The first two weeks at our local farmer’s market have been a parade of the fattest asparagus. The bigger, the better for us when it comes to this vegetable, in sharp contrast to how we like most of our food. This composed salad celebrates spring. …
Some years back, half of ODB spent several weeks exploring England. After a couple of weeks in London, our first stop was Hampton Court Palace. While built by Cardinal Wolsey, it’s most known for being a favorite of Henry VIII. After a significant disgrace, Wolsey “gave” …
So often we can’t see what is in our immediate view for looking over the horizon for something new or different. Recently, while returning home from running an errand, we decided to stop at the lake that is just a couple of minutes from our …
When I first moved to Chicago, I worked to create pathways for folks who found it extremely difficult to find work in our city. It boggles the mind to see how the deck was stacked against the most marginalized of us. My office sat within …
On the eve of our country’s Independence Day, I, like many other Americans, find myself reflecting on what we mean by the words independence, liberty, and freedom. Just two weeks ago, we were celebrating Juneteenth. Almost a century separates these two commemorative moments (and all …
Who knew that the day would come when clubs would open early in the day to accommodate our changing population? Clubs are popping up all over to adapt to the preferences of aging patrons as well as any one whose schedule allows them to have …
I recently spent an afternoon with a herd of bison, up close and personal, as they grazed on the grassy plain and huddled together with their small calves. It was mind-boggling to think that they were living not far from Chicago, and some compassionate people …
Today we lovingly poured our ruby-colored red drink into champagne flutes that had been purchased with my mom nearly two decades ago. We toasted our ancestors and to love as we reveled in the spiciness of sorrel. It is celebratory. We nibble on boiled peanuts …
Aww, Chastain! One of my favorite places ever for an evening out to watch some of the greatest entertainers perform. For years, we’ve made the trek to the Chastain Amphitheater with coolers, picnic baskets, flowers, vases and lovely tablecloths to setup for a magical evening …
