Category Archives: Food for thought

10 Years of Sharing This Blog

Posted on by LeAnne Notabartolo

Moment of Truth – I started writing this blog on the actual anniversary (6 June) and I am just now getting around to publishing it…yeah, it’s like that.

About a dozen years ago I met author Vicki Pettersson completely by chance at Borders bookstore. I was buying her newly released first book and she was at the checkout as well. She shared with me that I was the first reader she ever saw buy her book. Kind of like a musician hearing their song on the radio for the first time. I am not sure who was giddier, me or her. As luck would have it, I learned that she came into my life at just the right time. After several meetings I mentioned that I was thinking of starting a blog, but I was worried that I didn’t have anything of value to say or share. She looked me square in the face and said, “Does that stop anyone else? You have a voice. Use it!” So, 10 years ago last month, this blog was born. Thank you, Vicki, for the kick in the pants.

I Over-Shared…a lot

In 10 years’ time I have shared a lot. I’ve shared recipes (that link will take you to the recipe archive on the site with ALL the recipes). My travels to Europe, Egypt, and many other places have been shared in words and photos, and sometimes a video or two. Sometimes when I share that kind of stuff, I feel I am bragging. Like, “Hey! Look what I am doing/eating/experiencing that you aren’t.” And then someone will thank me for sharing and I feel validated and less like a douchey braggart. Upon the death of Anthony Bourdain, I shared my own personal struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. In 10 years, I may have over shared. I started out just talking about food, and inadvertently ended up sharing parts of my life, and heart, and soul with all of you, because my life revolves around food. The making of it, the eating of it, the sharing of it, and so on. To those of you who have been following along since the beginning, I thank you for sticking with me. To those who EVER read my words, I am truly grateful.

10 Years? Time Means Nothing

When I first started, my intention was to write something weekly. And for a while I did that, but even someone who talks as much as I do runs out of valuable things to say after 10 years. I didn’t want to blather on about nothing, and sometimes silence is golden. Moment of Truth: I have had writer’s block (or content fatigue or thought constipation – take your pick) since my Dad died, so the golden silence stretched into months at a time. I wanted this content to be more than masturbatory self-promotion, I wanted you to really enjoy reading it. It’s hard to come up with fresh, valid content ALL. THE. FUCKING. TIME.

And Then COVID Happened

Sister Nancy inspired me to do a set of online cooking classes during the shutdown after I told her about the SecretBurger cook along events that were going on here in Vegas. For a while that was exciting, and now those live cooking classes with my sister have dried up too, for a variety of reasons (primarily the one below). I didn’t want to regurgitate the same shit you see from everyone else, and I truly felt (feel) I have nothing original to say or share right now…but wait, let me catch you up!

But Wait! There’s More…

Earlier this year, I finally convinced my husband to sell The Big House and downsize to something smaller. We moved downtown to a pre-war home that needs a LOT of TLC. I could bore you with details, but let’s just say that I have spent the equivalent of a micro-nation’s GDP on plumbing since moving into this lovely storybook looking house. I have thought of documenting, in words and pics, the process of the remodel, but there are literally hundreds of blogs about that if you are truly interested. We are really enjoying living downtown and walking to many of our fave dining and drinking establishments. One of the reasons the cooking classes have dried up is that my kitchen is a fucking nightmare, complete with electric stove, exposed MDF cabinets with the laminate peeling off the edges, and crowded counters.  The only things I love in my kitchen right now are my new fridge and my Boos block commercial worktable that I have repurposed as an island. Once the kitchen remodel is complete, the classes will resume. I promise.

My Boos Block in the kitchen before any remodeling takes place. Notice the exposed MDF on the cheap ass cabinets. And my gorgeous new Samsung Fridge. The only two things in this pic that are staying are the fridge and the Boos block. The kitchen will be gutted – including that horrendous ceiling!

When you reach middle age, 10 years flies by in the blink of an eye. Some days it feels like I just started this writing project. But more than that, relationships change. My relationship with writing has changed. My relationships with people, places, and things have changed. The way I respond to events is different now, in part to aging. An event that in my teen years would have caused a messy snot filled girl cry, did not bother me at all recently. I seriously have no fucks left to give for bull shit. I have no space or time for people who irritate me like a rash. There is no room in my head space for those who make me feel shitty in any way.

Things Change…

The passing of 10 years has put me fully into middle age and heading toward senior citizenship. I find myself now, oddly, at a point in my life when I see old friends after a long absence, I ask about their health. Yes, really.  A dear friend of mine from high school blew through town recently on a road trip. We hadn’t seen each other in nearly 2 years (thanks COVID), but I know he has a heart condition and worries about his blood sugar. After a huge hug (he said it was the first hug in over a year), the first questions out of my mouth were, “How’s your heart?” and “How’s your blood sugar.” And it wasn’t weird. For us. For now. It just is who we are in middle age.

The bottom line is this, what started out as a way to communicate my love for food, has morphed into something else across 10 years. I do hope you keep reading, sharing, and enjoying this small bit of myself. To be fair, I share more on Instagram, so if you consistently want to see what I am doing, you should follow me there!

The Best of 2020 – Yes. There Was SOME Good

Posted on by LeAnne Notabartolo

This Best of 2020 blog was started in January, then I had a bout of depression, and then we decided to move in February and now, while I have a few quiet minutes I am finishing it. Enjoy and apologies for the tardiness.

Fuck 2020. Yes. We’ve all said it. The entire year was a complete shit show of monumental proportions. There were many disappointments, hardships, and losses of all kinds. Even though they suck, hardships allow for growth in my experience. We all learned to rethink our priorities in several areas. Learning who and what I can, and should, live without was liberating in a way. I eliminated toxic people, situations, and yes, even some foods that I found I could and should live without. My mental and physical health became more of a priority. I normally love to shop in person, but I learned to be a better online shopper and I tried produce delivery services to avoid going into the grocery store as frequently (the delivery services were hit or miss, so I still ended up in the store). I was outraged on behalf of my friends in the small business community when they were held to crippling standards that the big businesses here in Vegas were not expected to follow as stringently. Supporting locally owned businesses became even more of an imperative for our family. I wept for and with friends for many reasons. We all did.

