Bridge by Steve Becker
Opening lead — seven of hearts. The arithmetic of bridge dictates that a small slam should be bid whenever the chance of making it is better than even. This is because if you bid and make six, whether vulnerable or not, you gain just about as many points as you’d lose if the attempt ...
Ceviche gets a roasted twist with habanero
Fresh ceviche is a staple of Mexican cuisine, but my husband and I were introduced to the concept of roasted ceviche at our wedding. The side dish, adapted here from my cookbook "Plantas," is made of a combination of cooked and fresh ingredients contributing to a sweet, spicy and tangy side ...
A last-minute birthday celebration and a busy week of canning
August brings us more birthdays in the family. A happy 67th birthday to my oldest sibling Leah on Aug. 15. Aug. 16 granddaughter Brooklyn had her first birthday. We gave her a balancer bike. She loves it but still needs to get the hang of staying on. She will manage it soon, I'm sure. She has warmed up to her little 3-week-old brother Jayden, who should just actually be making his appearance a few days ago. He is doing well and seems really contented. On Aug. 18, granddaughter Kaitlyn turned 10 years old. We gave her a music box chest. She was so happy for it and thanked me more than ...
Plan for sensory experience like no other in wine country
As this is being written, grapes in our vineyards have gone through the process of coloration, called veraison. The vines are getting ready for the coming harvest season. Soon, the marble-hard green grapes are turning soft. Whites have taken on golden hues and reds have begun the journey to purple and deep burgundy. This is the time to plan for a visit to experience, first-hand, all of the coming sights and smells. And while you are in wine country, be sure to top off your visit, relax on a patio and have a lovely tasting of some amazing local wines in hand. Some sights: As you ...
DEAR ANNIE: No place for mom guilt in a partnership
DEAR ANNIE: I have a 9-year-old son from a previous relationship and a 3-year-old daughter with my current partner. He is a wonderful, involved father and partner. He makes lunches, does laundry, cleans up after dinner, helps with bedtime and will often notice something needs to be done before I even ask. The strange part is that instead of simply appreciating the help, I sometimes feel guilty about it. I grew up in a home where my mother did almost everything. My father worked hard, but housework and taking care of the children were considered her responsibility. Somewhere along the ...