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Yummy Meatless Goodness I try to eat meatless meals, but it can be a struggle with an elderly parent who was raised on beef, chicken, fish and pork. So, I have to be sneaky and creative. The Beyond Burger is a great way to do a veggie substitute. I modified an Ina Garten recipe that uses actual meat. This recipe uses blue cheese in the beef, Worstershire sauce, salt, pepper and garlic powder. I grilled mine in the George Foreman grill. The potatoes served with it are tossed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese and olive oil. Roasted at 425 degrees in the oven for 40 minutes. Start the potatoes before you make the meatless burgers. I paired this with a Pinotage. If I were making an actual beef burger, a Cabernet would be nice. The Pinotage is lighter for a less heavy burger. #Dinner #Beyondburger #Vegetarian #BlueCheese #Meatless #Pinotage #Potatoes #Roastedpotatoes #Parmesan #GeorgeForemangrill #Grill #Burger #Bluecheeseburger #Briochebun

I Love Finger Foods with Friends on Friday A Taquito is like a party on a plate. Who doesn't love something crispy, cheesy and delicious? I had two of my dad's high school friends over for dinner on Friday night. Socialization is really important when you are caregiving. One of his friends said, "don't make a big dinner". And so, I thought, a Taquito is impressive looking without taking a lot of time. When I entertain, I like to spend my time with guests, not in the kitchen. This dish is super easy to make and tastes great! You can save time by getting store bought guacamole and Pico de Gallo toppings. Sauté a yellow onion in olive oil, add ground pork, season with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder and a touch of taco seasoning. If you have tomato paste, definitely use that with some water. I was out of tomato paste, so I improvised with 1/4 can of tomato soup and 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce. If it's too thick, you can thin it out with some water. Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with olive oil or Pam. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Generously coat large flour tortillas with olive oil and when the pork mixture is browned and cooked through, spoon it onto each of the tortillas. Then take a shredded Mexican cheese blend and layer it on the tortilla next to the pork. Roll up the tortilla and place it seam side down. Do this until you have filled all of the tortillas and they are snug next to one another on the sheet. Bake for 12 minutes and voila! Taquitos! I paired this with a dry Rosé wine. It was absolutely perfect. But Wait...There's More....Cobbler! I absolutely can't have friends over for dinner without dessert. This blackberry cobbler is super easy to make. 4 cups of fresh blackberries in a square baking dish. In a bowl combine 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of sugar and 1 egg. Mix it together until it's course meal. Top the blackberries with it. Separately melt 6 tablespoons of butter. When the butter is melted, pour it over the top. Bake at 350 degrees until bubbly and crisp on the top.

Fancy Fast - Like a High Flying Bird Spending Monday Night Slaving Over a Stove is for the Birds As a caretaker, the most precious commodity that you have is time. Time to spend with your loved one(s). Time to make as many special moments as possible. So, leftovers are a no brainer. In this case, the squash casserole is a leftover that's still delicious. 45 seconds in the microwave and boom -- you're done! There are a few things that I always keep on-hand in the freezer: meats, breads and a frozen dessert (like ice cream). This is a HUGE time saver. The chicken seems fancy, but it's outrageously simple. Olive oil in a pan on the stove top. Simmer in some fresh green onions. Salt and pepper the chicken and lightly dust with another pantry must-have: Italian bread crumbs. I can't tell you how many times the bread crumbs have saved me time. Tonight, for example, I was out of garlic (another staple). Because the Italian bread crumbs are already seasoned, you can go from zero to one hundred lightning fast. Cook the chicken until lightly browned on the outside (almost cooked through). Top it in the pan with some fresh lemon juice. Fresh lemon is a good source of Vitamin C helpful for digestion. In the last 1 to 2 minutes, top the chicken with some shredded cheese (I used a Swiss and Gruyere shredded blend, but you could also use Parmesan). I can't stress enough the importance of purchasing a pan that can go from stove top to the oven. I have learned over the years to invest in key pieces of cookware: A good stove top to oven skillet with a lid, a large pot with a strainer lid and a Dutch oven. You can go cheaper on things like a non-stick baking sheet because over time they will likely get corroded, and they are not that challenging to replace on a budget. After the stove top, place the chicken in the oven at 400 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes (depending on how hot your oven gets) on the middle rack. On the top rack, toast your garlic bread, or Texas toast. Texas toast is a thicker sandwich type bread with butter and garlic. While the bread and the chicken warm all the way through, you can heat up the leftover squash casserole. It's Time to Wine Down I paired this dinner with a Sauvignon Blanc from Jacks & Swan Cellars in Monterey County. You could go slightly bolder with this dish and serve it with a Chardonnay or Viognier, but the Sauvignon Blanc brightened up the meal. It's bright lime citrus notes with the green apple was a perfect complement to the meal. Remember, fancy can be FAST! #dinner #cheese #Texastoast #chicken #Gruyere #breadcrumbs #oliveoil #Italian #Monday #Mondaymotivation #Mondaymood #chickendinner #winnerwinnerchickendinner #eldercare #caregiver #kidfood #sauvignonblanc #whitewine #wine #foodandwinepairing #foodandwine #garlic #squash #casserole #squashcasserole #jacksandswancellars #montereycounty #californiawine #lemon #VitaminC #flexitarian

