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Inflation graphic produced by ChatGPT
Budget-Friendly Healthy Meals That Don’t Feel Cheap

Inflation is still here and with no signs of easing. Is it possible to eat healthy food without breaking your budget? Here, I’ll offer some suggestions for budget-friendly meals you may enjoy trying.

Find me on Bloglovin’

Hi, again, Dear Readers:

So, I’m working on blogging more often. Through a series of events, I found an ally: ChatGPT. No kidding, AI is slowly becoming my new BFF. Finally, I can enjoy intelligent conversation, and it knows how to have fun, too! Pictures in today’s budget-friendly post were created by AI because I just felt like doing that. I’ll tell you about some of the other amusing graphics we’ve created another time.

My New BFF

So why use AI? ChatGPT quickly researches, drafts, designs, helps with SEO, and anything else you can throw at it. Someone I know through my copywriting work downloaded Grok, the Elon Musk AI program recently, and was highly impressed. He described to Grok a software they were developing and mentioned that they were in the process of hiring a software engineer who specializes in AI to get the job done. Grok just wrote the code for him.

AI Generated image of a GPT Robot

Source: ChatGPT. Knows everything, too!!

And if you noticed that you had trouble reading the last post on our local Aldi opening, I’ve got all that taken care of, at least for now. ChatGPT walked me through updating the PHP file, turning on and turning off debugging, clearing the cache, and a few other tweaks that were causing trouble. My copywriting website was also up and down, but I think that’s also fixed. Just need to check on it and update any plugins. (Everything is on WordPress.)

Well, AI won’t cook dinner, wash the dishes or clean the bathroom, even with the best prompts available. But it can create printable menu planners, chore rosters and other inspiration to help you get the job done faster. It can offer you recipes that, so far, have been pretty good, although I’ve only asked for a few. Today, I asked for help with this blog post, and it even included a shopping list for budget-friendly meals.

Budget_Friendly_Healthy_Meals_Shopping_List

I hope you find this PDF useful. (Sorry I couldn’t change the file name.)

Shhhh.. don’t tell James I’m having fun with ChatGPT. Now onto a more serious subject.

The Modern Inflation Era

It’s no fun when you drop in at your local grocery store and things are just way out of your budget. I don’t mean steaks, lobster, and caviar–I’m talking basics. In the last few years, inflation has been beyond what we saw in the 80s and the late 2000s. When eggs went through the roof last year—twice—people responded by using fewer eggs than before. Restaurants like Waffle House added surcharges for egg dishes.

Fifteen eggs in a golden carton created by ChatGPT

Source: ChatGPT

What to do? One budget-friendly option is Flax Eggs for baking. If you’re not familiar with “flax eggs,” something vegans use, it’s one tablespoon of ground flaxseed in three tablespoons of water that sits for five minutes. I’ve done that a few times because we ran out of eggs and wanted to make something like (gluten-free) waffles or pancakes that required them. Yes, James ate some. I even made some doggie treats with flax eggs that the three house beasts quickly devoured. It works great, and you don’t taste anything different.

But modern inflation has hit harder than in previous years. Those boxes of 5 dozen eggs that we used to buy for $10 or less went as high as $25 and are still about $13 a box. I’m told that shoppers in California paid as much as $44 a box. So we started buying smaller amounts of eggs and using them less while still enjoying some eggs for breakfast.

Can you eat healthy on a budget?

Eating “healthy” means different things to different people. Organic is generally more expensive, even in Aldi. But healthy food can fit your budget. Canned chicken, tuna, and salmon are just three options for pantry-stable proteins that you can keep around for an inexpensive meal.

Let’s be honest: when many people hear the term “budget meals,” they picture sad bowls of plain pasta or endless cans of beans. Beans are good, but eating on a budget doesn’t mean settling for bland, beige, or boring fare. With the right ingredients and a few ideas, you can make meals that are affordable, healthy, and genuinely delicious, and are just right for you.

Today, I’m sharing some nice budget-friendly healthy meal ideas that look and taste like something out of a trendy café but won’t wreck your grocery budget. Note that I haven’t tried all of them myself, but anything with sweet potatoes or cauliflower rice are recipes I want to try soon.

Five Budget-Friendly Suggestions

There’s no shortage of recipes online. When I asked ChatGPT to give me a few, this is what came back.

1. Chickpea Curry with Spinach

Canned chickpeas are one of the best pantry staples out there: high in protein, cheap, and versatile. I generally use them in hummus, but you don’t have to stop there.

Closeup picture of chickpeas from ChatGPT

Source: ChatGPT

Simmer them with canned tomatoes, garlic, onion, and curry spices, then stir in fresh or frozen spinach at the end. Serve over rice, and you’ve got a hearty, nutrient-packed meal for under $2 per serving.

Pro tip: Top it with a spoonful of plain yogurt and cilantro to make it look and taste luxurious.

2. Egg Fried Cauliflower Rice

Despite the recent price increases, eggs are still one of the most affordable proteins available.

One dozen eggs both brown and white in a gold-plated egg carton

Source: AI Generated

Frozen cauliflower rice is generally less expensive than fresh. You can also make your own with thawed or cooked frozen cauliflower and your food processor. Don’t have one? A big, sharp knife and a big cutting board work well. I’ve done that too.

Pair eggs with cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen) for a quick, filling, low-carb dinner. Toss in a handful of frozen peas and carrots, soy sauce, and sesame oil. In ten minutes, you’ve got a takeout-style dish that’s high in protein but easy on the wallet.

3. Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Black Beans and Avocado

I love sweet potatoes if they aren’t loaded down with sugar. This includes the thick coating of marshmallows and brown sugar people put on them at the holidays. All I need are a little butter and salt. Baked sweet potatoes are sweet, filling, cheap, and available year-round. Like the eggs in cauliflower rice, I haven’t tried this one yet either, but would like to soon.

AI generated image of two halves of roasted sweet potato stuffed with black beans and topped with sliced avocado and sprinkles of cheese

Source: AI generated

Microwave, bake, or roast your sweet potatoes until they are done. Split them open and stuff them with seasoned black beans, salsa, and a few avocado slices. Add a sprinkle of cheese if you have some. This meal is colorful, nutrient-dense, and feels like comfort food but costs less than a drive-thru burger.

4. Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Roasted Veggies

Longtime readers know I love chicken thighs because they’re so good and can go with anything, and we’ve made this kind of dinner many times ourselves. They are cheaper and juicier than chicken breasts, which makes them perfect for budget-friendly cooking. For this idea, it’s best to get the bone-in/skin-on type, which are usually less expensive than boneless/skinless. Roast them long enough to get crispy skin, which is delicious.

And it couldn’t be easier: toss them with olive oil, garlic, and paprika, or any spice rub you have. Then roast them on a sheet pan at 400F with whatever vegetables you have on hand—carrots, zucchini, or even frozen broccoli. One pan, minimal cleanup, maximum satisfaction.

5. Mediterranean Lentil Soup

Don’t underestimate lentils.

Closeup picture of lentils

Source: ChatGPT

When simmered with onion, garlic, tomatoes, and a splash of lemon, they taste like something you’d order in a café. Add a drizzle of olive oil and fresh parsley on top, and you’ve got a hearty soup that costs pennies per serving but feels rich and indulgent.

If You Like Lentils

Since it’s one of my favorite Ina Garten Barefoot Contessa recipes, I’m including this recipe for Stewed Lentils and Tomatoes from her book Barefoot at Home. This recipe is still relatively inexpensive, even with a few more ingredients. It’s delicious on its own or paired with pork chops or chicken.

Picture of Stewed Lentils & Tomatoes From Barefoot Contessa website, picture from Barefoot At Home. A budget friendly lentil dish.
Ina Garten

Stewed Lentils & Tomatoes

Servings: 6

Ingredients
  

  • Good olive oil
  • 2 cups Chopped yellow onions
  • 2 cups Diced carrots 3 to 4 carrots, ½ inch diced
  • 1 tbsp Minced garlic 3 cloves
  • 1 can Whole plum tomatoes 28-ounce can
  • 1 cup French green lentils (7 ounces) Can also use regular lentils
  • 2 cups Chicken stock (preferably homemade)
  • 2 tsp Mild curry powder
  • 2 tsp Chopped thyme leaves
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Good red wine vinegar

Method
 

  1. Heat the 2 tablespoons of oil in a large saucepan.  Add the onions and carrots and cook over medium-low heat for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions start to brown.  Add the garlic and cook for one minute.
  2. Meanwhile, place the tomatoes, including the juice, in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a steel blade and pulse several times until the tomatoes are roughly chopped.
  3. Add the tomatoes, lentils, chicken stock, curry, thyme, 1 tablespoon salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper to the pot.   Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer, covered, for 30 to 40 minutes, until the lentils are tender. 
  4. Stir occasionally, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon and check to be sure the liquid is simmering.  (I pull the pot halfway off the burner to keep it simmering.) Remove from the heat and allow the lentils to sit covered for another 10 minutes.  Stir in the vinegar, check the seasonings, serve hot or warm.
  5. Protips: Garlic burns easily so you want to cook it for only a minute.
    To remove thyme leaves from the stem, run your fingertips down the stem from top to bottom and the leaves will fall off.

It takes a little while to make. But once you taste it, you’ll see it’s really worth the time. I’ve used regular lentils occasionally because I didn’t have the French type and I just wanted some, but they do get mushy.

Make “Cheap Meals” Feel More Gourmet

Here’s the secret: even the most budget-friendly, affordable meals can feel special with a few finishing touches.

  • Garnish: Fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of olive oil go a long way.
  • Color matters: Use veggies with colors that pop—like spinach, red peppers, or carrots.
  • Compound butter: this restaurant secret can elevate a dish. Just a tablespoon on top of a dish like the stuffed sweet potatoes, can give it an extra boost of flavor.
  • Don’t forget your slow cooker: Stephanie O’Dea’s website A Year Of Slow Cooking is just one of many good online resources food that’s budget-friendly and easy to make.
  • Serve intentionally: A bowl with a sprinkle of garnish looks Instagram-worthy. The same dish in a stained Tupperware bowl, not so much.

Use your everyday dishes and flatware for these tasty and healthy meals.

YouTube and Other Sources

I’ve frequently mentioned Pinterest and the ability to find just about anything you want there. YouTube is similar—you can find all manner of recipes, cooking, and other instructions with a few clicks. I am subscribed to many YouTube channels for cooking, sewing, and other important topics. Don’t forget about Instagram, either, where you can have all kinds of wonderful recipes greeting you anytime you start scrolling. Fill that feed with tasty things and quit doomscrolling!

Cooking At Pam’s Place

One lady I like has a YouTube channel called Cooking At Pam’s Place. And that’s what it is—hanging out in Pam’s kitchen while she shows you some interesting and budget-friendly shortcuts for everyday cooking and other tips. She has four different YouTube-themed channels, including one on gardening. Pam is someone you want living in your neighborhood.

The first video I saw was this one of Pam making two-ingredient sandwich bread.

Screenshot of cooking with Pam’s YouTube channel making two ingredient sandwich bread.A screenshot from Pam’s YouTube channel

This video is 12 minutes long, and her casual friendliness is obvious here. No, I haven’t made it yet, but I want to try it one day. James doesn’t mind, of course, but I don’t know if he’ll try the bread himself. So I haven’t made any yet. Of the other videos I’ve seen, she’s made some good things in different ways, some with two or three ingredients, like bread recipes.

Recently, Pam shared a short video of how to cook simply during a power outage using tea candles in a muffin tin. Brilliant, right? We have a camping stove that we’ve used many times during power outages, but this idea never dawned on me. I set in a supply of tea candles that came in handy after Hurricane Ida for the IKEA Rotero lanterns I bought after the big freeze in 2021. So now I want to try it out for myself. (Note: IKEA doesn’t make the Rotera anymore.)

