Closing the generation gap .... with cookies

I was taught to respect our elders. It's just how we were raised in my generation. In fact, I've always really liked being around seniors, because they represent such a wealth of knowledge, experience, wisdom and history. 

I worked as a candy striper for four years in the skilled nursing care wing of a hospital, was a highly involved volunteer for the Senior Olympics, and generally just like spending time with my elders. 

Despite irritation and discouragement from my observations of the lack of respect and consideration our elders receive, sometimes a brilliant ray of sunshine breaks through and renews hope. This time, it was in the form of two adorable little boys - ages 4 and 6. 

The doorbell rang at my parents' house the other day. Mom was greeted by a young family who introduced themselves as neighbors from a few streets over. The parents, both school teachers, explained that they take their two sons by my folks' house nearly every day on the way to the swimming pool, and they often see Dad working in the yard. The little boys were so impressed with how dedicated he is to making the yard nice that they wanted to do something for him. 

And so, little Finn and Jack each wrote Dad a note which was delivered along with a bag of delicious homemade chocolate chip cookies. Upon learning that Dad had just celebrated a birthday, the boys were even more excited. 

Mom didn't mention that he just turned 99. I don't know if the kids could even fathom that. Mom didn't mention that he doesn't keep track of the fact that he's outside 25-plus times a day. The kids might like this, but they cannot fathom that it's because his dementia makes him forget how often he's out there. 

But bless that family, the parents who instill great values in their children, and the big hearts of those two boys. If I ever get to meet them myself, hugs all around! THANK YOU.

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For the love of art: Wade Wilson Art is awash in color

Houston is a city where you can get up-close and personal with some exceptional art created by brilliant talent from all over the world. 

Consider the gallery of Wade Wilson. He has a keen eye for talent, and especially for artists who are adept at large-scale works filled with rich layering, texture and dimension. Any opening there is a guaranteed hit, because there will always be a piece or five which speak to you. Oh, and the people who attend the events are also colorful and engaging.

Recently we checked out a multi-artist show, and this gallery continues to feature serious artistic merit.

Houstonian Justin Garcia is a master of mixing oil, acrylic and compound texture. Standing close to his canvases, you see bubbling and crackling on the surface. It's just so yummy. His philosophy is that 'art is the doorway to discovering the answers that lie behind our innate curiosity.'

Hans de Bruijn, a conceptual expressionist, was trained at the Royal Arts Academy in The Hague. He does wonders with juxtaposed positive and negative images, with layers upon layers of paint. I found his work to be playfully abstract yet architectural, and his brushstrokes lush and seductive. 

Thomas Glass loves the art of collage, and reminds me a little of Picasso plus Miro plus Cezanne. His works are huge riots of color, with plenty of little surprises to keep you absorbed in studying his work.
 

Houston boasts dozens of art galleries in its thriving art community. Get out and put yourself in the middle of it - you'll be glad you did. Pin It Now!

Why the dog is still worth it

This is Cowboy Jack. He's a blue merle Sheltie who adopted us about four and a half years ago. We're the happier for it, despite the onslaught of furballs that effortlessly scuttle across the floor like soft tumbleweeds. 

Originally, Jack joined the family on the occasion of Greg's daughter's birthday in 2001. The runt of the litter, he was one of two puppies who managed to not drown in tropical storm Allison. The rest were swept away.

Cowboy Jack maintains that 'survivor' demeanor, a sweet temperament and a Facebook account, but our furry friend has become decidedly high maintenance. 

He has arthritis. 

He has a heart murmur. 

He wheezes like a steamboat.
 
He has nearly permanent skin allergies. 

And he suffers from kidney disease. So, Jack gets an IV every few days, prescription renal modified food, phosphorous blocker and acid controller. I roast chicken for him constantly. 

Despite all of this upkeep, that smelly old thing is still worth it. Even on the really bad days. Because, to a dog, there is no such thing as a bad hair day. And they just want to love and be loved. 

Do you have a beloved pet? To what extreme would you go for your non-human friend?

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A tasty tailgate for a cause

We all migrated indoors..

Tailgater is not a portmanteau to typically describe us, though we are Texans fans. Greg impulsively bought tickets to the first 'Monday Mayhem' tailgate event in the parking lot of Triniti to enjoy the Texans game action against the Pats and 'gin up' on BBQ. This was also a charity event, with proceeds benefiting St. Jude children's hospital and OKRA. Greg is a generous guy, so maybe it was the charity angle that drew him in. Or maybe it was nostalgia, since I moved here from Boston. Or, most likely, it was the promise of BBQ and beer. 

