Flu Shot Cocktail. Because you need it.

 

If you've been following this blog for a while, you'll know about my deep affection for foreign television—German shows in particular, and the long-running “Tatort” franchise most of all. Recently, while binge-watching the Vienna-based “Tatort” episodes, I caught something delightful I'd never heard before. One of the main detectives was feeling under the weather, and his partner suggested he get a “flu shot.” Not the needle-in-the-arm variety, but the kind you drink—with great pleasure.

A quick bit of research revealed that this warming cocktail goes by many names and variations, but after testing several, I've landed on what I believe is the absolute best version. With deep winter upon us and colds and flu circulating everywhere, consider this your tasty line of defense. Forewarned is forearmed… and deliciously so.

Flu Shot Cocktail

1 c. (or less) hot water
1 T. fresh lemon juice (I used one of my home grown Meyer lemons)
1 T. honey
2 oz. peach schnapps
Optional: an extra squeeze of fresh lemon at the end for brightness

Stir the honey into the hot water until fully dissolved, add the lemon juice and peach schnapps, give it a gentle stir, and enjoy slowly while curled up on the couch. It's soothing, warming, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat rather than medicine.

You can find the adorable seasonal mug here.

 

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

Location of dents indicated by "x."

 

As with most things in this house, the refrigerator delivery came with both good news and bad news—because why would it ever be just one or the other?

 The good news: the new refrigerator arrived. It is a KitchenAid 26.2 cubic foot, multi-door French door refrigerator with a platinum interior and stainless steel exterior, as I mentioned here. It even has a fingerprint free exterior (something I wasn’t aware of when I bought it), as well as offering up two different kinds of ice – crushed and cubed – something else I wasn’t aware of when I bought it, so I was pretty pleased. In other words, it is beautiful. The delivery crew removed both the front door and the storm door to get it inside, hauled the old refrigerator out without incident, and slid the new one neatly into place. It fits perfectly, which already felt like a small miracle.

 The bad news: everything else.

 First, I was informed that they would not be connecting the water line unless I paid extra. This was surprising, given that my receipt said otherwise, but I decided to put that argument on hold for another day. I have learned to pace myself.

Second...the dents. Over the phone customer service offered money off, but I declined. When I pay for showroom perfection, I don’t want something that looks slightly used. It would be like hiring a hitman and being satisfied with a simple bruise. I am not keeping a visibly dented refrigerator that I plan to look at every day for the foreseeable future. So yes, technically I now have a refrigerator—but practically speaking, I do not, because once the return is scheduled and a new one is on its way, it would be pointless to fill it up with groceries, only to take them all out again.

Still, it’s something.

But wait, there’s more.

 While disconnecting the water line from the old refrigerator, one of the delivery men warned me that a little water might leak onto the floor and asked if I could get him a towel. No problem, I said confidently, heading for the laundry room. I opened the dryer, fully expecting a warm, fluffy load of towels—only to discover that I had outsmarted myself earlier in the day by actually folding the laundry and putting it away. All of it.

 Thinking quickly, I opened the washer, full of yet-to-be-laundered clothes and such, grabbed a towel, and turned back to hand it to him. And that’s when momentum, physics, and fate intervened. Along with the towel, I unintentionally flung a pair of my underwear directly at the poor man.

 The mortification was immediate and complete.

 To his credit, he reacted with admirable professionalism, pretending that nothing unusual had occurred, while I stood there silently questioning every decision I’ve ever made. Somewhere between the refrigerator, the dents, and airborne underwear, I accepted what I probably should have known all along: nothing in this house happens without incident.

 (Those of you who know me personally will recall the time I inadvertently flashed my underwear, in a similar fashion, to the UPS man. That time a dryer was also involved, but the underwear was stuck to the robe that I had quickly pulled on in order to answer the door, rather than flung into his face.)

At least the refrigerator is beautiful. Even if it’s only visiting.

Creamy Boursin Pasta con Broccoli: Ready in Under 30 Minutes!

