Anolon Hard Anodized Cookware, for more even cooking
The Value of One Good Set of Pans Until my husband gave me this set of hard anodized Anolon pans one year, I never thought the quality of pans mattered much when cooking. For several decades, the pans would wear out every few years, and a new set would replace them. I never thought much about it. The first time I cooked with the new hard anodized calphalon pans, I learned the difference. They were–and are still–amazing....
The Lasko Desktop Fan, Small but Mighty
A Cool Breeze in a Very Small Package A mini lifesaver for a hot day! I’m so pleased with the small Lasko desktop fan that I bought three of them. The last few days were very hot for our area. It’s moved on now, most likely heading east. This little fan sure helped during those days! When the air is still, the heat seems to hang in the air, totally draining my energy. The breeze from this fan was all I needed. I set it on...
Vegetarian Enchiladas with Crumbled Soy and Cauliflower
Vegetarian Enchiladas with Crumbled Soy and Cauliflower Mexican food is usually a top choice when deciding to go out for dinner. Since I enjoy eating it more often than I go out these days, it has been fun and tasty to try some dishes in my kitchen. Burritos and enchiladas are among the most requested. In either dish, the ingredients are so flexible. Any meat, poultry or fish, all sorts of vegetables, and cheese, rolled up into a...
Suspect by Robert Crais, a Book Review
Since publishing the article here on Jaquo about Robert Crais’ upcoming novel, The Promise , It seemed fitting to recommend the book that first introduced me to Mr. Crais’ and his excellent books. That book would be Suspect. It is still one of my favorite books. Robert Crais is the author of the wonderful private detective series featuring Elvis Cole and Joe Pike. There are more than ten in that series so far. Besides that he has...
Potatoes in Light Cheese Sauce
Lighten up Cheese Sauce for a Delicious Potato Dish Potatoes in Cheese Sauce is another of my sweet Mom’s recipes. I hadn’t thought of it in so long, that it was like seeing an old friend when I did remember it. We didn’t have it often, but I can even see Mom serving it at dinner one time. I thought it looked so pretty when she served it, and, as with all of Mom’s dishes, it tasted so good! Once I...
Chicken Florentine Pasta
Ah…Pasta! Seems I can never have noodles often enough. Sometimes I’ll mix zucchini noodles in with it. Sometimes long skinny angel hair sounds best, other times ziti or rigatoni. Anyway you serve it, it’s a favorite choice. That being the case, it is a continual challenge finding ways to lighten up the topping I serve with it. As you see in this recipe. Spinach is a must, along with chopped onion. This time I...
Book Review: Destiny, by Tom Lowe
Could papers written hundreds of years ago hold the secret to conspiracies today? Can one man uncover the truth? You will want to find out! Grab a copy of this exciting thriller written by Tom Lowe. Mr. Lowe’s first stand alone novel is sure to be a hit. The Audible version of Destiny was just released June 9, 2015. The book version was first published in February 2015. Once I started, it was very difficult to stop listening to...
How to Lighten Up a Chicken Salad
How to Lighten Up a Chicken Salad Chicken salad has been a favorite of our family since the late 70’s. A good friend and I would stop at a deli called Kaplan’s for lunch quite often mostly because I would crave their chicken salad. I don’t know if the restaurant still exists, but my chicken salad recipes still does. It took years of testing and tasting to come up with a recipe I thought was similar. We used it for years. These day I...
Veggie Platter with Buffalo Ranch Dip
Fresh, Crisp Vegetables in a Spicy Dip Fresh vegetables are in abundance right now, fresh being the operative word. While it is a good idea to freeze, can, dry, etc., to preserve the variety for the rest of the year, there isn’t much better or more delicious than fresh, raw, cut up vegetables. Fresh from the garden or from a farmer’s market, they taste healthy and wonderful just as they are. So why mess with a good...
A Mile By Mile Travel Guide for The Oregon Coast
It’s Summer–Time to Plan Your Trip! Any time you can get a mile by mile guide for a place you are visiting, go for it. I love this book! Summer will be here before you know it. Are you ready? You know what that means: kids out of school, time to play, and vacation! I already have several things planned for this year. You too? Even though I live on the Oregon Coast, there is so much I haven’t seen. Last summer I got...
Butter Pecan Balls, A Melt-in-Your-Mouth Cookie
A Cookie Tradition. Melt-in-your-mouth buttery goodness, covered lightly with powdered sugar. Sound tasty? Of course they’re scrumptious any time of year, but Pecan Balls are still one of my favorite and longest Christmas traditions. Especially in the dessert category. Christmas is a time for tradition. It’s always a treat to see favorite decorations and ornaments unwrapped, lights hung inside and out, the angel placed on...
No Fail Chocolate Chip Cookies
No Fail Chocolate Chip Cookies These are the best home made chocolate chip cookies I’ve ever tasted, and it’s totally because of the recipe not because of me! Rich and chewy and very chocolatey, I can’t believe I made them. I have a confession. Until a friend gave me this recipe, I was a total failure at chocolate chip cookie baking. I’ve tried so many different recipes from relatives, cookbooks, magazines, and...
