You Only Have One Life

 

Top Ten Favorites - Food-themed Movies

“If you are what you eat, then I only want to eat the good stuff.” – Remy (Patton Oswalt) in “Ratatouille” (2007)

Hello, my lovely friends! 

You know the drill—it’s Friday, which means it’s time for another top ten list! Today, I’m feeling particularly hungry for some cinematic inspiration, so I’m diving into my top ten favorite food movies. Honestly, I absolutely love a good cooking movie. There is just something so cozy about watching a story unfold in a busy kitchen; it almost always makes me want to pull out a few of my favorite vintage cookbooks, get into the kitchen, and start planning some delicious meals for the coming week. Does anyone else get that urge, or is it just me?

    There is something truly magical about the way a great movie can make your stomach rumble and your heart soar all at the same time. Whether you’re looking for some culinary inspiration or just want to cozy up with a film that celebrates the sheer joy of a good meal, food-themed movies are like a warm hug for your soul. If you’re a fellow foodie who loves a good story served with a side of something delicious, I’ve put together a list of my absolute top ten favorites that I think you’re going to adore.

Kicking things off at number one is Julie & Julia, which is basically the gold standard for food films. It’s impossible not to love the parallel stories of Julia Child’s culinary journey in Paris and Julie Powell’s quest to cook every recipe in Mastering the Art of French Cooking. It’s equal parts funny, sweet, and inspiring. Coming in second is Chef, a movie that feels like a pure love letter to the industry. Following a professional chef who quits his job to start a food truck with his son is the ultimate feel-good experience, plus, those scenes of him making Cubanos will have you running to the kitchen immediately!

Third on my list is Tortilla Soup, a beautifully warm movie about a retired chef and his three daughters that proves how food is the glue that holds families together. Right behind it is Chocolat, which is just as lush and enchanting as it sounds. Watching Juliette Binoche transform a small French village with her magical chocolate shop is the perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon. For something with a bit more of an edge, The Menu takes the fifth spot. It’s a wild, satirical, and dark ride through the world of fine dining that will definitely change the way you look at a tasting menu, but it’s just so captivating you won't be able to look away.

If you love passion, drama, and some seriously incredible Italian cooking, Big Night is a must-watch. It captures the struggle and the glory of running a restaurant so perfectly, and that final breakfast scene is pure cinema gold. At number seven, we have the visually stunning and deeply emotional Like Water for Chocolate. It’s a gorgeous story about love, tradition, and how emotions can actually manifest through the food we prepare. It’s truly a classic for a reason.

Of course, no food movie list would be complete without Ratatouille. Even if it is animated, the way it portrays the artistic spirit of cooking is genuinely touching, and it remains one of the most charming films ever made about following your dreams. Then there’s The Hundred-Foot Journey, a delightful clash of cultures and flavors between an Indian family and a Michelin-starred French chef. It is vibrant, heartwarming, and celebrates how different culinary traditions can blend together in the most beautiful ways. Finally, rounding out the top ten is the masterpiece Eat Drink Man Woman. It’s a wonderful look at tradition, change, and the ritual of the family dinner that has stayed with me for years. Grab your favorite snack, get comfy, and enjoy these delicious cinematic treats!

Top Ten Favorites - Food-themed Movies
1. Julie & Julia (2009)
2. Chef (2014)
3. Tortilla Soup (2001)
4. Chocolat (2000)
5. The Menu (2022)
6. Big Night (1996)
7. Like Water For Chocolate (1992)
8. Ratatouille (2007)
9. The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014)
10. Eat Drink Man Woman (1994)  

It was a treat having you stop by! Whatever the sun or moon is doing in your neck of the woods, I hope it’s treating you well. Until our next encounter... Ciao for now!

The Rain Came

  

"Lean forward into your life... catch the best bits and the finest wind. Just tip your feathers in flight a wee bit and see how dramatically that small lean can change your life." (Mary Anne Radmacher)

Hello, my lovely friends!

    Oh my goodness, Mother Nature has truly opened up the skies! It has been raining off and on for two days now, and honestly, it is such a beautiful sight to see. After the long, dry winter we’ve had, every single drop feels like a little gift for the earth. You can almost hear the ground sighing with relief as it finally gets a much-needed drink.

The best part—or maybe the part where we should start hunting for our umbrellas—is that it looks like we’re in for this pattern for a while. The forecast says we can expect rain pretty much every afternoon for the rest of the week. While it might put a little dampener on outdoor plans, there is something so cozy about watching the clouds roll in while the world gets a good scrubbing.

I’m choosing to look on the bright side of these gray skies. It is the perfect excuse to slow down, listen to the pitter-patter on the roof, and maybe enjoy an extra-large mug of something warm. Our gardens and the trees are going to be so happy and vibrant once the sun decides to peek back through. For now, let’s just enjoy the refresh and stay dry out there!

