When “Quick Spin Around the Block” Goes Horribly Wrong

You know those new cars that practically drive themselves? Mine is one of them. It has Eyesight cameras in the windshield that slam on the brakes if someone runs a red light (startling the daylights out of me when it first happened), rear sensors that watch your back like overprotective parents, and a symphony of beeps, buzzes, and boops for everything from drifting over the lane line to forgetting your turn signal. It’s like having a very judgmental backseat driver built right into the dashboard.

 The downside? All that technology never sleeps. If I don’t drive my barely-used two-year-old car (a whopping 1,200 miles on the odometer — yes, there really is a little old lady who only drives on weekends, c’est moi), the battery throws in the towel. Thank goodness for my NOCO jump starter and NOCO battery charger — they’ve saved me more times than I care to admit.

 To avoid future drama, I started a new routine: every couple of days I pop out to the garage, crack the garage door — no carbon monoxide poisoning for me, no sir! —, fire up the engine, and let it run. Last week I thought, Why not take it for a quick spin around the neighborhood? That way it would be good and charged for coffee with the ladies the next morning.

 Big mistake.

 Here’s the thing about summer at my house: it’s extremely casual. As in, pants-optional casual. I’m constantly up and down stairs, crawling around cleaning cabinets, and sitting on the floor. Pants just get in the way. So there I was in the garage, T-shirt, favorite purple underwear, and my trusty Crocs, when I decided to take that little drive.

 Two miles from home, it hit me like a thunderbolt. I was sitting at a stoplight in nothing but my skivvies.

 I immediately started sweating. What if I got pulled over? Can you imagine the poor officer’s face?

 “Ma’am… do you know why I stopped you?”

 “Yes, officer. Because I’m living my best pantsless life at 35 mph.”

 I turned around faster than a guilty teenager and slunk home, garage door opening like the gates of shame. Lesson learned?

 …Let’s just say with me, you never really know.

 (Number two son, Andrew – whom you all should know by now – is always quick with a word. “Mom,” he told me, “Had you been at Wal-Mart, you would have fit in just fine.”  As usual, he was not wrong.)

 This story is part of my series Life on Planet Pattie, about the foibles of life, resilience, and the occasional furniture-moving adventure. It appears the first Monday of every month.

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A Winter-Weathered Miracle Under the Chair

My Dance with the Devil

Nothing Is Ever Simple (Featuring a Refrigerator and My — GASP! — Underwear)

Refrigerator Roulette, Round Two

The Sun’s Sneaky Victory: My “Brilliant” Outdoor Freezer Defrost Debacle

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Visions of a Very Vintage Christmas: Nostalgic Decorating and Celebrating All Throughout the House by Bob Richter

Some books you read. Others you step into. Visions of a Very Vintage Christmas is the latter—a warm, twinkling invitation to leave the modern world behind and immerse yourself in the kind of holiday magic that feels like it was pulled straight from a cherished childhood memory.

 Following his first book, A Very Vintage Christmas: Holiday Collecting, Decorating, and Celebrating, which focused on collecting and celebrating with antique ornaments, lights, and décor, in this follow-up, Richter takes readers on an intimate, room-by-room tour of his beautifully decorated home. Page after page, you’re greeted with deeply nostalgic, layered scenes that celebrate Christmas maximalism at its most heartfelt. Towering trees, every surface adorned, garlands dripping with vintage ornaments, and cozy corners that practically hum with Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas.” It’s the visual equivalent of sinking into your favorite holiday sweater while sipping cocoa by the fire.

 What makes Richter’s work so special is how personal and attainable it feels. He doesn’t just show perfect finished rooms—he shares the process. He cultivates what he calls a “Christmas Consciousness” year-round, scouting auctions and flea markets for pieces rich with history and sentiment. That philosophy resonated deeply with me. Like Richter, I learned from my mother to shop for Christmas all year long. There’s something peaceful and joyful about spotting the perfect vintage find in July, knowing it will bring magic in December. No last-minute panic, just anticipation. My mother and I also made felt and sequin ornaments together every year, and seeing similar handmade treasures in these pages brought instant tears. Those quiet crafting sessions with her are among my most treasured memories. 

Richter’s book stirred up so many echoes of my own past. The rooms in his home are fully decorated, just as I once did when I had nine Christmas trees (now happily trimmed to four). The handmade ornaments he created with his mom mirrored the ones my mother and I made annually until her passing. And when he described singing carols in church on Christmas Eve, I was instantly transported back to the pew with my family, voices rising together before we’d pile into the car to head to my aunt’s house for dinner and gifts. These aren’t just decorations—they’re vessels for love, continuity, and joy.

 The book excels at showing how to carry that vintage spirit into every space. Whether you have one modest tree or an entire house ready for a Hallmark movie, Richter’s approach encourages you to make your holiday vision personal and meaningful. He includes traditions, décor ideas, and even recipes to keep the spirit alive long after the last ornament is packed away.

 If you adore vintage Christmas, collect ornaments from travels (as I always did, bringing one home from every city or country that I visited) or simply long for the slower, more magical holidays of yesteryear, this book is pure comfort. It’s Christmas maximalism done with soul—not overwhelming, but enveloping. Richter has given us permission to go all in, to honor the past while creating new memories, and to keep that childlike wonder alive.

