I'm Back! What has it been? Two days since my last blog? In the past 4 days, I have done a thorough cleaning of my home (my housekeeper is "working from home and sent instructions on what I should do!"); cleaned out all my closets, and refolded everything; changed the sheets; rearranged my spices and organized my pantry; cooked every meal, and some have been pretty impressive; dyed my own grey roots-not so impressive(!); watched 3 zillion Law and Orders; and gone outside for long walks.
On these walks I need something to listen to, so I have created a playlist for this crazy time in our chaotic and yet boring lives.
Here it is:
1) A CHANGE IS GONNA COME-SAM COOKE. "so tired of standing by myself/And standing up alone/A change has gotta come."
2) A CHANGE WOULD DO YOU GOOD-SHERYL CROW. "I think a change would do you good."
3) ALL I WANT-JONI MITCHELL. "I wanna be strong I wanna laugh along I wanna belong to the living."
4) APRIL COME SHE WILL-SIMON AND GARFUNKEL. "April, come she will/When streams are ripe and swelled with rain."
5) ARE YOU LONESOME TONIGHT-ELVIS. "Does your memory stray to a brighter sunny day."
6) BAD MOON RISING-CREEDENCE CLEARWATER. "I see trouble on the way/I see earthquakes and lightnin'/I see bad times today."
7) CHANGES-DAVID BOWIE. "Time may change me/But I can't trace time."
8) DOCTOR DOCTOR-ROBERT PALMER. Doctor Doctor, give me the news.."
9) DON'T STAND SO CLOSE TO ME-POLICE. "Don't stand, don't stand so/Don't stand so close to me."
10) DON'T STOP THINKING ABOUT TOMORROW-FLEETWOOD MAC. Don't stop, it'll soon be here/it'll be, better than before/ Yesterday's gone, yesterday's gone."
11) ELEANOR RIGBY-THE BEATLES. "All the lonely people/ where do they all belong?"
12) HOLD ON-WILSON PHILLIPS. "Things'll go your way/If you hold on for one more day."
13) HOT BLOODED-FOREIGNER. "I'm hot blooded, check it and see/I got a fever of a hundred and three.
14) I MADE IT THROUGH THE RAIN-BARRY MANILOW. "Sometimes you feel so afraid/ Just aim beyond the clouds/ And rise above the crowds/And start your own parade."
15) I'M STILL STANDING-ELTON JOHN. "Don't you know I'm still standing better than I ever did/ Looking like a true survivor, feeling like a little kid."
16) IT'S THE END OF THE WORLD AS WE KNOW IT-R.E.M. "It's the end of the world as we know it and I feel fine."
17) I'VE BEEN LONELY TOO LONG-THE YOUNG RASCALS. "I keep hopin' with all my mind/Everything gonna turn out right/ I've been lonely too long,"
18) I WILL SURVIVE-GLORIA GAYNOR. "At first I was afraid, I was petrified/And I grew strong/ And I learned how to get along."
19) KEEP HOLDING ON-AVRIL LAVIGNE. "Keep holding on/'cause you know we'll make it through."
20) KING OF PAIN-STING. "There's a little black spot on the sun today/It's the same old thing as yesterday."
21) LONESOME DAY-BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN. "This too shall pass, I'm gonna pray/Right now all I got's this lonesome day."
22) LONG AND WINDING ROAD-THE BEATLES. "Many times I've been alone/ And many times I've cried."
23) ONE IS THE LONLIEST NUMBER-THREE DOG NIGHT. "One is the loneliest number that you'll ever do/ No is the saddest experience you'll ever know/ Yes it's the saddest experience you'll ever know."
24) ONLY THE LONELY-ROY ORBISON. "Only the lonely know the way I feel tonight/Only the lonely know this feeling ain't right."
25) ROLL WITH IT-STEVE WINWOOD. "When this world turns its back on you/Hang in and do that sweet thing you do/ You just roll with it, baby."
26) SATURDAY NIGHT-FRANK SINATRA. "Saturday night is the loneliest night in the week/'Cause that's the night that my sweetie and I/Used to dance cheek to cheek."
27) SO FAR AWAY-CAROL KING. "Long ago I reached for you and there you stood./Holding you again could only do me good/Oh how I wish I could but you're so far away.