Brandon, a recent import from Trinidad and chef at Triniti

We loved the lineup of participating restaurants: Anvil, Benjy's, Branch Water Tavern, Killen's, Roost, Soma Sushi, Sparrow, Triniti and Underbelly. Plus, we had the benefit of sampling from our favorite local/regional breweries including Karbach, Southern Star, No Label and St. Arnold.

Mind you, this was a Texas tailgate. So, it was rather ... meaty. I ate more smoky goodness in a few hours than I generally eat in a few months. A lot of months. I noticed that Greg didn't complain, but finally surrendered to the gods of carnivorous carnage and said 'no more.'

What worked so well for me were the deep flavors as the parry and fresh crunchy vegetables as the riposte, and the preponderance of pickling. What didn't work well was the 40-something temperature (I'm a wimp now that I live in the south!).

Here are a few highlights:

Benjy's sandwich with picked veg and pickled egg

With Kevin Naderi, Roost's chief everything & owner

Roost's foie gras 'jell-o shot'

Monica Pope's crazy great tacos

Pork cheek, crunchy veggies and hibachi corn from Soma

If Triniti decides to do this kind of event again, I'd recommend outdoor heaters if it's cold, some kind of seating to watch the game or a way to inform attendees that they should bring their own tailgate chairs (there were like 20 seats they grabbed from the front patio), and basic handouts from the participating restaurants to describe what they're serving and maybe an incentive to get us into their restaurants (we frequent most of them anyway but this type of event is a great marketing vehicle).  

Best part of the evening: eating all that wonderful food offset the pain of losing the game. 

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Hometown nostalgia - upstate New York

Recently, I had an opportunity to visit my folks in upstate New York. Whenever I go back to visit the ol' hometown, I get sort of nostalgic. This visit was no exception. The nostalgia for me isn't so much about trying to climb back to the past, but instead about taking a fresh perspective on the places I mostly took for granted growing up. 

It's nice to have roots that remain firmly planted in the town where I grew up. The Utica area was once a boom-town after WWII, but now does not really have much of an economic base. While I don't think I'd really want to live and work there now, what matters most is that I get to visit with, and cook for, Mom and Dad. 

They indulged me on a quick few stops so I could snap some pics of landmarks. Here are just a few:

The Saranac Brewery (above) was founded as the West End Brewing Company in 1888. I was a tour guide here for two summers. It's kind of fun when you can speak intelligently about brewing beer when attending a fraternity mixer in college! 

The old Bank of Utica, known as 'the bank with the gold dome.' I love the overly fancy architecture and, if you ignore its surroundings, you'd swear for a minute that you were in London. I had my first banking account here, saving coins in those cardboard pig-shaped folders to deposit when they were full.

The Stanley Theater, built in 1928. I've been here many times for concerts, plays and ballets. One of my favorite memories is our family trip to see Bill Cosby perform, and watching my mother laughing so hard that she cried through most of the show.

 
The Raymond Simon Convergence Media Center at Utica College. Not everyone gets to have a center named after their Dad! We were lucky to grow up as faculty brats, and Professor Simon has made such a mark on the communications field. And, the broadcast studio in the center is named after my Mom. How cool is that?

The New Hartford house where my sister and I were raised. Back then, everyone's doors were unlocked, kids played freely in backyards, front yards and the streets, and the parents sounded bells and buzzers and horns to call the kids in for dinner.

We often enjoy dramatic sunsets in upstate New York. Part of it is the atmosphere, and part of it is a lower level of pollution than other places. To me, this is a magic show that never gets old. And in my mind, when I'm back in upstate New York, nor do I. 

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Wrath of the storm

Next exit: boats only, please

Sandy has arrived, and she's mad as a hornet. Our thoughts and prayers are with our family and friends in the Northeast (after all, I'm from up there) and we hope the damage from this massive storm is not what the pundits are predicting. 

When Hurricane Ike hit Houston in September 2008, Greg was just a few days post-surgery. We rode out the storm in our home with our trusty dog at our side, then lost electricity for 11 days. It sucked. The damage to our home was minor, but we had to rely on the kindness of friends for shelter.