Until Next Time

Eating healthy meals that are budget-friendly doesn’t have to feel like a downgrade. With the right ingredients and a few easy swaps, you can eat well for less and still enjoy a healthy gourmet dinner.

Now it’s your turn: do you have a favorite cheap, delicious meal? Share it in the comments! I might just feature it in a future recipe review roundup.

Enjoy!

 

Aldi storefront
Aldi Comes To Town

So it was a happy day when Aldi finally opened its doors in our little rural town. I went to the Grand Opening, and I got a Golden Ticket, too! Come along, and I’ll tell you all about it. (Disclosure: this post is long, and I did get some AI help to polish it up.)

Find me on Bloglovin’

Hello, Dear Readers:

Yes, it’s been a minute. I’m sorry about that. After my last post in April of last year, I said I was going to write something “next week,” and life got in the way. Again. Really, it did, more than once, then I couldn’t get back into the website. All kinds of stuff. Dogs (we now have three), cats (still have two), cars, snow, you name it. So blogging just hasn’t happened. I didn’t even pick any blackberries this year.

Now the scent of pumpkin spice is everywhere. In coffee, muffins, bagels, motor oil, and cleaning fluids. My apologies.

About The Weather

Our hot, dry August has extended into September. Fortunately, we’ve not had any Gulf Coast tropical activity to be concerned about this season. There was one storm that everyone was watching closely and the weather people were warning everyone to “be ready.” The next day—POOF! No news. I think it dissipated before it got near any coastline.

But we even had some snow in January, and I did my first Instagram live stream in the snow.

Snow against a pink sunset through the trees.

Isn’t that a gorgeous sunset?

Why? Because in Louisiana (and the southern half of Texas), we don’t see snow very often. I figured my friends up north would enjoy watching—and several did.

Snow scene with trees

This was by the roadside

Total was about five inches, I think. And because I still didn’t have a heavy winter raincoat, I finally bought one in May when Lands’ End had them seriously discounted. Bring on the winter snow!

Aunt Ruth has been getting an excessive number of emails from me…so I figured I should get back to blogging instead of loading up her inbox. Finally, I got back into the website, too.

The modern world arrived at the Casa de Rurale six months ago when Aldi arrived. Nearly everyone loves having them here.

The Aldi In Mississippi

Longtime readers will remember my trip to McComb, Mississippi, in 2023 when the ALDI opened there. I’ve made occasional trips back to McComb, but not weekly. I put the Aldi app on my phone and discovered that the wonderful “Aldi Finds” are published a week in advance. So, I know what’s coming next week and go with a list. Don’t ask how many trips I’ve made to McComb because there was an Aldi Find I just had to have. And of course, I get plenty of other stuff there, especially if it’s marked down.

On a trip to New Orleans last year, I took James into the Aldi on Veterans Memorial Boulevard before visiting The E Man. James eventually caught my “Aldi enthusiasm.” After learning we were getting an Aldi, he went with me to McComb a couple of times to do a little shopping. He saw what it would be like to shop there once the local store opened. Despite his comments about “it’s just a grocery store,” he’s now become a happy Aldi shopper. After forgetting shopping bags a couple of times, he now has three reusable Aldi bags in his little truck and a dedicated Aldi quarter in the console.

The End Of Winn-Dixie

One of the things that has happened since my last dispatch is that Winn-Dixie is no longer with us. Oddly, our Winn-Dixie store had just undergone renovation, and they even brought in more products. Unfortunately, the additional grocery stock didn’t last. In the end, bankruptcy was inevitable. Aldi bought the company, all the stores and digital assets, and everything under the SEC Grocers label. Here’s how it went down.

The Aldi company started choosing locations to close and renovate, as they had with the store in Mississippi two years prior. Last summer, it was announced that our local Winn-Dixie would be closed for good on September 15th, 2024. Aldi has already made inroads in New Orleans, Slidell, and the Baton Rouge areas. The old Winn-Dixie stores would all be remodeled into the new, compact, and modern Aldi style. Surprisingly, our town was next.

We watched the progress of the construction from the street. I kept looking on their website to find out when it might be open. In the meantime, I still occasionally drove north to the McComb Aldi store when I found any upcoming Aldi Finds I wanted. And because I couldn’t get English breakfast tea here anymore, I drove up there and bought several boxes to last until the local store opened.

Local Losses

Aldi came at the expense of Winn-Dixie, which was part of the local culture. Many people worked there in high school as their first job, including James. Some even retired from Winn-Dixie. Understandably, people were talking nostalgically about the place. The store had been in this location since the 1980s, and across the street long before that.

Unfortunately, the employees were left with the eventual dread of losing their jobs with no idea of future employment. Some found other jobs elsewhere, including one lady who was transferred to the Franklinton WD store, which may be gone now, too. It was no longer getting shipments, and they were selling everything down to the walls until the last day. Any leftover stock may have been shipped to other stores before they were inevitably closed, too.

That’s what Hancock Fabrics did, or at least, their liquidation company did. When one store closed, any remaining stock went to another store that was still open until that store sold out or closed. Irony alert: Neighbor E told me just last week that there is an Aldi in the spot where Hancock Fabrics was, on El Camino Real Blvd, near the Freeman Library.

Once our Winn-Dixie closed on September 15th, the Aldi reconstruction began immediately.

March: The Wait Is Over

Finally, on social media, Aldi began announcing that our local store would open on Wednesday, March 12th.

I’ve joined a few Facebook groups dedicated to Aldi shoppers, plus I follow Aldi on Facebook and Instagram. But I really didn’t think anybody here would care. In fact, I asked my friend MY about it, and she didn’t know anybody who was even aware of the store’s opening. Doesn’t anyone pay attention? Well, they did, and social media did its job.

On a chilly, grey morning, I arrived and parked. Didn’t know what to expect, but I did bring my coffee. So, it was a surprise when I got there, and quite a few people were already in line.

Grey van outside Aldi iin parking lot

I wasn’t the only one.

Later, one of the Aldi crew members handed me a number:

Aldi number card

I was 38th in line!

This means that I was one of the 1st 100 people in line. No kidding! Aldi does have a sense of humor about these things.

Flip side of Aldi number card

See?

In fact, there were at least 200 people in line.

People in line at Aldi

Who knew these people were ready to roll into Aldi?

The store was open for business the day before, in what they called a “soft opening.” That is, people could shop in the store and find out more about Aldi, but didn’t want to go to the grand opening. I needed a few things anyway.

Check Your Aldi Store’s Info

Of course, I didn’t check the opening time of the store beforehand. Along with one other customer, we discovered that Aldi opens at 9:00 am and closes at 8:00 pm. Winn-Dixie opened at 8:00 am and closed at 9:00 pm.

No, that’s not confusing at all.

Guess what? Most of the people I talked to that first day already knew about Aldi. They knew about the quarter and brought their own shopping bags. I told them how I was shopping at Macomb Aldi for the last two years. One lady said that she regularly shops at the Covington Aldi because she has business there. And another lady said that her daughter lives in Pennsylvania, and any time she goes to visit, they do an Aldi run. Like me, they were just waiting for one to open here.

The Grand Opening

Finally, right at 9:00, they began the opening ceremony. Someone from the Tangipahoa Parish government got up and spoke.

People out front at Aldi for the opening ceremony

The opening ceremony

When they cut the ribbon and opened the doors, everybody walked inside.

This was not like Black Friday, where people were crushing each other to get through the front doors. No, this was a very orderly affair. Everybody was nice, polite, and we were welcomed by Aldi crew members from different Aldi locations, including one lady from Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

Someone handed me a swag bag with some delicious treats in it.

Aldi gifts in the bag including cookies, bagel seasoning, and flavored water.

Those cookies are also dupes of Girl Scout Cookies. The seasoning is fantastic and I have bought more.

The “Everything Bagel” seasoning is a dupe of Trader Joe’s, and I keep buying that one since I was gifted a bottle. There is a “regular” version and a Jalapeno version too, all $1.75 a bottle. I like this one the best.

Someone also handed me what’s known as the “Golden Ticket,” a gift card given to one of the first 100 people. I opened it up and discovered it was worth $25.

Aldi Golden Ticket

I got one!! Thank you, Aldi! Yes, of course, they had Texas Toast.

I put it in my wallet and promptly forgot about it for two weeks. But I was there for a specific reason: what’s jokingly but lovingly called The Aisle of Shame.

Aldi Finds, AKA, The Aisle of Shame

In my last blog about Aldi, I mentioned all the wonderful things that they have in the store’s center aisle, known as Aldi Finds.. New items are available every Wednesday, and are published in an ad a week before. Since then I learned about the “Aisle of Shame” moniker.

Once inside, I knew where to go. When I got there, I said in my most elegant radio voice, “Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the Aldi Aisle of Shame.” There were many people already in the Aisle. I got a few laughs, because everyone knew what that meant.

The Aldi Finds center aisle has a weekly rotating selection of non-food items, as well as some food items. Most of the non-food merchandise in the center aisle, with some located at the entrance. The company tests the market for different kinds of items that shoppers may want and buy.

Sometimes, you don’t know you need something until you find it. This might be camping and gardening, household stuff, or kitchen stuff. Other times, it’s small Ikea-like furniture pieces that require minimal assembly. Right now, you can find Halloween décor.

The stock changes weekly, and some items are more popular than others. A recent Disney-themed drop had people lining up our store before 9, and the aisle was crowded with people looking for them. Once it’s gone, it’s gone—at least, until it comes back around another time or it lands in the markdowns.

The Aldi Brands

Aldi has unique names for its store brands throughout the store. On the Aisle of Shame, you’ll find:

  • Kirkton House (home décor)
  • Easy Home (organization item)
  • Heart To Tail (pet supplies)
  • Pure Being (pet food)
  • Ambiano (appliances)
  • Belavi (gardening equipment)
  • Visage (hair dryers and other beauty aids)
  • Serra (women’s clothing and accessories, including lingerie and purses)
  • Crofton (kitchen tools)
  • Lily & Dan (children’s clothes and accessories)
  • Bauhn (electronics, like charger cords and small Bluetooth speakers)
  • Workzone (hand and small power tools)

This is in addition to the unique brand names of their grocery items, like Chancy’s Chips, Live Free gluten-free items, and Friendly Farms dairy.

Why Do They Call It That?

This aisle is known among Aldi fans as the Aisle of Shame. Why? Well, because you go into Aldi for milk, eggs, butter, and bread, and walk out with a tabletop fire pit, potting table, hanging hammock chair, or a kayak at a price that’s less than everywhere else.

Over the summer, I met a lady who was looking for a chair for her RV, and Aldi’s was half the price of everyone else’s, even Amazon’s. With that in mind, you may just blow your grocery money this week and then some, unless you stick to what you need or order curbside.

This is common for fans of Aldi, and James and I have done this ourselves. For instance, we went in recently to get some groceries, and James found a couple of inexpensive duffel bags that he wanted for his next as-yet-unscheduled trip to Drag Week or other car-related trip. They’re not “good” luggage, and it’s OK if they get dirty and knocked around a little.

But there is one item that readers know this blogger couldn’t pass up.

The Ambiano Sewing Machine

I have bought so many great things from Aldi since discovering the Aisle of Shame nearly three years ago. My first purchase was the vacuum food sealer for $30. My most recent favorite find is a sewing machine that runs both AC/DC power and batteries.

A small Ambiano sewing machine out of its box complete with accessories.

Isn’t it cute? It even does buttonholes!

The original price was $40, and I didn’t buy one. But since the store received four, and they were still there in the month or so after arriving, I asked if they would be discounted. The manager’s answer: “I’ll sell you one for half price.” So said “thank you” and bought one. The other three were marked down a week or two later and sold quickly. I considered buying another one at that price, but by the time I thought it was a good idea, they were gone. Maybe I should have gone back to McComb to see if they still had one.