28) SOMEBODY GET ME A DOCTOR-VAN HALEN. "Somebody get me a doctor, aw, aw/ Oh, somebody give me a shot."
29) STRONGER-KELLY CLARKSON. "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger/Stand a little taller/What doesn't kill you makes a fighter/ Footsteps even lighter."
30) THE ONLY LIVING BOY IN NEW YORK CITY-SIMON AND GARFUNKEL. "Hey, I've got nothing to do today but smile/Do-n-doh-d-doh-n-doh and here I am/The only living boy in New York."
31) WE GOTTA GET OUT OF THIS PLACE-THE ANIMALS. "We gotta get out of this place if it's the last thing we ever do."
32) WHEN WILL I BE LOVED-EVERLY BROTHERS. "I've been made blue, I've been lied to/ When will I be loved."
33) YOU GOTTA BE-DES'REE. "Listen as your day unfolds/Challenge what the future holds/ Try and keep your head up to the sky/You gotta be cool, you gotta be calm/You gotta stay together."
34) WE SHALL OVERCOME-HAMILTON, HART, CARAWAN, SEEGER.
"We shall overcome,
We shall overcome, some day
Oh, deep in my heart,
I do believe
We'll walk hand in hand, some day."
For all of you out there hanging out, I hope this unexpected time at home brings you calm, peace, and hope. We still can be productive in many ways. We will get through this.
But, I won't lie. Each day I wake with my stomach churning. As I sit glued to three news channels from 5 to 8 a.m., I can't help but worry about my husband, my children, my grandchildren, my mom, my sister, my nieces and nephews, my relatives, my cherished friends, and truthfully, all of the U.S. population. My anxiety does not wane. What I want is for all of you to be safe and to stay healthy. What I want is for businesses to reopen, and people not to lose money, or their life savings, or their jobs. What I want is for hospitals and health workers to have the ability to help everyone that becomes ill and stay well while helping others. What I want is for no one to die from this virus.
Please stay home if you can. Call your friends, your parents, your kids.
Listen to music. Read! Bake! Exercise! Have sex! Drink! Dance! Laugh! Keep your spirits up.
AND REMEMBER THAT STRESSED SPELLED BACKWARDS SPELLS
DESSERTS!
PEACE OUT! ONE B
Thursday, March 19, 2020
Monday, March 16, 2020
Be Prepared To Hunker Down.... INDEFINITELY
For those of you who already are experiencing cabin fever, I suggest you find some good books, binge watch some television, and cook some fabulous food. We are in for the very long haul. There is so much confusion as to what we can expect in future days, what has already happened, and how at risk we are . And, that confusion is directly due to our government not taking this seriously for weeks. Now, we are ALL in a fight against this enemy: Covid 19.
I can only write about what I personally know and what my experience has been.
First, I have a 93 year old mom in an assisted living facility. They have been slow at emailing, setting restrictions, and after weeks of wavering on rules, they have finally forbidden all visitors and will not allow residents to leave. Since I administer my mom's meds, I have to obtain special permission to try and go in once a week. Last night I asked if they would fill her pill boxes (there are 3 boxes; 16 pills; and 6am, 7am, 9:30 am, 4:30 pm, 6pm, and 9:30 pm administer times/ 6 sections in boxes). They responded that they didn't think so, even though they do offer that amenity for a fee. I'm unclear about this response and waiting for further clarification.
If any of you have felt symptoms and tried to get a coronavirus test, you are screwed. There are NO tests despite what you hear from President Trump. I have heard and watched a multitude of testimonies from people who have called their Dr. The Dr. doesn't allow them into their office. The Dr. says go to the ER. The ER says do not come here. The ER says go to your Urgent Care. You call
Urgent Care and they say go to the ER. Presently, it is a nightmare.
Eventually, we will have more tests, but it is way too little and way too late. Google Dan Goldman and watch his horrifying story about trying to get a test in NYC and ultimately, after 6 hours on a gurney in Columbia Presbyterian's hallway, they refused a test. He ended up driving to Connecticut and getting a test where he found out he was positive (as is his wife.)
Regardless of what you are hearing, this virus does not discriminate based on age, income, your general health, your political ideology, or your insurance plan. This is NOT a foreign illness.