    A quick update on my mom. She had her biopsy very, very early this past Monday morning, so that part is officially behind us. It is such a relief to have that step checked off the list, and now we are just in that waiting period for the results to come back. We are keeping our fingers crossed that everything looks good so we can finally get her shots scheduled and get her back on track.

It has been a bit of a journey dealing with the logistics of it all lately. Even the doctor who administers her shots mentioned it feels like Kaiser is really dragging their feet with her at this point. He was so supportive, though, even going as far as to say that if she needed a hand navigating her way out of their system to get better care elsewhere, he would personally help her out. It’s honestly so heartening to know she has people like that in her corner.

For now, we are staying positive and focusing on the best-case scenario. We’re hoping for a clear report so she can move forward with her treatment without any more delays or hurdles.

    If the weather decides to behave itself, we are planning on heading out to Costco later today. You all know what that means—it is time to restock on those amazing salad bags! They are easily my favorite find lately, and I honestly can’t get enough of them.

I’m still kicking myself a little bit because I really should have taken a picture to show you, but I tried something new for dinner last night. I took that same salad I posted the other day and tucked it all into a wrap instead of eating it out of a bowl. Let me tell you, it was absolutely yummy! It’s such a simple switch, but it felt like a totally different meal. I forgot to post the picture of the salad the other night and put it up in the blog before this one. 

There is just something so satisfying about finding a healthy go-to that actually tastes great and makes life a little easier. Whether I’m crunching on it as a side or rolling it up for a quick dinner, those greens are definitely the highlight of my grocery list. If the rain holds off and I manage to snag a few more bags, I’ll be one very happy camper. Sending you all so much love and hoping your day is full of little wins and delicious treats!

Thanks for dropping in! I’d wish you a good morning, but since I don't know your time zone, let's just go with: Have a spectacular next 24 hours. See you at the next one!

It’s Salad Time

A recipe has no soul. You as the cook must bring soul to the recipe." (Thomas Keller)

Hello, my lovely friends!

    Let’s be honest with each other, do we really need a specific reason to dive into a big, beautiful bowl of greens? I’ve been telling myself that I’m craving salads lately because the weather is finally warming up, but who am I kidding? Around here, it feels like it’s been warm all year long! I think I’m just looking for any excuse to pull out the mixing bowl, but the truth is, a good salad is always in season. Whether it’s a bright sunny morning or a quiet evening, there is something so refreshing about that perfect crunch.

There’s just something so grounding about gathering fresh ingredients and putting together a meal that feels as good as it looks. I’ve been spending more time lately tossing together whatever looks vibrant and happy, maybe some crisp cucumbers, a handful of sweet tomatoes, or even some fruit for that unexpected pop of flavor. It’s like creating a little bowl of sunshine right in the kitchen. Plus, when it’s warm outside, the last thing anyone wants to do is stand over a hot stove for hours. A salad is the ultimate "no-fuss" friend that always shows up to make your day a little lighter.

I’m curious, what are your favorite things to throw into your salads when you’re feeling like something fresh? I’m always looking for new ideas to keep things fun and tasty! Sometimes I go for a classic savory mix, and other times I like to get a little wild with nuts or a tangy homemade dressing. There are no rules in the world of salads, and that’s the best part. So, here’s to enjoying the "warm" weather, whenever it decides to show up, and eating exactly what makes our hearts and tummies happy!

For months now, I have been absolutely obsessed with the Mediterranean salad kit from Costco. I usually grab two bags at a time just to make sure I’m well-stocked, because it is just that good.

I’ll be honest, though, I’ve started a little ritual of using every single bit of the crunchy goodness in the bag except for the dressing. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the one it comes with, but lately, I’ve been craving something a bit lighter and brighter. A simple drizzle of olive oil and a good squeeze of fresh lemon has been my go-to, and it makes the whole bowl feel so fresh and zesty. It’s funny how a tiny tweak can make an old favorite feel brand new again!

Yesterday I decided to shake things up and serve nothing but salad for dinner! It was such a refreshing change of pace. Since we all have our little preferences, I kept things customized, Mom always loves plenty of cubed ham in hers, but I usually lean toward chicken or shrimp.

For this round, I went with juicy chicken thighs and leaned into some bold Asian flavors. Honestly, it was so delicious that I think I’ve officially found a new obsession! There’s just something so satisfying about a crisp, flavorful bowl that leaves you feeling good. If you're looking for a sign to try a "salad only" night, this is definitely it!

I started this one by marinating chicken in a mix of Chinese Five Spice, minced garlic, and hoisin sauce. Letting those spices mingle for a few hours really makes all the difference. When it was time to eat, I got a grill pan nice and hot with a bit of coconut oil and cooked the chicken until it had those perfect sear marks.

