if the husk was not really dried out, it might be softer than you think.

Anyway, using a corn cob husk is certainly a much better solution than not using anything at all so congrats to the person who first thought to use it. I love learning new things and I found this use of something usually eaten and then discarded was a very interesting piece of Americana.