Salmon and Edamame in Ponzu Sauce
Salmon and Edamame, Brain Health Favorites. Salmon with Edamame in Ponzu sauce is a dish that was a favorite restaurant dish of mine when I lived in southern California. With that restaurant now 900 miles away, I decided to try to create it myself. I think I did pretty well–it came out so tasty! Grilled salmon, one of the best foods for brain health, served with edamame, another powerhouse food. Since we’ve had...
Alfredo Sauce Made from Mushrooms?
Alfredo Sauce Made from Mushrooms? When I first ran across a similar recipe to this on Pure Wow, I knew I had to try it. Mushrooms are so tasty, and also very low in calories. I love Alfredo sauce, but try not to use it often because it is so rich and high in calories. Making a sauce from mushrooms sounded too good to be true. It works! It still surprises me that mushrooms will make such a thick sauce, but they do. The original recipe...
Roast Cauliflower with Lime
Roast Cauliflower with Lime Cauliflower is delicious no matter how you fix it. Raw, steamed, roasted, or included in any casserole recipe. Still, cauliflower roasted with lime and cilantro is a hard recipe to resist. Easy to fix, pretty enough for company, it’s new favorite. Seems like I used it in everything these days, from fried rice and mashed potatoes to tuna casserole and meatballs. Actually one head of the tasty vegetable...
Book Review: Last to Die, by Tess Gerritsen
Last to Die is another excellent, suspenseful mystery by Tess Gerritsen. As soon as I finished Ice Cold, by Tess Gerritsen I had to get Last to Die, another book in her Rizzoli and Isles series. It was so good! At the end of Ice Cold, a young, self sufficient teen who calls himself Rat, is invited to attend an unusual private school in Maine, after his family is killed. I’d grown fond of him in Ice Cold, so was curious to see...
Oatmeal Peanut Butter Cookies
A Cookie to Satisfy. Oatmeal and peanut butter are two of my favorite cookies, so what could be better than combining both? I like to include these in my holiday cooking, only then I will sprinkle them with red or green sugar. It’s become a new tradition to bake these along with my favorites, Pecan Balls and Ginger cookies. Of course, these are a tasty snack year round. The oats and peanut butter also offer nutritional value....
A Useful Guide for Preventing Alzheimer’s
The word “Alzheimer’s” sparks fear in the mind of more and more these days. With baby boomers entering the group, the aging population is increasing in percentage dramatically. In a recent article in the New York Times, a reporter said the aging population in New York City had risen thirty percent. It may be much higher in states that are popular retirement havens like Florida and Arizona. The fact is the number with the disease is...
Book Review: Dog Tags, by David Rosenfelt
There aren’t many books that I read that having me laughing as often as David Rosenfelt’s Andy Carpenter Series. I’ll be listening along, since I love Grover Gardner’s narration, caught up in the drama when Andy will say something that forces a laugh out. It is so much fun I could listen to his books over and over. I did with this one, as a matter of fact. Since I read the books in order after my first Rosenfelt book, I went back to...
Book Review: The Fold, by Peter Clines
Peter Clines Has Done It Again If you are looking for an exciting book, give this one a try. If it isn’t already, The Fold is bound to be a bestseller. I got the audiobook through Audible and finished it in two days. That reinforces once again the benefit of audiobooks, since there is no way I would have had that much time to sit down and read. The Fold encouraged me to clean, run errands, and stay up late, as long as I could...
Gramma’s Ginger Cookies
Gramma’s Ginger Cookies Ginger Cookies, My Grandmother’s Way These ginger cookies are one of my favorite comfort cookies! Probably because the recipe is my grandmother’s. Whenever our Norwegian grandparents would visit, we would come home from school to the aroma of cinnamon rolls or these cookies wafting through the house. Sweet, spicy and so delicious. Fresh from the oven or cooled, they are a delightful cookie...
Florida Mystery Authors, A Challenge
When asked to write an article about Florida crime writers I was instantly enthused. First it sounded interesting to choose a specific area, such as a single state. Secondly, Florida has has a reputation for an unusual collection of people and locales, each very distinctive, each with their own troubles and benefits. You will find the influence of nearby islands, such as Cuba and Puerto Rico. You will find crime and crime lords in...
Easy Breakfast Sandwiches to Make at Home
Easy Breakfast Sandwiches to Make at Home. Breakfast can be boring. I know oatmeal is one of the best things you can eat for breakfast, and I really like it, but some days I need a change. Yesterday was one of those days. Looking around for something to fix I nearly gave up and thought I’d hit a fast food drive-thru. That reminded me of a breakfast sandwich I used to make often. So why not make one at home? I wanted something that...
Shinichi Mine and YouTube, Part 2 of Our Interview
I first met Shinichi Mine a few years ago on Squidoo, an article writing site. His articles were very popular. Always unique, very interesting, and accompanied by wonderful photographs, whether he was traveling or cooking. Since that time, he has developed a successful (and beautiful) blog, Tabieats, and forged into YouTube videos. Forged is the word, and seamlessly is how he did it. From the start, he’s done a wonderful job...
The Magnificent Oregon Coast
Towering Trees, Amazing Beaches, Rocky Shorelines The entire Pacific Northwest is near paradise if you are a fan of the outdoors. It’s beauty has always called to me. Spread across it you will find exquisite beaches, snow covered mountains, dozens of rivers and lakes, not to mention hundreds of state and national parks. The waterways and surrounding snowy mountain ranges of Washington have always been a draw, but the Oregon...
Apple Crisp, The Old Fashioned Way
Apple Crisp, The Old Fashioned Way Mom often made this simple, old fashioned apple crisp for us when we were growing up. It was always a favorite. Dad liked ice cream with it, but I like it just the way it is, especially when still warm from the oven. The flavor is delicious, the crumb topping just crumbly enough. It’s very easy to make too which is always a plus to me. The hardest (or most time consuming) part of the recipe is...
Vegetarian Won Tons
Vegetarian Won Tons Making Wontons Wonton making is incredibly fun! I’ve always looked at wontons and egg rolls and thought they would be too hard to make. Since I had some time this morning I decided to experiment. I hope you’ll enjoy this as much as I have. The best part is you can put anything in them you like! I added two others as long as I was making the basic ones. Kids would get a kick out of helping too, and...
Wafer Sandwich Cookies
Wafer Cookies with Frosting in the Middle. Delight your guests and family with these light wafer cookies filled with frosting. They are lovely for an afternoon tea. These wafer sandwich cookies have become a new family favorite. I first ran across the recipe while looking for something festive to make for a party at my Mom’s memory care residence. I loved the colorful frosting in the center, and knew all Mom’s friends...
Cheesy Tuna Casserole with a Twist
Cheesy Tuna Casserole with a Twist Tuna casserole is one of this dishes you love or hate. Before you decide though, check it out. This one might be just a little bit different that the ones you’ve had in the past. Whenever I told my husband that I was making it for dinner, we would go out instead—guaranteed! While he apparently wasn’t fond of it, it was always one of my favorites, especially when it has all these ingredients in it!...
Great News for Adam Mitzner Fans
I just received notice that Adam Mitzner’s latest novel, Losing Faith, is now available, recorded by a new narrator, David Marantz. Mr. Mitzner was a huge hit on Audible with his first two novels, A Conflict of Interest and A Case of Redemption. When Losing Faith was released on audio, many fans were disappointed in the narration. The newest novel is an exciting legal thriller you won’t want to miss. I read the actual book this...
Beach out your Dorm Room
Bring the ocean along, wherever you go If you have a student going away to college soon, you will know how important it is to find a comfortable style for their personal space in a dorm. Something stylish, something that reflects their likes and their taste, and something cheerful yet relaxing. Since beach is synonymous with relax, what better atmosphere for a college dorm room? Soothing colors, the sound of the ocean, will help a...
Beef & Barley Soup: Comfort in a Crockpot
BEEF BARLEY SOUP: COMFORT IN A CROCK POT Who says chicken soup is the best food to eat when you aren’t feeling your best? Now I now it does have some magical ingredient that apparently does help recover from a cold, but still. When we want something soothing, mild and comforting, I’ll pick this soup instead. Beef Barley soup is one of the favorites in my family. A slow cooker is an ideal way to make soup, especially this...
Book Review: The Lady who Cried Murder, by Lauren Carr
The Mac Faraday Series Lauren Carr has captured my loyalty with her Mac Faraday series. With her newest release today, Open Season for Murder, she has ten novels in the Mac Faraday series. With every book I finish, I find myself anxious to get to the next. A solid, often complicated, mystery, lovable and laughable characters, a little romance, and seriously bad, bad guys. As a matter of fact, her stories usually include several...
Is a Lightweight Vacuum Right for You?
Light to Lift! My new vacuum is the Hoover WindTunnel Air Bagless Steerable Upright. It’s perfect. After twelve years my big Hoover Upright finally died. Actually it probably would have lived except that I broke off an important part (oops) when I was checking the belt. Yes, lesson learned. I didn’t do it on purpose–honest! Nevertheless, it was a treat to start the search for a new one. With so many different brands,...
Berry Ice
Yum Leftover berries? Make a Refreshing Icy Dessert With all the berries looking so appealing last week, I stocked up on strawberries, blackberries, raspberries and blueberries. A little too much, I guess, since I couldn’t use all of them. So into the freezer with a portion of each. So today, I thought I’d try to make an iced dessert to use them. This one combines strawberries, raspberries, and a few blackberries. I bet...
Marinated Mushrooms & Olives
Yum A Tasty Make Ahead Appetizer. Looking for a sensational appetizer for your next get together? This one is delicious. Mushrooms and olives in yummy oil & red wine vinegar. Being married to an Italian (at least part Italian) meant a lot of Italian feasts over the years. I remember days spent at the stove, making home made sauce in giant pots, sometimes even using tomatoes right from our garden. My husband loved to cook. When he...
Book Review: Unintended Consequences, by Marti Green
A Suspenseful Surprise. Unintended Consequences may turn out to be the surprise of the summer. A debut novel, a new name, to me at least, and a captivating plot that drew me right in. Marti Green has written an edge-of-seat legal thriller with her first novel, published in 2013. I picked up my copy at Audible. The summary sounded interesting, so I thought I’d give it a try. Book two is already in my cart now. What an enjoyable,...
