Life Lately

 

We are experiencing the most beautiful weather; the kind that draws you outside where you take notice of the birds chirping, the blue sky and the sunshine.  I also feel incredibly optimistic about Covid, with more and more people getting the vaccine and positivity rates dropping in the state overall and especially my county (Sarasota) and even my zip code at <1%.  Still lots of mask wearing, but otherwise open.

I have been enjoying the pool at home and getting out and about too, like to the Farmer’s Market on Saturday morning.  How fun to get fresh, local vegetables in the winter and especially strawberries, direct from Plant City. We have a fabulous Farmer’s Market in Venice with live music, a variety of vendors and the added bonus of blue skies and Royal Palms overhead.

 There has been a lot of planting going on both at my house and in my neighborhood where I continue as chair of the Beautification Committee.  We designed a new bed by our pickle ball courts that is getting raves. It’s hard work, but I do love it.  With new plantings in Florida, there is no shirking from daily watering and that is keeping me on my toes, with all the sunny, dry weather.

Here is a sampling of my life lately in photos.  Happy last day of February!

Chai Tea Latte at Home

 

I was so happy to find this recipe.  A chai tea latte is something I would order more often at coffee shops, but when you don’t drink caffeine, there really isn’t ever the option.  At home, I can simply make this using decaf black tea.  And, my newest obsession and Amazon purchase, my hand held frother, takes it to another level.

Here is how you make the chai spices.  

Mix together:

1 T ground nutmeg

1 T ground ginger

1 T ground cloves

2 T ground cardamon

2 T ground cinnamon

Store in an airtight container.

To make one serving of chai tea latte:

Brew one serving of strong black tea.  In a small glass pitcher or measuring cup add 3 ounces of half and half, 1/2 tsp of chai spice mix and a splash of vanilla.  Heat  for 45 seconds in microwave, then froth.  Add 2 squeezes of honey to hot tea, stir and then top with the spiced froth.

This recipe is so simple, delicious, and a great alternative to coffee.  It also proves that anyone can be a barista, right at home.

Happy Monday!

What I am Watching

 

Sometimes, I am more inclined to watch something on Netflix than read and that is where I am lately.  I have found some really good series; some new and some that have been around for awhile.  I love a crime series and found two that really hooked me.  Both are smart, brooding and immerse you in the location (Sweden and Wales) where they were shot, which I love.  The Queen’s Gambit is simply stunning and I especially loved the costumes.  Who knew that a chess tournament could be so exciting?  The Dig is the quiet kind of English countryside story that I enjoy, with the intrigue of an archeological dig and the start of WWII as a backdrop. Think Downton Abbey.

The Dig on Netflix

Hinterland on Netflix

The Queen’s Gambit on Netflix

Young Wallander on Netflix

While The Dig was an original Netflix movie, Young Wallander will return for another season. Hinterland will not from all I can tell.   I’m hoping that The Queen’s Gambit will have another season as well.  There are a lot of shows on Netflix, but finding quality is sometimes difficult.  These are all ones that I was sad to see the final credits roll by and definitely worth watching.