2020 Had it All…NOT!

There was a lot missing in 2020. Celebrations. Dinner Parties. Trips and vacations of all kinds. And even though I was annoyed by virtually ALL of it, I found myself willingly and gracefully falling into the dreaded “new normal” – a phrase I despise BTW – of COVID dictated frameworks. Checklist before I leave the house – phone, purse, mask – CHECK! Who knew a mask could become a fashion accessory? One more place to wear sequins, glitter, and rhinestones! Who knew Stephen King’s The Stand would resonate so profoundly with me every time someone sneezed or coughed in my general vicinity?

2020 was not a year of eating dangerously. It was not a year of new restaurants tried. And yet, 2020 did yield some surprisingly happy things. It had its charms in new and unusual ways. Many rediscovered the joy of takeout and learned about food delivery services (and their usury practices and fees).  Some of us learned to cook new things at home. Hello, Sourdough anyone? Many of us pushed beyond our normal kitchen/culinary comfort zones in 2020. I know I did. I am not usually a “joiner”, but I joined a cookbook club and made some new “e-friends” who are VASTLY different than I. Being involved with this community renewed my passion for feeding those in need.

With all the trials and tribulations of 2020, here is my list of the Best of 2020:

Please Send Noodles – My Cookbook Club

Helmed by James Beard Award Winner Kim Foster, this book club is unlike any other I have belonged to before. Every other week I join a Zoom meeting with anyone else who is interested. We choose a cookbook, and for a month or so, cook from it learning new techniques, recipes, and more about ourselves. Cookbook authors have joined us for private cooking classes and Q & A sessions that were informative and fun. We also do a once a month “community cook” where we band together to feed those less fortunate than ourselves. This group was a balm to my ragged soul in 2020. I thank dear friend Gemini for inviting me, and I thank each active member for contributing and helping me see more of myself.

SecretBurger.com Cook-along Events

When the pandemic forced our local restaurants to close their doors, Jolene Mannina got creative as only she can do! Working with locally owned restaurants, she created limited edition cooking classes with the chefs. Instead of straight up take out, you picked up a pre-measured and prepped box of ingredients, and at a specified time, logged into FB and cooked along with the chef. BRILLIANT! A private cooking class with a local chef? SIGN ME UP! I was able to enjoy some of my fave dishes, like James Trees’ cacio e pepe. I learned his tricks to make it at home, and support locally as well. As much as I enjoyed all the meals cooked with the chefs, Nina Manchev from Forte Tapas is the best teacher on camera IMHO. Restaurants are now open again with limited seating, but Secret Burger is still doing amazing things. Click the link to find out more about upcoming events. Out of towners – this is your ticket to eating like a local…just sayin’.

Quarantine Kitchen with Nancy

Jolene’s cooking events encourage me to stretch my skill set a bit and I started doing online cooking with and for my sister Nancy. About once a month we select a recipe that she wants to learn how to make and I cook it LIVE on Facebook. This is one of the best of 2020 because it allowed me to stay more connected to my sister and out of town friends and I was able to do it through my love language of food. You can see all of the Quarantine Kitchen Videos on my YouTube Channel. While you’re there, take a sec and subscribe so you never miss a video class! If you want to know when the next one will be, be sure to “like” Good for Spooning on Facebook. It’s been a minute since we cooked together and it’s gonna be an even longer minute because I am moving and remodeling a kitchen (more on that soon).

My Sourdough Bread Adventures

From my previous blog you know that I learned to work with sourdough, and it truly is one of the best things from 2020. It’s not just the gorgeous boules that I have been turning out. I’ve branched into English Muffins and baguettes. I do love carbs and this is just a new way for me to love them.

Holiday Gift Guide – 2020 The COVID Edition

Posted on by LeAnne Notabartolo

The Holiday Season is going to be very different this year. Thinking of having a Holiday open house? Fuggetaboutit. Holiday office party? Nixed. Traveling to be with family? Do it at your own peril. I am expecting the remainder of 2020 to be more of the same. Because many people are staying home as much as possible, all but one of the following gifts can be ordered and shipped, so you can shop in your PJ’s.

Let’s be honest 2020 has sucked

A. LOT. It has been one stress inducing thing after another. To help blow away the Holiday Blues that COVID has brought, this is my annual Holiday Gift List, just in time for Cyber Monday. This year, nothing on the list is a splurge. Every item is under $75 each. In fact, you could buy one of everything on this list for under $200. Because we have all been cooking at home more than in the past, this year’s list features the things that I have found useful, entertaining, been obsessed with, or would like to have for myself again. When possible I have shared links to small stores, local stores, or the manufacturers rather than the “big box” retailers. COVID has hit the small business owners harder than ever, support them when you can.

This Cookbook

Right now I am obsessed with Chinese cooking. In particular, THIS book, all about wok cooking. There is something totally meditative about the required prep work that makes this style of cooking great for tuning out stress and tuning into the here and now for me. The author was kind enough to get on a Zoom call with my cookbook club and she is just as amazing as the book itself. The recipes themselves cook up FAST – most in under 10 minutes – the prep is the step that takes the time. Bonus – true wok cooking uses very little oil, so it’s a healthier option in many ways. $35 – available at The Writer’s Block (they ship too).

Stir Frying to the Sky’s Edge – my fave cookbook purchased all year

Now that you have the book…

To make the above book the perfect gift, pick up this wok set. It has everything you need to get started. It’s the perfect gift for the budding cook, a cook dipping their toes into Chinese cooking waters (like me), or the experienced cook who needs an upgrade. I am obsessed with this pan. I am using it as much as possible to get a great seasoning on it (think cast iron). Of course, the woks are available individually as well. Per Grace Young‘s recommendation, get the flat bottomed vs. the round bottomed. I also suggest you add the flax seed oil to your order for seasoning. BONUS – the carbon steel woks are made in the USA! The wok comes with complete instructions for seasoning like a pro. $60 (HOLIDAY SPECIAL) – The Wok Shop, San Francisco.

The kit makes a great “get started now!” Holiday gift, but if you’re buying for someone who already has decent cookware, just pick up the wok itself. Photo from The Wok Shop

Grow Your Own Holiday Magic

For the cook you know that has a green thumb OR wants to try their hand at something new, get a mushroom growing kit. I was gifted one years ago by Friend Rev Kane (Ministry of Happiness) and I LOVED it! ‘Shrooms are easy to grow and if there are kids in the house, they’ll get a kick out of it too. Try Sundown Mushrooms right here in the Vegas valley to support a small company. Various varieties at $33 with free shipping.

