Viewpoints: Observations Looking In The 2023 Rearview Mirror & Looking Ahead: 2024 Perspectives For Home & Garden Style

 

Around this time of year, I like to take stock of the world around me ~ those things that in the past year, I dealt with, confronted and, looking ahead, embrace.  

This isn’t a list of resolutions or “What’s In/What’s Out,” nor is it a "peeve poll"~ it's more a reflection on those cultural touchstones in my areas of expertise I’ve observed that I hope are fading in the rearview mirror and those that I hope we can all embrace in this monumental year ahead. Some are just fun.

I hope you enjoy perusing my list of what to “Let Go Of” and what I predict we'll “Welcome:"

Top Reads ~ Book Reviews For Your Consideration From My 2023 Goodreads Year In Books

It was a good year for bibliophiles. 

There were so very many good books to thrill me, teach me, make me cry, surprise me, guide me, challenge me, and delight me. You? How did your bookbag fare in 2023? 

Here is my Year in Books as recorded from the Goodreads Challenge.  

I get a kick out of how they tally, analyze, and create lists kind of like those high school superlatives.  I hope you’ll find some stimulating suggestions from my 47. Following is kind of movie trailer books review:

Celebrate National Whipped Cream Day with these Delicious, Frothy Drink Recipes!

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What could be more glamorous and fun than to celebrate today ~ it’s National Whipped Cream Day! Call it Chantilly cream or creme Chantilly, milk snow, or snow cream. 

Add a little extra something special to desserts to celebrate on January 5 for National Whipped Cream Day. Not only does it add creaminess and a bit of pizzaz, but it also makes the difference between the ho-hum or a celebration kind of beverage or dessert. 

Here are a few delicious drink recipes to toast this glamorous day. 

The Dramatic, Theatrical Dessert to Serve Post-Holiday: Easy-To-Make Baked Alaska Recipe to Wow Your Guests

 

Baked Alaska - photo courtesy Bernzomatic Blowtorches

If entertaining and dining is not only homegrown, seasonal, and delicious -- but also a bit of theater - then, think about making Baked Alaska for your next dinner party.  

After all, you’ll need a bit of a sparkly topper after all the holiday desserts. 

This fire and ice dessert never fails to add drama; sure to elicit gasps of delight - and applause - from your guests.  

That this elegant dessert is oh-so-easy to make - is a behind the stage secret. Here’s how: