Exercise Snacks

by sssmahh303, posted in Wellness

Mary Ann

I recently came across an article on Exercise Snacks.  Now, the definition of a snack is a small amount of food eaten between meals. Exercise snacks reflect the same philosophy with activity, as snacks do to food. Exercise Snacks are doing a small amount of movement from 30 seconds to 5 to 10 minutes of activities. It can be as simple as climbing the stairs to walking around the house to dancing to a favorite song.  It can also be gardening or housework – all activity counts!  

Dr. Howard Hartley, a cardiology, in 2007 coined the term Exercise Snacks.  These little burst of exercise or movement help elderly people to mitigate physical decline as they age.  The small amount of movement can have an impact on chronic conditions like heart disease, high blood sugar, and even dementia.  Every little bit of activity can make a difference in your overall health. 

Exercise Snacks can be done by all of us of a certain age.  We can take the stairs a time or two more a day.  We can walk around the neighborhood or around your house.  You can hop on a stationary bike for a five-minute ride and if that is too much than do it for two minutes.  Start out with baby steps and work your way up to longer sessions.  These small changes have big rewards and can support behavioral changes that develop habits.  It is hard to get started and to keep going when exercising. 

I have been kind of doing Exercise Snacks without knowing what it was called.  You probably have too.  However, since reading the article, I have been more conscientious regarding every movement I am making and that they will add up to better results if I keep doing them.  The bottom line is not to be sedentary.  Every household chore that I do adds up to more movement.  

Of course, it takes me a week to get my Christmas decorations up and then down rather than a weekend as in the past.  I am slowing down, but I am still moving.  That movement is making me healthier physically and mentally.  I need to celebrate that, and the little victory dance that I am doing now is yet another kind of movement.  If I miss a day because I have low energy, there is always tomorrow.  You can always begin again.  Piggyback on regular daily activity by adding a little exercise – an example, while washing dishes, do some heel raises.  When watching TV, do chair exercises.  Sitting is passive so adding some movement changes everything making you more active and being active makes you healthier.  It is time to begin Exercise Snacking  – Bon Appetite for better living!      

Fresh Start

by Cynthia, posted in Taking Care of Business

Driving down the street today I noticed a neighbor had several items sitting on the ground next to his garbage bins. I smiled to myself. Ah.  It’s the new year and people are thinking about cleaning up and weeding out items that are no longer of value.  I do that year around, although as I am putting away holiday décor, I have started a box of give-away items. And I am filling my garbage can with things no longer useful.

One of my goals for 2026 is to read 24 books. Some of you are thinking, “big deal” and others are thinking “that many!” Underlying this goal is a different motivation.  I have too many books in shelves – not only in my office but on shelves throughout my home. Some have never been read; others are waiting for a second or third reading. Regardless, it is time to begin honing the collection to those tomes that are especially important to me.

Cookbooks are my friends. For Christmas I displayed four Christmas-inspired cookbooks. When I went to put them away, the cookbook shelves had expanded into another bookcase. I needed to make room.  In doing so, I came across some old “Who’s Who” publications. Some of these have moved around the country with me and sat on bookshelves since the 1980s!  It was definitely time to part with these encyclopedias of peoples’ identities and accomplishments.

Of course I had to take one last look at my entry before tossing the [very heavy] books into the recycling bin. Imagine my dismay when I read my full name (including my maiden name), my birthdate and birth location, parents names, children’s names, and places I worked. Immediately I tore out those pages and ran them through the shredder, as if somehow that would hide these personal details.

It is naïve to think that would be the end of it. What have the hundreds or thousands of other people done with my information – and theirs?! The thought trail took me back to that time – a simpler life when we were more trusting; more open with strangers.  When one would think nothing of picking up a hitch-hiker to help them to the next destination. A time when everyone knew their neighbors as they were not hidden away behind camera doorbells and gated communities.  It was a time when we celebrated others’ accomplishments instead of trying to “one-up” them. Ah. The good ol’ days.

Maybe we can start with ourselves and one-by-one expand our private worlds to others – at least by reaching out to neighbors or people at church or the grocery store. A simple smile to a stranger goes a long way and just may instill in them a sense that life is worth living.

I’m glad to be reminded that people are important. Things are not.  I am going to reach out to some acquaintances; then resume the cleaning and organizing to begin a new year fresh and happy.

Junie

by Cynthia, posted in Reviews

“JUNIE,” by Erin Crosby Eckstine, is a compelling literary work of historical fiction that delves into the complexities of family ties, personal identity, and the enduring spirit of its protagonist. With a narrative that is both heartfelt and evocative, Eckstine creates a world that is at once intimate and universally relatable, drawing readers into the emotional journey of Junie herself.