Yes, I have used it a couple of times for small jobs, and so far, so good. Reviews in one of the Facebook groups were wildly different. About half the people who bought one said that it was great, and a little portable workhorse, while others called it “junk.” This machine is a little noisy, but it does seem to work well. Let’s face it: nobody’s using this machine to make a gown for a royal wedding or the Oscars.

The instructions are easy to follow. With batteries, I can even use this machine during a power outage. That was one of the reasons I wanted to get one: it’s a backup I can tote somewhere. They may come around again later, too. I saw mentions on FB from people who “bought one last year.”

The Dupes

James is now a fully converted Aldi fan. Like me, he also has some favorites. This includes some cookies that are identical to Girl Scout Cookies and available all the time, like the ones they handed me at the grand opening.

Before this store opened, they had some cookies that were duplicates (“dupes”) of some Australian cookies called Tim Tams.

Aussie Style Cookies at Aldi

If you ever find these cookies, beware–they are delicious!

I don’t care what you call them—they were incredibly addictive, especially the chocolate ones. Aldi fans Down Under in the FB groups said they tasted exactly like Australian brand Tim Tams, but at half the price. Thankfully, they were never made available locally. Only the McComb store had them, and not for long. Otherwise, the light bill might not have been paid.

It’s not uncommon to find something in the Aisle of Shame that is nearly identical to something more expensive elsewhere, hence the nickname. Right before this store opened, Aldi had dupes of some cut glass candleholders similar to some sold at Anthropologie for as much as $48 each. Aldi had three of those designs under the Kirkton House name with different colors at $9.99 each, and they were quite popular. If you can find one on eBay or Mercari, it may sell for as much as the ones at Anthropologie. They were absolutely gorgeous and sold quickly. Shoppers showed off how they used the candle holders in their homes.

The Storage Ottoman

The most recent dupe I chased was a small storage ottoman that I wanted to help corral some of my sewing supplies that aren’t used as frequently. At $14.99, it was a great idea and price, and they came in three colors: gray, beige, and Navy Blue. But there were only two blue ones in the local store, and I wanted more. So I drove up to McComb to see if they had some. Score!

When I priced them later online at The Container Store, James understood why I made a big deal about getting some. Same style, more colors, but $39.99—more than twice the price of Aldi. The sewing supplies are corralled, the dark color keeps them in the background, the cardboard boxes are gone, we have extra seating (not that we ever have company) and the cats like them too.

Pets, Of Course

Oh, and of course, don’t forget the pets. Their Heart & Tail line has all manner of pet gear, sometimes with the Aldi logo. Tab E. Cat enjoyed this self-warming mat:

Tab E. Cat on the self-warming pet mat from Aldi

The Apex Predator, snuggling up.

I drove back up to McComb to get another one because TigerCat wanted one too.

TigerCat snuggling on a self-warming pet mat from Aldi

Isn’t she just adorable?

But Buddy isn’t as crazy about his raincoat:

Buddy in his Aldi raincoat

Notice how he has his head down. He’s not being abused, honest, just taken outside for a bio break. But he acts like he’s being mistreated when I suit him up.

Of course, James laughed at me when I bought the doggie raincoats. The cold-weather stuff is too small for these beasts, so online it is to find canine winter gear.

Aldi Fashion

Aldi also has a small variety of seasonal basic clothing items in the Aisle of Shame. They’re not high fashion, but they just might be what you need. As much as I’m into fashion sewing, I’ve bought some denim skirts, “jeggings” (jean leggings), a denim jean jacket, a sweater, a quilted vest (keep reading), a few sports bras, bags and purses, shoes, and even some thick fluffy socks from Aldi. You can also find pajamas for both men and women, hoodies, slippers, and men’s clothing items, including socks, although James hasn’t partaken of those.

And when I wear my fluffy socks, I show them to James and say, “You see these socks? Aldi fashion!”

Aldi Gear

Because Aldi has such a faithful following, they occasionally drop what they call “Aldi Gear” in the Aisle of Shame. Clothing, accessories, shopping bags, quarter holders, and other items with the Aldi logo emblazoned are popular and snapped up quickly. From the McComb store, I once bought an Aldi Gear backpack, driving up there specifically for that one item but leaving with more.

Aldi backpack

Isn’t it great? Even has room for a laptop.

I also got an Aldi Gear steel travel tumbler, which I fill with ice and water and take on occasional shopping trips. It was marked down, too.

Earlier this year, Aldi released some winter Aldi Gear. Although I haven’t worn them yet, I scored a Navy blue sweater with “USA” emblazoned in white across the front, and a Navy blue quilted vest with a small logo. Both were bought after markdowns. I considered getting the white puffer vest, but the zipper didn’t work right. Even though it was considerably inexpensive, I still didn’t get it. White gets dirty fast.

Now they’ve got more Aldi gear, including a fuzzy sherpa jacket. Do I have $14.99 for this one, too?

Aldi’s business model is built on efficiency, simplicity, and low cost. This allows the company to offer high-quality groceries at some of the lowest prices in the United States. Aldi stores are smaller compared to traditional supermarkets, reducing rent and utility expenses. It employs fewer staff and features a straightforward store layout to speed up shopping and minimize operational complexities. Customers also participate in bagging their own groceries and returning carts, which helps Aldi cut labor costs.

That quarter rents you the basket. The store is banking on your taking it back and getting your quarter back. Here, some folks don’t understand that, but most return their baskets. I explained to a few folks that “it’s a rental, not a purchase.” For those who don’t return them, the basket’s “rental fee” is paid forward to another shopper who will appreciate that gift.

This lean approach extends to how Aldi stocks its shelves. Stores carry a limited assortment of about 1,700 products, mostly under the store’s own private-label brands. This limited selection reduces inventory costs and simplifies supply chains while maintaining quality comparable to or even better than national brands. By sourcing directly from manufacturers and avoiding brand premiums, Aldi passes these significant savings on to its customers.

A Winning Combo

Aldi’s overwhelming popularity in the U.S. stems from its combination of low prices, good product quality, and a fast, no-frills shopping experience. You’ll notice there’s no music in the stores. Therefore, they don’t pay music royalty fees, which is another savings to pass along. Its private-label dominance means shoppers get affordable products without sacrificing quality. This practice helped to build strong customer trust and loyalty.

Additionally, Aldi’s business culture focuses on consistency and responsibility. The company pays employees well to boost efficiency while emphasizing customer satisfaction over heavy advertising. This approach has helped Aldi rapidly expand across the country, growing its store base and services such as curbside pickup and online delivery, further enhancing convenience for American shoppers. The result is a grocery store that appeals widely to budget-conscious consumers without feeling cheap, which explains its large and growing following in the competitive U.S. market. Yes, even in highly competitive areas like Houston.

Something’s Missing Here

Like every other Aldi store, an employee quickly scans your groceries and puts them into the next basket by the register. Alternatively, self-checkouts are available too. When the cashier finishes, you swap baskets at this point. Once you’ve paid, you’ll take your basket to the long table and bag everything in your own reusable bags (or purchase paper or the reusables). Then proceed to your vehicle and return the basket for a “refund.”

Except this one.

The Mystery

I couldn’t put my finger on it, but I noticed that there was something slightly different about the new local Aldi from the one in McComb. The store’s layout was basically the same, but still, something wasn’t the same as the McComb store. Then one of the employees told me: There were no self-checkout lanes in the local store.

What?

There are four registers in ours, and usually only one is open at a time. (It was all hands on deck at the grand opening.)

People checking out in Aldi

They were workin’ it the day of the grand opening!

But because Aldi employees are trained for all the jobs in the store, not just one, they can stop and open more registers during busier periods like Saturday afternoons. Nobody could explain why there were no self-checkout lanes, either.

This made me wonder about something. When the buyout was announced, one of the younger Winn-Dixie cashiers mentioned that her local elderly customers had considerable trouble with the self-checkout lanes. Did that get floated up to management? Or is theft a concern at the self-checkouts, even in Aldi? Whatever the reason, we don’t have an “I Hate People” line in our local Aldi, but McComb still has one. Fortunately, the folks working at Aldi are super friendly. But our Walmart still has self-checkouts with a highly annoying AI system. That’s a story for yet another day.

I Can Aldi Anytime I Want

When I was making the trips up to the McComb Aldi, I tended to buy plenty of food and household things. After all, driving to get more of something we like is a 90-minute round trip plus time for shopping. I always bought a bottle of water with a tasty snack for the 45-minute trip back, or stopped at the nearby Starbucks. Never mind how much I spent on those trips, especially if I was going to buy something from the Aisle of Shame. But I could stock the freezer and the pantry a little better, especially if I found something at 50% off.

But now, I must fight that instinct to buy it all and not just the few things I need. I mean, I can Aldi anytime I want now, right? It hasn’t quite sunk in completely yet. Just know that the Aisle of Shame can be a budget buster.

A New Favorite: Brekki

We have found some new favorites since we can visit Aldi more often. One of those is called Brekki, a cold oatmeal that’s available in the front of the store in the deli section.

Brekki from Aldi

This is one of the tastiest things I’ve tried in a while.

Dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan, it’s great for an on-the-go snack or lunchbox extra. You might think they’re cups of yogurt, but they’re not. The Brekki is right there by the readily available pizzas. And thankfully, our store has plenty of take-and-bake pizzas, including the cauliflower type.

I never noticed Brekki before, because in McComb, it’s in the refrigerator case at the store’s back. But for whatever reason, I found them in the local store up front. For a while, I couldn’t stop eating them. But I got at least one or two whenever I went, although now, not so much.

James did not understand what I was talking about. One day, I bought extra Brekkie for him to try. Of the three flavors, cinnamon vanilla, cold brew coffee, and dark chocolate, he liked my favorite, the dark chocolate, the best. He said the cinnamon vanilla was fine, but he refused to try the cold brew coffee flavor. Even though he liked the chocolate, he said it was “just OK.” It wasn’t something that he would eat very often. Of course, he had to remind me that he didn’t like overnight oats the one time I made them for him. Brekki, he says, is just nominally better than that.

Coming Soon: More Aldi

When our local store opened, the Winn-Dixie in Hammond closed for its Aldi conversion. One lady I was waiting with in line said that her daughter worked there, and the store abruptly closed well before March 15th, and without warning, surprising the now-unemployed workers.

Six months later, Hammond’s Aldi will be opening on Thursday, September 25th at 9:00 am, and will follow the “soft opening” model the day before. I’m going to try and make this one too.

Aldi is opening new stores all over the country. On Instagram, people are asking them to come to Colorado. I’m sure they will. Seriously, I never thought Aldi would be in Louisiana, let alone a rural area, but here we are. And we’re happy with our Aldi, too.

Keeping Up With Aldi

Like AI, Aldi isn’t going away. If you can’t beat them, join them, so find out about the newest Aldi Finds before they happen:

  • Create an account at Aldi’s website and sign up for their emails, including upcoming sales and merchandise.
  • Put Aldi’s smartphone app on your phone and allow notifications. You can preview next week’s Aldi Finds on Wednesday morning, under “Weekly Ads.” You’ll have a week to make your plans.
  • Follow on social media—Aldi has accounts on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, YouTube, and Pinterest. I follow on Instagram and Facebook, but I see their stuff mostly on Instagram. Aldi’s social media team is RIGHT ON IT. They have fun with current events and use them on social media, especially for new items.
  • Sign up for the weekly emails at AisleOfShame, a non-affiliated website that brings you the newest from Aldi, along with Trader Joe’s, Kroger, and Publix. Sign up using a sidebar box on any one of their blog posts on the website, just like this one. They have a little more information in the emails and blogs about the new drops. The emails include some items I missed in the app previews.

It’s An Aldi Thing

A few months ago, our friend MY and I went somewhere, and on the way back, I took her to our local Aldi and explained things. She didn’t know what the big deal was, but now she’s a convert. Then she told her sister in another city all about Aldi. Guess what? Her sister is now a fan, too.

