Must Be the Music - The Death of the Radio DJ

Back in the 80's there was a song that I loved called- Must Be the Music by Secret Weapon. It had a super long intro, a funky beat and ventured into the world of deejays and rap. Man! That song would immediately get my pre-teen legs to grooving and my fingers snapping from beginning to end. If I was lucky enough to press record when it came on the radio- I replayed and danced all over again! I became an expert at predicting which songs a deejay would play next so that I could record the hot songs and ignore those I didn't like as much.  The death of the true radio DJ has long been a point of discontent. There was a time when it was the job of a DJ to know what was hot and what wasn't. They introduced us to new artists and had a long repertoire from which to pull. On any given day, you might here KC and the Sunshine Band, Taste of Honey, Brothers Johnson, Natalie Cole, Earth, Wind & Fire, Hall & Oates, Toto, Foreigner, Barry White, Lou Rawls, Luther Vandross, Isaac Hayes, Marvin Gaye, Pointer Sisters, Aretha Franklin or Patti LaBelle. The list goes on and on and it changed based on the era in which you grew up. You got to know the deejays then. You could trust them to share if they actually liked a song and to ask the listeners for their opinions. One of my favorites was Dr. Perri Johnson out of Philadelphia. I missed his flavor sorely when I moved from the east coast to Ohio. His air time came with an announcement: "You’re listening to the good Dr. Perri Johnson, Music Therapist". You just knew that some good music (old and new) was to follow! Interestingly enough, there was so much good music available that you were more than excited when they finally played YOUR song! Now, it's back on in 20 minutes (deep sigh).

Today, it is rare to hear anyone beyond Beyonce, Nikki Minaj, Rihanna, Katie Perry, Justin Beiber, Little Wayne, Drake, Jay-Z, Kanye, Usher and the like. Even worse, you must listen to their songs repeat so much that if you go out for lunch at noon, when you get back in your car at 1-1:30 the same song by the same artist is likely playing. Current radio DJs have become robots, a slave to the machines that crank out their pre-paid playlists. The most you know about them is if they hit the clubs, if they think the song will be hot at the club and about their apparent passion and enthusiasm for celebrity gossip. But--what about the MUSIC?? In essence- many of them are wack; likeable, but wack. Unlike hip hop, the art of being a DJ on the radio HAS suffered a largely unexamined death. It is evidenced by the fact that nearly every time my local station announces a new song- you can count on it being an artist hyped by none other than- a label. To ice the cake- it is more than likely one of the artists listed in the first sentence of this paragraph! Just the other day I heard them promoting an opportunity to download or delete it by none other than Drake. It’s like… C’mon son!

So, what's wrong with that? I mean, I actually like most of them and will dance (skate and workout) to their music too. But that's not all there is. The saddest part about the death of the radio DJs is all the music WE miss out on unless we're savvy enough to avoid being force-fed the pay-for-play artists. Savvy listeners access internet radio stations or utilize apps like Pandora. I personally love so many genres of music (hip hop, soul, jazz, country, pop) that I seek tunes out in other ways. I often entertained the idea of becoming a DJ and thought I had a voice for radio. I still think of doing it now. I'm not afraid to say a song is terrible. I'm not afraid to close my mouth (and ears) to the spoon trying to force songs down my throat. You shouldn't be either. Some like OutKast have managed to break thru the mold. Some like Pink have managed to make the music they actually WANT to make versus what the labels force upon them... But, you need to discover the good stuff for yourself. Check out talents like The Roots (I mean go back and listen to some of their old stuff- I'm still discovering!), Mint Condition, Viktor Duplaix, Amel Larrieux, Lianne La Havas, Hill St. Soul, Emile Sande, Kimbra, Luke James and heck, Foreign Exchange. Your local radio DJs may not know much about these artists but I sure do! Google them and stay tuned as I share what I've heard! And while you're at it, say RIP and pour out a little likka for DJs!

A Drop of History

Standing and looking over the cliff of empty nester life, I find myself surrounded by friends who are newlyweds and parents. These friends are just starting or growing their young families. I enjoy their company, listening to their stories, laughing with them and sometimes meting out advice. Every now and then, I feel a twinge of short-lived jealousy thinking I’m open to raising another child. However, I like better the idea of borrowing one of theirs and giving it back. After returning said child, I know I can reclaim my new life of responsibility for me, myself and I. I've earned this bit of selfishness after 18 years! Self reflection is a huge part of witnessing the experiences. I relate, having once been a new mom/parent also. I listen to their stories and remember my own experience of giving birth. If I shared that part of my life, you would hear all the excitement, fears and joy I felt when my son joined the universe. I know that just like me, my friends will share their stories with their children and they will claim and love it. My son loves hearing that part of his story. It is one drop amongst many others in the history of his life.