This variety is called Blue Oyster, but there are others available. Photo from Sundown Mushrooms website

Small Batches and Limited Editions

I am a sucker for anything that is “small batch”, “limited edition”, “only available for a limited time” and so on. These sauces by Artful Saucier make the perfect Holiday gift for that saucy as hell friend or family member. Made with love by dear Friend Gemini, each is a complete and total flavor bomb. Available online only at this time and a great way to support a small business. Starting at $10. Sign up for the newsletter so you know when new batches are available and when there is a sale!

A sampling of the small batch sauces available from Artful Saucier. Photo from their website.

And THIS Holiday Ornament Sums it Up

A little humor goes a long way in 2020. Especially when it is spot on AND is decorative. Find this ornament and others like it on Etsy. I seriously think everyone on my Holiday gift list may be getting one of these. #Fuck2020

Photo from the linked seller’s site on Etsy

Everyone Needs this…Yes, REALLY

The Hubs found this by accident one day while on a mission to Total Wine after we had come back from a European River Cruise. It is perfect in tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, and utterly delicious on ice cream. Of course this is not for the kids, or anyone who abstains from alcohol. This is one of those things you MUST buy when you see it in the store because they don’t ship it, and it is in limited quantities. When you see it, buy 2. One for you, one for a friend. If you have ever had a Stroopwaffel, you KNOW how delish they are, so wrap your head around your fave hot beverage tasting like all of that goodness…yeah, that. If you have never had a Stroopwaffel, it’s everything you ever dreamed of in a waffle, a cookie, and caramel rolled into one delightful mouthful. Van Meers Stroopwaffel liqueur $13 from Total Wine.

Photo from Total Wine website.

The Holiday Gift that Keeps on Giving

December 1st is Giving Tuesday – Make a donation to your loved one’s favorite charity in their name. My suggestion is to always choose something local to their community or a local chapter of a national organization.

What to Get Me

In case you didn’t know, I started teaching my sister Nancy to cook via online videos. One camera, one take, no editing. Some are better than others, quality wise, as you can guess. As a gift to me, subscribe to my YouTube channel (and watch the cooking videos) and/or my blog (there’s a place for your address at the bottom, and NO I don’t share your info). Follow me on Instagram and Facebook. And once you do, comment and interact with me. It makes my day so much more interesting than just seeing “likes”.

The COVID Times – What I’ve Learned

Posted on by LeAnne Notabartolo

Yeah – I get it. COVID has made this summer suck. Vacations cancelled. Weddings Cancelled. Graduations cancelled. Everything cancelled. Thanks COVID! The opportunities to share and celebrate with friends and family and enjoy your “normal” activities were severely reduced. I get it. I feel it too. BUT I learned a lot about myself and others through COVID mandated social distancing, small gatherings, cancellations, and closures. As a social person by nature who feeds off excitement and activity, isolation is literally my worst nightmare. Being cut off from everyone and everything was nearly trauma inducing for me in April. Then I got my head screwed on straight.

I took this time of isolation to learn and observe.

Skills

Baking

For more than 25 years I have tried to make sourdough bread. I’ve killed starters, made shitty versions of sourdough, and thought I was a lost cause. Then Friend Gemini gave me some of her starter. I thought, “I have nowhere to go and nothing to do. This is the perfect time to try again.” So, like most of the country, I started baking again. Using a book gifted to me by Friend Chris M, I began. First with no success, then with moderate success, and now a few months into attempts, I am having fairly good results. I finally learned a lot of what I was doing wrong with sourdough. My problems were multifold. Firstly, I didn’t know all of the “tricks”. I thought all sourdough was supposed to have that tang like “San Francisco Sourdough” NOPE! I wasn’t following the directions precisely because I thought I knew how to make bread. Being impatient, I was trying to rush the process. Lastly, I was treating sourdough like other breads, thinking it could be done in one day. NOPE! Sourdough takes way more time than I realized. It takes 3 fucking days! COVID taught me to slow down.  

 I also learned how to finally make great Cacio e Pepe – read about it here.

Initial and later attempts at creating artisan sourdough. Both are with spent grain from the Hubs’ brewing

Sewing

I have always been in awe of Martha Stewart – that bitch can do anything! So, I decided I wanted to learn to sew. I had made crafts before, but now I wanted to sew garments. Well, of course no one is teaching classes right now, so it was up to me to teach myself. Thankfully, Friend Jeanie is a master seamstress, so I could call her and ask for advice. Friend Janet has been sewing for years and taught me some tricks too. And even though I had bought fabric and patterns, the mere idea of creating a garment made me break out in a cold sweat. “I have nowhere to go and nothing to do. This is the perfect time to try again.” So I did. I have made 3 dresses! I made a bunch of masks from scrap fabric that I had laying around from craft projects – those were easy. My problems with sewing in the past have been multifold as well. I am impatient…again…and want the results YESTERDAY! Because the crafts came together so easily and quickly, I thought garments would as well. NOPE! I didn’t know all the lingo or how to read a pattern. And being a novice, I was choosing patterns and fabrics “out of my weight class”. COVID taught me to slow down.

Teaching

Sister Nancy wanted me to teach her how to cook online through live videos. I was hesitant to try, but jumped into it because I love my sister. I learned A LOT doing this for/with her. There is a LOT that goes into a live demo, and I knew some of that having done over 1000 in my lifetime, but this was different. I had to look at a camera, talk to a virtual audience, and describe things more fully than if people were there in person. I learned how to “go live” on Facebook and how to transfer the videos over to YouTube. You can watch all the recipes on my YouTube channel*. What I also learned is that while I don’t think I am fast…I kinda am. And when teaching others via live video, it was hard for some folks to keep up. COVID taught me to slow down.

What I RE-Learned About Myself

  • I really like to read trashy novels – not romances, just stuff that I don’t have to think too hard about
  • Cooking is comfort for me
  • I love to travel…and I get cranky when I can’t “get away” for a few days
  • Planning anything (travel, parties, get-togethers, etc.) makes me happy and gives me something to look forward to doing.
  • When I don’t have anything to look forward to, depression sets in
  • Depression BLOWS!