The story centers around Junie, a young woman navigating the turbulent waters of slavery, adolescence, and early adulthood. Set primarily on a struggling plantation, the novel explores themes of belonging and alienation as Junie grapples with family secrets, shifting relationships, and the challenges of self-discovery. Eckstine masterfully weaves together past and present, allowing readers to uncover layers of Junie’s history and the factors that have shaped her worldview.

Eckstine excels in this novel with her character development. Junie is portrayed with remarkable depth, her vulnerabilities and strengths both realistic and endearing. Supporting characters—family members, friends, and romantic relationships —are equally well-drawn, each contributing to Junie’s growth in meaningful ways. Eckstine’s empathetic approach ensures that even secondary characters feel authentic, their interactions with Junie serving as catalysts for pivotal moments in the narrative.

Eckstine’s prose is lyrical yet accessible, balancing poetic descriptions with straightforward dialogue. Some reviews felt the first of the novel moved too slowly, however, the novel’s pacing allows for reflection, giving readers space to consider the emotional weight of Junie’s experiences. The pacing allows for deeper characterization. Central themes include the search for identity, the importance of forgiveness, and the resilience required to overcome adversity. Eckstine also touches on issues such as generational trauma and the power dynamics within families, offering thoughtful commentary without becoming didactic.

The book excels in its emotional resonance and authenticity. I found myself rooting for Junie, invested in her struggles and triumphs. Eckstine’s ability to evoke empathy is notable, making the narrative both moving and memorable.

Overall, “JUNIE” by Erin Crosby Eckstine stands out as a beautifully rendered exploration of family, identity, and resilience. The novel’s introspective tone, strong character work, and nuanced handling of difficult themes make it a rewarding read for those who appreciate literary historical  fiction with heart and substance. Eckstine’s debut marks her as a promising voice, and “JUNIE” is certain to resonate with readers long after the final page is turned.

New York, New York – Part 4

by sssmahh303, posted in Lifestyle

Mary Ann

8.5 Million People – All Unique! 

If you are walking down the street in New York City, you may see just about anything.  It may stop you in your tracks.  However, if you are looking around, no one else seems to be very interested.  Everyone in NYC is unique, so no one stand out as you might imagine.  There are characters everywhere, and we are going to meet some in this blog.  

In Time Square, there is a host of characters trying to charm the tourists.  You will find Elmo and Cookie Monster and Spiderman.  There is also the Naked Cowboy with a strategically placed guitar, so he remains PG for the children.  These characters are famous, but they do not even begin to capture the real characters of the city. 

As the fashion capital of the world, designers share their collections a few times a year during Fashion Weeks.  These creative individuals find inspiration everywhere, but in the streets of NYC, unique treasure can be discovered.  Sometimes on the subway, you will spot a young girl impeccably dressed in vintage clothes or sporting timeless accessories in a new way.  They are living fashion.  When I first got to NYC, long summer scarves were worn everywhere.  I believe, Jennifer Amastin, was big on them at the time.  So, of course, I had to get some in every color. Even though they were light weight, they were hot in the humid NYC summer.  This trend was somewhat short-lived, and I have a box of the scarves to prove it.  However, you see how a look becomes fashion.  I also love the girls who wear short skirts and stilettos.  It is not easy walking miles on concreate in 4-, 5-, or 6-inch heels, and Lower Manhattan has cobblestone streets.  They are kind of urban mountain climbers.  How do they do it?  If I were young when I worked there, I would have done it too!

The first December I was working in NYC, I had to go into the city for a work event.  As I sat on the subway train, a Santa Claus entered the train.  I thought, Santa must be on the way to work to spread a little Christmas cheer for children.  Then a second Santa got on the next stop, and by the time, I got to New York from Jersey City, the whole car was full of Santas. Something was going on.  I apparently did not get the memo that the world was dressed as Santa Claus today.  I found out that it was SantaCon, an event held in early December where everyone dresses like Santa, and they do a bar crawl from Mid-town to Greenwich Village for charity and FUN!  There are all kind Christmas characters – lots of elves and a particularly cute group of eight pretty girls dressed as reindeers.   SantaCons are held throughout the country, but as with everything, NYC does it in a big way!