As an adoptee, that part of my own story has been fleeting. Before I learned I was adopted, I tried to imagine my mom pregnant with me in her stomach. She was always Foxy-Cleopatra-Brown-fine in her bell-bottoms, snug blouses, wigs and make up. I couldn't imagine her with a big belly, let alone birthing the four of us. She always spoke gently about our birth stories. There was rarely detail; especially with me. When I learned to do math, I figured out that she was 27 years older than me. That age seemed pretty old to be having babies in my young mind but there were too many of us to deny some birthing had in fact happened.

Always fond of the camera and pictures, even as a kid I loved browsing family photos in search of me and my siblings and other relatives. It was much later in life that I realized the tragedy of mom responding that a baby photo was one of my siblings while indicating that perhaps this or that unmarked chubby, brown bambino was me. It just didn't hit me then. Nor did it hit me when I learned I was adopted at age 10. It began to hit me when I realized that everything I thought I knew about how I came to exist was a lie. Perhaps a lie intended for protection, but a lie just the same. It hits me now when I listen to the stories of my friends and understand that I will never hear the joy my parents felt when I entered the world. I will never know if it was a difficult or easy birth. Or if my mom cried when she first laid eyes upon me, as I did when I saw my son. I will never hear about my dad pacing or fainting in the delivery room. I know now that in fact, he wasn't there. I will never see pictures of my baby room. I will never know if I stayed up all night but slept all day, if I was colicky or cried a lot. Lost further in the archives of foster parent life are stories of when I first smiled or got my first tooth. As an adoptee, it is not uncommon to learn that certain facts about your existence are lost to you. You learn to live with them. Can’t miss what you never had- right?

All in all, I'm thankful for my memories and the numerous photos I took of my son. As long as they exist, I can share them with him and his children should I have the opportunity. I tell him stories about his life now without him asking because I understand the importance. I smile at the stories of my friends and even those shared by my husband’s family of his life beginnings. I tell my friends to record and document everything. While I’ll never know parts of my own story, I try to weave parts of it together with the bits of history I picked up via my reunion. I live vicariously through my experiences and those of my friends and family. I smile with them at pictures and laugh at the funny incidents that occur when I'm present. I accept that our collective experiences may be the only opportunity and insight I receive to fill in the blanks of my personal history. Every drop counts. But sometimes that reality and acceptance makes me cry and lament over the drops that I can never regain.

 

Interested in my adoption/reunion story? Follow/visit my other blog - findinggloriamarie@blogspot.com

 

Hair Nightmares: Sometimes free ain't free

A couple of nights ago, I had a nightmare. A Mary Kay Consultant offered to give me a mini make-over after saying that she did free make-up and trims. Instead, she chopped off a great deal of my hair. In reviewing the dream, I understood why I accepted her doing my make-up. Mary Kay is well known in our communities for their make-up products. That makes total sense. BUT- why I allowed her to give me a TRIM is another story. When she finished, she spun my chair around and showed me the final results in a huge, bevel-edged mirror. What I saw was not what I imagined when I said yes. I expected me, with good looking ends. What I got was half bob/half 80's Patti Labelle wig... Think this little self portrait I did:

My exact expression. lol

As soon as I saw myself, I lost it, crying and screaming- WHAT DID YOU DO??!!  I was inconsolably sick over it in the dream AND still in that state when I woke up. It was THAT real. I found myself trying to think of how I'd explain to my stylist Nikki what happened and worrying about the long journey back to my current length. I imagined YEARS of the same hard work I put in to get here!

Thank God it wasn't real but I'm still feeling a bit traumatized! I've heard horror stories about stylists applying relaxers in disguise as a deep treatment much to the dismay of their natural clients. I've even had a stylist go scissor crazy on my natural hair. This dream however, seemed worse than real life. Maybe because it was actually LIKE real life. We put a great deal of trust and expectation into strangers every day. We believe someone will care for every part of us, with the same or better love and level of attention that we give ourselves. And if they don't- as a society we sue, cuss them out, ruin their reputations. We do it every day with doctors, dentists, employers and yes- hair dressers. We believe that because they came with a reputation, degree and/or word of mouth they will serve or treat us right. This isn't a bad thing. But, the truth is, care for you- starts with YOU and your decisions. In my nightmare, a snap decision led me to a place I quickly regretted. I didn't think it through. I wanted what I wanted. It seemed an attractive opportunity and while it didn't cost anything- I paid the price. I also understood the lesson- sometimes free ain't free. As I typed, I connected this line of thought to my personal fitness quest. I understand that every time I document my food journal and follow my eating plan, I'm caring for me. Every time I hit the pavement in preparation for my first 5k, I'm caring for me. With every Zumba routine, I'm caring for me. It doesn't have to cost me anything to get in shape and if it does- I know I'm worth it. Likewise, I need to keep in mind that it WILL cost me to continue being out of shape and eating poorly. I'm trying to change that and the process of change is more than a snap decision. I have to keep it at the forefront daily. I have thought about and calculated the costs of not caring. That price is far higher than anything I'm willing to pay or that I can afford.

Interesting the things a dream can teach you, huh?