Presently 50% of patients with the virus in the ICU are UNDER 60 years old. Many of my friends are 60 or older. They have children and grandchildren who they want to interact with. My children have now forbidden me from seeing them. This is extremely difficult for me. But I am respecting their instructions and FaceTime is my new best friend. My children's valid concern is that their children can be asymptomatic (as can adults-see the Mayor of Miami who tested positive with no symptoms) and pass the virus on to me or my husband.
Thirty and Forty year olds have also been getting very sick with this virus, and the doctors can't figure out why. Check out last Friday's NY Times story about the thirty- something nurse and thirty-something doctor who battled the illness in China. The doctor died (as did the original young "whistleblower doctor"). The nurse did survive but was extremely ill . They were all young and in excellent health. It is baffling and troubling why the young are having trouble fighting this virus.
According to polls, 30% of Republicans don't take this virus seriously. WAKE UP! This is not a political hoax. Look at what is going on all around you. Have you not been watching the news? Listen to Governor Cuomo and Dr. Fauci-they seem to be the voice of reason. Listen to the Governor of Illinois and his horror at the ineptness of the government handling the influx of people arriving at OHare yesterday. Listen to your local government. The Federal Government has been worthless.
In the United States, the Corona Virus cases have more than doubled since Friday. This pandemic will get much worse before it gets better. The hospitals and health workers will be overwhelmed. Our responsibility is to stay home with the hope of slowing the virus; to avoid contact with others as best we can; to keep hands clean; and to keep surfaces disinfected often. These are the places that should be disinfected often:
cell phones
light switches
remote controls
toilet and sink handles
door knobs
refrigerator and cabinet handles and coffee makers
alarm panels
car exterior handles, steering wheels, all interior buttons
computer keyboards and mouse
take out food containers, food packaging, packages and mail that are delivered
If you do venture out, please take your hand sanitizer and Clorox wipes with you in your car.
If you are able to purchase these items, do so:
disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, toilet tissue, Tylenol, frozen fruits, canned goods, medications, detergent, alcohol, thermometers, and paper towels. Have some extra cash on hand.
Please, for now, avoid dinner parties and play dates. Instead, let the kids play outside with their siblings. Take long walks, prepare theme dinners, make a great soup or a delicious dessert. Read a great book. Have a drink with dinner!
Many of you don't know this, but I sell life and long term care insurance. No one pays attention to buying Long term care insurance until you have a parent, a close relative, or a spouse who suddenly becomes ill and needs full time care. In other words, you don't purchase it until the problem hits close to home and smacks you upside of the head. Now, all of a sudden is the realization that you don't want to be a burden on your spouse or children. And Bingo, you buy Long Term Care Insurance.
I think the Coronavirus is a little like Long Term Care Insurance. Many of you won't take this seriously until it reaches a friend, a coworker, or a parent. PLEASE DO NOT WAIT. LISTEN NOW OR FACE AN ITALY-LIKE DEBACLE. WE ARE NOT FAR BEHIND THEM. You have a choice. Stay informed, be safe, practice social distancing so that you or a loved one doesn't get sick.
Finally, If you are looking for something new to watch on television:
Briarpatch- on USA. Monday at 11pm. An investigator returns to her home town to search for her sister's killer and finds a lot of corruption.
The Plot Against America-on HBO. Monday at 9pm. Based on Philip Roth's book where Lindbergh turns the nation towards facism.
Outmatched-on Hulu. A blue collar couple trying to raise their 4 children; 3 of whom are certified geniuses!
Praying for all of you to stay healthy. Take this time to enjoy the people you are at home with. Cherish and Love one another. And above all, try to stay calm. Peace out-ONE B
I can only write about what I personally know and what my experience has been.
First, I have a 93 year old mom in an assisted living facility. They have been slow at emailing, setting restrictions, and after weeks of wavering on rules, they have finally forbidden all visitors and will not allow residents to leave. Since I administer my mom's meds, I have to obtain special permission to try and go in once a week. Last night I asked if they would fill her pill boxes (there are 3 boxes; 16 pills; and 6am, 7am, 9:30 am, 4:30 pm, 6pm, and 9:30 pm administer times/ 6 sections in boxes). They responded that they didn't think so, even though they do offer that amenity for a fee. I'm unclear about this response and waiting for further clarification.