 

If you’re a pasta lover like me, you know that classic pasta con broccoli holds a special place in the heart—especially when it reminds you of your favorite local Italian spot. But let’s be honest: some versions require too much fuss for a weeknight dinner. That’s why I’m obsessed with this super-simple twist that uses Boursin cheese for an instant flavor upgrade. The shallot and chive variety brings herbaceous, garlicky magic that shines through, turning a handful of ingredients into a creamy, restaurant-worthy dish with practically zero effort.This Boursin Pasta con Broccoli is rich, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy evenings when you want something indulgent without the hassle. It serves two generous main portions or four as a side—ideal for date night or family dinner.

Boursin Pasta con Broccoli

6 oz. orecchiette pasta(or any short pasta you love)
2 c. fresh broccoli florets
1 (5.2-oz) package Boursin Shallot & Chive cheese
½ c. heavy cream
Pinch of salt
¼ t. freshly ground black pepper

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette and cook according to package directions until al dente.

During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot with the pasta. This saves you an extra pan and keeps things simple!

While the pasta cooks, warm the Boursin cheese and heavy cream in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir gently until the cheese fully melts into a silky, creamy sauce.

Using a spider strainer or slotted spoon – stop draining pasta! –, transfer the cooked pasta and broccoli directly from the pot to the skillet. The starchy pasta water clinging to the noodles will help thin and smooth the sauce perfectly.

Toss everything together until beautifully coated. If the sauce feels too thin, let it simmer for a minute or two to thicken. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. 

This dish is pure comfort: tender pasta, bright green broccoli, and that irresistible garlicky-herb cream sauce. Once you try it with Boursin, you’ll never go back!

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Embracing Winter Neutrals: A Calm and Rustic January Tablescape

 

When I was younger, my world was bursting with color—bold hues everywhere I looked. These days, though, I crave the quiet elegance of neutrals. They soothe the soul, offering a gentle pause amid life's chaos. Don't we all need a little more peace?

 After the vibrant reds, greens, and golds of Christmas, I was ready to strip things back and create a low-key yet striking and rustically elegant table that captures the essence of January's bleak, beautiful winter months.

This rustic neutral setting feels like a deep breath of crisp air—calm, grounding, and utterly inviting.  It all starts with a lovely linen table covering, layered with a nature-scene runner from Pottery Barn that whispers of snowy forests and quiet woodlands.The matching napkins from the same linen collection tie everything together softly.

  

At each place, circular black placemats add a touch of drama against the pale linens, topped with natural tree-slice wooden chargers for that perfect rustic texture.The square dinner plates (a thoughtful gift from years ago, from Rachael Ray's line) provide a clean backdrop, crowned by oval "Nibble" plates by Rae Dunn. 

For a playful twist, I've placed Mackenzie-Childs “Courtly Check” forks atop the nibble plates—ideal for spearing a delicious starter. 

The mugs, featuring an interior elk design, are also from Pottery Barn's collection and bring subtle wildlife charm. Adorable black ceramic creamers at every setting let guests customize their coffee or tea just right.The flatware, purchased years ago from Cabela's, has a rugged outdoorsy vibe, while the smoky stemware—cherished pieces inherited from my mother—adds a hint of vintage elegance.Continuing the rustic theme, little wooden-slice place card holders mark each spot with natural warmth.Elk salt and pepper shakers from Pottery Barn nod to winter wildlife, and the dramatic elkhorn-base hurricane (also Pottery Barn) anchors the table with majestic presence. 

Inside, a candle featuring a vintage map design (a treasure from a local shop years ago) flickers softly, evoking thoughts of distant adventures on cold nights.

  

This neutral January tablescape is my antidote to holiday overload—a serene celebration of winter's quiet beauty. Whether you're hosting a cozy brunch or intimate dinner, let neutrals bring the peace you deserve. 