Gross stuff bubbling up: Allen Parkway

It's not good to be where a hurricane passes, as I learned what it meant to be on the leading side of the storm, in the eye, and on the dirty side. The leading side is scary because it's dramatic and it sounds like a freight train is rushing by. You think your windows will bust right in. The eye is almost worse, because an eerie calm takes over with the air of inevitability, as if you're attached to a bungee cord over Victoria Falls and are about to be pushed over. Then the dirty side comes. All the junk swept up by crazy winds and rain goes everywhere, often causing the worst damage. Oh, and the real flooding. 

We're sincerely hoping that the parts of the country affected will get back to normal soon, and that Sandy will decide that she's easily bored and head back out to sea. 

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The world in your backyard: Menil Collection turns 25

Anyone who found themselves on the grounds of the Menil Collection in Houston last Saturday met with good fortune in the form of a truly enjoyable celebration of the collection's 25th birthday. 

The catalyst for this astonishing, world-class and masterfully curated art collection actually occurred back in 1931 in France, with the marriage of John de Menil to Dominique Schlumberger. 

France's loss of these residents during WWII was Houston's gain, as the de Menils quickly steeped themselves in Houston's then-nascent art and architecture scene. The landmark building housing the main part of the family's collection was built by Dominique after her husband's passing. 

To me, and probably many thousands of others, this building is not only inspirational from the exterior in its harmoniously rooted connection with its park-like surrounding, but also the interior with daring proportions and almost startling white space and acoustics show reverence for (and deference to) the art and artifacts it houses. 

On this particular day in a series of events celebrating the collection's 25th birthday, we loved the family-friendly setting...

...the exciting live jazz musicians...

...the dancers sweltering in the heat...

 ...and time with my honey!    

Thanks to ongoing generosity of corporations and individuals, the Menil Collection is free, the event was free, and no passport is required to access amazing culture from around the globe. 

How much do we love living in Houston? 


 

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Lighter fare: kitchen sink summer soup

It's summer, the appetite is a little more in check, and so we crave lighter, healthier fare. I'm not a huge soup fan, but every now and then it's so pleasurable. I made up this recipe by accident. This soup lets you throw in everything but the kitchen sink - as long as you stick to vegetables and stay away from fatty or starchy additions.   

Collard and kitchen sink summer soup

This soup starts with a quick saute, followed by the addition of the remaining ingredients and a short simmer. You can switch out ingredients according to whatever is in the fridge.

Collard and Kitchen Sink Summer Soup

What's in it:

• About two smallish carrots or 6-7 baby carrots, thinly sliced with a mandolin
• One large clove of garlic, minced
• Half a head of collard greens or kale, cut into thin strips
• About 5 cups of good chicken broth or stock (I make my own in large batches and freeze it in one-cup measures)
• 2 green onions, tops cut off then sliced into 1/8 inch rounds
• About 8-10 square wonton wrappers, cut into smaller squares or triangles
• One teaspoon dark sesame oil  
• Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
• A dab of Sriracha (to your heat preference)

How to make it:

Saute carrots, garlic and collards or kale over medium heat with cooking spray or olive oil for 7 or so minutes, until they begin to get tender. 

Add broth, onions, wonton wrappers, sesame oil and salt and pepper. 

Simmer for 20 minutes. Serve it up, add your Sriracha and enjoy!

Ideas for substitutions or additions: shaved leeks instead of green onions; cabbage instead of collards/kale; add in sugar snap peas at the end

 

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'Every Woman Deserves To Be Beautiful'

Actual photo is much more striking of Heidi

This is the tagline and brand statement for a wonderful line of skincare and makeup from founder Heidi Schulze. She's based in Houston.

If I've said it once, I've said it a million times. Houston doesn't get its fair shake in this country. What an under-marketed city with marvelous talent we have! The transcendent Heidi Schulze is one of our shining stars. 

Heidi has recently faced some serious health issues. She battled with cancer previously, so has a following among women who also have won this battle and want to come back better than ever. With the latest setback, a loving friend who does marketing for Heidi hosted a 'life celebration' soiree in her honor. 

Some of the skincare products, and the lovely goodie bags for guests

The older I get, the more I must focus on my health, and skincare in particular. It means more budget is set aside for this, but it's completely worth it to look as young and vibrant on the outside as you feel on the inside.

The stunning lip glosses

One of the special guests at the party was Joanne King Herring, who was the subject of 'Charlie Wilson's War' and has led a fascinating life. She's an octogenarian, and in person is quite stunning and incredibly gracious.

Wherever we are in life and whatever our station, as a woman I believe that, indeed, every woman deserves to be beautiful!