There are two other events that are also full of characters.  Each March, there is a reverse migration of characters from New York to Hoboken, NJ, where St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated.  There are lot of leprechauns on the subways and ferries. There is a parade, lots of green everywhere, and bar crawls ensues.  During Pride Week in June, people are everywhere in costumes.  Again, there is a parade with floats full of very good-looking men – always fun to watch and see how creative everyone is.  

Still, the most-memorable character I ever saw and who is my all-time favorite, even beating Santa Claus, is a tall, stately, African American gentleman.  I would see him on the PATH as we were both commuting between NYC and Jersey City.  He was one-of-the -kind.  The first time I saw him, he was dressed entirely in chartreuse, green shag fur.  From the top of his head down to his shoes, he was green. He wore a green top hat which was exaggerated in size and carried a walking stick.  No one seemed to notice him, but I couldn’t take my eyes off him.  

The next time I saw him, he was dressed entirely in dalmatian print – white with black spots.  Again, he was wearing a large top hat and strutting with his walking stick.  I loved his panache. His fashion flair just made me happy.  The last time I saw him he was crossing the street in Jersey City.  This time he was dressed in red fake fur.  It was the same outfit just a different color.  I can imagine what his closet looked like and how he must muse each day what to wear.  I never saw him again.  I was always on the lookout for him.  I would have loved to talk to him.  He optimized what it means to be a unique NYC character.  Isn’t it wonderful that there is a place where you can be who you are, and no one seems to be concerned? 

New York City is the fashion capital or the business capital or finance capital or the publishing capital or the entertainment capital of the world.  It is also the character capital of the world.  Full of unique people just living their lives. 

Delight in our Elders

by Cynthia, posted in Friends and Family

Drew, one of the ladies in my book club frequently mentions her father, Van, who also loves to read. Occasionally, we select a book to read based on his recommendation. As with our members, Van enjoys reading from multiple genres. At one meeting we suggested Van may like to visit – or even join – our book club discussion.

What a delight it was this month when Drew and Van walked into our Barnes and Noble coffee shop a few minutes before we began. Van was tall, moved with precision, and sported the kindest expression on his face when I approached them. I couldn’t help myself.  I told him Drew had talked fondly of him and asked if I could hug him. He graciously allowed me to gently embrace him.

We ordered coffee drinks. They selected seating in the corner where it might be a little quieter. At 95, Van has lost some of his ability to hear well. As soon as everyone was seated, Van jumped in to begin discussing Junie, our January selection. He mentioned how much he enjoyed the book. He was impressed that the author, Erin Crosby Eckstine was able to write her first novel with such aplomb. Van commented on a hopeful ending to the story for one of the primary characters, Caleb.

I listened with awe as Van recalled characters’ names, authors and titles of additional books he had read. His memory and recall were sharp and his diction clear. He told us a little about being in Alabama when even the military base was segregated (relating to the story line of our book discussion.) Van was a valued participant in our discussion.

He asked if we were looking for additional members and we responded affirmatively. We invited him to return any time; even to join if he would enjoy conversing with this female-dominated club.

Spending this short time with Van, I am reminded of the value of including our elders. Here in the United States of America we fail to honor our senior citizens. With age one gains wisdom along with experience. There is much to learn and appreciate from others, especially from those who have walked the path before us.

At the same time, we help our older citizens live life more fully. Getting older can be emotionally and socially challenging. Our friends and family may pass before us, leaving us without someone with whom to share time.

Look for Vans in your life. The mutual benefit will bring happiness to you both.

Five Types of Wealth: Social

by Cynthia, posted in Wellness

Wealth, as a concept, is often narrowly construed as a matter of finances—a sum of assets, investments, and monetary resources. However, true prosperity is multidimensional. Over the years, scholars, thought leaders, and personal development experts have increasingly recognized that wealth comes in various forms. Sahil Bloom (whom we have previously reviewed) looks at wealth in terms of time, mental, physical, financial and social.

Social Wealth, so to speak, relates to one of my goals for 2026. I aim to make at least one new friend this year.  An article on relationships I recently read indicated that most people have five close friends and about 150 others. Those 150, I call acquaintances. I enjoy their company but likely would not call upon them if I needed something. Although if truth be told, I would gladly come to their rescue if they called me. Go figure!

Social wealth is the fabric of relationships and connections that enrich an individual’s life and empower communities. Unlike financial wealth, which is measured in currency, social wealth is measured by the quality, quantity, and depth of human interactions, networks, and communal bonds. Social wealth is built on trust, reciprocity, and shared values.

Strong social ties can buffer adversity, provide emotional support, and offer opportunities that might not be accessible otherwise. People with robust social wealth tend to experience greater happiness, resilience, and longevity.

Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel recently appeared on CBS Sunday Morning, talking about wellness. Interestingly, he identified social interaction as essential to wellness and longevity.  Dr. Dan Buettner of “Blue Zones” fame similarly identified relationships having a positive impact on people’s lives. Dr. Emanuel suggested one should not eat alone. Even if you don’t a have someone to eat with, you could strike up a conversation with someone sitting near you at a restaurant. (Personally, this would be difficult for introverts, but I understand his motivation.)

Building social wealth takes time and requires intentionality. Most people want to have others in their lives.A friend and I were discussing relationships, and we both agreed that nurturing them takes time and effort. She expressed frustration with a friend who regularly joined her for dinners, either out or at her place, but never reciprocated the invitations. Sometimes, it might be necessary to be the “instigator” in such a relationship. Some people simply don’t put in the extra effort, perhaps because they don’t know how. However, that’s a topic for another conversation.

In today’s digital era, social wealth extends beyond physical boundaries. Online communities, professional networking platforms, and global connectivity offer new ways to forge relationships and build influence. Mary Ann and I have Zoom conversations a couple of times a month. Although we live 1500 miles apart, we can continue a connection by seeing each other on our computer screens. We have virtual “coffees” which are just as effective and meeting at a local coffee shop.

Research consistently finds that social wealth is a major determinant of well-being. People with strong social connections have lower rates of depression, anxiety, and chronic illness. They are more likely to recover from setbacks and achieve personal and professional success. In many societies, especially those driven by capitalism and competition, financial wealth is often celebrated as the pinnacle of achievement. Yet, as myriad studies and lived experiences show, social wealth may be the most enduring and undervalued resource. Friendships, family, and communal support can outlast fortune, status, and power. In moments of crisis, it is social wealth—not financial wealth—that most reliably sustains individuals.

So as retirees, what can we do to expand our social interactions?

  • Join and participate in local groups: Whether a sports league, volunteer organization, or professional association, being part of a group fosters connection.
  • Practice gratitude and generosity: Express appreciation for others and offer help when possible.
  • Develop communication skills: Honest, empathetic communication deepens relationships.
  • Pursue shared interests: Hobbies and passions bring people together in common purpose.
  • Maintain regular contact: Reach out to friends and family, even if just to check in.
  • Embrace diversity: Value relationships with people of different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives.

Ultimately, to live fully is to cultivate social wealth as a guiding star. In doing so, we build lives and societies marked not just by prosperity, but by meaning, resilience, and joy. Best wishes to you; I’m on my way out to find another new friend!

Apple Support

by sssmahh303, posted in Taking Care of Business

Mary Ann

Don’t we all need a White Knight who will slay our dragons or defeats a horrific troll who is under our many bridges.  My White Knight is the Apple Support Team.  I am an Apple fan.  I can’t say enough good things about their products. I have an iPhone, an iPad, and a MacBook Pro and love the fact that all their products can be synched. 

However, what I love the most about Apple is their support team.  In fact, I just used it today as I was writing blogs.  My curser froze, and I tried everything I could to undo whatever I did to cause the freeze.  I then called Apple Support.  The heavens opened and rays of light showered over me, and I was speaking to Kristen.  I explained my dilemma, and she asked me a few clarifying questions.  Then she began to guide me through the various steps to solve the problem.  Within 5 minutes, the problem was solved, and I was singing her praises and that of the whole team. They never disappoint. 

When you call, you never wait more than a few minutes, and you have a choice of music including silence to occupy you as you move quickly through the que.  Upon answering, a friendly associate, male or female, greets you, and we discuss the problem.  Regardless of the Apple device, they can help you.  They verify you are you with a code texted to your phone.  When that is done, they will come on whatever screen with a curser and begin to instruct you in correcting the problem.  This is all securely done with your approval on each step.  If you must use passwords or any other personal information, they leave the website until you are done with it.  They return afterwards to continue to next steps.  Usually, my problems only take a few minutes, but the associate will stay with you until you are satisfied.  One time I had trouble with a Microsoft renewal.  The associate stayed with me for a half hour until we got me up and running again.  That is customer service at its best. 

As a former administrator in schools, I know good teaching when I see it.  Whoever is training these associates is doing an excellent job.  It is hard to teach, but coaching people how to do things that do not come naturally is indeed special.  The Apple Associates are well-trained individuals and are remarkable teachers. They are friendly and very helpful.  