Aldi has also done other things besides just being a grocery store. Back in March, a little girl named Liliana had her birthday party in her favorite place: Aldi. There was a cake and everything for her. In May, another (unnamed) location hosted a sophisticated “mother’s night out” dining event with elegantly plated food made with Aldi ingredients. Just recently, there was an Aldi component to someone’s wedding. I saw these detailed events in their Instagram posts.

If you already have an Aldi in your area, you already know. If you don’t, and one is coming, get ready. Granted, it really is just a grocery store with a little more. But that little more can make a big difference.

There’s always a place for larger supermarkets like HEB, and we still shop at Walmart (it’s what we have here.) Occasionally, when we go to Hammond, there is still an occasional trip into Rouses or Albertson’s for something we need. But for basic, everyday shopping, Aldi is a great choice.

Happy Shopping!

 

Box of Trufflicious Mushroom Pizza on counter
Short Post: The Trufflicious Mushroom Pizza

Caulipower has upgraded its signature pizza line with three new upgraded flavors. In this blog, I try the one with mushrooms.

Follow me on Bloglovin’

Hi, again, Dear Readers:

Ok, after my last post, I decided to write up the local wedding we went to last year, and it’s about halfway done. So that’s coming soon.

I also found a selfie I sent to BF during the holidays when I went to meet up with a little old lady at Starbucks in Hammond:

Amy In Starbucks holding a cup

Went to visit someone over the holiday season

Or as I call it on Facebook, a “proof of life” selfie. Sometimes, amazingly, I still look a little like I used to before life got the upper hand. That’s OK, I’ve got BF now, and that’s good too.

Pizza and Valentine’s Day

Longtime readers know I’m a fan of Caulipower’s delicious pizzas. And because BF won’t touch it, not even a bite, they’re all mine. They’re thin crust and not big, so I can enjoy the whole thing by myself. I don’t care what he says, they are that good.

For multiple reasons this week, we decided to get frozen pizzas for dinner, including Valentine’s Day. It’s been a tough week for us and doing the whole Valentine’s thing was too much to think about. Maybe next week. We’re here, we’ve got each other, we love getting on each other’s nerves, and that’s all we need. Plus a little chocolate occasionally.

On Tuesday we made a supply run. That’s when I accidentally discovered a new artisan flavor of Caulipower pizza in the back of Walmart’s freezer case.

It’s in a black box, rather than white. I bought one of those and an Uncured Pepperoni for the first non-cooking dinner. BF had his usual thick-crust Red Baron, which he enjoyed over two nights.

Caulipower’s Three New Flavors

The company is always pushing the envelope on healthier offerings using cauliflower, so there’s always a new flavor or new thing around, like their Cauliflower Pasta. Recently, they’ve debuted a new artisan-style Over The Top pizzas with stone-fired crusts:

 

Admittedly I have not tried them all, and doing so would require BF to be working late more often. This is to avoid the retching noises and other negative reactions when I tell him what I’m trying out and avoid reactions like the one for Overnight Oatmeal.

Then I found something new.

The Trufflicious Mushroom Pizza

Remember in my post about 2024 foodie trends I said that one prediction was mushrooms everywhere for vegans and vegetarians as a meat substitute?

Box of Trufflicious Mushroom Pizza on counter

What’s this?

Caulipower has joined the trend with this version of its newest pizza line.

Mushrooms on pizza is nothing new, whether vegetarian or not. The sauce is not tomato but a “white sauce,” which is occasionally used on pizza like it is on pasta.

Back of Trufflicious pizza box

Here’s the important stuff

So, being curious (and having an extra $8) I bought one to try.

Bake It Up

The instructions are the same for every type of Caulipower I’ve ever tried: bake at 425 degrees for 13 to 16 minutes, until done. (Unwrap it first, of course.)

Trufflicious pizza unwrapped and uncooked

Looks like any ordinary mushroom pizza.

Don’t forget about it, either, especially in a small countertop oven.

Frozen Truffilicious going into countertop oven

Just like that.

In what seems like seconds later, you have pizza:

Cooked pizza on cutting board with wide spatula and pizza wheel

Ready?

Even though it’s a bit “Cajunized” on one side, the other side needed a few more minutes. But I wasn’t about to wait. I took it out and sliced it up.

I was hungry, too. BF had no interest.

The Taste

Let me start by telling you the positive parts of this pizza:

  • Stone-fired pizza crust
  • Gluten-free
  • No artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors
  • Good source of protein

 

Caulipower makes all kinds of good-for-you foods based on cauliflower that offer fast, convenient, and healthy eating at any time. I haven’t tried all of them because they’re not all available here.

But I’m just not wild about this pizza, y’all.

I’m glad I tried it once, but I don’t want it anymore. It’s not bad, it’s just not appealing. Maybe it’s the truffle oil in the sauce, or the cheese, or the mushroom blend, I don’t know. This pizza is just not for me. I can’t answer for anyone else.

Will you like it? I don’t know—you must find out for yourself, honestly. If this blog doesn’t make you curious, well. . .get the uncured pepperoni version, or pick up a box of crusts and create your own Caulipower. Their “regular” pizzas are very tasty. I just can’t vouch for this one, despite their other tasty flavors.

The Other Two

Since I only found the Truffilicious Mushroom version of the Over The Top line in Walmart, I don’t know if I can get the other two here. As always, I’ll check out Winn-Dixie or Rouses later and see if they have them in stock.

I’ve had Caulipower’s Buffa-Whoa buffalo chicken pizza and found it to be a little too warm for my taste. This makes me cautious about the Spicy Chicken Sausage version because I don’t like anything that’s overly hot. I haven’t found their “white pizza” either but will try it if I ever find one. The rest I like, including the crust that you can add your own ingredients on top and bake.

Good Food Frozen

As more people embrace healthier eating, better quality things are available in the freezer case. I’m sure there will always be regular frozen pizzas, lasagna, and other freezer staples available. But healthier food is making its way into American grocery stores, and that’s always a good thing.

Enjoy!

Boxes of Boba Tea on Walmart shelf
Foodie Trends For 2024
New Year, New Food Trends. What’s coming to our tables this year? In this blog post, I’ll look at what the “experts” predict for the newest foodie things for 2024. Follow me on Bloglovin’ Hello, again, Dear Readers: I know, it’s been a month. My apologies for that. I discovered one picture from our trip that I forgot to post:
BF taking a picture in Buc-ee's

He liked the leather wallets, but that’s not me standing next to him.

BF found something he liked, although he did not buy one this time. Our extreme cold snap is over. Here, we’ve had bouts of rain throughout Texas and Louisiana. It’s still cool, but not bitterly cold like it was before. Recently, I asked Aunt Ruth during the cold snap if she was warm, and she told me that her granddaughter gave her a nice warm heated blanket throw for Christmas. I’m glad because the little kitty doesn’t stay inside much. As with every New Year, “experts” of all descriptions predict what we’ll be doing after January 1. How many of those predictions become trends is anybody’s guess because a “disruptor” comes along that changes things, like Instagram and TikTok (which I’ll talk about later.) Or life changes in some way, like the three-year thing, and we adapt accordingly. So I decided to see what they’re saying about the newest foodie trends that may be coming to us in the New Year. I thought about doing this after my last blog post. What are the trends we can look forward to seeing in 2024 on the foodie front? Every year, there’s always something new to discover, even if it’s something old that’s just repackaged. TikTok, the short-video social media, seems to be the primary trend influencer. This blogger does not have TikTok on her phone and only knows what she reads about and sees that flows from TikTok onto Instagram. But because TikTok is the thing now, it’s a driver for these “new” food trends, along with the food industry. Remember how high eggs were a year ago? Record inflation for the past three years has also cut into food budgets from teenagers to families with children, so not everyone is on board with, say, the caviar-on-Doritos trend. Trader Joe’s has announced their Customer Choice Awards 2024, and one of my favorites is on it: The Brazil Nut Body Butter. It’s inedible, but one sniff of that incredible fragrance and you’re hooked. Even BF likes it, but only when I’m wearing some. Predicting trends is not an exact science. Frequently, making predictions can be all over the place, as I discovered researching for this blog. So here are some of the anticipated trends predicted for this year.

Tamarind

McCormick is betting on its new “Mexican Inspired” Tamarind blend as the preeminent flavor for all things culinary in 2024.
Bottle of Tamarind spice for the newest spice trend

McCormick makes this

I haven’t seen this yet but I’ll keep an eye out for it in Walmart, Winn-Dixie, Rouse’s, and anywhere else I decide to shop. Warning: this does contain sugar, so if you’re watching that sort of thing, be aware.
Ingredient list of Tamarind blend

Not straight Tamarind, but a blend, with two types of sugar.

And if this trend doesn’t take off, I’m sure it will show up in Dirt Cheap or The Salvage Store when they eventually give up on it.

“Boba Tea,” aka “Bubble Tea”

Back in the day, the Frappuccino was the trendy new thing to drink. Then chai came along. Then the famous (or infamous) Pumpkin Spice Latte sparked all manner of fall-based trends. Today, we have Bubble Tea, also called Boba Tea, and it’s being called a new trend for 2024.
Picture of trendy Bubble Tea In a cup

This is a generic picture of what Bubble Tea, or Boba Tea, looks like.

It’s something else I’ve seen but never tried, and probably won’t. Boba Tea has been around for some time. The only time I’ve seen this is in canned or kit form at Five Below, but then, I don’t go looking for it, either. Can of Bubble Tea   Because I don’t get out much, apparently there is Boba ParTea and TeaTery Tea & Tapioca in Baton Rouge. Boba ParTea is near one of our favorite places there, The City Café on O’Neal Lane. (I’ve never done a review on it, go figure, but we like it.) A quick search indicates that bubble tea places are popping up all over Houston. (Get it?) My Boba Tea is out on the west side, on Dairy Ashford, and there might be one in Clear Lake, too. (I couldn’t tell from a search.) Like anything in Houston, toss a quarter in any direction, you’ll probably find at least one. If you can get beignets in Houston, you’ll find a place selling bubble tea, too, but probably not in the same place. Neighbor E is reading this and holding onto his chai latte real tight.
Chai Latte boxes at Walmart

Neighbor E’s favorite

What It Is

So, what is this wacky new stuff that the kids all like? I did find some in our local Walmart this past weekend:
Boxes of Boba Tea on Walmart shelf

Yup, there it is.

Well, Boba Tea was invented in Taiwan in the ’80s. It’s simply tea mixed with milk and other flavorings, and little sugar-coated tapioca balls in the bottom, the “boba.” There are as many flavors as people in Houston, so there’s no telling what kind of boba tea you can get wherever you go.
More boba tea in Walmart on the shelf trendy boba mixes

If I were getting some, I’d go with that Vanilla Latte flavor.

Seriously. It’s a drink and a sugary snack all at once. The Food Network’s website offers a basic description of boba tea. The more you search, the more you find. We’ll be seeing much more of this trend in 2024. Don’t expect me and BF to be hopping onto the boba tea trend anytime soon. He would not go into such a place and would only stand outside and wait for me to hurry up so we could leave.
Instructions and ingredients fro Boba tea package

That’s how it’s made, and that’s a lot of sugar.

I’m not sure I wanna try this stuff, anyway. But if I do get curious, I’ll let you know.

Retro Anything Trend

For some bizarre reason, there is a 90’s nostalgia food trend happening now. It may have something to do with the release of a movie called Mean Girls, a reboot of the 2004 film. This trend sees retro food reimagined for folks who want to return to their youth or something. Also called “newstalgia,” this kind of thing appears during or right after difficult times. Maybe I should find new copies of some old cookbooks and see where that takes me. On the other hand, I have no plans to source and purchase Pop Rocks to add into something. But it might be a fun joke to play on BF one day if he gets on my last nerve.