Recipe: Pumpkin Streusel Pie

It's been a long time since I posted a recipe. You would think I don't like to cook but of course I do! The weather is getting cooler and I've been in the mood for something tasty, warm and... HEALTHY!! Ok, ok- I haven't  REALLY been in the mood for anything healthy but as part of my discipline to be a better me, it's necessary. Today I was in Starbucks and someone ordered a pumpkin latte. It looked delightful and gave me the idea to bake something pumpkin-y tonight. I remembered a Betty Crocker recipe I pull out every winter to the delight of my son and myself (the DH doesn't like pumpkin). This is another recipe I'd make when I was doing Weight Watchers. I picked up many great eating tips and making a worthy dessert was one of my main quests. So, here it is- if you try it, let me know!



Topping

First there is the topping. Mix all the ingredients and set aside:
Brown Sugar Topping
1/4 c. packed brown sugar
1/4 c. quick cooking oats
1 tbsp of margarine (I used Land O'Lakes butter)
Mix all of the ingredients and set aside




Mix the next ingredients in a blender or food processor in the order listed.
Remaining ingredients
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin
1 can (12 oz) evaporated skimmed milk
1/2 c. fat-free cholesterol-free egg product or 4 egg whites
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. all purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
3/4 tsp baking powder
1/8 tsp of salt
2 tsp of grated orange peel

Topping added

Cover and blend on medium speed until smooth. Pour into a pie pan/plate. Try to use a deep-dish pie plate as you may find that there is more than a normal pie pan can hold. After pouring into your dish, sprinkle the topping across the mixture.

Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool for 15 minutes. Now... at this point the recipe says you should place in the refridgerator for 4 hours or until chilled. Personally, we give it about 20 minutes to get to the point of being warmed (versus scorch your esophagus hot) and go for it! Basically, try it your way! 




The deets on calories and such are below. I interpreted this to being 4 weight watcher points per slice (provided you turn it into 8 portions).
Recipe makes 8 servings
200 Calories
2g Fat
2mg Cholesterol
230mg Sodium
38g Carbs
2g Dietary fiber
7g Protein

If you try it, please come back and comment! In the meantime, my son is chomping at the bit and complaining that I'm sharing this recipe! Bon appetite!

Peace!

I Found the Magic Styler (for me): Living Proof Nourishing Style Cream Review

Feeling rather lazy, I decided to skip my usual Sunday regimen of washing, deep conditioning, twisting my hair. Instead, I laid on my pillow and went to sleep with visions of a wash and go in the morning. Before though, I prepped my greek yogurt treatment and placed it in the fridge. This morning, I wet my hair, put on the treatment and went about prepping my clothes and making my morning smoothie. After 20 minutes or so, I jumped in the shower and rinsed myself and my hair (used As I Am Coconut Co-Wash). I then immediately applied my leave-in Paul Mitchell The One Conditioner to prep for styling. Normally I just apply EcoStyler Pink and leave. On a whim (and because it was mean-mugging me from the counter), I decided to add the Nourishing Styling Cream by Living Proof.

I stumbled upon this product thanks to my husband who works at Sephora (he does the work, I get the perks). It managed to make it home last month amongst a bag of other goodies. Aside from reading the front rah-rah about not having any oils or heavy silicones, I ignored the ingredient list. As snobby as I am about products, I trusted sight unseen because I liked the feel of it on my hands. It's very light and creamy without being too heavy. I initially tried it out on my twist sets with pretty amazing results (definition and stretch without first drying my hair).

Twist out with LP Style Cream

Even after the twist out, I wasn't ready to judge because I teach Zumba most evenings. As a result of the workouts, my hair often looks great during the day but comes off as a freak when you see it at night. :D 

I've tried many cream-based products that proclaimed to enhance curls but did very little for my hair alone. It was like adding absolutley NOTHING. The other products also didn't mix well with gels which I've always seemed to need for hold or risk the shrunken-brillo-pad-effect by the end of the day. This is why I resorted to gel and conditioner only styles. My only complaint was major shrinkage after it began to dry. When I added the Nourishing Styling Cream this morning, it was like my hair finally surrendered. The heavens opened and music began to play as my curls bowed down, even while wet. Well, actually the music was just my cellphone telling me it was time to get up and out. But seriously, I think the heavens did open. The styling cream seemed to elongate my curls rather than cause them to withdraw. For the first time in forever, I thought that perhaps I did NOT have to apply EcoStyler afterward. But I chickened out and did it anyway. After all, 8 hours is a long time to go around work looking like a Crunchy Side-Show Bobbi with no spray bottle! Either way, as soon as I came out the bathroom to grab the gel, the husband said my hair looked longer and asked what I did differently. Still pretty wet at this point...