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 This post is linked to: Tablescape Thursday

 

Refresh Your Post-Holiday Cravings with This Heavenly Low-Calorie Cobb Salad Dressing

 

After indulging in all the rich holiday feasts, nothing hits the spot like a fresh, crisp Cobb salad. I had some leftover turkey begging to be used, so I cubed it up and tossed it into a classic Cobb—only to discover that this iconic salad actually has its very own signature dressing! It originated at the legendary Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood (who knew? I certainly didn’t until recently).

I decided to make a lighter version of the classic, and with my lemon tree still loaded with beautiful Meyer lemons, I plucked one and added its fresh juice. Let me tell you—this dressing is absolutely heavenly. Tangy, bright, perfectly emulsified, and surprisingly low in calories thanks to the addition of water and a balanced oil ratio. It’s the perfect post-holiday reset that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. 

Whether you blend it in a mini food processor, shake it in a jar, or use an immersion blender, it comes together in minutes. Drizzle it over your favorite Cobb salad loaded with turkey, bacon, avocado, eggs, tomatoes, and blue cheese, and prepare for pure salad bliss.

Low-Calorie Cobb Salad Dressing

Adapted from mollyshomeguide.com

⅔ c. vegetable oil

⅓ c. extra virgin olive oil

⅓ c. red wine vinegar

Juice from ½ Meyer lemon (or regular lemon)

¼ c. water

1½ T. Dijon mustard (I love Pommery for its texture)

2 t. Worcestershire sauce

1 t. sugar

1 garlic clove, finely minced

¼ t. kosher salt (or to taste)

Copious freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Place all ingredients into a mini food processor, blender, or quart-sized mason jar.

 If using a processor or blender: Secure the lid and pulse/blend on high until fully combined and emulsified.

 If using a jar: Seal tightly and shake vigorously until the dressing is smooth and cohesive.

 Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add more pepper or salt as desired.

 Serve immediately over your Cobb salad, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before each use.

This dressing is light, vibrant, and the fresh lemon truly makes it sing. Your post-holiday salads will never be the same!

 

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New Year’s Pepper Jelly Meatloaf, a bright, zesty twist on classic comfort food.

 

 After the whirlwind of holiday parties, cookie trays, prime rib, and endless champagne toasts, January arrives like a quiet exhale. The house feels a little empty, the fridge is full of leftovers no one wants to look at, and suddenly all I crave is something simple, warm, and deeply satisfying. Meatloaf checks every one of those boxes. 

But this isn’t the gray, ketchup-topped slab of your childhood cafeteria nightmares. This is meatloaf with attitude: tender, juicy, and punched up with grated shallot, garlic, a touch of Worcestershire, and, most importantly, a glossy glaze of spicy ketchup swirled with pepper jelly that caramelizes into a sweet-heat crust. The first bite is pure comfort; the second bite wakes up your taste buds and reminds them there’s life (and flavor) after fruitcake season.

It’s the perfect way to ease into the new year: familiar enough to soothe, bold enough to feel like a fresh start. 

New Year’s Pepper Jelly Meatloaf
Serves 6–8 (12 slices) | Active: 20 min | Total: 1 hr 30 min

1½ c. (4 oz.) crushed Ritz crackers
⅔ c. evaporated milk
1½ T. Worcestershire sauce
2 t. kosher salt
½ t. freshly ground black pepper
2 large eggs
1½ t. Melissas’s minced garlic
1 large Melissa’s French Echalion shallot (6–7 oz.), minced
1 lb. ground chuck
1 lb. ground pork
⅔ c. spicy ketchup
5 T. pepper jelly, divided

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a sheet pan with foil and lightly coat with cooking spray.

In a large bowl, stir together cracker crumbs, evaporated milk, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, eggs, garlic, grated shallot, and 2 T. of the pepper jelly until well combined. Add ground chuck and pork; mix gently but thoroughly with gloved hands.

Turn mixture out onto the prepared pan and shape into a 9×4-inch freeform loaf.

Bake for 35 minutes. Meanwhile, whisk spicy ketchup with the remaining 3 T. pepper jelly. 