Increased Plant-Based Foods

Even though I stocked up on unsweetened chocolate almond milk during the most recent freeze, I’m not following this trend. However, an increase in demand for plant-based everything is expected to continue into 2024. Especially considering the increased prices of all types of meat. However, the plant-based meat industry has faced obstacles, forcing many to cut back operations. And it’s not cheap, either. Some providers have closed for business entirely. There just isn’t the demand they anticipated, and the problems of the last three years haven’t helped. Furthermore, the ingredients in some of these offerings aren’t always as healthy as touted.
Packages of Impossible ground meat on store shelf

Because it’s impossible to get normal people to eat this stuff. (Source: Google Images)

Going beyond the mixed veg and salad crowd, plant-based proteins are expected to expand into things like plant-based “seafood” alongside meat substitutes and vegetables featured in recipes on their own.
Package of Beyond Sausage plant based products for trend

Source: Google Images

Trend predictions show plant-based kinds of milk as prominent, including oat milk and, I’m not kidding, pea milk. No thanks. Besides, BF likes to remind me that “if it doesn’t moo, it isn’t milk.” BF is a smart aleck, too.
Refrigerated case of plant based meat alternatives

Source: Google Images/Getty Images

Who is buying these products? Granted, I’m in a rural area where people farm real beef, pork, chicken, etc., so it’s not likely farmers will be buying plant-based meat products. But how much of a market is there for them? Not as much as believed, and this trend may eventually fizzle out. Mushrooms are increasingly used as a meat substitute. So much so that Delish and Whole Foods are predicting mushrooms everywhere you look in 2024. If you start seeing mushroom everything, you heard it here first.

Vegan Pepperoni?

I haven’t been to Trader Joe’s in many months, and the last time I visited Aldi was between Christmas and New Year. TJ’s does offer a fair amount of vegan and vegetarian foods for those who like them. They are a California company, after all, up on all the latest food trends. Well, Natasha from Trader Joe’s List posted this new Trader Joe’s product on Instagram the other day:
Vegan pepperoni at Trader Joe's for plant based trend

Source: Trader Joe’s List Instagram page

Yes—vegan pepperoni. How do they make it? I’m glad you asked:
Ingredients of vegan pepperoni

Source: Trader Joe’s List Instagram page.

With wheat and a bunch of other ingredients that are not in any way “meat-like.” So, if you’re giving up meat, why eat something that attempts to emulate meat? Not my place to make these decisions, but there is a market for this type of product, albeit small. Makes me want to get a couple of packages of real pepperoni on my next grocery trip.

Trend: Artificial intelligence (AI)

AI has been rumbling around for years, but in 2022, ChatGPT brought AI into mainstream consciousness. While this blogger does use ChatGPT—like a bookkeeper would use a calculator—I wrote this blog without ChatGPT’s assistance. (And I’m sure it shows too.) Picture of AI floating robot Automation has been in the food industry for decades. In recent years AI has become increasingly sophisticated wherever it’s used. The infusion of technology probably won’t be obvious to consumers and restaurant patrons. Most of it will work in the background, not in full view.

How It Works

For instance, I saw an article recently (but I can’t find it now) about how companies keep their ice cream flavors in stock. It works like this: the ice cream vendor owns the freezer that’s in your local store or a component thereof. The freezer or component is equipped with a sensor device that sends information to the company remotely, letting them know what to restock automatically. Robot Isometric Icon with AI In other words, HEB, or our local Walmart, or Winn-Dixie doesn’t have to tell the vendor they are out of a specific type of ice cream, gelato, or novelty frozen dessert. The vendor already knows the minute the freezer space is low or emptied. Sensors inside the freezer send them a notification automatically, and the supply chain that brings it is (mostly) seamless. The vendor is already working to get that freezer refilled with Cherry Mocha Chocolate Chunk Hazelnut Crème Gelato before someone starts asking questions. In restaurants, automation and technology are expected to help pick up the load, saving labor and time. Again, customers won’t see this AI automation. McDonald’s has already opened a test of the automated concept in Fort Worth, but there are also humans working there. Increasing automation with AI is expected to help increase efficiency and cut costs in all types of eateries. Fans of The X-Files will remember a semi-comedic episode in the eleventh season (2018) with little dialog and revolved around an automated sushi restaurant. There are no humans in the place, and when Mulder’s order is wrong, there is no one to complain to and no way to get the sushi he ordered. Things escalate quickly, and the duo breaks out of the place. Headed home, Scully’s autonomous (and driverless) taxi speeds out of control, and her house is overtaken by electronics. Eventually, the pair is cornered by several robots that hand Mulder his phone, showing that he has not left a tip or a review. He leaves a 10% tip with his phone, the robots back off and go away, and then everything is all over. We’re a long way from that scenario, but don’t be surprised if the automated restaurant trend becomes more common, even in a limited capacity.

Speaking of Ice Cream

This article discusses new trends in our favorite frozen dessert. From calorie (and carb) conscious to more sophisticated flavor profiles, ice cream continues to evolve. I still prefer making my own, but it’s nice to know keto and sugar-free ice creams are available. One of those trends is new flavor combinations. Well, I’ve got one I just saw in Walmart the other night:
Trendy Little Debbie ice cream pints in the Walmart freezer case.

Little Debbie is “the other woman” in our relationship.

Yes, BF’s long-term “other woman” is branching into ice cream. He hasn’t tried it yet, but if it sticks around, I’m sure it will make its way its way into our freezer. If you’re one of those people who think the hotter, the better, you’re about to get your sensibilities whacked. By that, I mean that one new trend is to combine hot with sweet or other flavors to temper the heat and bring new layers of flavor. Gen Z has discovered extremely hot condiments like Sriracha and enjoys adding them to different dishes. Fermented food and drinks like kombucha also continue to be a force in food. Admittedly, this blogger does not go near the stuff. I do like pickles on occasion, especially the milder ones like kosher dill. BF, on the other hand, hates anything remotely “pickle-y,” and will let you know about it–loudly.

Rethinking The Drink

People like BF, Aunt Ruth, and Aunt Kathy are just not going to be fazed by the trend of Dry January right after the holidays. (Yup, a bit late for that too, but hear me out.) I don’t drink that often, and I can tell you the last occasions where I had alcohol: A wedding last November, (BF drove us) plus Thanksgiving and this past New Year’s Eve at home. But some folks drink a little more regularly and observe Dry January as a month of “reset.” Actress and foodie Valerie Bertinelli takes it seriously and frequently posts videos about her Dry January on Instagram. If you can’t give up the cocktails, there are ways to enjoy a sophisticated libation without the alcohol in January or any other month.

Fancy Sodas and Soft Drinks

For BF, Cherry Coke is about as fancy as he gets. I quit drinking soft drinks back in 1997 and have had only one since then. Now, I don’t have a taste for them. But over the years, soft drinks, aka “sodas,” have evolved into nonstandard versions that appeal to more discriminating tastes. The first one I remember seeing was Izze’s, a “fizzy” juice blend with no sugar or artificial flavorings.
Izze soft drink

This is just one of many flavors

While it started as an indie, it’s now part of the Tropicana brand. I remember trying it once, and it was pretty good, but the only place that sold them was the Houston Central Market, so I never had one again.

Zevia

Another one I’ve seen is Zevia Zero Sugar Sodas, but I haven’t tried them myself. They offer soda, energy drinks, teas, and drinks for kids.
Picture of can of Zevia cola

One of several varieties

Winn-Dixie offers two flavors in our local store. They’re not available in my local Walmart, but Walmart will ship them here. BF would blow a gasket if he ran out of Coke and I gave him Zevia. Next trip, I might try some, if they have some in stock. The company offers three versions of “mocktails” in a reel on their Instagram feed, all with Zevia canned sodas. Maybe we’ll try one for Valentine’s Day. Berry Town Produce in Hammond also carries Zevia, according to the company’s website. I thought I’d blogged about that place already, but I haven’t. Looks like I now have an excuse to go back, shop, take pictures, and write one. It’s like the old “fruit stands” that used to appear in New Orleans but enclosed. They have lots of great stuff. If you’re cutting back on sugar, you might think of switching to diet soft drinks. You can do that, of course. But these are not the same as your regular diet soft drinks. These are “reinvented” sodas with less sugar or no sugar added. This article from Eater lists ten of the newest non-alcoholic libations around, including “functional” sodas with prebiotics, and hybrid seltzer drinks. Non-alcoholic wines and other spirits are also an evolving market, especially for Dry January. Something new that has crossed my path is called Ritual Zero Proof, spirits for people who love to drink. No kidding, it’s a series of taste-alike alternatives to tequila, rum, whiskey, aperitif, and gin. The bottles are sold individually as well as in bundles. (NOTE: I have not personally tried these libations.)
New trend of Ritual Non-Alcoholic Spirits

Cocktail ready with no alcohol.

What’s in this stuff? Well, there is cane sugar, along with filtered water, natural flavoring, caramel coloring (in the rum version), and xanthan gum, a thickener. In other words, simple syrup with some extra ingredients to make it taste like the real thing, and free of alcohol.

Rethinking Your Drink

Do you want a drink? They’re easy to find. There are always recipes for dry cocktails, or “mocktails,” available online at the touch of a button. I have several cocktail recipes in books, too, like Suzanne Somers Cocktails book, one of my favorites. You can make many of these drinks without alcohol, including my favorites:
  • The Somersize Mojito on page 17
  • The Watermelon Mojito on page 21
  • The Ruby Red Greyhound on page 27
In all three, club soda can sub in for the alcohol. As with most of her recipes, they are made without sugar. Swerve can replace the SomerSweet; just adjust it for taste.

Our NYE Drinks

For New Year’s Eve, I found a recipe on Natasha Fisher’s Instagram feed (TraderJoesList) that called for fresh cranberries frozen in tangerine juice with a sprig of rosemary in larger-size ice cube trays. (I had to use orange juice since I wasn’t going to Baton Rouge before then.) When you’re ready to drink, pour your Prosecco or Champagne over the cubes. Delicious. For BF, I bought some fizzy apple juice for his “mocktail.” Mine, of course, had that small bottle of Prosecco that’s been in the fridge for some time and forgotten. We both enjoyed a nice “adult” beverage on New Year’s Eve with sliced cheeses and gluten-free cracker nibbles on the way to midnight. This charcuterie for two included slices of delicious Cranberry Cinnamon Goat Cheese from Aldi’s, and we even had some leftover cubes in the freezer for another time. Remember that anyone can now have a social media presence and call themselves an “influencer.” That’s their job, to promote products and hopefully start a trend that sells products. I get that, and sometimes they are good products. This article on Mr. Porter better explains how a trend comes to be and the process by which it ceases to be a trend and then becomes mainstream. Sometimes, I’m an “early adopter,” and other times, I’m an “early majority.” Occasionally, I’m a “late majority” or even a “laggard,” depending on the trend. I say that because if I have a problem to solve, I seek a solution. Sometimes that solution shows up on Instagram, no kidding, or on Amazon. Later, that “trend” became mainstream, and I found it at our local Walmart. One example is  this battery organizer I bought two years ago that’s similar to one now available in Walmart. I guess being classified as a “Baby Boomer” makes me wary of going near some of the trends. I’ll take “laggard” in those cases. Gluten-free isn’t a trend—it came about because so many people discovered they had wheat sensitivities and allergies, like Elena Amsterdam of Elena’s Pantry. Reading Wheat Belly by Dr. William Davis made me believe in the gluten-free lifestyle. Cauliflower and cauliflower rice became a foodie trend with the low-carb and keto crowd because people looking for new things discovered its versatility. (Since that blog, I’ve found bags of frozen cauliflower rice at Walmart.) Trends develop from what people want, see, and need, and take all kinds of forms. As I said, predictions aren’t hard science, so these predictions and others may not become the thing. And what happens tomorrow is anybody’s guess. The Kansas City Chiefs (and of course, Taylor Swift’s boyfriend) won the Super Bowl, so at least one blogger on Instagram this morning had a recipe for KC brisket. As if I would make anything but a Texas brisket—DUH! Trends form around what people want and see on TV and social media. Taking a cue from that famous ball game, Taylor Swift wore a black corset top that’s been an on-and-off thing for many years. On YouTube, there’s a clip of the late Tina Turner doing a preshow performance at the 2000 Super Bowl, and her backup dancers are wearing the same style of corset tops, 24 years before TS wore one. That top is already a trend now. But since SHE wore one yesterday from an Australian designer, the Army of  Swifties will probably be swift in getting their own. Not me—I’m not a Swiftian, nor will I be buying or making one just yet. Foodie trends are the same way, like charcuterie boards. Trends of all types are influenced by everything from current events, politics, technology, popular culture, social media (of course), and just in general the way things change over time. Look how fast society adapted to working from home when they had to, and nearly everything changed overnight. Trends are also driven by changes in style and taste and become established by shared opinions and eventual widespread appeal.