Wet hair with the cream added

Later, a natural friend at work asked me what I did today and when I told her it was a wash and go, she repeated "wash and go-ooo?!" in a very shrill voice! And right then, I knowed there was a God! Normally, I try to fluff my hair after it dries to make it bigger but with this product, it stayed pretty elongated without help. Most notably, it elongated most of my hair and not just the bangs which usually hang without much effort. Unfortunately, the back of my hair ALWAYS shrinks and it couldn't change that particular fact. But-- we'll see what happens after a few tries. Here's a pic after it dried today..: It's almost as big as my twist-out hair which is no easy feat!

 I'm going to try it again tomorrow without the gel just to see what happens. This is a fairly pricey product/line developed by a group of founders who used the studies of an MIT professors and his colleagues who were looking to develop beauty products in more innovative ways. I like what they have done so far. Stay tuned!

Have you tried Living Proof products? Which ones and what do you think?

Getting Back In the Zone

Life often comes at you fast; speedily bringing lots of distractions that derail your plans to change aspects of your life. The distractions I’m referencing take you further from, versus closer to your goals and dreams.  What should be temporary disruptions have somehow lasted much longer than they ought. In my case, it’s been things like:

•  Personal issues
•  Power outages
• Vacations
• Potlucks/Team Events
• TV
• Other People’s Poop (You down with OPP?)

I like to think that I’m always evolving. I feel as though God has given me many gifts and talents and I’m at my best or simply “IN THE ZONE” when I’m using them. This is just one reason I became a Zumba instructor. But I realized recently that despite my heavy workout regiment, I’d been neglecting my eating goals. I’ve had a goal to lose 30 pounds for the last year. I’d like to finally accomplish this by December, 2012. But starting over every week, or few days has pushed me further away, or at the least- caused me to become stagnant.

I’ve also had a goal to get my blog and crafting going again. I enjoy writing for entertainment purposes but I also find it therapeutic to share my poetry, photography and crafts. Still, I regularly find reasons to ignore the pen and my desk that holds everything I SAY that I love. I put off or ignore the great words, crafting ideas and articles that formulate in my head randomly during the day and at night. It has become insanity at its best.

Procrastinating has become a major problem and it has not come with the type of losses I want to achieve. Like I mentioned above, I find myself starting anew over and over. But this time, I’m declaring it will be different. To kick start this endeavor, I will either write or craft for at least one hour every day/night (starting today/night!). To keep things exciting, I will pick up my camera and start a random photography project based on my interests. I will NOT take the easy way out with my phone or Instagram.

Egg whites with asparagus and mushroom

Additionally, aligning my meals with my fitness regimen will become a priority. Water will again become my BFF in a bottle. My loved ones will have to understand if I decline dinner at places where I struggle (you know- the ones with complimentary, bread baskets- lol), eat before I come to an event, or only indulge occasionally. Hopefully, some of them will join me.

I’m on a journey to stop avoiding success. And it starts with THIS MEAL and THIS BLOG. Let’s go.

DETOX



Todays breakfast smoothie of spinach and berries



Oh detox, detox. How I loathe thee.

And yet, you seem to set me straight and so I must figure out how to live with and not fight you...

The story of my life folks; over the last 9 years, weight has been a problem. I had a surgery that forever changed my life and the way my body reacts to food. Mostly it caused my body to welcome every visiting food in to our humble abode and convince them to stay awhile. A long while.

Back in December I started trying to reign things in a bit. I'd lost 13lbs over the last year via clean eating but the holidays included lots of comforting foods and leftovers. Additionally, the holidays included things I'd banished to one day a week- mainly carbs and sweets. Sweets and carbs. If I have either one- it invites back the other creating a vicious cycle that has become a motha. -__- 

I decided this weekend after having my second order of fries in 2 days that I MUST do something. You see, I've been eating well. I've been exercising. I TEACH Zumba. But one false move could defeat every effort and derail my entire fitness program. As I induged, I had the wherewithall to realize that some action is required. So, detox it is. I am making a return to Dr. Ian's original fatsmash diet. It worked for me- well. It helped me to kick out the bad, and to reinstroduce the other stuff in moderation. I need that sort of plan in my life STAT. I need to regroup. After all, how can I be the motivator I desire to be in the fitness realm if I can't recognize my weaknesses AND take action? I can't. Besides that endeavor- I am taking a trip to Montego Bay in July and my body must be in order. I have friends that will be wearing 2 pieces, and I want to show off more than a 3-piece with a biscuit. At the least, I need to be in a tankini.

I also want to feel good. Once you begin eating clean, you notice a significant increase in your energy levels. I need to feel that boost 100% of the time. My journey began this morning with a fruit and veggie smoothie. I have a very short "yes" list and a very long "no list". No list be damned! I am working on creative, weekly food plans and starting to journal my meals, water intake and exerise. In the meantime- I'm leading myself in a daily pep talk- I can do this. I need this. My health matters and inspires. My plan is to be a motivator and it cannot begin until I begin to motivate myself again. So, if you see me, in person, fb or twitter- encourage me. I can use a little every now and then. Detox is 9 days and today is the first. Here goes...