I always tell the associate how good they are.  I always remark on the Apple survey sent after the session how special this help service is and how well-done it is.  Apple Support has saved me several times.  They are my White Knights.  If you have Apple products and don’t know about this service, it is time for you to use it when you are in trouble with computer woes. (800-275-2273) If you don’t have Apple products, it might be a good time to check them out.  I know the world is divided into Apple and PC people.  However, I happen to be a happy Apple person, maybe you should be one too???  We all need White Knights to save us.  

Hamnet

by sssmahh303, posted in Reviews

Mary Ann

It is that time of year when we hear Oscar Buzz, and this year is no exception.  Hollywood saves the best for last with films debuting at the end of the year and the beginning of the next. The holiday audiences boost sales, and the films get lots of exposure. Whispers of excellence, however, began to stir in November about a movie with a rather odd name, Hamnet.  Did they misspell Hamlet?  Kind of….

As I began to read more about it, I discovered that the movie is adapted from a novel by Maggie O’Farrell, so I hurried to read it before the movie premiered. Hamnet the book is about the early life of William Shakespeare and his love story with Agnes Hathaway.  The story doesn’t tell you that it is Shakespeare, but you know, and Agnes is not a new character because you know her as Anne.  The tale is based on facts, but as with all historical fiction, the imagination weaves the possible dialogue and circumstances.  The book is a fast read, and you intimately experiences all the emotions (lots of ups and downs) the characters experience as they live life.  I think Shakespeare would approve how the story unfolds.

The hardest part of writing reviews is that you don’t want to tell too much of the story to ruin it for the reader and not telling enough to dull interest to read or to see the movie or whatever.  So, I was ready when the advertisements began for Hamnet.  The trailers tease and then you want, you must see the movie!

Hamnet the movie, is just, in a word, beautiful.  The sets, the scenery, the engaging and attractive actors, the charming children, and on and on.  It all sets the stage for a story of love and loss and eventually healing. The movie is true to the book.  Hamnet didn’t last very long in the theaters.  Most films don’t run long anymore unless it is a blockbuster with dinosaurs or a slice of the Marvel Universe.  Eventually, Hamnet will come to one of the streaming services, or it may have a relaunch should it get an Academy Awards nomination. Regardless, both the book and the movie are worth your time.  It is literature and film at its best.  Enjoy! 

2026 Favorite Things

by sssmahh303, posted in Lifestyle

Mary Ann and Cynthia

It is that time of year for remembering the past year and looking ahead to the new one.  Last year we did a blog on our 2025 favorite things, and we thought we would do it again for 2026.  Maybe it will give you some ideas for 2026.  There are a lot of 20,20,20s in that paragraph.

Nest Candles – You may have discovered this line of candles and their delicious smells.  I am totally in love with the Birchwood Pine Reed Diffuser.  I discovered it for Christmas 2024.  It makes the whole house smell like Christmas.   It is perfect for the entire winter season.  The candles and the diffuser are a bit pricey.  However, the products last a long time, and if you watch the website (Nest.com), the Nest company have great sales.  After last Christmas, I bought the one I am using this year at a good discount.  I am going to do it again this year.  The diffuser is well-packed, and if you put it in a dark place, it will be ready when you are ready to use it.  They also ran a Black Friday special this year with good prices.  

 

Krebs Christmas Ornaments – I have had these Christmas balls on my tree for years.  They are beautifully made in gorgeous colors, unique colors that can transform a tree. They can be found on their website, christmasbykrebs.com, and of course, Amazon carries them. It is a high quality product at a reasonable price that you can enjoy for years.

American Spoon – I shared this company last year and their wonderful Holiday Jam.  This year, I tried their Bourbon Butterscotch sauce and Candied Pecans.  Use both for a delicious topping for ice cream or pound cakes. American Spoon’s products are just yummy!  I don’t think you can go wrong. The website is different from the name – spoon.com 

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Yo Mama Marinara Sauce – I discovered this pasta sauce this year when I was looking for a healthy marinara sauce with few ingredients and no additives.  I tried a jar, and now Yo Mama is part of my pantry.  Spaghetti never tasted so good.  In preparing this blurb, I found that the company has a whole range of products – alfredo sauce, BBQ sauce, pizza sauce, and a variety of favors for their marinara.  I look forward to trying them all.  It is always fun to find tasty, simple products.