Until Next Time. . . .

No, I’m not looking to start any trends, but if I do, GREAT! I just hope that trend comes with a highly acceptable payout, but not holding my breath on that one. But if you find something new to enjoy, have at it, and of course. . . . Happy Dining!  
Houston "YOU ARE HERE" Mug from Starbucks with HEB tea bag
The Trip To Houston

What happened after the wedding? We went visiting with a little shopping and dining in Houston. Come with us to my old stomping ground in Clear Lake. (I never thought I’d call it that.) Warning: this is a long blog, so settle in with a cuppa first. There’s lots to tell.

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Hello, again, Dear Readers:

Welcome to our three days of winter in the south. It’s COLD! And it will be for three days or so. Wrap your pipes, make sure you have everything you need in case the worst happens, and stay warm.

I’ve had some nice feedback on the blog post about Rafael and Carmen’s beautiful wedding. I greatly appreciate the comments, and glad everyone enjoyed it—especially Rafael and Carmen!

Raf was a little nervous about what I was planning to write. I mean, the only complaint is there was no complaint, am I right? I told him that it was not going to be a “hit piece.” That wasn’t my intention. Then I had to explain the term “hit piece” so Raf understood what I meant.

So let me tell you about the rest of our trip, finally.

Confession: Our Earlier Trip

In 2019, we took a one-day trip to Willis, TX, north of Conroe. We didn’t mention it because we weren’t able to visit anyone. It was a Saturday, and of course, traffic was typical for Houston any day of the week.

To keep this blog on point, I may describe it more in a separate blog post on its own. There were stops in The Woodlands, and a missed opportunity or two. But that quick trip influenced this five-day trip, including the planning.

So let’s go back to The Bayou City in The Lone Star State.

Friday, November 4, 2022

After a few hours’ drive and a couple of stops for fuel and coffee, we got to Beaumont and stopped in a Stuckey’s.

Restroom sign

BF particularly enjoyed this one.

I’ll describe the snafu over lunch later, but one thing we did get was some delicious Tex-Mex in the Katy location of Chuy’s. First up, hot chips and salsa:

It tastes like home.

And an eyeful of the incredible colorful décor:

Colorful tile counter

Isn’t that amazing?

And this:

More amazing decor, even though it’s brown

Because you don’t get this kind of décor in Louisiana. Seriously, nobody knows how to use color, and everything is so BROWN. Everything was a feast for the eyes, including this brown pattern:

Love this for the kitchen

This too would make a nice kitchen floor:

Or maybe in the back of the house

This is also incredible:

This amazing tile would also be great as a backsplash

I wanted to take it all home with me, seriously. There was some lovely artwork around, although I don’t remember exactly where they were hanging in the restaurant:

Oh, what did we have? Me, a salad, BF, fajitas, which is a frequent order when we’re in anywhere Mexican.

Fajitas and taco salad with refried beans and bowl of lettuce, cheese and pico de gallo

But there was plenty for later in the evening, so no need to leave the comfortable hotel room.

Now to convince BF that just a little bit of this kind of color would go a long way in the Casa’s Cocina (kitchen) or anywhere in the house. I’m thinking of a nice backsplash.

Sunday, November 6, 2022

As I mentioned in the last blog post, we had breakfast the next day with one of the groomsmen from Austin. He and BF continued their conversation about the Texas Military before we said our goodbyes. The Katy Hampton Inn had wonderful amenities, and the staff was very helpful.

Two uphohlstered chairs with a small table in between flush up against a wall with a digital fireplace

Lovely lobby seating

However, all we had time for was the free Wi-Fi and the wonderful breakfast spread downstairs:

The Breakfast Suite

It was available from early morning until about 10:00 am or 11:00 am with all kinds of tasty choices:

And delicious coffee and tea:

BF liked the idea of some freshly made hot waffles, but the seasonal Pumpkin Spice flavor didn’t appeal to him. As much as he enjoys cooking breakfast for us at home, he was happy that someone cooked breakfast for him this time. Well, except for his waffles, which he made himself in a minute at the breakfast bar.

BF making pancakes

He was really glad I booked us at The Hampton Inn.

Once we packed up everything, gathered up our luggage, and checked out of the lovely Katy Hampton Inn, it was time to hop back on the I-10/Katy Freeway and move on to Clear Lake, 50 miles away. On the trek down the Katy Freeway to the Gulf Freeway (I-45 South), BF began to understand why I booked the hotels as I did.

Heading South

Although we did get to see Neighbor E on this trip, it wasn’t on Sunday. I knew where our next hotel was, the Extended Stay on NASA 1. It is literally right across the street from NASA, where we planned to be tourists. (More on that later.) We were interested in lunch, and E suggested Rudy’s Real Texas BBQ in the area.

Counter at Rudy's BBQ

Simple and rustic

Well, it’s been seven years since I lived in Clear Lake, and so much has changed. This lovely place is in what used to be Pappadeux Seafood Kitchen, a “New Orleans-style” restaurant that was there until Hurricane Harvey took it out. Took a few harried calls with E, but he kindly and patiently told us how to get there. We were not disappointed.

Chicken!

Brisket! (Stairway to heaven, or enlightenment)

More chicken

It’s a friendly place with some really tasty barbecue.

Our Clear Lake hotel check-in wasn’t until later in the day, so we took our time at Rudy’s. After making another phone call, we headed towards Manvel, TX.

Visiting Aunt Ruth

Aunt Ruth lives in a little old-fashioned house with a big garage. She has a lovely outdoor garden area with lots of plants.

 

I so want to have a little seating area at the Casa de Rurale like this!

And a cute little kitty!

After reading and hearing about him for seven years, I finally got to introduce Aunt Ruth to BF in person when we visited her.

BF and Aunt Ruth and Amy

Finally!!

I haven’t seen her since leaving Boeing, I think, or maybe shortly thereafter. We’ve kept in touch, of course, but it’s just not the same thing.

Aunt Ruth with Amy

Finally!

During our visit, Aunt Ruth gave me a piece of her Hummingbird plant, which I put in a water bottle for the rest of the trip.

Giant Hummingbird Plant Outside the house

The Hummingbird Plant

She said, “you can’t hurt it.” So far, so good, and it stayed in that water bottle for months. I put it in the kitchen window until I planted it in a paint bucket last fall.

After a nice visit, we made our way back to NASA Road 1, or NASA One as it’s now called, and checked into our room. It wasn’t like the Hampton Inn. There was a Hampton Inn down the road, and we could have booked it there, but BF didn’t care where we stayed. Wish I’d booked there, but, well, next time.

And I finally told her why I call her “Aunt Ruth.” Because she was always like the “aunt” in the office as was Aunt Kathy (who we also visited, keep reading.) So, they became “aunts” to me over time, along with one or two others at Boeing, even though we aren’t actually related. It’s nothing more than that.

Monday, November 7, 2022

We slept pretty well in the new hotel. We’d hoped to make a couple of other visits on Monday, but they weren’t available due to another commitment that week. Breakfast was, well, markedly different than our prior hotel:

Breakfast bar at Extended Stay Suites

Not like the first hotel, that’s for sure.

There was oatmeal, muffins, coffee, hot chocolate, and tea. Not much else. There was a Starbucks right next door, so I headed there for some egg bites. BF was OK with a muffin, and I got him some hot chocolate packets, too.

This was the day after the Houston Astros won the 2022 World Series. Lots of people had the day off from work and school, but we didn’t realize that at the time. With no other plan, we headed to the Houston headquarters of Swedishness, IKEA. It was about an hour’s drive from Clear Lake, just like I remembered.

BF’s Inner Swede

I wanted to take BF on a trip to IKEA as a “fact-finding mission.” In other words, to see what was there, what kind of thing is available, get some ideas for later, and of course, pick up a few small house things for the Casa de Rurale. It wasn’t a busy day, plenty of parking, and there were about as many employees as customers. If you’ve ever been to an IKEA store, you know how big the place is, and why it wasn’t crowded on a Monday afternoon. The best time to go is on a weekday, middle of the day.

Flags outside IKEA Houston

I was so happy to see these again!

But first, we went straight upstairs for lunch in the café. We had our blue shopping bags with us, but still got the yellow bags and a cart. It was here that BF began his journey into getting in touch with his inner Swede:

BF in a chair in the IKEA Houston cafe

He’s got *that* look

That look is everything, isn’t it? And we were greeted by this nice man:

Keith an IKEA employee in the cafe

Meet Keith

Saw all the wonderful things for lunch:

Cafe boards

Everything on the menu

Cafe board closeup

Closeup

Hot food section of IKEA Cafe

Hot and fresh!

And the refrigerated case:

Doesn’t that croissant look delicious?

And desserts:

Dessert case at IKEA

Delicious Swedish-style desserts

Ultimately, BF enjoyed some of IKEA’s famous Swedish meatballs:

While I went with the slightly safer salmon lunch and a salad:

And we might have accidentally picked up some chocolate desserts, too:

 

But we were on vacation, so that doesn’t count, right? Especially with all the walking we did that day.

The Zoo At the Casa De Rurale

The whole time, our hired pet sitter sent us pictures every day of our zoo animals, like this one:

Picture of Buddy on his back acting weird

He’s still this weird.

Thankfully, the only thing that happened was that the power did go out on one occasion. She texted us and asked, and yes, it happens. The power was back on in an hour or two, and everything was fine.

Highlights From Our IKEA Shopping

One thing I wanted to look at was the china cabinets to house the stuff I’ve had since the 80s and 90s that’s packed and rarely been used. We didn’t buy one, but we could have, and we will later.

Gray IKEA China Cabinet

This one in white is the ideal. But I wish it came in that burnished red color.

The one I wanted isn’t big enough, and the one that’s big enough doesn’t come in the color I wanted. (The ones I see locally in stores and on FB Marketplace are, shall we say, not to my style.) We’ll get it eventually, right?

I bought my own Tarno patio set about 2006 or 2007, and used it frequently on the back patio at El Dorado Trace:

TARNO Patio set with green silk leaf backdrop

I miss sitting out on the back patio, but we’ll be using this set again one day.

Nice to know this is still around, and I still have my set, too. When I bought mine, it was $40 for the table and two chairs. No kidding. It’s in the living room, folded up. One day, when the patio is cleared off and it doesn’t look like an outdoor auto shop, we might be able to have breakfast or dinner out there when the weather’s good. I did buy a new set of cushions for it during our visit.

A few years later, I bought an extra chair one day when one of the original chairs lost a bolt. BF says he’ll fix that for us one day.

IKEA dresser painted with Texas state flag motif

I want one!

This had a sign nearby that the dresser you see had been painted–customized, I think it said–and did not come with the Texas design already painted on. But why not?

I did purchase these for the kitchen, although they are no longer available at IKEA. They are a wrapped pair of canvas wall hangings, and  I just love them:

They were a pair for an inexpensive price. Like many things in IKEA, they’re there and gone, so you need to get it while you’re there or you’ll miss out. I only found one pair on eBay, and they are much more expensive, especially since the seller is outside the US.

There were room settings and displays like this throughout the huge store:

BF particularly liked that style of table and chair.

So enviously neat

But there were some utility things I bought, too, like a few more of these small bowls and one of the medium-sized:

Three sizes of IKEA Banda bowls

These steel bowls are awesome.