Coming In June! New Mystery Suspense Novels
If you are looking for a good summer read, June will bring you a delightful selection of mystery suspense thrillers. With names like Stephen King with Finders Keepers, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan Jr series by Grant Blackwood, and Joseph Finder with The Fixer, it’s clear June will be an outstanding month for Mystery Suspense and Thriller fans. Lots of big names, many sure to be bestsellers. James Patterson, Lauren Carr, Brad Meltzer,...
Hot Dogs: Pups in a Pocket
Hot dogs: Pups in a Pocket Hot Dogs! Most of us in the United States grew up eating hot dogs, one way or another, didn’t we? We’d eat them raw, dipped in mustard or ketchup, barbecued, in a bun, or pretty much any way they were served. They always taste like summer to me. But sometimes, you want those dogs to impress, to be an dining adventure, as well as to satisfy. That’s why I decided to try these out. Little...
Who’s new in Romantic Suspense
Since Mysteries and Suspense Thrillers are among my favorite genres–and the reason behind my website mysterysuspensereviews.com, I’ve been trying a delightful group of new authors to see who is out there. I’ve run across some wonderful ‘newish’ writers (or at least new to me) in the thriller category. Excellent additions to names like Vince Flynn, Tom Clancy, Lee Childs, and David Thor. You can read about some of my new...
America’s Band: The Beach Boys
The Beach Boys and California Girls Is there anyone out there who hasn’t heard the Beach Boys sing? They’ve been around so long, and are still popular. Often called “America’s band,” they were one of the biggest in America in their day. Over 80 songs on the charts worldwide, and over 35 in the United States. One of the most popular still is California Girls. California Girls takes me way back to the...
An Interview with Author, Eric J. Gates
Author Eric J Gates was a new name to me when I was asked to review the book, Outsourced. As a fan of suspense thrillers, I was very pleased to do so. What I found was a fast paced and well crafted novel, filled with suspense, that included something more. One small piece of fantasy. Perhaps a better word would be ‘paranormal.’ This historically based detail added so much intrigue—and fun—to the plot, that I’m already looking...
Spinach Fettuccine with Gorgonzola Sauce
A Tasty Gorgonzola Treat Looking for a change from the traditional fettuccine alfredo? Then try this! Recently when my friends and I took our annual road trip to Iowa, we tried this recipe. Gwynn’s brand new kitchen was ideal for shared cooking so we all pitched in. We had a blast, sipping a Cabernet Franc wine, a recent find from friend Michele. A tasty, rich pasta dish, served with a crisp veggie-filled salad, was a perfect...
Book Review: Sanibel Flats, by Randy Wayne White
Randy Wayne White is a name very familiar in the mystery suspense category with his popular series featuring Doc Ford. Set on the gulf coast of Florida, the marine biologist finds plenty of opportunity to get right in the middle of murder and mystery. What do you think of when you think of Florida? Sandy beaches? Palm trees? Miami? Disney World? Mr. White will surely expand your view in his successful series. Many of us think of...
Asian Cabbage Salad
An Asian Twist to Classic Slaw We first tasted this Asian Cabbage Salad when we lived in Hawaii, many decades ago. We would have it often, served with a stir fried dish called Beef Tomato. It’s been a favorite of mine ever since. As you can see, it is so easy to put together, yet looks very pretty for company. You can use more or less mayo if you like. Using veganaise makes it a vegan dish as well. Normally I will serve it as a...
Chicken Stir Fry with Vegetables
Stir Fried Chicken and Vegetables Stir fry is such a fast and nutritious way to serve up a colorful meal. This recipe came from just that need the other night, and I had dinner on the table in less than a half hour. You can save even more time if you slice the chicken and prep the veggies early. I’ll do that often, putting the onions and celery into a baggy, and the other veggies in another. Then they are ready to pour into the...
Chicken Brunswick Stew
A New Twist for the Traditional Brunswick Stew Brunswick Stew is one of my most popular recipes. It’s also one of my personal favorite soups made with chicken. It’s always on the menu during the winter months, but I love to keep some in the freezer to grab for an easy, filling meal any time of year. It is such a satisfying meal loaded with vegetables, chicken and a tasty broth. Usually Brunswick stew calls for pork, but we...
Book Review: Indigo Slam, by Robert Crais
Another Terrific Elvis Cole Detective Story I was so sorry to have this book end. Indigo Slam features Robert Crais’ regular characters, Elvis Cole and Joe Pike. With each book in their series I grow to like them more and more. Whenever I start a new one I know I will enjoy their story. It’s like visiting good friends again. This was one of those books that I was was anxious to see what would happen at the end, but once...
Shrimp Cocktail Lettuce Wraps
Succulent Shrimp for a Low Calorie Wrap So many foods are wonderful in a lettuce wrap. Nearly anything that can go in a sandwich will work. So when I was in the mood for a shrimp cocktail, I thought, why not? Shrimp cocktail has always been a favorite appetizer of mine. Lovely bites of meaty, large shrimp, blended with celery and homemade cocktail sauce. Yum. The first time my husband made cocktail sauce for us at home, I was...