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Egg Omelet Dish – I saw this little pottery item in the Uncommon Goods Catalog.  It claimed to cook a mini egg omelet in 45 seconds.  What a quick way to have protein in the morning, and it fits perfectly in a bagel or English muffin.  Spray vegetable oil in the little dish, whip up an egg and add cheese, bacon bits, peppers, onions, or any other veggie.  Pour the mixture into the dish and put in the microwave for 45 seconds.  Viola, you have a perfect egg to eat alone or in a sandwich. The Omelet Dishes are made by Holman Pottery.  You can purchase them from their website, holmanpottery.com, at Uncommongoods.com, and Amazon carries the dishes as well.  They are around $25.  

Having sensitive skin I shy away from most scented products. But there are a few I can use without fear of developing rashes.  One such product is from Natural Grocers – Lavendar Epsom Salts. I use it once or twice a week while soaking in the bathtub. I keep a canister with a small scoop by the bathtub, so the salts are read to use when the mood strikes. I simply put a few scoops under the warm running water and let them dissolve as the tub fills. Then I step into luxury for a 20-minute soak. Relaxing!

doTerra is an essential oil company that certifies its oils are pure. doTerra means “gift of the earth” in Latin. The company provides work for people across the globe, helping small businesses thrive while growing herbs worldwide. The products are expensive, but well worth the money. I diffuse essential oils in my office and bedroom every day. Two products I use extensively are the Deep Blue Rub to relieve muscle discomfort and the Breathe Respiratory Drops when my throat is scratchy or I feel an allergy or cold coming on. The scents are pleasant and I know I’m getting quality products when I buy from doTerra.

Using stickers activates my inner child.  My planner is replete with stickers marking appointments, reminders, and elevating my calendar.  I especially appreciate Bloom Stickers. They are fun, colorful, and meaningful. Bloom Stickers come in a variety of themed packages. Often, they accompany Bloom Planners. I have used the Bloom financial tracking planner and stickers in addition to the yearly planners.  You can find Bloom products at https://bloomplanners.com/ .

Another favorite is Thoughtfully ( https://www.thoughtfully.com/ ). This company has curated gift sets that are reasonably priced. My favorites, of course, are the Thoughtfully Gourmet. These sets comprise miniature samples of multiple products such as olive oil, salts, and teas. I like these because it gives me a chance to try different flavors without ending up with large quantities of things I may not use again. Another fun use of these mini sets is to use them for advent calendar boxes.  The small footprint of the items makes inclusion in the advent box perfect. And, you can use them for favors. This year I made nutcracker shaped breadsticks which I packaged with a small bottle of olive oil to use as a dipping oil. Fun and useful favor from an annual Christmas brunch.

One of my most favorite “things” is Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/ This is a company that has figured out what customers want and how to treat customers. Some people complain about the membership fee, but if you use the company a lot you will actually save quite a lot on shipping alone. The ability to order and receive most products within a few days is satisfying. The return process is easy and customer service personnel are empowered to make decisions about refunds. I am grateful that Jeff Bezos and his associates created a system of ordering, delivering, and returning that makes purchases so much easier.

There you have it, friends. Now you know a little more about Mary Ann and me – the things we enjoy and the products we use. What are some of your favorite things?

Sauerkraut and Pork

by sssmahh303, posted in Friends and Family

Mary Ann

Happy New Year!  It is that time of year when you reflect on the past year and make resolutions for the coming year.  In my family, we started the year off with a dinner of Sauerkraut and Pork for good luck, and I have had this dish for my entire life every January 1st.  This is pure Pennsylvania Dutch, and no matter where I lived the aroma of the kraut and pork fill the air to greet the new year.

The sauerkraut represented money, so you had to eat some to have a prosperous year.  I must say it was hard to swallow when I was little, but now I’ve grown accustomed to the sour taste and like it.  The pork is prepared because the pig only walks forward, never backwards.  I recently read that it is also because the pig roots forward where other animals dig backwards.  Good Jeopardy question with the rooting.   In the new year, you want to be moving forward, not stuck in the past year.  We always served mashed potatoes and applesauce with the meal.

When I lived in South Carolina, the natives could not imagine eating sauerkraut and pork.  They always made black-eyed peas and greens cooked in ham hocks on New Years.  Both were new foods to me when I first move there.  The black-eyed peas were pennies, and the greens represented cash.  It was for a prosperous year as well.  

One year, my Southern neighbor and I did a combo meal doing both the Pennsylvania way and Southern way together. All tasted good, and it was fun eating a North/South meal. We had double luck that year.

No matter where you live, there are always special foods and traditions that are unique to an area or a family.  Regardless of how you celebrate, it all kicks off the New Year with hope, good luck, and prosperity.  You can’t go wrong!