To keep things fresh and crunchy, I pulled an Asian dressing from the fridge and tossed it with a big colorful mix of veggies. I added extra cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, and celery to give it that perfect snap. It turned out so vibrant and delicious, truly a "yummy"!

So glad you could make it. Whether you’re starting your day or winding it down, I hope it’s a great one. Until we cross paths again—take care!

 

 

You've Got This

 

Top Ten Favorites - Live Theater Plays

 "Think for a minute about what makes you fabulous and how you can celebrate it." (Laura Mercier)

Hello, my lovely friends! 

    After our deep dive into movie musicals last time, I thought it was only right to pull back the curtain on my favorite theater musicals! There is just something magical about the energy of a live stage that a screen can’t quite capture. I’ve been lucky enough to see so many incredible plays over the years, and the list of favorites in my head is always growing.

Speaking of growing lists, I am beyond excited because I’m heading out this Sunday to see Hell’s Kitchen! Since it’s inspired by Alicia Keys, I already know the soul and the music are going to be incredible. I’ve always been such a huge fan of hers, so seeing that story come to life on stage feels like a total treat.

But before I get swept away by Sunday’s show, let’s talk about the all-time greats. Narrowing it down wasn't easy, but I’ve managed to pick the ten shows that truly stayed with me long after the final bow. From the ones that made me laugh until I cried to the ones that had me humming the soundtrack for weeks, here are the top ten stage musicals that hold a permanent spot in my heart.

    If you’re looking for a sign to finally book those theater tickets, this is it! There is nothing quite like the magic of a live stage, and I’ve rounded up ten absolute must-sees that will have you cheering, crying, and humming all the way home.

    Starting off with a total sensory explosion, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is pure "spectacular spectacular" energy—it’s flashy, romantic, and packs in every pop hit you love. If you’re craving that classic, haunting Broadway grandeur, The Phantom of the Opera remains the ultimate masterpiece of gothic romance, while its sequel, Love Never Dies, offers a lush, emotional follow-up that fans of the original simply have to experience.

    For those who want a show that hits right in the heart, Rent is a beautiful, gritty celebration of love and community that never gets old. If you prefer your drama with a side of revolution, Les Misérables will leave you breathless with its soaring anthems. On the whimsical side, Wicked completely flips the script on Oz, proving there are always two sides to every story (and some seriously gravity-defying high notes).

    If you’re a fan of modern storytelling and incredible rhythms, Hadestown is a stunning, soulful trip to the underworld that feels incredibly fresh. In the Heights brings that vibrant, soulful Washington Heights heat with Lin-Manuel Miranda’s signature lyrical genius. Finally, for the music lovers, MJ the Musical and Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations are total electrifying parties on stage, celebrating the legendary moves and harmonies that defined generations. Grab some playbills and enjoy the show!


Top Ten Favorites - Live Theater Plays
1. The Moulin Rouge
2. The Phantom of the Opera
3. Rent
4. Love Never Dies
5. Wicked
6. Les Misérables
7. Hadestown
8. In the Heights
9. MJ the Musical
10 Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations

It was a treat having you stop by! Whatever the clock says where you are, I hope your morning, afternoon, or evening is a total win. Until our next digital rendezvous... stay wonderful!

Some Things About My Mom

 “What is a mom but the sunshine of our days and the north star of our nights.” (Robert Brault)

Hello, my lovely friends!

 

    My mom celebrated her 79th birthday yesterday, and today wanted to put down some facts about her. It's been a rough month for her with everything, but she had a really good birthday. There were calls from family members, flowers from others, and her favorite coconut shrimp for dinner. Let's get into some facts...

 

 1. She save my life, literally. When I was about six or seven we went swimming at a neighbor’s cabin. There was a swimming pool nearby. I’ve been taking lessons at our local pool that started at 3 feet. What we didn’t realize was that the pool said 3 ½ feet. I walked right down the stairs and went under and began to panic. My mom clothes and all jumped and pulled me out. I was shaken, but okay. 

2. Before junior high, my mom was a stay-at-home mom. She would always make and decorate the cake for classroom parties. One year I was sick when the kids in the classroom were volunteering to bring things for the party. My mom gets a call in the afternoon from my teacher asking how I was doing, but was really calling her to say the kids voted for me to bring the cake for the party. My mom always made the most amazing cakes. 

3. When I was in 6th grade I had my first boyfriend that broke my heart. When he broke up with me I didn’t want to go to school. I broke down crying and telling her what happened and she let me stay home for the day. I spent the day making tortillas with her. I felt much better after that. 

4. For Halloween I was always a witch, my mom made my costume. Every year she would change things up for Halloween. One year she braided my hair and had it wild and frizzy, another year she put these longs black nails on me, and another time she put green makeup in cooked oatmeal and put it all over my face. Good times, fun times! 