Bacon, Avocado,Tomato and Spinach Wrap
In the mood for a lighter, healthier version of a bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwich? Then do try this one! It is similar to a BLT, but I love spinach. So instead of the traditional blend, I tossed together baby spinach leaves, chopped tomato and avocado with some crispy bacon slices for a scrumptious wrap. The flavors go beautifully together. It’s now a favorite. Whether in a wrap or a sandwich actually. Spinach is a super food...
Book Review: The Liar, by Nora Roberts
Nora Roberts’ newest novel, The Liar, was released April 14th, 2015. It was worth the wait! There was something about this particular novel that really struck a cord with me. I loved it, start to finish. As an author of romantic suspense, Ms. Roberts is very able to balance both the mystery and the relationships in her books. This one many readers have felt tended to be more romance. Personally I thought more time was spent on...
Book Review: Surface Tension, by Christine Kling
Meet Seychelle Sullivan What the great start to the Seychelle Sullivan series! The first book, Surface Tension, was excellent. I was pleasantly surprised as I read (listened in my case) to this story of murder and adventure. I’ve been reading a variety of Florida authors. Most of us are aware Florida has a rather unique reputation. We’ve heard of so many unusual “situations” there from the media. Between the variety of the...
Chicken Salad Lettuce Wrap
A chicken salad is perfect in a lettuce wrap! Doesn’t it look like it belongs there? Chicken salad has been a family favorite for years and years. Today we still love it, but my recipe has changed to so be so much lighter and more nutritional besides. Often I’ll serve it on a bed of greens for a satisfying dinner. The difference today? Far less mayonnaise and a couple of my favorite ingredients lately: spinach and...
Book Review: Outsourced, by Eric J. Gates
Here is an exciting novel from a new author to me. The book, Outsourced, is written by Eric J. Gates, and a thrilling story it was. I enjoyed reading it very much! A solid suspense thriller, with a dash of fantasy or supernatural, that takes the reader on a race to escape both a serial killer and the government at the same time. A writer named Nic Stiles is working at an isolated cabin, feeling burnt out after constant competition...
Book Review: Nothing to Lose, by Lee Child
Say hello to Jack Reacher Are you a Jack Reacher fan? If so, you won’t want to miss Nothing to Lose, the 12th in the series by Lee Child. Actually, if you haven’t read the series, this one might get you hooked. Considered part of the mystery/suspense thriller genre, Mr. Child’s novels certainly hold my attention. I started listening to the audiobook yesterday morning and ended up listening most of the day! I was glad...
Cauliflower and Bean Burritos, A Vegetarian Delight
A Lighter Burrito Want to lighten up a burrito? Try this vegetarian version with cauliflower and beans. It is delicious! It’s become a habit any more to find ways to cook any dish with lower calories. I also try to find ways to eat less meat and lots more vegetables. That it’s vegetarian is just a bonus. Lately I’ve been on a cauliflower kick. Since trying it as a rice substitute in my Fried Cauliflower Rice and then...
Worst Ideas Ever, A Book Review
Worse and Worst The Worst Ideas Ever…Isn’t that a great name for a book? It is a suitable title too. I recently finished reading this brief, entertaining book, written by Daniel Kline and Jason Tomaszewski. It surprised me and had me laughing out loud! We can probably all think of some pretty bad inventions when asked. But most of the ideas featured here were new to me. Some names I recognized, some ideas brought...
Music to Sooth the Aging with Room 217
One of the earliest groups to encourage music for palliative care was the foundation, Room 217. Initially, I believe it began to provide comfort to the dying, especially last stages. They found it very beneficial during that time since the music would help sooth and bring a peacefulness. Extending its reach, it has now been proven to reach Alzheimer’s and dementia patients as well. Their music is specific, slow and comforting,...
Book Review: Dying to Tell, by Rita Herron
Suspense runs high is this solid mystery/romance from Rita Herron. Dying to Tell is the first I’ve read by Rita Herron, but it won’t be the last. It’s a complicated story with several intersecting plots. Ten years ago, Sadie Nettleton left home suddenly, leaving behind the boy she loved, Jake Blackwood, and her family. Her reasons have kept her away. Now Sadie is grown up, used to taking care of herself, with a career as a...
May’s New Mystery Suspense Novels
It’s already nearly May, so it is time for an update of new mystery suspense thrillers due for release next month. May brings lots of new additions to popular series. You’ll find James Patterson’s Murder Club, Jeffrey Deaver with another Kathryn Dance novel, Tom Clancy’s Op Center series, and many more. Check out the article on Mystery Suspense Reviews for a more complete list. I seem to like mystery and suspense in any form, but...
Coconut Oil and Oat Muffins; When You Don’t Feel Like Oatmeal
While searching for an alternative to oatmeal as a hot cereal, I ran across this recipe on “And Babies Don’t Keep.” Besides oats, it includes blueberries AND coconut oil. Oats are so good for us, both for our hearts and our brains. Still, sometimes I get tired of hot cereal. This particular recipe appealed for several reasons. First, the oats, then because it uses coconut oil, and lastly because it includes blueberries. Oh, and...