Catching Up - A Mixed Bag :D

Well... long time no hear-->from ME!
Life has been a bit crazy for the last few months. We had the holidays, my 10-year wedding anniversary, college preparations for the kids and well... LIFE!

Mixed Berry Salad with goat cheese

But I'm back. I'm working out hard and drinking lots of water. I've only managed to lose about 2-3 lbs but have gained some stamina with my running which I plan to increase and continue. I'm beginning to teach 4 Zumba classes a week. 3 nights at my church and one at a local gym. Pretty fantastic eh? This is helping me with my fitness journey. I'm also reigning in my eating. The holidays got me off a bit but I'm finding my way back to clean eating- veggies, fruits, water. Hence the mixed berry salad in the pic! ------------------------------------>>

How many of you are still on the wagon? It's easy to fall off but we need each other to stay in the race. At the very least- I need YOU! Stay tuned for more posts in this area.

I'm also writing poetry, working on my book and singing background for a friend of mine. I'd been trying to decide if I wanted to post my poetry here or on my former blog. I think I'll reintroduce my old blog dedicated to poetry and poetry videos but will post them here from time to time.

My girlfriend sings inspirational and gospel music and in an effort to get back to using my voice, I have joined her where my schedule permits. It's actually been a great joy and outlet for me.

In the world of natural hair- I'm still keeping up. I've been in a protective style challenge for the last few months. I've mostly worn my hair tucked away since October or November. It's hard to believe that we are nearing the home stretch for that little project. Seems like we just started. Later, I'll do a post telling you more about the challenge and sharing what I've learned about my hair, products I'm using and myself on this journey!

Fear of Flying

So, this weekend I’ll be flying out to Los Angeles thanks in all parts to a natural hair blogging contest that I won. The skeptic in me always wondered if anyone really wins these contests but alas- I’m going. The win was unexpected and exciting at once. It sounds pretty phenomenal on paper and when I’m telling my friends the story of how this trip came to exist. For about 36 hours I’ll be living it up- jet setting across the country, getting picked up by a private car, checking into a fabulous hotel and partying it up with a celeb-gone-curly and a natural hair rock star. Pass the Courvoisier please!

There’s only one problem. I’m afraid of flying. Seriously. My fear is not really based on anything other than perhaps EVERY SINGLE MOVIE about planes crashing. There is one out now. It is nurtured by the fact that every time I’m about to fly, there is a crashing plane report. This happened earlier this week, locally. And finally, there’s just more of a gamble involved than I like to take. I have no control. With every bit of turbulence, I scan the faces of the stewards who serve peanuts and soda from a silver, table-clothed cart for signs of danger. I behave as if I could possibly do anything should they display even the smallest hint of a problem. I know I can’t. But I do it anyway. And once we make it to our destination, I bless the ground and pray the hours don’t fly before I have to get back on and head home.

Although I’m addressing my fear of flying, there is another part of this story. I’m adopted. I’m still getting used to telling folks. I don’t know how to be any other way except blunt on the subject. I am what I am and its taken me a long time to get to this place. It was a one-way ticket! After divulging, I await reactions for a signal of danger. There is always the danger of them feeling sorry for me, suspecting I'm damaged goods or  seeing the shame and pain I’ve buried over the years after finding out the person who birthed me, chose not to raise me. Being adopted is a sensitive subject for me. For many like me. And yet- it is still a favorite joke of comedians and comedic writers. I’m guessing they’re not adopted. But I digress as always.

So here is the hitch to the giddy-up: My birth mom (BM) lives in Los Angeles. Since finding her, we have spoken only a few times a year and I’ve seen her only once during a week-long occasion in 2004. It may have been the most interesting Christmas present I've ever received. And from her it was the last and only. Fast forward nearly 7 years, too many painful conversations, long silences, weird and random text messages of “I love you’s” and “lets start overs” to now. 

After much internal debate, I sent her a message saying I would be in town and when. I relayed that there is a small window of opportunity for us to briefly connect. She agreed to meet, responding with her usual, hokey language, signing X’s and O’s next to her name. XOXOJoanne. In typing this, I realize we share the last 3 letters of our first name. It makes me giggle like a child. She reduces me in that way. In my dreams, I wish we shared more. But to date, we have only had fleeting moments of recognizing that which we share as mother and child; that which we have in common despite the great divide of adoption. I don’t know how this meeting will go but I admit I’m afraid. I’m afraid of allowing my emotions to fly. I’m afraid to allow them to land on any semblance of excitement or happiness at seeing her again. I’m terrified that she is forever the lothario and I the jilted lover. I’m afraid she won’t show. And afraid that I’ll be rejected, yet again by my first mother. She gave me life and I worry that with each rejection, she’ll take some of it away. It is a gamble and scarier than any plane ride I’ve been on thus far.