What I Observed About Myself:

  • I have far more patience with myself than I realized – sewing illustrated that for me
  • I have far less patience for other people’s bullshit than I ever dreamed possible
  • Never underestimate the power of a good hug.
  • I never realized how spoiled I truly am.
  • If I put my mind to it, I can do nearly anything
  • I am more of an introvert than I thought
  • Masks hide my resting bitch face
  • I enjoy peace & quiet with no one talking to me
  • I don’t enjoy gardening as much as I used to
  • Don’t take the company of others for granted

What I Learned About Others

  • No matter what you do, someone will always be there to criticize you
  • Tempers become VERY short, when people are cooped up
  • People really don’t understand science
  • Isolation makes everyone react differently
  • Isolation allowed people’s true colors to shine through. Some good. Some not so good.
    • “When someone shows you who they are believe them”
  • Some people can’t read a “one way” sign
  • A person can remain calm, PEOPLE panic

*(shameless plug – subscribe to my YouTube channel, linked above, so you get all the video content. When new videos are posted, you’ll get notified so you can watch them whenever it’s convenient for you). Even better – if you want to cook along live with me when the videos are created, you can follow me on Facebook at Good for Spooning. Same handle on Instagram to see everything I am eating!

Food in the COVID Times

Posted on by LeAnne Notabartolo

Why do we go out to eat? We have food at home! I know how to cook. If the size of my ass is any indication, I am pretty good at. So why do we go out to eat? I’ll tell you…

I Can Do Anything for 30 Days!

When this pandemic and self-quarantine situation started, I said – out loud mind you – “As long as I can get fresh produce, I have enough meat to last us at least 3 weeks.” I knew we wouldn’t be dining out, so I took stock of the chest freezer and did quick nonsense mental math about food to meal ratios and figured I was good. I knew we wouldn’t starve. I thought without dining out at least twice a week we’d save some cash. This was looking pretty good. I can do anything for 30 days! I’ve got this! Then 30 days stretched into 60 days. And even though I love to cook, I grew tired of cooking my own food. I really missed dining out.

And then came the ennui associated with being alone…All. Of. The. Time…and the boredom eating…and the crying. Thanks COVID, now I am a blubbering mess with tighter jeans and a freezer full of meat. Why the hell was I crying? I’ll tell you why – I was lonely. I missed my friends. And I missed the social interaction of eating with other people.

Balm For My Tortured Soul

Truthfully, with the closures of all the places we enjoy eating, and most of them not offering take-out, I honestly thought I’d be making all of my own food. And I did. I tried new things, learned a few vegetarian recipes (My son’s GF is a vegetarian and they join us for dinner each Sunday), and I cooked nearly every day. I made bread. I tackled things I don’t normally make, and we ate well. Trying new things aside, I quickly found myself bored with my own food. Secretburger.com saved me from kitchen boredom. The cooking kits and “cook along” events with some of my favorite independent restaurants here in town were a balm for my tortured soul. I was able to “dine out” even though I had to cook it myself, but I got restaurant quality ingredients and expert instruction from the chef/owner of the resto, and we ate good food. Why did I love this so much? I’ll tell you why – it was like getting a one on one master class for the price of ingredients and my food boredom was cured, if only for one meal.

I Love to Be Pampered

I learned things, or remembered things I had forgotten, during this. James Beard Award Nominee (Best Chef Southwest) Chef James Trees deserves 1000 thanks for sharing his technique on how to make the perfect cacio e pepe. It only has like four ingredients and you’d think that would make it easy. And you’d be wrong. It’s one of my favorite dishes and mine was good, but not great. I couldn’t figure out why it always tasted better when I ordered in Esther’s Kitchen. I thought I was using all the same ingredients. Maybe it was one of those “it always tastes better when someone else makes it” things? NOPE! There is a technique to it that I wasn’t doing. You can watch the video HERE and I’ll let you figure out which step(s) I was skipping or skimping. Thank you, James, now mine is great too! But knowing how to make it won’t stop me from ordering it when I go out to eat, and do you know why? I’ll tell you why – there is something intimate and pampering about eating your favorite dish that someone else has made for you.

At Long Last, Food IN a Restaurant

Finally the restaurants slowly began opening. My very first meal outside my home was with pal Antonio Nunez at his The Stove for brunch. I sat alone at a high topped table and visited with Antonio between his duties as chef/owner. It was glorious. I’ll tell you why – it was the first meal in over two months that I didn’t have to cook or clean up after. Not doing dishes is another reason why we like to go out to eat.

Corned Beef Hash & Eggs at The Stove in Henderson, NV
Perfectly runny eggs-over-easy top a mound of house made corned beef. Instead of cubed meat, it is shredded and wickedly tender. It was perfect for my first meal outside my home.

Friday night we went to Sparrow + Wolf for their third anniversary dinner. As always, Chef Brian Howard made me happy with his food. As always John Anthony and the front of the house made me happy with their service and attention to detail. Most important of all, we were with friends celebrating a birthday. We celebrate with food, whether it is at home or in a restaurant. We laughed, drank champagne, and left happy and full of food that we didn’t have to create. And we felt good about ourselves for doing it. I’ll tell you why – many of our friends (actual friends, not Facebook friends) are in the restaurant community. They have been out of work for months and we were thrilled to be able to support them upon reopening.

Enjoy these pics of our starting dishes and our lovely dessert. To see ALL of the wonderful food, go visit me on Facebook or Instagram.

Perrier Jouet is always a fabulous beginning to anything and Sister Nancy’s favorite dessert is a marvelous way to end a spectacular dinner.

So why do we go out to eat even when we have food at home? We do it for the socialization. We do it to relieve food boredom. We do it to get pampered with our favorite foods. We do it so we don’t have to do the dishes. We do it to support our friends and neighbors and our community. I have a list of places and dishes and cocktails that I can’t wait to revisit. Who wants to go with me?

As I sat down to edit this piece this morning, I realized yesterday was the 9th anniversary of this blog. I know I haven’t written as much as I did when I first started, and I have no more excuses. I am just out of fresh ideas. If you have a topic you’d like me to write about, let me know.

And in celebration of my 9 years of being on the web, I started a YouTube channel with all the Quarantine Kitchen videos from Facebook. Be sure to subscribe so you never miss one even if you can’t watch live. There are other fun nuggets there as well, like sabering a bottle of champagne in Egypt. Go check it out. And subscribe to Good for Spooning on everything, including this blog. Thanks!

Covid 19 – What to do Under Quarantine

Posted on by LeAnne Notabartolo

Allow me to be a whiner for a little bit and then share some cool shit with you.

I am a social person and COVID 19 (not the “Chinese Virus” as the Asshole in Chief keeps saying) has me missing my social-ness. I hug my friends with a kiss on the cheek when we meet up and say goodbye the same way. These days we barely touch each other. And I like to get out and do things, but of course literally every damn thing in Vegas is closed. It’s almost like when I was a teenager in upstate New York. Our nearest neighbor was a quarter of a mile away, we lived out in the country with nothing to do and nowhere to go.