Superfoods Are Delicious Blueberries Are High In Antioxidants This coffeecake was made specifically for my dad. He has a sweet tooth and he has dementia. Blueberries are a super fruit and help boost your memory. I try to get blueberries into his diet everyday, whether in yogurt or a smoothie. This dish is perfect for breakfast or brunch. It's super light and packed with 2 cups of fresh blueberries. High In Fiber The skin of the blueberries helps deliver the antioxidant nutrients to the body that protect its cells. They are rich in fiber and Vitamin C. This helps boost my memory and helps support my dad with his #dementia #blueberries #superfruit #comfortfood #coffeecake #brainbooster #brainfood

One of the great things about living in Comfort is that it's pet friendly. I have 2 cats that are the absolute loves of my life. The youngest arrived on my doorstep sick and in need of love and care. Christmas is always a fun time with the cats. They love to explore the Christmas tree. Meet Latte “I love my stocking full of treats.” Latte is a rescue. He appeared on my doorstep on International Cat Day. It's only fitting that he has an international name. I chose Latte because the color of his fur is mocha. He's a beautiful tabby and full of mischief. Cats are psychic Both of my cats know which presents are theirs under the tree. Just like a child, they can't wait to unwrap their gifts and tear into their stockings. The Gift of Comfort and Joy “I used to be more of a dog person. Now I'm a cat momma.” When I rescued Latte, he was suffering from an upper respiratory infection and he was rail thin. He was given multiple medications and suffered an allergic reaction to the first two. It took lots of love and attention from a local vet (and multiple tests) to figure out that he had parasites (specifically giardia). Because he was feral, he didn't trust me or the doctors. It took time for him to accept me as his pet parent and to trust that I wouldn't hurt him. Today he is the most loving cat. He wants nothing more than to be petted and played with. Don't Give Up On An Animal One of the many challenges I faced with Latte was integrating him with my other cat. Sadly, she has not accepted him. Rather than throwing in the towel, I began rotating them. They are both used to their routine now and the separation keeps peace in the house. #Cat #Kitten #Christmas #Stocking #Parasites #Love #InternationalCatDay #PetParent #CatMom

When you are feeling crabby, nothing makes a night better than a slice of quiche. I juggle a full time job along with taking care of my dad. When I'm done with work, the last thing I want to do is spend a lot of time in the kitchen. I love making a quiche, because it's a great way to get some time back in my day. You can mix the ingredients and then let them bake. The 40 minute bake time is my wine time! Simply Comforting “This is primo!” If you want to take a quiche from basic and boring, just add some crab. Imitation crab is totally fine for this dish if you are penny conscious or in a hurry. Low Carb I like this quiche because it's crustless. You are losing the carbs that come with the crust, but not the taste. It's low carb deliciousness at its best. Pair With A Glass of Viognier “Make my day with Vion-yay!.” Wine and food pairing is an art form. With this quiche, I like to pair it with a Texas Viognier. Hilmy Cellars and Hye Meadow are 2 go to Texas brands for this varietal. The buttery essence and slight sweetness of the Viognier goes well with the succulent crab and yummy eggs. Brain food My father has dementia and I am always looking for dishes that are brain boosters. Egg yolks contain choline, which help regulate memory. The simplicity of this dish is that you combine all of the ingredients together in a bowl and bake it off.