Recipes I LOVE: Fettucine with spinach and feta cheese

So, last week I cooked one of my son's favorite meals (at his request) and posted a picture of it on facebook. Several people asked me about it so I decided to add it to my blog. Believe it or not, it is a recipe I discovered while I was on weight watchers (8 points per serving in fact!). It's pretty quick to make, healthy and is BURSTING with flavor. Can't beat that! So, I'm providing the recipe as written in the book. If you try it, feel free to improvise as you desire. I do. If you try it- let me know! Bon appetite!

Ingredients:
8 oz of fettucine (I only use whole wheat or spinach based)
1 cup of reduced-sodium chicken broth, defatted
10 oz package \frozen, chopped spinach (thawed and squeezed dry)
1/3 cup sun-dried (not oil-packed) tomato halves (great for taste and color!)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

**I add portabella mushrooms and any other veggie I like. Sometimes I add chicken. AND- if I can find fat-free feta, I buy that. However, Trader Joe has the best sundried tomato version of feta and it makes the recipe pop!

Steps:
1. In a large pot of boiling water; cook the fettucine until just tender. Drain well
2.  Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, bring the broth, spinach, sundried tomatoes and garlic to boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook until the spinach is warmed through (about 5 minutes)
3.  Stir the ricotta and pepper into the saucepan and cook until just warmed through, about 1 minute. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl, add the pasta and feta, and toss to combine. Divide the pasta mixture among 4 bowls and serve.

Serves 4
Working time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Fat: 9G/22%
Calories: 362
Saturated fat: 4.8G
Carbs: 51G
Protein: 20G
Cholesterol: 80MG
Sodium: 402MG

Zen Cha Tea Salon - Bexley

 

Summer Tea and a Scone

I'm in love people.
Not for the first time, and certainly not the last.
In love with a place. A restaurant to be more specific. A tea salon, to be exact.
What's a tea salon, you ask? Well, obviously it involves tea. But when I think of a salon, I'm thinking of a place where you get your hair and nails done. A full service place of beauty. But when I searched "salon" on the internet the definition was quite different. According to Wikipedia (I know, I know, not necessarily good information but go with it!), a salon is a gathering of people under the roof of an inspiring host, held partly to amuse one another and partly to refine taste and increase their knowledge of the participants through conversation. Such salons also included the aim to please or educate and were commonly frequented by people of like minds.  So, let's put it all together. The Zen Cha tea salon is obviously of Asian persuasion/theme and of course they market tea. However the salon also has a goal of educating guests about teas from around the world, under the direction of an inspiring host, server or tea ambassador.

My first visit was very much like my second, so I'll combine them for the purpose of this review.  My friend Terri and I like to get out of the building for lunch from time to time. To be honest, there is nothing good to eat within 2 miles from the office. Therefore, we often venture out and land in Bexley where there is good eating and free parking. The first time we visited Zen Cha, it was closed despite posted signage suggesting they should be open. So, we went next door. We returned about 3 weeks later, and voila! It was open for business. We were greeted by a host whom we'll call Mr. C.  Mr. C stated he would be our host for the day. Because it was our first time, he told us about the full selection of teas offered, how best to drink (hot or cold) and foods that would pair well. Mr. C. had more tea knowledge than the 2 of us could digest in one sitting and we were very vocal about that. Terri and I had a great time questioning every detail and our host was a good sport.

THE FOOD
Terri and I browsed the menu before our visit (the joys of the internet!). Eventually, I orded the Beef and Blue Cheese sandwich with the Summer tea on ice. Terri had the Ginger Beef salad (can't recall the tea, sorry!). She also ordered dessert early, in the form of a cinnamon and orange scone. We both indulged in the scone, which was quite delicious, surprisingly moist and full of flavor.

My sandwich was just as flavorful. The beef was tender, the blue cheese dressing was light and the cabbage offered a nice crunch. A small green salad accompanied the dish. Nothing to rave about but still good. Terri on the other hand enjoyed the Ginger Salad. She ate it all so I can vouch for her that it was quite tasty. It look quite beautiful. The last time we went, we both ordered the Beef and Blue sandwich. It was just as good the second time around. Since it's still summer, I again enjoyed the Summer tea. The Summer tea is a fruity blend of jasmine, green tea and lots of fresh cut fruit. The fruit (kiwi, pineapple, pear) floats prettily beneath the ice. It is the epitome of REFRESHING! I will try something else next time, but right now that tea hits the spot!

Ginger Beef Salad


The remaining menu selections look pretty good too by the way. During our last visit, Terri ordered the Smoked Salmon Crostini appetizer. I'll be honest. It looked pretty and scary to me at the same time when it arrived. There were 4 bits of crusty bread on the plate, with salmon, some sort of dijon sauce and cranberries on top. Although I was skeptical at first, it turned out to be a very good combination. I'm sorry I didn't photograph it! In any case, I mentioned the Asian persuasion earlier but the Zen Cha menu is not limited in that way. There are are other influences as well. Entrees such as Miso Ramen, Hojica Shrimp, Russian Caravan Medallions, and Chocolate Beignets are also featured on the menu.