I can draw a direct line in my head to growing up in a rural area and this COVID 19 situation. There are a LOT of parallels. You see, we didn’t have money when I was a kid. We “made do” with every damn thing. We grew our own veggies, Mom canned everything she could (it was a sight to behold). Yes, we qualified for free lunch. No, there wasn’t always enough to go around, but Mom did the best she could. Because of the way NOT having made me feel as a child, in my adult home I start to get a little twitchy if I can see the shelves of my fridge or pantry. If my freezer has space, I start looking for sales to fill it up (or start looking to share butchery of a whole or half animal with friends). This minor paranoia has served me well in the past weeks. I was already a hoarder of frozen and shelf stable food, so I didn’t need to freak the hell out and run to the store. As long as I have fresh produce, I am good to go for at least 3 weeks.

The major problem right now for me is “social distancing”. Cooking is stress relief for me, but The Hubs  and I have been learning to eat more healthfully in order to reduce our weight (combined we have lost 100 lbs). With our eating habits changed, and not being able to “throw a party”, I have no one to cook for. I have no one to feed. And frankly folks, all I want to eat right now are comfort foods


COVID 19 has me feeling some sorta way

We are all feeling it one way or the other. I am a little stir crazy like many of you. Ya know, like kids in the midst of summer break from school whining, “I’m bored!” Like being stationed at “Boring Loring” during a blizzard (only I have electricity).

Enough with the fucking whining! There are people out in our world that are more than just “bored”. They are out of work and trying to figure out how to pay the bills, feed their kids, and get through ALL of this without knowing when they WILL be allowed to work again. There are first responders that are being pushed to the limits because they CAN’T stay home. They are worrying about bringing illness into their homes. They are worried about so much more than “being bored”.

In case you didn’t know, my chosen hometown of Las Vegas is driven by the hospitality and travel industries. Many of my friends and I are feeling the impact directly in the form of closures, layoffs, reduction in hours, cancelled conventions, cancelled trips, etc. due to COVID 19. Then there are the friends and family members who work in “essential” businesses like medical care, grocery stores, first responders of all stripes, family and child protective services who have no option to “shelter in place”. They still gotta get out there and do their jobs to help ALL OF US get through this.

There are always people willing to help - just look for them

We all want to help. We want to help our friends hang on to their businesses and support them in times of trouble. We all want to be safe and help others be safe. But, in these uncertain times, HOW best to help is the big question.

Suggestions on how you can help during the days ahead with COVID 19 :

  • Volunteer at your local food bank. Here in Vegas, Three Square needs help to support their more than 1000 community partners get food into the hands of folks who need it. They continue to provide services during this time. Check them out HERE to register as a volunteer and find out more about how you can help.
  • Support your local Mom & Pop restos that are offering take out. Why go through the drive thru of a chain that will most assuredly bounce back from this when you can put the money directly into the hands of one of YOUR community members? In Vegas, check out this list compiled by Eater. Eater also has lists for other major cities, so check those out if you live elsewhere. Also check out this list from Las Vegas Weekly for more info. There are plenty of places all over the valley to choose from.
  • Offer to shop for someone who is immuno-compromised, elderly, or has their hands full with kids home from school. You can also call friends and ask them what they need if you are heading to the store anyway. That makes for less congestion and fewer people in line.
  • Choose online ordering for groceries and cleaning products with home delivery or curb side pick-up. Expect delays, so think ahead. *
  • Wash your hands METHODICALLY and sing a song while you are at it.
  • Don’t be a fucking hoarder. EVERYONE needs the same shit you do. Think of your fellow humans and how you will feel if you NEED something and it is sold out in every store. Take only what you NEED. Supply chains are still running, and stores continually are refilling their shelves. Thank the heavens for grocery store workers!
  • While shopping, if you see the WIC symbol and you CAN make another choice, think about doing so. WIC has very strict guidelines on what their recipients can and cannot purchase. WIC feeds pregnant and nursing mothers, and infants and children up to 5 years of age. Again, don’t be a fucking hoarder.
Just look for the WIC symbol and make a different choice if you CAN.

Things you can do for your own mental well-being during quarantine. Relieve some stress with these activities:

  • Plant some seeds and watch them grow. In a 30 day “lockdown” most seeds will germinate and start to provide you with visual enjoyment. In the case of herbs and veggies, you’ll know that you have something good to eat coming to your table soon. This is great with your kids.
  • Take a walk in the fresh air or ride your bike.
  • Have an online Happy Hour with friends via Zoom, Skype or some other online conferencing service.
  • Call your family or chosen family to check in.
  • Use those cookbooks you have! Try a new recipe from your Instant Pot, or a vintage cookbook or that celeb chef cookbook that you have been too busy to crack open.
  • Play a game of “Chopped – COVID 19 Version” using ONLY the ingredients in your pantry/fridge. Have your S/O or roommate choose 5 ingredients and make a dish that contains all of them and standard pantry staples and your spice cabinet. If you need inspiration or advice consult your cookbook shelves! The time limit is up to you. Challenge yourself to NOT use the internet to find a recipe – use what’s in your house and your own creativity.
Try and have a little fun in the kitchen to relieve the stress.
  • Learn a new game. Learn to play bridge or some other classic card game and make yourself feel all retro and shit! You can also play some of your faves, like Cards Against Humanity, ONLINE!
  • Learn a new skill or craft – sewing, crocheting, cooking, anything to keep your hands and mind busy.
  • Purge your closet. Try on every damn thing you own and if you still love it and it fits well, keep it. Donate everything else to charity.
  • Clean out the junk drawer in your kitchen…I really gotta get on this one!
  • Read all the books you have been putting off, or pick up a BIG series like Outlander. 
  • Bonus to choosing Outlander? It gets you ready to binge watch the series!
  • Binge watch your wish list of shows that you haven’t made time for yet.
  • Cuddle your pets. They are probably feeling your anxiety and need a little reassurance too.
  • Wash your damn hands.
  • Challenge yourself to empty the freezer. YOU KNOW you have unlabeled things in your freezer. That leftover tomato sauce, that soup you forgot all about, etc. Thaw out one or two things a day and if they are edible, make use of them. You can even turn it into a family game of “guess what this is” before it thaws out or “how can we re-purpose these leftovers”.
  • Here is a list of 100 things to do from USA Today
  • And lastly – practice an attitude of gratitude. There is ALWAYS a reason to be grateful. You have a roof over your head? Food in your house? Friends and family that love you and are healthy? A child’s laughter? A beautiful sunrise? Just take a moment to be grateful. I promise it will make you feel better.