The smaller ones are great for storing little things in the fridge and for mis en place. Finally I have a few more.

I’ve had one of these small Koncis roasting pans for years, and finally, I have a second one:

Small Koncis roasting pan

The perfect size for a countertop oven or anytime.

We also found a small steel roasting rack for the barbecue so we can roast vegetables too.

I really, REALLY thought about getting yet another French press:

French Press Pots

They’re lovely, but I didn’t need or buy any. This time.

But I didn’t. Nor did I get one of these, much as I wanted it and knew I’d never use it:

Wooden two-tier stand

Isn’t it fab?

With rows and racks of wonderful Swedish kitchen and home things, it’s easy to pick up lots of wonderful things on your way out:

Nevermind how much we spent.

More Lovely Things

My eyes just couldn’t get enough, as I did before when I could go to IKEA regularly.

This wouldn’t last long at the Casa de Rurale with two prowling cats and a huge, rambunctious dog:

Nor would this, lovely as it is:

This is actually a wall hanging, part of a set of five, I think. Much as I loved it, I passed, because I don’t think we’ll ever have a place for all that.

Wall hanging of bistro table and chair set.

Isn’t it fabulous? I only wanted this one.

Still, I keep hoping that the neat, organized appearance of IKEA’s many rooms and room settings would inspire BF to become more of a neatnik. It hasn’t worked yet, but we keep trying.

The living room area could benefit from a credenza like this, maybe even two of them:

The dresser would look great anywhere:

Finally, BF embraces his inner Swedishness:

BF in comfy chair at IKEA Houston

Fully in touch with his inner Swede now.

In all seriousness, it was indeed a long visit to this place, but he now understands why I think IKEA is a big deal. BF’s sister and her husband live in the vicinity of Atlanta’s IKEA and brought back many things for their father’s house, including furniture and supplies to do a modern renovation to the kitchen several years ago. Now, having visited and seen an IKEA store for himself, he gets it.

Guess what? I can go by myself one day, to either Houston or Memphis, no kidding. From the Casa de Rurale, I can drive five hours in either direction, right to IKEA, buy whatever I want, and drive back when I’m done. I can, but I just prefer not to go alone. It’s an all-day affair and involves driving ten hours if I don’t book a hotel. But knowing I can do that is great, even though it’s for another day. I’ve never been to the Memphis IKEA, but The E-Man has.

After 3.5 or more hours in the Houston IKEA, our purchases in tow, (just some small house things, no furniture) we walked out and back into the parking lot. Everything we bought fit in this bag, which they no longer sell.

Blue IKEA FRAKTA zippered bag

Everything we need!

Stashing our purchases under the back seat, we considered our next move.

Top Brass Military

After that long visit to IKEA, BF decided it was time for him to do some manly shopping. A quick Google search told him that we were just a few miles from a military surplus store, which is his ideal shopping trip. So off we went.

You can imagine how much of a 180-turn this was, but I didn’t mind. BF likes to remind me that he took me to see both Downton Abbey films in the theater, watched one or two other movies he wasn’t interested in, and took me to other places like:

As well as other places unrelated to automotive parts and services, hunting and fishing, military surplus, high-end restaurants, and Walmart. Therefore, I owed it to him to take him somewhere he wanted to go. After departing IKEA, I agreed to this condition. Somehow, he knew it was there. A little while later, we pulled into the parking lot at Top Brass Military on the I-45 North Freeway, soothing his yearning for some manly shopping.

It was a bit of a ride from I-10 to I-610 North then I-45 North to get there, but we made it safely. I had to drive, because, well, it’s still “my turf.” Not only was it a different kind of treat, but it was also most interesting from the moment I put the truck into “park.” Top Brass is a place that is, shall we say, eclectic.

It’s that kind of place.

The Parking Lot

This is what they have hanging around outside:

And this:

And this:

I don’t know what this is.

Inside was an eye-popping display of all kinds of wonderful things, like this:

And this:

And this:

Two Texas flags, one with a Gadsen Flag overlay

I brought home the top one, and it hangs on the door of the back room/office.

Mind you, these wonderful wall hangings were a bit out of our range this time around. I know BF wants to go back and get at least one of them. For now, we settled for a cloth Texas flag, which hangs on my office door, and a cloth Gadsen flag, which is currently without a place. But we almost bought a couple of these, too:

We found some great Navy Seabee things, too, which made BF as happy as I was in IKEA.

But if we’re going to Top Brass again in the future, there will also be a trip to IKEA. No getting around that, I don’t care if we do go to Top Brass first. That will be the day we go in a U-Haul, or rent one of their lockable trailers.

The Container Store

After leaving Top Brass, we headed south to our hotel. Back in Clear Lake, I asked for a trip to The Container Store in Baybrook Mall for a few things we needed. Yes, we did.

Clear Lake never used to have one, and I ended up going to the one in town or The Woodlands. The Baybrook Mall location opened two months after I moved away. I keep asking them on social media to open a store in Baton Rouge; nothing yet. (The Sur la Table store in Baybrook closed during the pandemic, along with Baton Rouge and others.)

BF walked around a couple of other places while I visited CS and met me when he was finished. Next door to CS is REI, the outdoor store, and Duluth Trading is at the end of the building, so you know where he went. (I didn’t make it into Duluth Trading but have bought from them online.)

BF’s only experience with CS was seeing Jay Leno talk about it one day on TV. Leno’s routine went something like this:

“My wife took me to the Container Store the other day. Have you ever been to one of these places? They sell empty boxes. No kidding, they sell empty boxes. I saw one woman opening different boxes. I said to her, ‘Ma’am, I’m pretty sure that one’s empty too.’”

This is what BF had in mind when I told him I wanted to go. He had no exposure other than that routine and some things I ordered online three years ago for the house.

While BF was elsewhere, I looked and soaked in all the storage and organization solutions, picking up a few small things and sending him pictures of the storage solutions. But there was one item we needed and I’d planned to get from Amazon: a container for spaghetti with a built-in portion measure. I asked for it, and they showed it to me.

 

ProKeeper Plus Pasta Container

The answer to your pantry prayers!

Really, it was a “shut up and take my money” moment. BF had a huge round container in the pantry since long before I got here. It took up way too much room, was not airtight, and he cooked too much spaghetti at once, usually the whole box. Then he wondered why he was out of spaghetti again. THIS fixed that problem.

Progressive spaghetti container with measuring gauge

Much better.

It’s easy to measure and make one, two, or three servings, you see what you have, and the top gives you exactly what you need.

Gauge for one, two or three servings of spaghetti

Really–cook just the right amount with no guesswork.

This one also holds a few boxes of spaghetti neatly with a small footprint in the pantry. Immediately, I washed it, let it air dry completely, and filled it with his spaghetti. Now, BF cooks just enough for one serving, or two if he’s making some for lunch the next day.

Of course, my honey did not initially see this as a necessary purchase. But since I brought it home and deployed it, he understands why I bought one and agrees that it’s a good thing.

I also got this Angry Mama microwave steam cleaner (which CS no longer carries.)

Angry Mama microwave cleaning tool

I know, it should have red hair.

And, honestly, it works great. I thought I picked up the one with red hair, but got the blonde model by mistake.

Lucky me, the cashier in CS was a very nice lady, and after talking about my accounts (I had two), it turned out that I had a $10 coupon available to use. Nice! When you’re signed up for their loyalty program, both online and in-store purchases are recorded in one place.

Back to the Hotel

Once we made it to base camp, I contacted Aunt Kathy, and we arranged to meet up for dinner at. . .Denny’s. No kidding, Denny’s on Bay Area Boulevard, near the Boeing building. I thought of Denny’s because it was close, and we could probably hang out there for a while and nobody would care. I was right, they didn’t care, and we had plenty of time to catch up. There were only a few folks out that night, and the place closed at midnight, so we stayed and chatted for quite a while.

Selfie with Kathy and Amy

Finally got to see Aunt Kathy again. (Not the best picture, I know.)

I haven’t seen Aunt Kathy in many moons, and I was so glad to see her. And, Aunt Kathy also got to finally meet BF, who was his usual jovial self. We talked about everything, just like we did before. Very glad we got to meet up, even if it was Denny’s. Never discount places like Denny’s, you know?

Before we returned to the hotel, we ducked into Kroger on El Dorado, a couple of miles from Denny’s to grab some frozen breakfast for the next morning. Oatmeal packets weren’t going to cut it this time.

Incidentally, I still have an active Kroger account, and I can order goods to be shipped here. There is even a record of that grocery trip on their website, including everything we bought that night.

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

We decided to go across the street and be NASA tourists. I’ve been to Space Center Houston a couple of times myself, but BF hasn’t had the opportunity.

We were ready! It was right across the street from our hotel, too.

Well, it will have to be next time. There was a power outage in the area, which included NASA and our hotel. So, we had to pass up being space tourists. But we took a few pictures:

That’s actually a mock-up of a shuttle.

It was warm that November day.

 

We had already arranged to meet with Neighbor E later in the day, so we had some time on our hands. Lost for ideas, I took BF to my favorite Half Price Books store off NASA Road 1.

Half Price Books on NASA Road 1 at El Camino Real

One of my favorite places, and favorite websites, too. (DARNIT!)

Oh, the hours I’ve spent in that store, and in its previous location on Egret Bay Boulevard, where they had a resident cat. We prowled through the shelves of books, DVDs, and music, picking up a few things to take home. That included one of their branded reusable shopping bags.

Since moving here, I’ve bought some books from the website, including recently. But it was great to be there in person and spend a little time looking for new and interesting things. Not much has changed except the people and the stock.

We also stopped in the shiny new HEB located on Eastfield near I-45 in Webster, just a couple of miles from El Dorado Trace. We made two trips here during our stay.

HEB on I-45 at El Dorado

It’s everything an HEB needs!!!

Darn it! I always wished they would put one closer to us in the twelve years I lived there. When I moved there in 2004, that tract of land was grass. Now it has high-end apartments, a Costco, lots more stores, and of course, this new HEB, along with a large increase in traffic. I wanted to see the place and do some shopping for the Casa de Rurale.

This store is smaller than the one up the road on Clear Lake City Boulevard, but just as fantastic. Oh, the lovely things they had this day:

They still make incredibly beautiful cakes.

More cakes:

Chocolate cake case

Chocolate!

And one for the Astros:

Astros-themed cake with baseballs on top

Baseball, anyone?

All manner of tasty things:

Some of the produce section

TAMALES!

Case of Mi Tienda tamales

Everything screams, “Take me home!”

Take home meal case

You never have to cook again!

All the coffee and tea you could ever want:

Coffee anyone?

Have you ever seen a six-pound round of queso fresco?

Navarro Queso Fresco, six pound round

This very nearly made it into the basket!

The most I can get here is a three-pound round if you’re lucky.

Back of six pound Queso fresco package

One of my favorite cheeses. It would have lasted me a while. Maybe.

You have no idea how close I came to buying $36 worth of cheese in one piece. And I’m sure Aunt Kathy is laughing at me as she’s reading this.

We have new baskets at Winn-Dixie but they’re definitely not like this:

HEB basket

Get a load of this baby

I know, I know. . .it’s getting better here, slowly. But I really would do a grocery run at least to Orange or Beaumont to shop at HEB more often.

Texas Decor

HEB also has wonderful Texas décor:

It’s made by a company called Timber Image, and I now follow them on Instagram.

I can’t tell you how much I wanted to load it ALL up in the truck, along with these lovely things:

I’m not sure who makes the rest of these, but I would definitely make room for them:

Texas star

One day I’ll have the Texas star on the front of the house. I don’t care what BF says.

Because Texas. Of course, I couldn’t leave without this very fashionable item:

Red HEB Christmas t-shirt

Isn’t it fab??

To wear every Christmas until either it falls apart or I’m gone. (Yes, I wore it this past Christmas, too.) The picture doesn’t show the true color, it’s a bit off. In front of you, the color is absolutely beautiful.