If any of you have felt symptoms and tried to get a coronavirus test, you are screwed. There are NO tests despite what you hear from President Trump. I have heard and watched a multitude of testimonies from people who have called their Dr. The Dr. doesn't allow them into their office. The Dr. says go to the ER. The ER says do not come here. The ER says go to your Urgent Care. You call
Urgent Care and they say go to the ER. Presently, it is a nightmare.
Eventually, we will have more tests, but it is way too little and way too late. Google Dan Goldman and watch his horrifying story about trying to get a test in NYC and ultimately, after 6 hours on a gurney in Columbia Presbyterian's hallway, they refused a test. He ended up driving to Connecticut and getting a test where he found out he was positive (as is his wife.)
Regardless of what you are hearing, this virus does not discriminate based on age, income, your general health, your political ideology, or your insurance plan. This is NOT a foreign illness.
Presently 50% of patients with the virus in the ICU are UNDER 60 years old. Many of my friends are 60 or older. They have children and grandchildren who they want to interact with. My children have now forbidden me from seeing them. This is extremely difficult for me. But I am respecting their instructions and FaceTime is my new best friend. My children's valid concern is that their children can be asymptomatic (as can adults-see the Mayor of Miami who tested positive with no symptoms) and pass the virus on to me or my husband.
Thirty and Forty year olds have also been getting very sick with this virus, and the doctors can't figure out why. Check out last Friday's NY Times story about the thirty- something nurse and thirty-something doctor who battled the illness in China. The doctor died (as did the original young "whistleblower doctor"). The nurse did survive but was extremely ill . They were all young and in excellent health. It is baffling and troubling why the young are having trouble fighting this virus.
According to polls, 30% of Republicans don't take this virus seriously. WAKE UP! This is not a political hoax. Look at what is going on all around you. Have you not been watching the news? Listen to Governor Cuomo and Dr. Fauci-they seem to be the voice of reason. Listen to the Governor of Illinois and his horror at the ineptness of the government handling the influx of people arriving at OHare yesterday. Listen to your local government. The Federal Government has been worthless.
In the United States, the Corona Virus cases have more than doubled since Friday. This pandemic will get much worse before it gets better. The hospitals and health workers will be overwhelmed. Our responsibility is to stay home with the hope of slowing the virus; to avoid contact with others as best we can; to keep hands clean; and to keep surfaces disinfected often. These are the places that should be disinfected often:
cell phones
light switches
remote controls
toilet and sink handles
door knobs
refrigerator and cabinet handles and coffee makers
alarm panels
car exterior handles, steering wheels, all interior buttons
computer keyboards and mouse
take out food containers, food packaging, packages and mail that are delivered
If you do venture out, please take your hand sanitizer and Clorox wipes with you in your car.
If you are able to purchase these items, do so:
disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, toilet tissue, Tylenol, frozen fruits, canned goods, medications, detergent, alcohol, thermometers, and paper towels. Have some extra cash on hand.
Please, for now, avoid dinner parties and play dates. Instead, let the kids play outside with their siblings. Take long walks, prepare theme dinners, make a great soup or a delicious dessert. Read a great book. Have a drink with dinner!
Many of you don't know this, but I sell life and long term care insurance. No one pays attention to buying Long term care insurance until you have a parent, a close relative, or a spouse who suddenly becomes ill and needs full time care. In other words, you don't purchase it until the problem hits close to home and smacks you upside of the head. Now, all of a sudden is the realization that you don't want to be a burden on your spouse or children. And Bingo, you buy Long Term Care Insurance.
I think the Coronavirus is a little like Long Term Care Insurance. Many of you won't take this seriously until it reaches a friend, a coworker, or a parent. PLEASE DO NOT WAIT. LISTEN NOW OR FACE AN ITALY-LIKE DEBACLE. WE ARE NOT FAR BEHIND THEM. You have a choice. Stay informed, be safe, practice social distancing so that you or a loved one doesn't get sick.
Finally, If you are looking for something new to watch on television:
Briarpatch- on USA. Monday at 11pm. An investigator returns to her home town to search for her sister's killer and finds a lot of corruption.
The Plot Against America-on HBO. Monday at 9pm. Based on Philip Roth's book where Lindbergh turns the nation towards facism.
Outmatched-on Hulu. A blue collar couple trying to raise their 4 children; 3 of whom are certified geniuses!