AMBIANCE
So, I've discussed the food. Let's talk ambiance. My first memory is that Zen Cha has a lovely bathroom, with probably the most beautiful sink I've ever seen. I need to take a picture of it. I found myself wanting to stay in there and play in the water. I didn't though. Really.... The restaurant itself is kind of dark but cozy at the same time. There is a large window up front with two tables. It's the perfect lunch venue and would make a lovely, date night if you should find yourself there in the evening.

There is a small section of shelves featuring tea-time tools and every thing you could possibly want to know or learn about brewing and drinking tea. It's definitely fun to look and laugh at tiny tea cups that hold about 3 sips of tea, but cost more than my bedroom furniture.

PRICE/SERVICE
Here's the hitch. Full tea service at Zen Cha is about $5.95 on average. This includes a fair sized pot/carafe of the selected tea and the tea-time talk with the host. Remember, it is a "salon", education is involved and they would like you to become a "like-minded" lover of tea. The lunch menu is on average $10 or less. But it adds up quickly should you include an appetizer or tea. My most recent tab was $20 and that was because I also ordered edamame.  So, I won't be going there every day but once every couple of weeks is doable. It's also important to note that the highest item on the menu is only $18.50. Not bad for a date night choice.


Beef and Blue Cheese


 I told you service was good. Mr. C was far more attentive than our most recent server. That was ok however, because we were engaged in conversation and constant interruption may not have been welcomed. The only issue I have with service at all is that we noticed that the wait times at Zen Cha can be quite long. We arrived at about 1:15 and left at close to 2:30. The place was in no way crowded. The first visit was closer to 2 hours (all that artistry and education I suppose!). Having some familiarity with the menu cut down on some of the time but not quite enough. So make sure you have some time to spare if you go.

LOCATION
Zen Cha is located in the heart of Bexley and there is also the original salon which is located in the Short North of Columbus.

In sum, Zen Cha Tea Salon beckons me regularly. I'm serious. Beckons. It calls out to me at least once a week. Even suggests I bring my journal and stay awhile. And sometimes, I cave and go... Salud!

Hey-O!

Well, again I've let tons of time pass by with no post. There was a rhyme and reason this time though. Well... several reasons. My son had to have surgery due to an athletic injury and his recovery wasn't fun. He was not happy about it as it derailed any plans to play basketball. We felt it better that he deal with it now versus when he is 40. He'll thank us later.

In the meantime, I haven't been writing as much and only getting out randomly. Working to improve that. I HAVE been trying new hair products and such so I'll post on that later. And I've written a couple of poems to share with you. Oh! And there is music! So much... So, stay tuned. I'll be back soon. Like tomorrow. Hope you are enjoying the improving blogsite. I added tabs for quick access to my thoughts on various subjects. Other changes are coming down the pipeline as well. Welcome back. ;)

Girls with glasses... random thought for the day

Oh boy... Today is kind of random...

How were your weekends friends? Mine was busy. I worked but it was also my birthday and so I did a little celebrating. Not the kind I wanted... with tons of sushi and dancing... a little more low key with family, presents and well... family. My family is all inclusive. It includes my friends and relatives. It's not BLOOD related.

I don't talk about it much but I'm an adult adoptee. That means- yes, I was put up for adoption as an infant, raised by another family... you know the story. You've probably seen something similar on lifetime. Those stories run the gamut of good, bad and evil, don't they? One of these days I'm going to share my full story but let's fast forward to the current. I found my biological family in 2004. Since then, the journey has had its ups and downs but they're more up these days. I gained a sister, brother, 2 aunts, an uncle, father and mother from my reunion. It was a strange experience for them- my coming into their lives. Although I hoped for an instant connection-- ala Antwone Fischer... I didn't quite fit. My lifestyle was different. My perspective was different. I had my own family. They had theirs. I came with knowledge about finding birth families but they had no education on being found. As a result, I understood their distance, hesitancy AND it still hurt me. Yet suddenly we've gone from little contact to increased efforts on all parts, mine included. On Friday, I was invited to a surprise birthday party for my Aunt Debbie. We met in 2005 I think. She was sick and in the hospital. I felt a certain kinship then but she had her recovery to manage. That was fine with me since as you know- I had my own stuff. So, Debbie it turns out is on FB and we reconnected when I requested her. I had hopes of seeing pictures and hearing stories about the paternal side of my family. I had some background on mom's side but none on dads. Once we became friends, Debbie and I began chatting. Sharing minimal stuff. When she invited me to the party, I accepted. So- Debbie thought we were going to dinner at a local eatery for her birthday but instead she was being dropped at the surprise party under some unknown ruse... I dragged my husband with me because I'm an introvert and I don't do well with strangers. My sister was attending also but was scheduled to arrive late. Besides, I wanted to yell "SURPRIIIISSSEEE!!" so I was on time. For some reason, that just makes me happy. LOL! Anyway, one of the organizers asked which niece I was- Kimberly or Lynne. When I answered, she stated that Debbie wanted to make sure that I was taken care of because in her words "you're an introvert". LOL! I was like- how does she know?? And yet she did. That generous effort to make ME comfortable at her event made me feel special. I understood that somehow, she knew me even though the extent of our relationship has been FaceBook. The party went well. Debbie was suprised. She cried a lot. My biological father came and we had a chance to chat and take pictures. I hadn't seen him in a long while either. While the party was very much about Debbie- I kind of felt it was about me too. About us. About FAMILY. Who we let in and who we don't. You see, I struggle sometimes with my family. The ones who adopted, CHOSE me. We don't always see eye to eye. And they KNOW me too. This is not a knock against them but a testimony to the idea that sometimes family manifests in strange ways. Maybe not always in the package you want, but they're still there. I have a new budding relationship with my aunt. Every friend of hers who met me did so with love in their eyes. I became a part of the party, the family and not just a spectator. I was no Cinderella of the ball and the connection I felt was no flick of the magic of the wand destined to revert. What an awakening!