Footnote – * the links to the grocery and cleaning product delivery services are unique to me and I DO receive a referral fee if you sign up.

2020 – Pet Peeves – the Shit That’s Pissing Me Off

Posted on by LeAnne Notabartolo

Last year I skipped my pet peeves blog because I had nothing new to be pissed about.  It was the same old shit. If you want to see what some of my pet peeves are, you can click here and here for a taste. This is one of my favorite blogs to write because I don’t have to even pretend to be nice. Be forewarned, this is peppered with foul language. You are supposed to snicker, laugh, smirk, roll your eyes, and generally have a good time with this post.

Since I last posted the pet peeves blog, I have become a travel agent. As you read along, you’ll notice that some of my new pet peeves are travel related and others are still food or dining related.  Here we go…

Dining and Drinking

Reservations

A while back we had company in from out of town, I made a reservation at a butcher shop/eatery in the Summerlin area (notice I didn’t mention their name, but you Las Vegas locals can figure this out). We arrived a few minutes early and I expected to wait until our actual reservation time. We waited more than 30 minutes PAST our reservation time. What exactly is the fucking point of making a reservation if you are going to make me wait anyway? I understand the place was busy, and a short wait of a few minutes wouldn’t have put this on my pet peeves list. As a former server, I understand that you can’t make people leave. The part that REALLY pissed me off is that we weren’t even given an apology other than a halfhearted “Sorry. We’re really busy tonight,” from the hostess. (My response was “Yes, I expected that. That’s why I made a reservation.”) The manager never approached us or apologized, and we weren’t offered a complimentary glass of water, let alone a cocktail, while we waited. Needless to say, I haven’t been back there, have no plans to ever dine there again, but I will, and have, hit up the butcher shop.

Basic Etiquette

This one really chapped my ass last weekend. While at a bar celebrating a friend’s birthday, The Hubs and I left our perches at the bar (we arrived a little early and were able to snag bar stools) to go dance. Our drinks, my handbag, and a friend were left to “guard” our seats. A couple walked up to order from the bar and promptly sat in our seats. When told “someone is sitting there” they rolled their eyes at my friend and didn’t move when we returned until I gave her the death glare. To add insult to injury, the bitch swirled her drink with a swizzle stick and plopped said stick into The Hubs’ drink. Yes, really. The excellent bar staff saw this and replaced the beverage. If you are old enough to go into a bar, act like it isn’t your first time.

Travel

Other People’s Feet

I know travel can be stressful and uncomfortable, but seriously people leave your fucking shoes on! No one wants to see your nasty feet. Clipping toenails in public? C’mon! And give it a thought, the floors of the plane, airport, or wherever you are walking barefoot have had people walking with who-knows-what on the soles of their shoes. Rodeo time in Vegas? You can bet there is horse or cow shit that you are walking on with your bare feet.

Using My Seat

One of my biggest pet peeves right now since I have been flying a lot is the use of my seat. If you must get up, kindly use your damn armrests to heave your fat ass out of your seat. DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT, use the seat back in front of you. I have been woken from a dead sleep by the passenger behind me yanking my seat back and pulling my hair. I have nearly spilled my beverage down my front by someone grabbing my seat back and hauling their ass out of their seat. Also, for fuck’s sake don’t “man spread” yourself into my seat either.

Body Autonomy

Personal Space

Recently on a cruise (and I am finalizing that post as well), I had people literally shove me out of their way. Do not touch me if you don’t know me other than to shake my hand. Do not crowd up my back while in line or paying for something using my credit card.

Smoking Areas

This is one of my consistent pet peeves. I am a smoker. Don’t judge. If I am in a designated smoking area doing my thing, you can go fuck off.  Don’t come by waving your hands in front of your face making remarks about smoking. I could not possibly care less what you think if I am in a designated smoking area. If I am not s’posed to be smoking somewhere and you tell me politely, I will move. This goes for bars, casinos, sidewalks, anywhere outdoors, etc. If you are rude about it, I will tell you to fuck off and then move. And before the comments start rolling in, don’t lecture me on quitting. You aren’t my mother or my doctor (who have already lectured me ad nauseum on this topic).

Smiling

Don’t tell me I would be prettier if I smiled more. I don’t give a rat’s ass what you think of my looks. I have resting bitch face. Deal with it. Usually this happens to women and not to men. How would a man feel if I told him, “You’d be more handsome if you smiled more”?

And finally on this year’s list of pet peeves, Hand Washing

Wash your hands you filthy animal. I can’t tell you how many times I see women walk out of the rest room without washing their hands. The Hubs and the Offspring see men do it all the time. It makes me cautious about shaking people’s hands. If they didn’t wash up, and I shake a man’s hand it’s like I am touching their dick. There is a certain amount of “ick factor” about that. Wash your damn hands. That’s the best protection.

Of course these are my opinions and my pet peeves. Feel free to comment about yours! I’d love to hear them.

Lessons From My Mother

Posted on by LeAnne Notabartolo

Years ago while living in Chicago suburbs, I met a young woman named Louise Rowley (pronounced Ro-lee) from Ireland.* She was visiting American cousins and she and I hit it off and we started a friendship while she was in the states. One night, on our first foray into the city itself, while down on Rush Street we went into the ladies’ room and from my stall I shouted, “Louise! Don’t sit on the seat!” She shouted back, “Oh my God! My Mom said the same thing!” Across the “pond” two mothers who had never met gave their daughters the same advice. It got me to thinking…

As I just turned 55, I am thinking about all the little things she taught me. You know, those small, and seemingly insignificant things, that shape the way we do some everyday things. As I began to compile this list in my head, I giggled frequently, and I hope you do too. Some of these will hopefully make you think of your own Mom because some are universal, as illustrated by the anecdote with Louise. If you know my Mom, I hope you read these with her voice and facial expressions in your mind.

On Dining Out

Family Meal
Bryan Voltaggio’s Fried Chicken
  • Choose something from the menu that you can’t get at home.
  • If you aren’t sure which fork to use, look at everyone else.
  • Always put your napkin in your lap.
  • Don’t be rude to the waitress, it’s rarely her fault.
  • Chicken Soup is Jewish Penicillin and Wonton Soup is Chinese Penicillin. They will both make you feel better.
  • Don’t dine with people who aggravate you. You will only end up with heartburn.
  • Always tip well. Waitresses work their asses off (Mom & I were both waitresses).