Praying for all of you to stay healthy. Take this time to enjoy the people you are at home with. Cherish and Love one another. And above all, try to stay calm. Peace out-ONE B
Friday, March 6, 2020
Diners, Dives, Desserts AND some television
With all the fuss about the coronavirus, I am not sure how many of you are opting to eat out these days. However, we will eventually get cabin fever and need to have a change of scenery. My dining preference is always to patronize a dive with good food, rather than a fancy schmancy restaurant with one too many ingredients on every entrée. These spots are not necessarily dives but very low key delicious establishments. I'm hesitant to share them because it might make it more difficult to eat there once I do.
TOPS-my favorite diner of all time. Way better than the Chit Chat. Located in East Newark, this spot is ALWAYS packed and there is always a wait. But, well worth it. Open till midnight every night, it's the perfect place to go after an event at the Prudential Center. Everything is delicious! 500 Passaic Ave., East Newark.
HONEY'S KITCHEN-this tiny place makes fresh and delicious breakfasts and lunches. Open every day except Sunday. You won't be disappointed. 48 Clinton Rd., Fairfield.
ZI ZIA-from the outside it looks like a pizzeria (which one side is) but once you walk in, there is also a small restaurant on one side. The chef is a real foodie and his entire menu is great as well as his specials. They will accommodate any requests, and Patty is a great waitress! Be prepared to wait at peak dinner hours. Love it here. BYO. 80 Bay Ave., Bloomfield.
SHILELAGH PUB-an unexpected fun spot to grab a drink and light bar food. Inexpensive burgers, bar pizza, fries, wings, etc. Often, there is a cocktail of the week or a beer promotion. Super cheap fare and music on most weekend nights. It's a fun diversion. And it's open super late Monday through Saturday. 648 Prospect Ave., West Orange.
CASA VASCA-Hands down this is my favorite Portuguese restaurant in down neck Newark. I literally could eat here every night. The food here is fabulous. I always eat way too much! The potatoes (chips) that come with the garlic shrimp are amazing! Paella is great and so are all the other entrees. Go hungry-leave very full. There is a deceiving divey bar at front, and the restaurant is through a door beyond the bar. Sometimes they will take a res. Free parking! 141 Elm Street, Newark.
SPIGA-I discovered this place (which is not a dive) because of the New Jersey Housewives! They take a res. The food is delicious and the owners are welcoming. Totally worth the drive to Totowa. BYO. 331 Union Blvd., Totowa.
And if you are into a bit more upscale, try ALLEGORY at the new MC Hotel. The bar area and the food menu is lovely. 690 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair.
Also, FAUBOURG has a wonderful menu and bar. Open for Sunday Brunch and dinner Monday-Sunday. Located at 544 Bloomfield Ave. Montclair. Check it out!
NOW FOR A LITTLE DESSERT.....
NERO'S-try their Candy Sundae or the Carrot Cake ( which is ginormous, and I can eat the whole thing!). 618 S. Livingston Ave. Livingston.
THE RITZ-known for their Apple Pie! It's nice to bring to someone's house for dessert. Delicious warmed with a scoop of ice cream on top. 72 E. Mt. Pleasant Ave. Livingston.
HOLSTEN'S-where the last scene of The Soprano's took place. Reminiscent of Grunnings, but no where as good. Candy and Ice cream are just fair. 1063 Broad Street, Bloomfield.
SPICE BAZAAR-an Indian restaurant seems like an unusual spot for a great dessert. However, the
chocolate ball smash is created tableside. I can't begin to describe it-ice cream enclosed in a hard shell of chocolate with various sauces and fruits-then it's smashed to share. Yummy and fun...39 Elm Street, Westfield.
ZI ZIA-with an advance call, they will prepare a nutella birthday pizza. Chock full of nutella, candy, and fruit, this looks amazing! You need to eat it on the same day though! 80 Bay Ave., Bloomfield.
SHOP RITE-only this store in Nutley makes this famous Donoli. This is a delicious donut filled with cannoli cream. Heaven. 437 Franklin Ave., Nutley.
ESSEX COUNTY COUNTRY CLUB-for those of you who have the opportunity to eat here, remember to stay for dessert. Order the donuts and dipping sauces. You cannot eat just one. You will inhale three of them before you know it! 350 Mt. Pleasant Ave., West Orange.