In Memory of Mom My mom loved huevos rancheros. On her birthday, I decided to make her a breakfast that she would enjoy, but with a twist. I made her Shakshuka with feta cheese. What Is Shakshuka? “I've never had this before, but it's delicious." Shakshuka is a North African and Israeli dish of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce with vegetables. It typically includes cumin, which is an amazing spice that contains antioxidants and has an anti-inflammatory effect. More Feta, More Better I'm a big #cheese fan, especially #feta. The addition of the feta cheese to the spicy #tomatoes and #eggs actually kicks this dish up a notch. The Benefits of Tomatoes and Eggs Lycopene, Omega-3 and Protein I worked in the health and wellness industry for years. Dietary supplements and healthy foods and beverages were my special niche for marketing. It's amazing the power that foods have to help heal our bodies. Tomatoes are high in lycopene, an antioxidant that helps protect our cells from damage caused by the environment and stress. Potassium, folate, Vitamin C and Vitamin K are also present in tomatoes. Eggs are a great way to get Omega-3 fats into your diet. They are also an inexpensive source of complete protein with all 9 essential amino acids. Make It Vegetarian or Flexitarian Another way to make this dish is to give it a vegetarian spin. Use a firm tofu in place of the eggs and substitute a vegan melting cheese such as the Daiya brand for the feta.

When the holidays roll around, poinsettias take center stage on mantels, tables, and doorsteps. Their vibrant red and green leaves are a symbol of Christmas cheer — but if you’re a cat parent, you might be wondering whether these festive plants are safe for your feline friends. I remember that when I moved back to Texas to care for my mom and dad with my cat, Lulu. I had anxiety about Christmas decor, because my mom LOVED Christmas. And in particular, she loved red poinsettias. I wasn't sure how to not steal her joy of holiday decorating, while keeping my cat safe. Let’s break down what you should know about poinsettia plants , their care, and how to keep your cat safe this holiday season. 🎄 What Is a Poinsettia Plant? Native to Mexico and Central America, the poinsettia ( Euphorbia pulcherrima ) is a tropical plant loved for its bright red “flowers,” which are actually colorful bracts (modified leaves). In warm climates, you can even find poinsettia plants outside  growing up to 10 feet tall. Indoors, they’re usually smaller and used as cheerful décor during the winter months. How much water does a poinsettia plant need? Poinsettias prefer evenly moist soil — not soggy, not dry. Water your plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and ensure it drains well. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering causes droopy leaves. 🐾 Are Poinsettia Plants Poisonous to Cats? It’s one of the most common holiday concerns: “Are poinsettia plants poisonous to cats?” The answer: technically yes, but not as dangerous as you might think. Poinsettias contain a milky white sap with chemicals called diterpenoid euphorbol esters , which can cause irritation if ingested. However, poinsettia plants are only mildly toxic to cats . Most felines experience mild symptoms such as: Drooling or pawing at the mouth Vomiting (usually mild) Irritated eyes or skin if sap touches fur Severe reactions are rare , but it’s still best to keep the plant out of reach — especially if your cat loves nibbling on houseplants. . 😿 What Happens if Cats Eat Poinsettia Plants? If you catch your furry friend eating poinsettia plants , don’t panic. Remove any plant residue from their mouth and rinse gently with water. Offer fresh water and monitor for symptoms like drooling, vomiting, or reduced appetite. Call your vet if: Your cat ate a large amount of leaves or stems Symptoms persist beyond a few hours Your cat seems unusually lethargic or dehydrated In most cases, cats recover quickly without treatment, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution. 🌿 Are There Safer Holiday Plants for Cat Owners? If you’d rather skip the risk altogether, consider cat-safe holiday plants  such as: Christmas cactus ( Schlumbergera ) African violet Red anthurium (kept out of reach) Faux poinsettia arrangements made of silk or felt - these are my preference because the faux plants are now incredibly realistic in their look and feel Avoid truly dangerous plants like mistletoe plants  and holly , which are far more toxic  to cats and dogs. These can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and even heart issues. 🏡 Tips to Keep Cats Safe Around Holiday Plants Decorate Smart:  Place poinsettias and mistletoe plants high on shelves or hanging planters. Use Repellents:  A light mist of citrus spray (cats dislike citrus) around plant pots can deter curious paws. Choose Alternatives:  Silk poinsettias or paper florals look just as festive — and 100% pet-safe. Create a Cat Zone:  Give your kitty their own “holiday corner” with cat grass or catnip toys to redirect curiosity. 🎁 Final Thoughts So, are poinsettia plants poisonous?  Technically yes — but not fatally so. Still, prevention is the best protection. With a little care and awareness, you can enjoy the beauty of the season without putting your feline friends at risk. Celebrate safely, and let your home shine with holiday warmth — not emergency vet visits.