With Joanne King Herring - an elegant, gorgeous and gracious lady

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Turkey Meatloaf ... Living on Leftovers

Ready to go into the oven

Since it's summer, one of the last things to hit the menu is meatloaf. But I'd contend that comfort food is year-round. Since I only purchase ground beef about four times a year, I moved to meatloaf made with ground turkey some time ago. I've gradually been updating one of my fave recipes to sneak in more of those healthful veggies. Try this one out - it's a barbeque theme and makes awesome leftovers!

Finished product! I couldn't help taking a bite first.

Turkey Meatloaf with Secret Veggies

[the loaf]

1 egg

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 - 1 1/4 pounds ground turkey

1/2 - 3/4 c. fresh bread crumbs (process in your food processor)
About 6-8 sprigs of fresh parsley, chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1/2 onion or 3 green onions or 1 large shallot, finely chopped
1/4 large green bell pepper, chopped

1/2 medium red bell pepper, chopped

2 peeled carrots, put through the food processor until finely chopped

1/3 of one large zucchini, put through the food processor until finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

[the sauce]
1 8 oz can tomato sauce
1 cup ketchup
1/2 cup water or beef stock (can use bouillon)
3 tbsp. Balsamic vinegar
3 tbsp. brown sugar
2 tbsp. Dijon mustard
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 

Combine the sauce ingredients in a bowl and set aside.

In a large bowl, beat together the egg and olive oil. Add in remaining loaf ingredients (hint: mix veggies in separate bowl then add to turkey, etc.) and 2/3 cup of the sauce. Mix gently. If possible, put the bowl in the fridge and let the flavors steep for a few hours. 

Place into shallow 7x10 in. pan or bread loaf tin, lightly oiled. I prefer the 7x10 pan so I can free-form it. Brush just enough sauce over meat loaf to coat. Bake in a 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven for up to one hour and 15 minutes. Let it sit for 15 or so minutes before serving.

When the meatloaf is nearly finished baking, put the rest of the sauce in a small saucepan and gently simmer on the lowest heat, mostly covered, so it reduces just a bit and the flavors concentrate. Drizzle some of this lovely sauce over each piece.

This meatloaf is great with mashed cauliflower as a substitute for mashed potatoes (also better for summer eating). 

 

[leftover ideas]

- Enjoy cold meatloaf sliced and tucked into whole wheat pita along with homemade coleslaw. 

- Make a shepherd's pie out of crumbled meatloaf along with leftover sauce as the base. You might have to make extra sauce.

- Pizza! Cut meatloaf into bite-sized pieces as a pizza topping, along with extra barbeque sauce, thinly sliced green onions, sharp cheddar or Jack cheese, jalapenos and maybe some cilantro sprinkled on after baking.  

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Awesome food, awesome company - Beth's lingerie shower

This week has been awesome. One reason is that Corey is in visiting from Trinidad! Another reason is that Beth, Corey's bestie, just got engaged and we hosted a super fun bridal lingerie party organized by Corey.

Here are some pics (mostly of food) as the others I can't publish as it would spoil the surprise for Beth's new hubby. I must say, Corey knows how to throw a great party. This very tasty food was both healthy and colorful, and provided just the right festive setting.

Miss Bethany Wesson, the lovely bride-to-be!

Part of the spread: that's spinach dip past the pretzel chips 

Chicken sausages: cilantro lime, and apple with cinnamon

Veggies on a bed of arugula with hummus

Lime shrimp with water crackers and Parmesan crisps

Tiny caprese skewers

Guacamole with peach, pineapple salsa, black bean dip

Herbed goat cheese, prosciutto, aged Gouda, pepper jack bites

On a side note, another few reasons this week has been a great one:

--> I've learned and refined more skills in the kitchen at the Star of Hope Women and Family Emergency Shelter - always a bonus! It's an amazing place to volunteer.

--> I tried a new arm balance pose at yoga for the first time called Astavakrasana (Eight Angle Pose) - and nailed it on the first try on both sides! This is a really tricky one as you can see below, so it's pretty exciting.

--> I FINALLY did King Pigeon on one side at yoga - after nearly two years of trying. Now for the other side!

--> I'm really proud of Greg who has been working so very hard and is doing great things.

This week, I'm feeling especially blessed and very grateful. I'll end with a quote from President Kennedy that I hope inspires you too:

'As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.'

-- John F. Kennedy  

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