OK-IF YOU JUST WANT TO HAVE A RELAXING NIGHT AT HOME AND BE A COUCH POTATO, THERE IS PLENTY TO CHOOSE FROM:
HILLARY-Streaming on Hulu now. A mesmerizing docuseries about Hillary and Bill. Extremely insightful with candid interviews.
CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM-HBO. This season is beyond hysterical. Leon is the best character of all time. I cannot get enough of this show. I love Sunday nights now!
SCHITT'S CREEK-POP OR NETFLIX. You can watch the earlier seasons on Netflix, but not the new season. I think this is one of the funniest shows on television. Catherine O'Hara is exceptional, as is the rest of the cast. Quirky and great!
GRACE AND FRANKIE- NETFLIX. Just finished season six. What can be bad about Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin? It's a light, easy to binge, enchanting comedy.
UNBELIEVABLE-NETFLIX. Toni Collette and Merritt Wever are two detectives trying to find the rapist of four victims. Really excellent crime show. Only 8 episodes. I thought this was great!
BETTER CALL SAUL-AMC. Season 6 now streaming. I have watched this series from the beginning. Jimmy McGill is a small time attorney who reverts back to Saul Goodman this season, as an ace (slimy) attorney for criminals. Bob Odenkirk is a joy to watch.
HUNTERS-AMAZON PRIME. Nazi hunters discover hundreds of high ranking Nazis in NYC in 1977. Al Pacino stars. There's been a lot of hype about this show. I find it increasingly difficult to continue watching. Clearly, the subject matter is difficult, but so is the violence of the Hunters towards the Nazis. It is very graphic-beware. You will need to avert your eyes OFTEN.
THE STRANGER-NETFLIX. If you are a fan of Harlan Coben, you will enjoy watching this mystery/thriller series. A wife goes missing and in the husband's search to find her, many secrets are revealed. It's just fair, but you keep watching anyway.
BETTER THINGS-FX. Season 3 just started. Pamela Adlon is an actress and single mom raising 3 girls in LA, and also caring for an elderly mom who lives across the street. One of the best written shows on television. Raw honesty and humor. Really love this!
And Coming Soon:
LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE-HULU. Starring Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington. An adaptation of the book. Supposedly not great. Debuts March 18.
BREEDERS-FX OR HULU. The comedy series explores "the paradox that every parent knows but never admits: you would willingly die for your children, but often you also want to kill them."
I've given you lots of distractions from Politics and the Corona Virus.
PEACE OUT-ONE B
TOPS-my favorite diner of all time. Way better than the Chit Chat. Located in East Newark, this spot is ALWAYS packed and there is always a wait. But, well worth it. Open till midnight every night, it's the perfect place to go after an event at the Prudential Center. Everything is delicious! 500 Passaic Ave., East Newark.
HONEY'S KITCHEN-this tiny place makes fresh and delicious breakfasts and lunches. Open every day except Sunday. You won't be disappointed. 48 Clinton Rd., Fairfield.
ZI ZIA-from the outside it looks like a pizzeria (which one side is) but once you walk in, there is also a small restaurant on one side. The chef is a real foodie and his entire menu is great as well as his specials. They will accommodate any requests, and Patty is a great waitress! Be prepared to wait at peak dinner hours. Love it here. BYO. 80 Bay Ave., Bloomfield.
SHILELAGH PUB-an unexpected fun spot to grab a drink and light bar food. Inexpensive burgers, bar pizza, fries, wings, etc. Often, there is a cocktail of the week or a beer promotion. Super cheap fare and music on most weekend nights. It's a fun diversion. And it's open super late Monday through Saturday. 648 Prospect Ave., West Orange.
CASA VASCA-Hands down this is my favorite Portuguese restaurant in down neck Newark. I literally could eat here every night. The food here is fabulous. I always eat way too much! The potatoes (chips) that come with the garlic shrimp are amazing! Paella is great and so are all the other entrees. Go hungry-leave very full. There is a deceiving divey bar at front, and the restaurant is through a door beyond the bar. Sometimes they will take a res. Free parking! 141 Elm Street, Newark.
SPIGA-I discovered this place (which is not a dive) because of the New Jersey Housewives! They take a res. The food is delicious and the owners are welcoming. Totally worth the drive to Totowa. BYO. 331 Union Blvd., Totowa.