On Restrooms

  • Don’t sit on the seat! You might catch something!
  • Never pass up an opportunity to pee.
  • Hospital restrooms are the filthiest because all the people in there are sick. Don’t go unless you can’t hold it!
  • Always wash your hands.

On Cooking

Build a flavor ladder when you cook.
These are the prepped ingredients. from Top left: Pecorino Romano, juice of one lemon, Anchovy Paste, zest of one lemon, garlic mashed into a paste, finely diced shallot
  • This is what’s for dinner. Like it or lump it.
  • This is not a restaurant; you will eat what’s put in front of you.
  • Don’t overwork your pie crust. It’ll end up being tough.
  • Use your leftovers. There are people starving in China.
  • If you overcook your meat it will be as tough as a hockey puck.
  • The Hotaling Farm has the best corn.
  • Shop local for the best produce. Farm stands are great.
  • If you don’t cook, your kitchen will always be clean.
  • The best thing to make for dinner is reservations.

On Clothing

  • Always wear clean underwear. You might be in an accident.
  • Always WEAR underwear!
  • Pantyhose suck. Stockings sucked too, but if you got a run in ONE leg, you didn’t have to throw out both.
  • Never tuck in your shirt because your ass is too big for that.
  • If you wear something too tight you may end up looking like a sausage stuffed into a casing.
  • Girdles are awful, but they work.
  • I have a uniform – black and white – it goes with everything and is almost always appropriate.
  • Don’t wear red to a funeral. The only acceptable colors are black, navy, or grey.
  • Diamonds are a girl’s best friend. You can never have too much bling!
  • A lady never takes her shoes off in public. Never.

On Life

  • Anything boys can do, girls can do better.
  • No one is going to help you but you.
  • Suck it up!
  • Quit your belly achin’!
  • Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something because you are a girl. Girls can do anything!
  • You never know what you are going to see on a road trip.
  • People will do just about anything if no one is looking.
  • Dance every chance you get.
  • Sing in the car.
  • If someone doesn’t have a sense of humor, get away from them. They probably suck.
  • Honesty is the best policy, even if it hurts someone’s feelings. They’ll thank you later.
  • Stand up straight and don’t “plop” yourself on the couch. Sit like a lady.
  • If you keep your legs crossed you can’t get into trouble.
  • If it’s not half off, it’s not on sale.
  • Share, Share. That’s fair.
  • SPS – Self Praise Stinks
  • Opinions are like assholes. Everyone has one and they all stink.

If you have been following along for a while now, you’ll notice that I have had a serious case of writer’s block due to some major life changes. Life changes also mean that this site is changing. It will be more about life, travel, AND YES, FOOD. I hope you like the new design so far.

Stay tuned for the “Best Things I Ate” post coming soon. It really won’t be what you think this year.

In case you are wondering, after our trip to Egypt this past spring (you can read about it here and here and here) I decided to join the travel industry. I figured if I am going to travel, I want a kickback! You will see more posts on Facebook and “the ‘Gram” about travel and the food I enjoy while out in the wide world. DO give me a holler if you need to plan a trip. I’d love to help you make some memories!

A little help here:

*I have since lost track of Louise. We met before the age of internet (1986), Facebook, and even cell phones. She grew up in County Kildare at Suncroft the Curragh. I’d love to reconnect with her if any of you readers have connections there!

Gift Guide – Holiday 2019 – Shop NOW

Posted on by LeAnne Notabartolo

An apology and an explanation

If you have been following along, you will notice that I haven’t posted a lot this past year. For my loyal readers – especially you folks who have been with me from the very beginning – I am truly sorry. The death of my father last fall hit me a lot harder than I thought it would and, like a novelist I know, caused me to have writer’s block and a complete lack of desire to post anything. My goal is to do better in 2020.

And now for some good news and a gift

The good news is many fold! First, my website is undergoing a redesign, so keep checking back for new images, a new look, and better accessibility (You will notice that pesky double header is now gone – fuckin’ A!). Also, because I love to travel (and eat), I joined the travel industry, so you will be seeing A LOT more here about where to go and what to do (like my Egypt blogs and my Europe blogs from two years ago). When you decide you need a vacation, I do hope you will think of me first when planning.

On top of all that, this is my annual Gift Guide for the foodies in your life. Of course, you will find cheeky things and useful things, and a book written by someone I know personally (in fact, I went to High School with him). I was delighted to receive many of these as gifts myself. Some were found while I was browsing. All are items I’d love to give or receive. Without further ado, here is my guide on what to get that person in your life who loves to cook, eat, or entertain.

Be sure to bookmark these pages and hit them up on Black Friday and Cyber Monday for your gift giving. Many are having sales that you won’t want to miss!

Gray Kunz Damascus Patterned Plating Spoon – $35

Gray Kunz Damascus Patterned Plating Spoon - for a gift that always gets used!

In a previous gift guide, I included the Rose Gold spoon which was gifted to me by dear Friend Nanette. I love it and use it ALL the time. This one has the same dimensions and beautiful manufacturing, but with a little pizzazz on the handle. Bonus – it comes in a perfectly giftable box for easy wrapping. Get on the list NOW because they sell out quickly.

Soulful Harvest cookbook by Chef Tim Grandinetti – $50

Soulful Harvest Cookbook by Chef Timothy Grandinetti - A cookbook is the gift that keeps on giving in the form of deliciousness!

If you live in Winston-Salem, you are lucky! You can enjoy Chef Tim’s food at either Spring House or at Quanto Basta any time you choose. I have known Tim for more than 30 years and he is an exceptional talent in the kitchen. In fact, he gave me my first job as a culinarian and event manager. And for that I am truly grateful. The pictures are gorgeous, the recipes are well written and span everything from comfort food to “fancy” all with a Southern twist. And don’t forget to read the stories! They really give you a feel for who Chef Tim is. Hey, Hudsonians…this one’s for you! To order, click here.

Black Walnut Lame – $35

Black Walnut Baker's Lame - It's a gift a baker doesn't know they want.

Do you have a baker on your list? This is a fantastic gift for a lot of reasons. First, it is gorgeous. Second, it is something every baker needs, but probably buys the $10 version because they won’t splurge on themselves. Because it has replaceable blades, it is a better environmental choice too. And what King Arthur doesn’t know about baking, I don’t need to know. Wooden gift box included AND made in the USA. What more could you ask for?