 I already owned A Very Vintage Christmas, so I knew this would be a winner. It exceeded every expectation. Visions of a Very Vintage Christmas isn’t just a decorating book—it’s a love letter to the season, to family traditions, and to the small, beautiful things that make Christmas feel like home.

 Highly recommended. 

Keep a box of tissues nearby, brew something warm, and prepare to be transported. Your inner child will thank you. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

 It’s scheduled for release on July 21 so you can celebrate your own Christmas in July. You can order a copy here.

  Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

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Peach & Avocado Green Salad

Fitz & Floyd Sicily Blue Italian Bowl

 I’ve eaten more salads than I can count, but even the biggest leafy-green fans hit a boredom wall eventually. That’s exactly when this stunner from Erin Clarke’s The Well Plated Cookbook caught my eye. The surprising mix of sweet peaches, creamy avocado, crunchy almonds, and tangy blue cheese is anything but ordinary.

 I swapped the original arugula for crisp Romaine (perfect if you’re feeding a crowd that prefers milder greens) and eased up slightly on the salt in the dressing. The result? Still sensational, but even more approachable. This has quickly become my favorite homemade dressing.  It's bright, fresh, and ready in seconds. It keeps beautifully in the fridge, so you can enjoy it all week long. Don't let those fresh summer peaches go out of season before trying this.

Erin’s Peach & Avocado Green Salad (Adapted)

 ½ small red onion, very thinly sliced (about ½ c.)

10–12 oz. Melissa’s Romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces

2 medium ripe peaches, pitted and thinly sliced (peels on or off)

2 medium ripe avocados, diced

⅔ c. sliced almonds, toasted

⅔ c. crumbled mild blue cheese (about 3½ oz.)

 Lemon Dressing:

¼ c. extra-virgin olive oil

¼ c. freshly squeezed lemon juice

½ t. Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, pressed or minced

½ t. kosher salt

¼ t. freshly ground black pepper

  Place the sliced red onion in a small bowl and cover with cold water. Let it soak while you prepare everything else—this mellows the bite without losing flavor.

 Toast the almonds in a small skillet over medium-low heat, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly golden (4–5 minutes). Watch carefully so they don’t burn. Set aside to cool.

 Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small bowl or measuring cup until well combined.

 Add the torn Romaine to a large serving bowl. Drizzle with about half the dressing and toss gently to coat.

 Drain the red onion and scatter it over the greens. Top with peach slices, diced avocado, toasted almonds, and crumbled blue cheese.

 Just before serving, drizzle on a little more dressing and give everything a final gentle toss. Serve immediately with extra dressing on the side.

 This salad looks as gorgeous as it tastes—vibrant colors, contrasting textures, and that perfect sweet-savory balance. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. Once you try this dressing, you’ll be reaching for it on everything from grilled chicken to simple greens. Enjoy every refreshing bite!

 

For more wonderful recipes, you can buy Erin’s cookbook here. A sample is available to read online, so check it out.  

 

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Roasted Red Pepper & Jalapeño Egg Salad: A Flavor Explosion

 

Ever since discovering the pure joy of tamed jalapeños, I’ve been tossing them into just about everything from morning scrambled eggs to evening salad dressings. They bring that perfect pop of bright heat without overwhelming the dish. So when a serious egg salad craving hit the other day, I thought: why not?

Best decision ever.

 This isn’t your classic, predictable egg salad. The sweet-smoky roasted red peppers and the tangy kick of tamed jalapeños take it to a whole new level. Creamy, flavorful, and just the right amount of adventurous, this might be the best egg salad I’ve ever tasted. It’s become an instant staple in my kitchen, and I have a feeling it will in yours too. 

Roasted Red Pepper and Tamed Jalapeño Egg Salad

 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped

2 T.  minced red onion

2 T. minced Melissa’s fire-roasted red bell peppers

2 T. minced tamed jalapeños

1 t. yellow mustard (use Dijon if you’re feeling fancy)

¼ t. curry powder

⅛ t. McCormick’s paprika and garlic seasoning

2 to 3 T. Duke’s mayonnaise (adjust to your preferred creaminess)

 Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and stir until well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Serve on toasted bread, crisp lettuce wraps, crackers, or straight from the bowl with a spoon—no judgment here!

This quick, protein-packed salad comes together in minutes and keeps well in the fridge for several days. The subtle heat and layered flavors make it anything but boring. 

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The Ultimate Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Sauce for Ice Cream

 

I’ll be honest: chocolate and peanut butter might be one of the greatest flavor combinations ever created. Who can resist that salty-sweet magic? The other day I was scooping some vanilla ice cream (that I refer to as “dullnilla” if served unadorned) and reached for the fudge topping—only to discover we were completely out.

 Instead of settling, I decided to improvise with my two favorite ingredients. The result? A rich, silky, peanut-buttery chocolate sauce that’s downright addictive. It’s luxurious enough for date-night sundaes yet kid-friendly enough for family movie nights.

 Best of all? It comes together in about 10 minutes on the stove top. 

Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Sauce

Makes about 2 cups

 8 oz. semi-sweet chocolate pieces

½ c. whole milk

½ c. heavy cream

¼ c. granulated sugar

⅓ c. creamy peanut butter (or crunchy if you prefer texture)

2 t. peanut butter whiskey (optional – the alcohol cooks out)

 Place the chocolate pieces and milk in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until the chocolate begins to melt.

Add the heavy cream and sugar, continuing to stir until everything is smooth and fully incorporated. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

 Remove from heat and stir in the peanut butter (and whiskey, if using) until silky and glossy.

Serve warm over ice cream. For the ultimate experience, use creamy peanut butter in the sauce and sprinkle chopped peanuts on top—pure peanut butter cup vibes in every bite.

This sauce keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to a week. Simply reheat gently before serving. Once you try it, you may never go back to plain fudge again!

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Christmas in July: Why The Gingerbread Party Is My New Favorite Holiday Book

 

It’s Christmas in July, and I’m already dreaming of festive traditions thanks to one of the most delightful books I’ve discovered in years: The Gingerbread Party by Courtney Dial Whjtmore.his isn’t your ordinary holiday book. While gingerbread houses appear every December, Whitmore transforms the beloved holiday tradition into a full-blown celebration. Filled with inspiration, this charming book shows you how to create your own gingerbread party tradition, whether it’s an elegant Gingerbread Tea Party, a festive Gingerbread Train Party, or a magical gingerbread-themed gathering for family and friends.From the moment I opened it, I was captivated. Every page is filled with gorgeous photography, imaginative decorating ideas, and creative ways to bring the warmth and charm of gingerbread into every corner of your home. You’ll discover the fascinating history of gingerbread (did you know its origins date back to 2400 BC, long before sugar became a common ingredient?), learn the secrets to building beautiful gingerbread creations, and follow step-by-step tutorials complete with full-size templates for houses of every shape and size—including an adorable gingerbread train.

The recipes are just as tempting as the projects. Alongside classic gingerbread favorites, you’ll find irresistible treats such as Ivy’s Gingerbread Layer Cake, gingerbread cupcakes topped with tiny gingerbread houses, individual Gingerbread Cheesecake Trifles, and even a festive Gingerbread Martini. If you’re looking for savory bites, there are delicious options like Crispy Pimento Cheese Cups, along with decadent sweets such as rich Chocolate Fudge.Whether you want to host an unforgettable gingerbread party, create beautiful holiday decorations, assemble Christmas Simmer Pot Bags that fill your home with the comforting scents of the season, or design breathtaking tablescapes and outdoor displays, The Gingerbread Party offers endless inspiration. Every idea is creative, approachable, and absolutely enchanting.If you’re someone who starts planning Christmas before Halloween (you know who you are!), do yourself a favor and add this book to your collection. It also makes a wonderful hostess gift, Christmas present, or surprise for anyone who loves holiday entertaining.I have a feeling you’ll want more than one copy. Don’t miss The Gingerbread Party. You can order a copy here.

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Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad with Walnuts and Capers

 

Summer weather is always a bit of a crapshoot. Some years June arrives with relentless heat, only to give us a pleasant July. Other years it’s just the opposite. This year, however, June treated us kindly with mild temperatures and plenty of rain. My late-planted arugula absolutely loved it, growing faster than I could keep up with. But with a stretch of near-100-degree days in the forecast, I knew it was time to harvest.

I first discovered arugula more than a decade ago while Mr. O-P and I were living in London and working at the British Library. There, no one called it arugula, it was simply rocket (or roquette, derived from its Latin name). It seemed to find its way into everything from sandwiches to salads, and before long I understood why.

 Its peppery bite can be a bit of an acquired taste, but once you fall for it, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy it. It makes a wonderful pesto, adds personality to an ordinary green salad, and is especially delicious tossed with pasta.

 This Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad was an instant favorite. In fact, I could easily have polished off the entire bowl in one sitting. The only thing that stopped me was the realization that my digestive system might have had a few opinions about that decision! Ahem. Moderation won out, although it wasn’t easy.

 The bright lemon dressing, peppery arugula, salty capers, crunchy walnuts, and nutty Parmesan come together in a salad that’s cool, crisp, refreshing, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or as a light side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. 

Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Adapted from onthebias.nyc

 8 oz. farfalle, cooked and rinsed

Juice and zest of 1 lemon

1 T. white balsamic vinegar

2 t. Dijon mustard

½ c. walnuts, finely chopped

1 T. capers, plus 1 t. caper brine

1 t. kosher salt

½ t. sugar 

½ t. freshly ground black pepper

8 T. extra-virgin olive oil

⅓ c. finely grated Parmesan

3½ oz. arugula (homegrown or Melissa’s)

6 basil leaves, cut chiffonade

 Cook the pasta according to package directions, allowing it to cook just past al dente. Drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process.

 In a large serving bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and zest, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, chopped walnuts, capers, caper brine, salt, sugar, pepper, and olive oil. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.

 Add the cooled pasta and toss until well coated.

Fold in the arugula and basil, if using, just before serving.

Serve chilled or at cool room temperature.

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