What began as a quest for a few pictures, instead became a pathway toward a full relationship with someone who has an interest in and loves me. And at the end of the day, blood or not-- that's what family is all about. And if you're doing it right; if you're in a good place- you will just get on board and love them as they are. Whoever the "they" is in YOUR life. Embrace and let them know you're right there with them.

The picture:
That's me, my sis and Aunt Debbie in the middle peeps. I know- I'm not wearing glasses but wait til you see my new ones! oh boy! And check the hair! cute, right?

I told you this was random!

Peace and love~

Girls with Glasses WRITE!

All You Are

I’m thinking…
we could make this work
If you were less involved
Played the back until at least
We could resolve
Our situation which
Has not lessened-
But instead has evolved

If just once you could
Allow your representative, other self
Your puppet head
stand in, while you
collect dust on the shelf


Place your stunt double
In every important scene
Not only the action shots but
Certainly,
those that include me

For those are the ones
When we’re most at risk
A “we” that is shaky
Some times doesn’t exist

When your empty promises
Silent goodbyes
Make me bury deep
The hurt I feel inside

Our reunions are constant
But not like the stars
They’re full of false starts
Like broken down cars
Like a zipper that catches
A snap that’s lost half
Like empty mall carts
So lets do the math...

When you call and I answer
feel numb at your tears
I hear what they explain
They say you're all I have feared

The answer seems simple
This is all a farce
And you’re a joking, ventriloquist
Whose words don’t impart-

Anything meaningful
Lasting beyond the present
Which should also explain
Why I’m always hesitant

And add to the equation
you’re never quite there
Your lips always moving
But blowing hot air

a red balloon in the sky
Tossed about by the wind
Sadly glimpsed in the distance
only every now and then

So, please consider
Letting your under study stand in
She sees my longing
With me , she wants to begin

With me, she sees promise
With me she sees hope
While she is my island
I’m the life saving boat

With me there is love
With me there’s reward
She has no desire to impale
What we might be on a sword

She sees you and I could make it
If she makes her debut
While you play the back
Because all you are is-- you

Girls with Glasses... READ

So, I've been gone for a while... The holidays, work, respiratory illnesses, my weight loss quest have kept me hopping to say the least. But I have managed to squeeze in a few extra curricular activities as usual because well... that's just what I do. I'll share some of my other activities in a separate post but in this moment I wanted to discuss my book club. After a rather lovely reunion and breakfast, two friends and I remembered that we first grew close after forming a book club at work (shout out to Lisa B and Miss Limah). Many years have passed and distance has separated us but our affinity for reading has remained. That morning we decided to form an online book club called Beyond Borders. Beyond Borders earned its title because we like to read books that teach us about other cultures. I mean, we can read about ourselves and each other every day and for me anyway, that's boring. Anyway, our book club chooses a selection, reads it before meeting online for a discussion. We meet via stickam.com which allows us to see and speak with each other using webcams. It's great. Ok, now for the juice on the book!
Our first choice was A Thousand Splendid Suns by Kholed Hosseini, who is the author of The Kite Runner. Splendid Suns tell the stories of Mariam and Laila whose lives become intertwined by chance and circumstance. They find themselves married to the same man but their lives with him are completely different AND the same. I was trying to think of how to tell you story without telling you the story... And here's what I've got... Want to learn about the history of Afghanistan? Feel like you are there? Perhaps you want a realistic glimpse of the lives and roles of Muslim girls and women... And maybe you just have an interest in reading a story with a heavy dose of someone else's reality, to actually feel for the characters, feel like you know them and share THEIR love for country. If that is the case, you will enjoy this read. It will make you laugh, cry and transport you to another world. For me, it did all those things AND it made me care about lives outside my own backyard. I dare you to read even the first chapter. I guarantee you won't be able to stop.
If you pick it up, come back and tell me your thoughts. And if you are interested in joining my book club- hit me up!