Remove meatloaf from oven; carefully pat away excess drippings if desired. Spread the ketchup-pepper jelly glaze evenly over the top and sides. Return to oven and bake until internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 30 more minutes.

Let rest 5 minutes, then slice and serve.

 Leftovers make phenomenal meatloaf sandwiches the next day, especially with a swipe of extra pepper jelly.

Welcome the New Year with something simple, soul-warming, and quietly exciting. This is comfort food that refuses to be boring.

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Farewell to My Freezing Fridge: Hello, New KitchenAid Adventure (and Extended Warranty Dilemma)

 

Happy New Year! So…how is your year kicking off? Mine started with a bang... or rather, a mysterious chiming sound from the kitchen on New Year's Eve. Turns out, it wasn't one of my beloved Westminster clocks; it was my refrigerator. Hmmmm. That’s new. For the past two months, items in the fridge section kept freezing (on the plus side, frozen milk lasts long past its expiry date), and the blower was cycling like it was training for a marathon—sometimes every 20 seconds. When the water dispenser was hesitant to dispense, I decided it was time for an upgrade. 

This is my current, much loved fridge, that served me well for 13 years.

  Gone are the glory days of marathon shopping sprees with my best girlfriends in high school and college, or later with my mom (my ultimate shopping buddy), and then with the late Mr. O-P. We'd hit the department stores bright and early—back when they had actual departments: notions, fabrics, a built-in bookstore, stationery, candy, bakery, the works! We'd shop all day, break for lunch and dinner, and stagger home laden with treasures. Sigh... stores just aren't the same anymore. These days, I do all my shopping online, from cars to kitchen countertops, sight unseen. So far (knock on wood), I've had great luck—no major regrets.

 

I'd been eyeing refrigerators for a while, so I knew roughly what I wanted. I'm a sucker for gadgets, and that door-in-door feature really tempted me—I loved the idea of grabbing a beverage without opening the whole fridge, plus it would force me to keep things tidy behind that glass panel. But it adds a bit of protrusion, and in my slightly clumsy dotage, I worry about bumping into it, caroming off into the stove and onto an open flame. Pass.

 

I couldn't live without: an exterior water and ice dispenser, and upgrading to a four-door model from my old three-door. I'm partial to KitchenAid, so that's what I ordered—online from Best Buy. Pro tip: I clicked through Rakuten first and scored $90 cash back. If you're not using Rakuten, you're missing out—I've earned over $6,000 in cash back over the past decade. Seriously, sign up; it's free money! Click here. I mean it! Vow to save money this year, and there is no easier way to do it.

 

Now, the nail-biter: Will it fit? When I remodeled the kitchen, Joe built a custom cabinet above the fridge space (previously just open air). My precise measurements show the new one will clear it by a mere eighth of an inch. Fingers crossed! Delivery is set for January 9th—I'll keep you posted.

 

One thing my neighbor suggested: an extended warranty. I'm torn. My dad was firmly against them—called them a waste. My son Andrew jokes that manufacturers install "kill switches" to zap appliances right after the standard warranty expires (he swears he's kidding... I think). 

 

So, what do I think? Extended warranties on appliances are a hot debate. Many experts, like those at Consumer Reports, say skip them—modern appliances are reliable, and repair odds during the extended period are low. Repairs often cost less than the warranty premium anyway. On the flip side, refrigerators (especially with ice makers and dispensers) can be prone to issues, with repairs running $200–$700 or more. Some sources suggest they're worth it for complex or high-end models if the plan is from a reputable provider with good service.

Since this is from Best Buy, it'd be their Geek Squad plan—reviews are mixed, but many praise quick fixes and even food spoilage reimbursement. Peace of mind might be priceless, especially for a gadget-loving gal like me. I'll probably mull it over until delivery. What about you? Extended warranty yay or nay? Drop your experiences in the comments—I'd love to hear!

 Here's to a fresh start in 2026, with a fridge that doesn't chime alarms or freeze my lettuce. Cheers!