5. My mom would shop for Christmas present all year long (still does) and she would wrap the gift and hide it somewhere in the house. The problem is my mom would forget come Christmas where she put presents. One year we finished unwrapping gifts, had dinner and I was washing the dishes. My mom was talking to me and then she ran off. She came back with a present for me that she forgot all about. 

6. My mom taught me how to cook. She made dinner every night when I was little and I would sit in there and ask a million questions. How do you do this? Why that? How long? She went to work as a cake decorator for a grocery store. I would be the first one home and would have to make dinner. I believe I was about twelve at the time. She would pull out everything that I would need and at the start would make everything in the microwave and within a year I was cooking in the oven. I would cal her at work once I got home and she would tell me how to cook whatever we were having. 

Thank you so much for stopping by.
I wish you a good morning, afternoon or evening wherever you are.
Until next time… Adios!

 

 

Be Better

 

A Whirlwind of a Week

 "I think that when the dust settles, we will realize how little we need, how very much we actually have, and the true value of human connection." (Author Unknown)

Hello, my lovely friends!

    It has been an absolute whirlwind of a week over here! Between the high points, the low moments, and those "head-scratching" instances that leave me completely baffled, life has been anything but quiet. It feels like I’m constantly juggling a dozen things at once, trying to keep the momentum going while navigating the unexpected twists and turns.

I wanted to take a quick second to say a huge thank you for sticking by me through the chaos. Your patience means the world as I manage the beautiful craziness my life has become.

    Nine years without Dad, and I know so many of you truly understand that the ache never really goes away; it just shifts into something different. This anniversary felt particularly heavy, especially for Mom. There’s a certain weight in realizing just how much life she has navigated without him, especially while managing her own health challenges. It’s a bittersweet milestone that reminds us of both her strength and the space he left behind.

To honor him, we kept things quiet and close to home. We spent the evening over big bowls of spaghetti, laughing about how much he absolutely lived for a good pasta dinner. It was simple, comfort-filled, and exactly the kind of "together" he would have loved.

    It feels like things are finally shifting into high gear! After a bit of a struggle, Kaiser has really stepped up—they’ve moved those July appointments up to next month and are fast-tracking other dates too. While it’s such a relief to see progress, it’s honestly frustrating that it took a few stern emails to get the momentum going. Everyone deserves that level of commitment to their health from the very start without having to fight for it.

On a brighter note, we managed to power through several appointments for both of us last week. It feels great to have those checked off the list and behind us! Even with the recent hustle from our current provider, we are still planning on switching insurance at the end of the year. For now, we’re just focusing on the wins and staying positive as we move toward better care.

    Oh my goodness, what a roller coaster of a week! We were already riding a wave of big emotions when I woke up Friday morning to a total shock: snow. And I’m not talking about a few pretty flakes; we got hit with four inches of that heavy, wet slush that makes everything feel like a winter wonderland (or a giant mess, depending on your mood). It definitely felt like Mother Nature was playing a little prank on us.

Thankfully, the sun decided to make an appearance yesterday and chased all that white stuff away. While the snow is officially a memory, those freezing temperatures are definitely sticking around for a bit! It’s been the talk of the neighborhood, with everyone worried about their poor budding plants. It was a good reminder of that old local wisdom the news crews love to repeat. There’s a reason we’re told to hold off on planting until after Mother’s Day.

It was a treat having you stop by! Whatever the clock says where you are, I hope your morning, afternoon, or evening is a total win. Until our next digital rendezvous... stay wonderful!

Nine Years of Always

 

 

Sometimes I wish I were a little kid again, skinned knees are easier to fix than broken hearts.” (Author Unknown)

Hello, my lovely friends!

 

 Nine Years of Always

Nine years have turned to seasons, then to years, 
Yet time has failed to do what time should do. 
It hasn't dulled the edge or dried the tears, 
Or made the world feel right without the view 
Of one familiar smile, one steady hand, 
The anchor that once held me to the land.

 

They say that shadows fade when light is long, 
But yours is cast in every room I pace. 
I hear you in the cadence of a song, 
And search the passing crowds to find your face. 
A decade nears, a bridge of empty days, 
Yet still I walk through memory’s golden haze.

 

There is no morning where the sun takes flight 
Without a quiet thought of where you’ve gone. 
There is no settling of the stars at night
Where longing doesn't linger, deep and drawn. 
The calendar may claim the time has passed, 
But love like ours was built to always last.

 

Nine years of silence, heavy and profound, 
Yet in my heart, I still can hear the sound 
Of every word you spoke, each laugh you gave— 
The living breath of all I seek to save. 
You aren't a ghost, or something left behind; 
There isn't a day you aren't upon my mind.

 

 

Take a Breathe and See the Blessings