Man Wearing a Spooky Halloween T-Shirt Halloween isn’t just for October anymore. In 2025, the year round Halloween aesthetic  has fully moved from niche subculture into mainstream fashion and décor, and cat lovers are at the heart of this spooky-chic revolution. From black cat motifs to goth aesthetic cat lovers  blending their wardrobes with cozy loungewear, the spooky season has become a permanent vibe. Why the Halloween Aesthetic Never Ends Fashion cycles are often driven by nostalgia, identity, and cultural moods. With the rise of comfort-driven fashion and online communities, spooky fashion year round  feels more accessible than ever. For cat lovers, it’s a natural extension of the bond with their mysterious feline companions—after all, cats have been symbols of magic, mystery, and independence for centuries. Woman Wearing a Halloween T-Shirt with the Slogan Me and My Boo This shift has sparked a crossover between Halloween staples and trending aesthetics like dark academia fashion style , which emphasizes moody colors, vintage charm, and intellectual flair. Pairing a plaid skirt with a black cat-print sweater embodies both comfort and an edge of gothic allure. Gothic Fashion Trends 2025 One of the biggest drivers of the year-round Halloween movement is the resurgence of gothic fashion trends 2025 . Shoppers are embracing black lace, dramatic silhouettes, and moody color palettes again. But this time, goth is merging with playful elements—like Halloween cat clothing  featuring whimsical prints, witchy accessories, and darkly romantic home décor. So, is goth in style 2025?  Absolutely. And not just in subcultures—it’s becoming a statement in mainstream fashion shows, streetwear collections, and boutique offerings. Why Cat Lovers Are the Leaders Cats are at the center of this spooky-cute movement. Whether it’s graphic tees, Halloween cat clothing  like aprons and pajamas, or décor featuring shadowy feline silhouettes, cat lovers are influencing how this trend shows up in everyday life. For them, black cats aren’t bad luck—they’re fashion icons. The cat community also blends goth’s darker tones with cozy home aesthetics, making this style not just bold but also livable. It’s a balance of “witchy glam” and “everyday chic.” Woman Wearing a Witchy Apron with a Black Cat Is Goth Becoming Popular Again? Fashion history always repeats itself, and goth is no exception. So, is goth becoming popular again?  Yes—thanks to TikTok microtrends, runway revivals, and the rise of hybrid aesthetics like “whimsigoth” and “cottage-goth.” Cat-themed accessories bring an approachable charm, softening the harsher edges of traditional goth. Why Is Goth Fashion Popular? At its core, goth fashion offers self-expression, individuality, and timeless drama. The answer to why is goth fashion popular  lies in its versatility: it can be romantic, edgy, mysterious, or even playful. The addition of cats makes it even more accessible, allowing fans to incorporate dark glamour into cozy, whimsical looks. What Is the Goth Aesthetic Trend? So, what is the goth aesthetic trend  in 2025? It’s the blending of Victorian-inspired silhouettes, modern comfort wear, and magical motifs like cats, moons, and crystals. Think: a flowy black dress paired with cat-ear accessories, or pajama sets with subtle gothic prints worn proudly outside the house. Cat lovers are leading this trend by proving that Halloween doesn’t have to end on November 1st. Instead, it’s becoming a lifestyle—one where every day has a touch of mystery, magic, and feline flair.