Book Review: Shark Skin Suite, by Tim Dorsey
Hilarious may best describe this novel. Shark Skin Suite is book eighteen in Tim Dorsey’s bestselling series. I’m still laughing, partly from the humor found within its pages, partly because it turned out to be so entertaining. Tim Dorsey was a new author to me. The author was recommended to me as one of the more popular Florida authors. It’s said that he portrays Florida as it really is, that he writes ‘real life.’...
Best Gift for Seniors & Alzheimer’s: The iPod Shuffle
Put an iPod on your gift list! This time for the senior in your family. It’s a new and favorite idea going through many Memory Care facilities right now. What a successful idea it is! Music has been making Alzheimer’s news lately. Studies have shown that music—singing and listening–stimulates Alzheimer’s patients. Not only does it revive memories but it also can alerts the patient, making him more engaged. Many who show...
Dental Care with Alzheimer’s Disease
Mom went to the dentist today. At 96, that It isn’t exactly an easy task. Nevertheless, the two of us were game to try. We made it to the appointment on time. While we waited Mom caught a little nap. When it was our turn, we walked down the long hallway (nearly a mile, we were sure) to our room. It was no problem seating her in the dental chair, especially once they reclined the chair. Almost like her recliner. First step, the...
Do You Suffer From Online Attention Deficit Disorder?
Have you had one of those days where you start out doing one thing and never get back to it? I’ve done it two days in a row now. I see cute emails that float around now and then where a person goes to find their keys and ends up defrosting the freezer, etc., etc… With computers, you don’t even have to leave your chair to do that same thing! All it took today was one click. I was just looking for a link on my website. That’s...
An Interview with Author Adam Mitzner
With the release of Adam Mitzner’s latest courtroom thriller, Losing Faith, the bestselling author took some time for an interview with us. We were anxious to learn more about him. His suspenseful novels contain murder, mystery, courtroom drama and enough surprising twists that you will find yourself unwilling to set the book aside until you have finished reading. It is always fascinating to learn more about how a writer...
Book Review: Midnight Guardians by Jonathan King
After being challenged by Jackie Jackson here at Jaquo Lifestyle Magazine to write a few reviews of Florida writers, it was a pleasure to go book searching online for suitable candidates. Thankfully she provided me with some authors names. Most of them were new to me, so that is where I started. Over the next few months, watch for some random ordered reviews. The first selection I’ve made is a mystery by Jonathan King: Midnight...
Young Inventors: Mimi Ausland & Freekibble
The 11 year old girl who founded Freekibble Mimi Ausland was nine years old, the minimum age required, when she began to volunteer at her local animal shelter. Only two years later, in 2008, she first began the Freekibble website. She wanted to help feed the animals in her local shelter, but she realized a greater need than just her surrounding area. It may be a different sort of invention but one that has proven remarkable...
A Review of Adam Mitzner’s New Novel: Losing Faith
Adam Mitzner’s newest novel, Losing Faith, was released today. An apt title for the new courtroom thriller that gives us an all too realistic view of how quickly someone at the top of his game can fall with one wrong decision. There is something about any legal thriller that takes the tension up a notch for me. You too? For all the murder mysteries I’ve read, stepping into a courtroom never fails to make me pause….and gulp....
Book Review: Murders at Astaire Castle, by Lauren Carr
The word ‘murders’ is right! You will find even more than usual in this exciting tale by Lauren Carr. But then it does span decades between the past and the present. The fifth novel in her Mac Faraday series, The Murders at Astaire Castle was published in July of 2013, in time to get in the spirit of Halloween. Of course, spooky can be fun any time of year. I enjoyed being back with Mac, Archie, David, and Gnarly once...
8 Top Housewarming Gifts
Housewarming presents for established family can take some careful consideration. Often the homes are stocked before and after a move. Still, to welcome a friend or family member to their new home, you want to bring them something. You may have read the first article on living housewarming presents. Most of those were for outside, whether yard or patio deck. This batch contains several other ideas, more for indoor comfort and...
The Essential Alzheimer’s Book, The 36-Hour Day
If you even suspect a family member or a close friend might have Alzheimer’s disease, I recommend the book, The 36-Hour Day by Nancy Mace and Peter V Rabins. It is not to alarm you, but to raise your awareness and perhaps ease your reaction. A doctor should and will be the one to diagnose the disease. Remember, some forgetfulness is natural to aging and may not be Alzheimer’s disease at all. Still, if you are concerned it might...
April’s Fantastic New Books: Mystery & Suspense
April and May are filled with so many new titles from favorite authors! What fun it would be if every month would be so well represented. Some wonderful authors are on the list with their latest–many today on April 7th. Several continue their existing series, some perhaps are beginning new ones. I thought I would share a few here on Jaquo from the more extensive list on Mystery Suspense Reviews. The Buried Starting with...
Dang Toasted Coconut Chips, A Review
What see here pictured here has to be one of the best tasting, healthiest snacks I’ve had the pleasure to meet. Always on a quest to find healthy snacks that also taste good, it often seems hard to combine the two unless I stick to fresh fruit and vegetables. So when I was given a sample of one of these toasted coconut chips, in caramel sea salt flavor, I confess I was a sceptic. One bite changed my mind. Without a doubt. Talk...
