Items about anything and everything
Balancing Tradition and Inclusivity Part 1 Introduction History education isn’t just about memorizing dates and events—it’s about understanding how we got here, what shaped our world, and what lessons we can learn from the past. And let’s face it, the way history is taught has always been a bit of a battlefield. Some argue that…
1960s vs. 2020s .In looking at history and how it has a tendency to repeat, I posted an article looking a the 20s a century apart but with glaring similarities. In this article, I look at two decades separated by 60 years but with similarities as well. Having lived through the 60s which was a…
Today I am republishing the core article from my newsletter of February 2010. The article would be accompanied with a promotion of featured cookware (in this instance clay bakers which if you have not heard of or used, you should seek them out, they produce memorable meals that are easy to prepare.) I hope you…
A Century Apart, Yet Strangely Similar Does history repeat itself? Sometimes it seems to attempt to achieve similar outcomes at different points in time. Often, it is the mistakes that repeat rather than the successes. Let’s take a look! History has a way of repeating itself—sometimes in ways we expect, and other times in ways…
We are now in that part of winter between Valentines Day and Easter when the days seem long and nights seem longer. As temperatures continue to drop, there’s nothing quite like a warm and comforting meal. French cuisine is known for its rich flavors and hearty dishes, making it a cozy choice for cold winter…
The TV Shows & Movies Everyone’s Talking About Back in the good old days, if you missed the latest episode of MASH*, Dallas, or Seinfeld, you were out of the loop. TV shows and movies had their big moments, and then they were gone until reruns. Now, thanks to streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime,…
NASA’s Artemis Program & Private Ventures to the Moon The Moon is no longer just a distant rock in the sky—it’s quickly becoming the next big frontier for science, technology, and even business. NASA’s Artemis program and private space companies are leading the charge, setting the stage for what could be humanity’s return to the…
Valentine’s Day Breakfast Ideas Smoked Salmon & Avocado Toast with Poached Egg Elegant, delicious, and full of flavor!Ingredients: 2 slices of sourdough or multigrain bread 1 ripe avocado, mashed with a squeeze of lemon 4 slices smoked salmon 2 eggs (poached) Fresh dill Capers (optional) Black pepper & sea salt How to Make: Toast the…
Valentine’s Day is coming up soon! Here are a few ideas to make the day a bit special along with some recipes for a stimulating breakfast and for an interesting dinner one that is a bit different but not too hard to make. Fruit Bouquet In place of flowers, opt for a tasty bouquet…
It’s early February and in most places, it is cold and probably raining or possibly snowing. So now it the time for some hearty, sole warming dinners. I have accumulated a few and provide some ideas for you. Let me know if you like these suggestions and would like me to gather some more ideas…
How to Live Longer & Stay Healthier Why Longevity Matters More Than Ever Aging is inevitable, but the way we age? That’s something we have more control over than ever before. Researchers are diving deep into longevity science, uncovering ways to not just extend our lifespan but, more importantly, extend our healthspan—the years we stay…
I brought out one of my old newsletters. Starting February, it will be cold here so it seemed that good chili should be in order. The is from 2009 but it is still a really good recipe. This could be the best chili recipe you’ll ever make or at least it was the blue ribbon…
Why Solar Makes Perfect Sense Now During the last few months alternative energy has been discussed. While the last administration seemed to promote alternative energy efforts the new administration does not seem to be positioned to support alternative energy especially offshore wind turbines or electric automobiles. However, there will be continuing development in different solutions…
Ah, the presidential inauguration—a day of pomp, circumstance, and solemn oaths. But while what we see on our televisions or mobile devices are perfectly orchestrated moments, the real magic (and chaos) happens behind the scenes. Let’s take a look at what you won’t find in the official broadcast—and have a little fun doing it. Let’s…
Learning doesn’t end with retirement or even at any age. It continues as long as there’s something interesting to learn and do. Yet, many seniors may not know how to get started with new or long-forgotten skills. The good news? There are countless options to explore. Take a look at some inspiring examples. A friend…
It is still pretty cold around here and it does not seem to be much better in the Midwest or East given that amount of snow they received over the last few days. This soup time! Nothing hits the spot when it is cold like a good hearty soup. So, I have included recipes for…
A Guide for Those Over 65 It happens every year: we set ambitious New Year’s resolutions, especially around fitness or diet, only to see them falter a few weeks later. On the fitness side, this is particularly common for older adults, who might face unique challenges like mobility limitations or simply feeling out of place…
A Practical Guide to Smart Integration There has been a lot of discussion over the last few years about smart appliances and how to make your kitchen more efficient. But for many of us, the transition seems to be more bother than benefit. However, the devices and appliances are getting smarter and easier to implement…
I have been a bit delinquent in getting research done and articles drafted. First, there has been too much Christmas in getting my home decorated for the neighborhood light challenge and then having to do my daughter’s house as well and then that has been too many doctor visits which take mental priority if not…
I am a bit late getting this posted for Thanksgiving but it is still good for Christman. Thanksgiving is more traditional anyway with turkey and ham for dinner. People often ask me what my favorite holiday meal is and I reply without hesitation – Standing Rib Roast. I am not a big turkey fan but…
or Is It the Other Way Around? Reading Brad Thor’s Shadow of Doubt, I was struck by how closely the fictional scenario mirrors real-life events unfolding between Russia and Ukraine. Thor also explores similar themes in another novel, Shadows of Decline. This raises an intriguing question: does fiction mirror reality, or do real-life actors unconsciously…
As we start into the height of the holiday season, many of us look for gifts that are unique, personal and relatively easy and not very expensive. I will attempt to provide a few examples. Then your imagination can expand on these to provide your own unique touch and personality. The point of most of…
Economics has been a topic of conversation over the last few months b ut from my warped perspective a great many of the people talking about economic have never studied the topic, have forgotten most of what they read or are just ignoring some of the basic principles. And this, I believe could lead to…
We just returned from a two-week trip to Spain and Portugal (an addition to the countries of the world that I have been to) which was a very good trip, Transportation went smoothly (still a bit long however), Accommodations were terrific. Support at all locations was above expectations. What more could you ask for? We…
Lately, I’ve noticed quite a few articles and conversations about retirement, and while they don’t apply to me anymore—since I retired for the third (and hopefully last) time several years ago—they’ve made me reflect on how much the concept of retirement has changed. Most people I talk to approach retirement in the traditional sense: you…
Since I will not be here for Halloween, then I should post a few receipes that are appropriate for the holiday season. Here is a really good dip for when you are sitting around waiting for all those trick or treaters. Also, a couple of butternut squash items that can complement a meal or perhaps…
The Dutch Oven is one of the most versatile cooking utensils you have. It can be used for braising, sauteing, braising and lots of other tasks. It is superb for stews, chili, soups, slow roasting and even making bread. I have grabbed a few recipes from one of my favorite sites just to give you…
A Personal Take I recently spent some time with 1001 Ideas That Changed the World, a book that ambitiously attempts to chart the most significant ideas that have shaped human history. Published in 2013, it covers a sweeping range of thoughts, innovations, and events—from centuries before the common era right up to modern times. It’s…
I’ve been reflecting a lot lately on whether we’re on the verge of losing a significant portion of an entire generation. Evidence is mounting that many from Generations Z and Alpha are falling behind in basic life skills—skills that were once considered fundamental to success after high school and college. The thought that we could…
We are getting into some of the busiest time of the year. But I thought this change of pace might be useful. I have done this in the past developing theme dinners of various flavors – Italian, French and even Turkish. Here I am proposing a Taste of Spain.(This is actually from a newsletter from…