Of course, being in an Extended Stay, we also had a small but complete kitchen. We bought some of HEB’s ready-to-heat meals, including breakfast. This way we could have meals at the hotel instead of heading out to Starbucks or somewhere. It was perfect. Hampton Inn also has a fridge and microwave, but not a full kitchen like Extended Stay.

Lunch with Neighbor E

We finally got to visit Neighbor E today after seven years of being away. Since (reluctantly) moving here in 2016, E and I have talked on the phone, even had a Zoom call once, emailed, texted, and messaged on Instagram. We can do that anytime and do that too. But after seven years, BF and I were very glad to visit with him in person.

When I called him, Neighbor E suggested meeting at La Madeleine, which, thankfully, is still in the same place on Bay Area Boulevard, right off I-45.

La Madeleine, Bay Area Blvd.

Still there, even though so many other spots in that strip mall have changed.

BF has never been to La Madeleine, but he acclimated just fine. But the best part was getting to hang out with Neighbor E for a little while.

We had lots to talk about. Didn’t get pictures of what the guys had, but I had this wonderful cool salad:

E’s retired now, sort of, and he goes out to different Houston eateries with his sister D. I’m thinking about a blog post on their travels.

I hugged him before we left, hoping we’ll get to see each other again one day.

Before heading back to the hotel, I took BF on a short tour of a few places in my old stomping ground, like the Freeman Library I loved to visit:

Another one of my favorite haunts. We didn’t go in, though.

And a quick trip by the Boeing building, which I’m told is quite less populated than it was when we worked there:

We also stopped at Dunkin’ Donuts on Bay Area Boulevard, where used to enjoy visiting for free and discounted iced coffee after they opened. I even rode there on my bike occasionally, putting the cup in the  attached cupholder. But as E said, they aren’t a great place to visit anymore. The kid at the counter said they didn’t do decaf iced coffee. Even the ones here make it, but. . .I guess he was busy with something else. We left and never returned. I’ll stick with the one in Covington, if I ever go down there again.

I was disappointed to discover that Café Express was gone from Clear Lake, and only the in-town locations remain. They had curbside delivery back when I worked at Boeing. I’d occasionally order online and pick up on my way home when I was just too tired. You just ordered on the website, paid for it online, drove there, called them from your car, and they brought it out to you. They had the best sweet potato fries and a Ceasar salad that was just awesome with grilled shrimp.

Starbucks on El Dorado and Gatebrook

Then there was another Starbucks visit, this time in my old neighborhood. It’s fairly new, and opened in the last year or so I was there.

Long before I moved here, I wanted to get the Houston version of Starbucks’s “YOU ARE HERE” cups. A stop at the Starbucks on El Dorado at Gatebrook, a couple blocks from El Dorado Trace, took care of that wish.

Houston "YOU ARE HERE" Mug from Starbucks with HEB tea bag

Finally!

They only had the “Texas” mugs on display, and the nice barista dug into the cabinet to find a “Houston” mug for me. Greatly appreciated, and I got exactly what I wanted. That location was great for the occasion that I wanted to get out of the condo but not really go anywhere. Free refills on coffee, and I could camp out at a table all afternoon.

I’ve used the cup only once but kept it in the box out of reach for safekeeping. Many thanks to the nice barista who went and found it for me.

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

BF and I began packing everything up Tuesday night, leaving out just what we needed for the next day. Before heading back to the hotel that night, we got some dinner and frozen breakfasts from HEB. We made our plans, and after breakfast and checking out, stopped to see my friends Dave and Holly, about three miles from the hotel. I sent Dave a picture of us and told him we would see him in the morning. This was unplanned but necessary.

Tuesday night I got a message on Facebook Messenger from Dave. He liked to occasionally send me messages just to say Hi. I met him in about 2008 or 2009, and then after he married the very nice Holly, I visited them occasionally. Dave had cancer a couple of times, and this time, it wasn’t letting go. He had been ill for a while, and made repeated trips to MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Somehow, I’d forgotten to get in touch with Dave and Holly beforehand to see when we could visit. Well, he must have known to text me, and I’m forever glad he did.

So, I told BF Tuesday evening that before leaving Houston, we had to go see Dave. “Dave who?” I explained briefly, and that he would understand when we got there. Their house was on the way, and we would see them before heading to HEB, Buc-ee’s, and eastward on I-10.

Visiting Dave & Holly

After texting Dave that we were en route, we rang the doorbell and he answered. BF understood immediately. He had an oxygen tube, which I knew about. We were also greeted by their three Dachshunds (aka “wiener dogs”) and they took over BF’s lap. We stayed a couple of hours with Dave and Holly, who gave us some old dog toys for Broccoli Stirfry to destroy. (He did, one at a time, we didn’t give them to him all at once.)

Dave didn’t get many visitors anymore, and he couldn’t go anywhere. Except the hospital of course. In December he went back to the hospital for a couple of weeks and was released right before Christmas.

On our way out, we chatted with Holly on the front porch for a few minutes, then saddled up for the trip home. Holly thanked us for stopping by to see him and said Dave was glad to see both of us. I wanted to bring something to everyone, but I didn’t know what. Especially for Dave. What’s he going to do with a package of jambalaya mix?

On January 6th Dave posted on Facebook that he would be going into hospice. Three days later, Dave passed away on January 9th. Holly posted the announcement on Facebook. It’s been a year since Dave passed.

I’m really glad we made that visit.

Leaving Houston: The HEB Stop

The main purpose of stopping at the new HEB near El Dorado on the way out was to get some pantry staples and two delicious dinners for when we got home. That is, some of their wonderful chef-prepared Meal Simple dishes to heat and eat after driving for 6 hours.

Pork chop dinner with broccoli and seasoned butter

I think this was BF’s

Garlic butter steak with potatoes and broccoli

Or maybe this was his, I don’t remember.

Both were equally good, and there were no complaints. Besides, it’s less or equal to what we would have spent in a restaurant, and we could eat at home in less than half an hour. We don’t get this kind of thing in rural Louisiana, that’s for sure.

Because we like tamales, I also picked up a package of their Mi Tienda brand beef tamales, which we enjoyed later.

HEB Mi Tienda beef tamales

These are so good, and are not hot at all.

There are a couple of cold bags in the truck to keep things like that from spoiling, and they worked perfectly for the trip.

But being in HEB, I could not resist walking around and looking at everything–again. It’s a much smaller store than the big Clear Lake Marketplace. We had some delicious samplings, talked to the in-store sommelier (no Red Truck Wine anywhere), and bought mostly dry goods. I finally got more decaf espresso to make cappuccino, too. (It’s in the freezer.)

We talked to so many nice people in HEB and saw all kinds of lovely things. Many of those were also available on my recent trip to Orange in August. But I couldn’t take the whole store home, just enough to get us to the next visit.

Buc-ee’s on the BEAST

That’s the Baytown East Freeway if you’re not familiar with the area. It’s also known as I-10 east towards Beaumont. Houston’s freeways all have alternate names, and you must know them to get around the city. If you ask directions, someone’s going to mention the Katy Freeway, (I-10) the North Freeway, or the Gulf Freeway. (I-45 north and south, respectively.) Don’t forget the Sam Houston Tollway, aka Beltway 8, one of three concentric circles around the city.

Of course, no trip to Texas would be complete without a stop at the world’s most expensive rest stop: Buc-ee’s.

“If you know, you know,” or as they say on social media, #IYKYK. It’s right there on I-10 in Baytown, and there was no way I would pass it up, anyway. Well, we needed petrol anyway, and, well, maybe one or two other things, too, plus some lunch, and I needed coffee for the drive.

Three flavors of Super Creamer

Keto and good!

These are not available here, but their Super Coffee product is. I haven’t pursued finding any since we returned. It is made in Austin, is keto, and contains MCT oil. It was great, but I couldn’t get any to take home. Next time.

If you’ve never been in Buc-ee’s, well, it’s big:

We needed some food for the road, and there was plenty:

Yeah, well, we actually did have real food before we started looking at this stuff, honest. We got some delicious Texas brisket.

There was more Texas décor:

Nobody understands the “Farm Road” outside of Texas.

If you want to learn more about the FM Roads in Texas, a/k/a the “Farm To Market” secondary highway system, there is a short explanation on Galveston County’s website.

Many incredible paintings:

Never seen such a regal-looking rooster, have you?

All kinds of Texas things that you know you need:

I should have bought that backpack!

BF would never wear this, no matter how cold he was.

Souvenirs from El Arroyo, Austin’s last queso stop before a bunch of yoga studios:

I see their funny signs posted on Instagram, and was thrilled to get a coffee cup and fridge magnets:

These lovelies grace our fridge.

Naturally, I drink tea out of this one.

I’m still regretting not buying one of these blankets:

I’m sure there will be another time and another trip, right? Or we can just make a day trip to Baytown to shop at Buc-ee’s. Because there’s nothing like it, anywhere. Again, IYKYK.

Heading Home: Back to the Casa

Leaving Buc-ee’s, I said goodbye to my home of 18 years. It’s now home to so many others that I hope appreciate Texas as I do. We had an uneventful trip after that and stopped a couple of times for petrol. The rest stop on the Louisiana side of the Sabine River had some coffee for me and Coke for BF and included warnings about alligators. That’s OK, I stayed inside the building.

We pulled into the Casa de Rurale driveway at about 7:00 pm, and it was much chillier at home than Houston was that morning. I didn’t mind that part after a few days of summer heat in November. The dogs were happy to see us, and the cats were, as always, indifferent. The pet sitter left the key on the table by the door, and we gave her a good rating. We picked up several days of mail and looked around at the damage from Broccoli Stirfry, which was considerable. Other than that, everything was just fine.

I called my “aunties” and let them know we were home safely back at the Casa de Rurale, and texted Neighbor E as well. BF’s brother stopped by a little later, and they had a chat about everything. He looked in on the dogs in the evening, let them out and kept watch while we were gone, in addition to the sitter we hired. They talk and text all the time. But after we got everything out of the truck, well, then it was time for unpacking, laundry and cooking our delicious HEB dinners. I let them have their conversation while I took the laundry to the back room. That was when I took the fringe off my designer cocktail dress, set it aside, and tossed the dress into the wash.

The next day BF went back to work with plenty of stories to tell. I posted on Facebook the next day that we’d gone and that we made it home.

Downsides

A few things kind of went sideways, none of which had anything to do with Rafael and Carmen’s wedding. The weather was beautiful and cool for the wedding. But being Houston, it warmed up the next day, and I was a bit overheated. Especially in IKEA, where they didn’t seem to have the A/C running. I was in long pants and sleeves, but took some summer things too, thank heavens. I drank plenty of water, that’s for sure.

The intent to visit a few other folks didn’t happen, and we couldn’t visit everyone. Two intended visits had other engagements and were unavailable. Another is one of BF’s Navy buddies from his Iraq tours. For years, he’s told me that this man lives in Katy. So, we made plans to have lunch with him at a local restaurant on the first day. Unfortunately, over the roar of an engine at 75 mph on I-10 West, I didn’t hear the man say he lived in Baytown, which we could have made easily. BF didn’t speak up, either, until we got to Katy and landed at the restaurant there. Next time, we get an address beforehand.

We Still Had A Great Time

Our hired pet sitter kindly sent us pictures like this:

Buddy the dog with a stick

There he is!

It was overall a good trip, and I’m so glad we finally went. Thanks to everyone who agreed to meet up with us, and apologies to the ones we didn’t get to visit. We’re hoping for another Houston trip one day and to meet with folks we didn’t get to see the last time. Maybe we’ll even make a stop at Central Market. And if all goes well, we will visit Rafael and Carmen, too.

Still, there’s more to come on the blog, with a few posts in the draft folder now. Here’s to more informative food topics in the new year that shape our world and keep us fed.

Happy New Year!

 

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