Sautéed Morel Mushrooms; The Finding and the Eating
Mushroom Hunting March through May is the usual time to go hunting for Morel Mushrooms. Do you have them in your area? They do here in Oregon, but the only time I’ve found them and eaten them was in Iowa. I’d always been concerned when I heard of people hunting mushrooms. How do you tell the difference between the safe and unsafe varieties? Last year on a trip to Iowa I learned how much fun it can be. Morel mushrooms are a lovely...
Spices and Supplements: May Cause Side Effects
Did you know some of the spices and natural supplements you add to your diet may have negative effects? Just like prescription or over the counter medications sometimes have a variety of side effects, so can a simple spice. One big concern is how they interact with medication you may be taking. That may be especially important when taking blood thinners—even aspirin—and digoxin. Sometimes you have to wonder if the side effects of...
Book Review: A Short Guide to a Long Life, by David B. Agus, MD
A Short Guide to a Long Life This short guide to a long life, by David B. Agus, MD,, is just that. It’s a very interesting book with a lot of little tips. It starts right off with a little historical lesson from Hippocrates, back around the 3rd century BC, giving his recommendations to maintain health. As he was considered the father of Western medicine, no doubt he had a lot to say. The very first one the author lists is,...
Why Adopt an Adult Dog?
The reason I recommend adopting an adult dog was named Buster. Our Buster was a very energetic five year old when we got him. He was a tall, slim fellow, though he weighed in at seventy pounds. He wasn’t at all what we’d planned on. Sure, we’d been looking for another dog since our Aussie had died and left our golden retriever without her best buddy. But my husband always said he’d never get an adult large dog. Too dangerous. We...
Book Review: Birthright, by Nora Roberts
Bring together an archeological dig, kidnapping, romance and murder and you have another hit from Nora Roberts—Birthright. This novel is one of my top five favorites by Ms. Roberts. I enjoyed every part of it. Published in 2004, it has aged well, so that it could have been written last year. The author has such a talent for combining a developing relationship with a solid mystery. Her books are usually very well balanced...
Brookings, on the Southern Oregon Coast
Highway 101 may be one of the most scenic and most visited highways in the United States. Starting in San Diego County and running up through Washington, it offers a wide variety of coastline, beach cities, state and national parks, and incredible ocean views. Oregon’s reputation for its exquisite coastline is well deserved. Long sandy beaches, high cliffs overlooking secluded tide pools, enormous boulders on shore and off...
Book Review: Fatal Affair, by Marie Force
I was pleasantly surprised by Fatal Affair by Marie Force. Released as an ebook in 2010, it appears to be her first venture into romantic suspense. She did a fine job of it too. The book began the “Fatal” series featuring Samantha (Sam) Holland and Nick Cappuano. The ninth in the series is scheduled for release in late summer, 2015. Near as I can see most of her other books are romances. The Mystery The story was...
Foods for Health: What’s Bad is Good, What’s Good is Bad. Or is it?
Have you noticed lately how many foods that have been considered bad for us, are now considered acceptable and even good for us? It gets very confusing when we try to decide should we or shouldn’t we consume some of these products. There are many to choose from, and even more studies on each representing both sides. One thing to note from the start, if you have any health concerns, you should check with your doctor before adding any...
Young Inventors: Jack Andraka’s Early Test for Pancreatic Cancer
In our continuing series on some of our young inventors, we must include Jack Andraka. At the age of 14, this young scientist came up with an idea to detect pancreatic cancer. At age 15, he had invented it. The test is apparently also effective on lung cancer and ovarian cancer, and he hopes it will be made to detect others as well. One of the problems with pancreatic cancer is that it is not obvious until it’s usually too late....
Faux Salisbury Steak
Turkey Patties with Beef Gravy Did you grow up with favorite comfort meals that were traditions at your house? This recipe for ground meat patties is one of mine still today. Besides Sunday supper, when we would eat dinner at lunchtime, we had a few other traditions that we always loved. My favorite was eating dinner together while we watched good old Perry Mason, in black and white. A few years later we added Mission Impossible to...
Rume Bags, The Ultimate Reusable Grocery (and more) Bag
Re-Usable Bags Last for Years After five years of use of these wonderful bags, I consider them an investment that will save you time and money and–at the same time–help the environment. Every day we hear more about the pollution being caused by plastic. Bottles and bags especially seem to collect in oceans, causing harm to fish, mammals and wildlife. Some cities are voting to ban plastic bags entirely. Would you go along...
Spinach, Spinach, and more Spinach!
Spinach, Spinach, and more Spinach! Since spinach is simply delicious any day of the year, it is a regular ingredient in my personal test kitchen. I’ve experimented with a bunch (no pun intended—really) of recipes only to find that it is excellent in most everything. Even those who aren’t fans of this super food will find it hard to resist most of the recipes. Here at Jaquo, we have so many spinach recipes they have their own...
Spinach Pesto
Spinach Pesto recipe While exploring recipes using coconut oil I ran across a recipe similar to this on the Lucy Bee Coconut Oil site. Since it had apple cider vinegar as an ingredient too, I had to give it a try. Both coconut oil and apple cider vinegar are such healthy foods. Recently I read an article that showed it may have excellent results for Alzheimer’s disease. While it wasn’t an official study, it still...