Ruth Bader Ginsburg Tea Towel – $22

RBG Towel - I know at least a dozen people on my gift list that need this and they don't even know it yet.

If you know me at all, you know I am a feminist and that I love RBG. Thankfully she is literally everywhere these days including on these cheeky towels and so much more. When shopping here, don’t stop at this towel! The site is LOADED with fun gifts for the political activist who enjoys cooking and eating. Suffragettes, RBG, and Harriet Tubman are all featured on totes, aprons, tea towels (that’s a dish towel for us Americans).

St. Anthony Candle – $16

St. Anthony Bourdain Candle - the perfect gift for that someone who has EVERYTHING!

I adore all things Bourdain. This needs no explanation. If the candle is sold out, don’t panic! There are also mugs, totes and other fab items to choose from!

Made In Nonstick Frying Pans

Made In Cookware - the perfect gift for that special someone on your list that LOVES to cook.

Slick interior, great weight, comfortable handle, and made in the USA. Oh, and did I mention that all 3 sizes are under $100 each? The 8” ($75) is perfect for eggs and the 10” ($85) and 12” ($99) are amazing for everything else. There is so much to love about this pan, but supporting USA made products that are created with care in a small independently owned company tops my list. Be sure to check out the other items in their product line. Last year the 10” French made Blue Steel Pan made this list.

Celebrate! Your Life is a Special Occasion

Posted on by LeAnne Notabartolo

Have you missed me? If so, I am sorry for my lack of communication. You see, I have been down in the dumps and unable to dig my way out. If you follow along regularly, you know I suffer from depression and well…the past 6 months have been a fucking gut punch. My Dad passed in October, and the holidays were tough to enjoy and celebrate. I couldn’t even really celebrate LeAnne-uary because I was gearing up for major surgery (knee replacement). Since then I have been in vortex of physical therapy, pain, and doctor appointments to get well enough to travel.

Grab on to Joy

I have been trying to grab on to joy, and learn to celebrate the small stuff. It’s been a rough road, full of potholes and pit stops. I had to start somewhere, so  I started with the glitter makeup in my cosmetic drawer. Those things I bought and said, “I’ll use these for a special occasion.” And the special occasion never materialized. There I was at the beginning of December beginning my purge to downsize my house, perusing my stash. I came to the conclusion that my LIFE is a special occasion, dammit! I decided then and there that I would wear something from my glitter collection every damn day until it was all gone.

Spring Cleaning?

Like many of you, I started the new year by cleaning. You can’t really call it “spring” cleaning because it wasn’t spring yet, but it’s a deep clean nonetheless. All the leftovers, that mystery sauce in the fridge and the weird shit that’s sitting in the pantry. You know all those gorgeous teas, jellies, jams, oils, and seasonings, bought at craft fairs, boutique stores, and on vacations? Why wasn’t I using them?

I bought them “for a special occasion”, but the special occasion didn’t come. So, the stuff sat there…and sat there…and sat there until I had to toss a bunch of it because it was expired. What a fucking waste! My friends are special enough for the luscious apricot jam I brought back from Austria! My husband is special enough for the Tom Douglas Rubs I brought back from Seattle! I am special enough for the fancy Persian tea flavored with bergamot! I’ve been drinking the special teas, using the fancy jams, and generally using all of the gee whiz cool spices and seasonings I have lying around.

Avocado Toast with Furikake and Tajin
Mom stole a corner of this and she was hooked – see notes below.

When I have good avocados, my new favorite breakfast is avocado toast with Tajin and either Japanese Furikake Rice seasoning or zaatar; sometimes one slice of each flavor. I am relishing the fragrance of beautiful herbal teas at night (mainly because I am trying to lay off the booze) instead of saving them for a special occasion. These beautiful chili threads from Spiceology are being sprinkled on eggs, pork roasts, just about anything, including avocado toast, just because they are surprising and pretty.

Spiceology Chile Threads as surprisingly beautiful as they are tasty.
Everything I have tried from Spiceology is fantastic and you should hit them up too! This photo is from their website.

For the love of all that is fun and spectacular, use the good plates, the good flatware, and the special glassware. Lay out the linens and just KNOW that you and your people are worth the “Special” stuff! And that goes for booze too! C’mon, you know you have that bottle of bourbon or Scotch or whiskey that you’ve been saving for a special night. Well guess what? Tuesday is a special night!

Woodford Reserve Bourbon
Fun with a “dummy bottle” at a Woodford Reserve bartender competition

Use a Reward System

If it makes you feel better, use a reward system to enjoy the treats you have squirreled away for a special occasion. Got out of bed and worked out? Enjoy whole grain pancakes with a drizzle of real maple syrup from Vermont. Passed an exam? Got a promotion? Hit up that bottle of special booze. You can also create a special occasion. Host a real tea party and use up the fancy teas, lemon curd, and cool sugar cubes you have in your secret stash. A tea party would even be a perfect time to learn to make scones or tea sandwiches. Hmmm…now there’s an idea.

Host a tea party of your own...

Photo by Anete Lūsiņa on Unsplash

A Couple of Notes:

  1. On Avocado Toast – it’s such a simple thing and I can’t believe what restos charge for it! Unless their bread is something truly special, you should just make it at home. While Mom was here helping me rehab post-op, I got her totally hooked on Avocado Toast. She prefers hers without the furikake and calls it the fishy stuff. She insisted she can’t get Tajin in Florida and bought a jar to take home and gratefully accepted half of my zaatar before heading home so she could make it for herself.
  2. On travel mentioned earlier – As I type I am ruminating on packing…for 2 weeks in Egypt. I have my clothes laid out and I have tried everything on, but there are some additional concerns for me. Namely being culturally sensitive. I’ve been told, “Women should dress modestly” not showing their cleavage, not wearing anything too form fitting, and not wearing sleeveless shirts. Um that was most of my warm weather clothing. Stay tuned for postings from Egypt.
  3. On Subscription – Did you know that I do not accept ads? Did you know that I don’t share your email address? Did you know that regardless of how many posts I make each week, you will only get one email from me on Tuesday evening at 8 pm Pacific Time? Have you subscribed?
  4. You can follow along for ALL of my food (and some life) pics on Instagram and Facebook at Good for Spooning on both platforms. Please do!
  5. Did you know there is an entire collection of cooking videos? Go to YouTube and subscribe there as well. You’ll get notified when I create something delicious.