And if you are into a bit more upscale, try ALLEGORY at the new MC Hotel. The bar area and the food menu is lovely. 690 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair.
Also, FAUBOURG has a wonderful menu and bar. Open for Sunday Brunch and dinner Monday-Sunday. Located at 544 Bloomfield Ave. Montclair. Check it out!
NOW FOR A LITTLE DESSERT.....
NERO'S-try their Candy Sundae or the Carrot Cake ( which is ginormous, and I can eat the whole thing!). 618 S. Livingston Ave. Livingston.
THE RITZ-known for their Apple Pie! It's nice to bring to someone's house for dessert. Delicious warmed with a scoop of ice cream on top. 72 E. Mt. Pleasant Ave. Livingston.
HOLSTEN'S-where the last scene of The Soprano's took place. Reminiscent of Grunnings, but no where as good. Candy and Ice cream are just fair. 1063 Broad Street, Bloomfield.
SPICE BAZAAR-an Indian restaurant seems like an unusual spot for a great dessert. However, the
chocolate ball smash is created tableside. I can't begin to describe it-ice cream enclosed in a hard shell of chocolate with various sauces and fruits-then it's smashed to share. Yummy and fun...39 Elm Street, Westfield.
ZI ZIA-with an advance call, they will prepare a nutella birthday pizza. Chock full of nutella, candy, and fruit, this looks amazing! You need to eat it on the same day though! 80 Bay Ave., Bloomfield.
SHOP RITE-only this store in Nutley makes this famous Donoli. This is a delicious donut filled with cannoli cream. Heaven. 437 Franklin Ave., Nutley.
ESSEX COUNTY COUNTRY CLUB-for those of you who have the opportunity to eat here, remember to stay for dessert. Order the donuts and dipping sauces. You cannot eat just one. You will inhale three of them before you know it! 350 Mt. Pleasant Ave., West Orange.
OK-IF YOU JUST WANT TO HAVE A RELAXING NIGHT AT HOME AND BE A COUCH POTATO, THERE IS PLENTY TO CHOOSE FROM:
HILLARY-Streaming on Hulu now. A mesmerizing docuseries about Hillary and Bill. Extremely insightful with candid interviews.
CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM-HBO. This season is beyond hysterical. Leon is the best character of all time. I cannot get enough of this show. I love Sunday nights now!
SCHITT'S CREEK-POP OR NETFLIX. You can watch the earlier seasons on Netflix, but not the new season. I think this is one of the funniest shows on television. Catherine O'Hara is exceptional, as is the rest of the cast. Quirky and great!
GRACE AND FRANKIE- NETFLIX. Just finished season six. What can be bad about Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin? It's a light, easy to binge, enchanting comedy.
UNBELIEVABLE-NETFLIX. Toni Collette and Merritt Wever are two detectives trying to find the rapist of four victims. Really excellent crime show. Only 8 episodes. I thought this was great!
BETTER CALL SAUL-AMC. Season 6 now streaming. I have watched this series from the beginning. Jimmy McGill is a small time attorney who reverts back to Saul Goodman this season, as an ace (slimy) attorney for criminals. Bob Odenkirk is a joy to watch.
HUNTERS-AMAZON PRIME. Nazi hunters discover hundreds of high ranking Nazis in NYC in 1977. Al Pacino stars. There's been a lot of hype about this show. I find it increasingly difficult to continue watching. Clearly, the subject matter is difficult, but so is the violence of the Hunters towards the Nazis. It is very graphic-beware. You will need to avert your eyes OFTEN.
THE STRANGER-NETFLIX. If you are a fan of Harlan Coben, you will enjoy watching this mystery/thriller series. A wife goes missing and in the husband's search to find her, many secrets are revealed. It's just fair, but you keep watching anyway.
BETTER THINGS-FX. Season 3 just started. Pamela Adlon is an actress and single mom raising 3 girls in LA, and also caring for an elderly mom who lives across the street. One of the best written shows on television. Raw honesty and humor. Really love this!
And Coming Soon:
LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE-HULU. Starring Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington. An adaptation of the book. Supposedly not great. Debuts March 18.
BREEDERS-FX OR HULU. The comedy series explores "the paradox that every parent knows but never admits: you would willingly die for your children, but often you also want to kill them."
I've given you lots of distractions from Politics and the Corona Virus.
PEACE OUT-ONE B
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