Urinary Tract Infections Riskier with Alzheimer’s
With our aging seniors, incontinence often becomes an issue in one form or another. With that, urinary tract infections (UTI’s) are also more common. UTI’s are uncomfortable to anyone, but if one has Alzheimer’s it may cause dramatic and unexpected effects. This can be true for any aging individual when incontinence is an issue. But seniors without dementia can usually tell you when and where they might hurt. Not so easily...
Author Lauren Carr Shares Her Series Secrets
Author Lauren Carr Shares Her Series Secrets Once again, author Lauren Carr was willing to let us get a little further into her mind as a writer. This week she will be wrapping up her virtual book tour for her latest release, Three Days to Forever. You can still catch her at various stops. To check her schedule, click here. Lauren, thank you for taking the time to answer more questions for us! In this interview, I’d like to ask...
Reviewing the Scumble River Series, by Denise Swanson
The Scumble River Mysteries look like they will be another favorite series of cozy mysteries for me. This one authored by Denise Swanson. Since I began reading books considered “cozies,” by several authors I decided to expand my knowledge base. The premise is a good one. Violence, but not harshly depicted, romance but no sexual scenes, recurring characters usually living in a small or quaint town. You will often find them...
Alzheimer’s Disease in the News
Big news on the Alzheimer’s! Biogen announced Friday, March 20th, that its research with the drug, Aducanumab, has shown remarkable success, and that they will continue forward with large group testing. It’s excellent news to have positive, substantial results early on in testing. The numbers sound small in a way, but when you put them in perspective, it could prove to be huge. First, this particular test was done with less than...
A Review of The “Rock Chick” Series, by Kristen Ashley
If you are looking for a very contemporary, funny, yet suspenseful book series, give the Rock Chick series a try. I did and was so glad I did. The series is written by Kristen Ashley, who has written many other books to her credit, mostly in the romance genre. This was the first I’ve read by her, but it won’t be the last. I laughed through a lot of the story, the humor and dialogue were well done. It had enough mystery, suspense...
Today’s Young Inventor: Kenneth Shinozuka
An example of a flat sensor Kenneth Shinozuka gets my vote for young inventor, especially since his invention aids Alzheimer’s Caregivers. He has invented a sensor to tell when someone with Alzheimer’s is getting up to wander. Wandering can be a serious problem with Alzheimer’s. Not only risky for the patient, but very difficult for the caregiver, especially when living at home. It’s a very common occurrence, happening to...
Book Review: Trust No One, By Jayne Ann Krentz
When Grace Elland find the body of her boss-and a vodka bottle at his side–she knows her nightmares will be back. The murder, as well as the end of her job, take her home again while she decides what to do next. She doesn’t expect the mystery to follow her there. Meeting Julius Arkwright on an arranged date doesn’t improve anything either. The two don’t seem to have much in common. She’s worked a variety of jobs without any...
Book Review: Blast from the Past, by Lauren Carr
A woman is killed when she falls down the stairs. Men die writhing, in a little coffee shop. Death may not be that unusual these days in Deep Creek Lake, but then someone tries to kill Archie, the woman Mac Faraday loves. When she tells Mac the reason behind it and her secret is exposed, Mac and the entire police department will go to extremes to keep Archie safe. That raises rather a lot of questions: Who exactly are they...
Heart Disease or Alzheimer’s: How Would You Choose?
Medical Question: Would you take a drug that might lessen your chance of a heart attack, IF it might raise your risk of memory problems? It’s too early to tell if that would actually happen, but in tests underway by Amgen, Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, a new cholesterol drug is showing promising success. It’s considered early still. Much more testing is needed on a wider scale before it can be accepted for lowering the risk...
What Will Your Young Children Invent?
Yesterday was national ear muff day. No doubt for those of you living in cold climates, it is definitely an appreciated day to remember. What struck me about Ear muff day was that the inventor was only 15 years old when he came up with the idea. Isn’t that an inspiration to all of us? It’s encouraging to me whenever I read of our youth using their skills. First, to realize the problem, then to consider how to solve the problem,...
Alzheimer’s Test Success Making News Today
There are articles circling the web today about a possible—and incredible–treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease. What makes it better still is that it appears to be non-invasive. Studies on mice at the University of Queensland, have shown remarkable success. The research was considered exploratory, so even the researchers were surprised at the results. Using focused ultrasound technology, repeated ultrasounds ‘removed’ the...
What is the Difference between Alzheimer’s and Dementia?
What is the Difference between Alzheimer’s and Dementia? I’ve read several different articles lately about the difference between Alzheimer’s and Dementia. One said in one sentence that Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia, yet in the next paragraph said Alzheimer’s is usually the cause of dementia. When you read them it is easy to see why it’s a common question. It is hard to separate the two. It reminds me of the...
Armed Drones in the News
In a Reuter’s article dated March 10th, it announced that Poland has developed “mini army drones” that can work right from infantry units. Designed so several can fit on an armored personnel carrier, they can be controlled from technology the size of a tablet. The individual drone can be equipped with cameras AND explosive devices. It can act as a guided missile. Some have been designed to get near a target and then explode. In...