Hello from windy, cool Florida. It's been another news-heavy week but, thankfully, reading provided a welcome diversion and kept me from becoming overwhelmed. Unfortunately, my kindle died midweek. Not a total surprise, since it had been touchy for several months. A new paperwhite arrived an hour ago... can't wait to get it set up!
Another welcome distraction this week was a virtual presentation by Audubon of Southwest Florida on my favorite pink birds- spoonbills and flamingos. Over the past couple of months, I've enjoyed exploring a variety of free online events... bookish and otherwise.
Now for the books...
FINISHED LAST WEEK//
The first book from my Shelf Subscription (Annie's pick) ticked all the boxes for me. Some reviewers say it's reminiscent of The Great Gatsby - and I can see that in terms of theme - but I was reminded more of the late Pat Conroy. This was such a well-written coming-of-age story... definitely one to sink into the pages and lose yourself!
Intuitive Eating: A Practical Guide to Make Peace with Food, Free Yourself from Chronic Dieting, and Reach Your Natural Weight by Evelyn Tribole, Elyse Resch
This book was mentioned in our local newspaper early last week. I was curious enough to check the library for a copy and found the audio available via hoopla. It was an interesting listen, but probably nothing you don't already know. Still, it's good to be reminded every now and then. The audio was about four hours long and it went even faster since I increased the speed.
CURRENT READING//
THE CUSTOM OF THE COUNTRY by Edith Wharton
I didn't make much progress this week. Between my kindle being out of commission and the impulse listen about food and eating, Edith was pushed to the back burner. It will become my primary read now that the new kindle has arrived. I want to finish before the T Book Club zoom next week.
IN THE KITCHEN//
The big hit last week was Slow Cooker Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli from Damn Delicious... so, so good! I forwarded the recipe to my mother, sisters, and daughters... and am wondering if this week is too soon to make it again.
For a treat, I made a Blueberry Buttermilk Cake from NYTimes. This recipe has become a favorite because it's so flexible... you can use any type of berry and any kind of milk, too.
My husband has been asking for pork chops lately. I prefer tenderloins, but decided to try Pork Chops with Lemon-Caper Sauce from the NYTimes. The sauce was delicious, though it took a bit more effort. He really liked it, but they were still pork chops.
THE WEEK AHEAD//
Inauguration, at last! I'll admit to being a little nervous about how it will all unfold, but am hopeful we'll enjoy a celebration Wednesday evening.
Another virtual lecture - the week's topic will be Sand Dunes: A Global and Local Perspective.
And more reading, cooking, and walks as we continue to keep a very low profile.
How was your week? What are you reading?
