PensionersRants

Monday, May 29, 2023

WHITE BREAD

 


Occasionally I eat rye bread, sometimes multi-grain but my bread of choice is white. That may sound surprising but this bread differs from the white bread that everyone enjoys. This one is Rustico bread, a round loaf, made from barley flour, baked in a stone-deck oven for a crisp golden crust and a light and airy interior, meaning it has more holes than normal bread. A courser bread to chew on, what I call a more manly bread and when toasted it has a crunch to it. 

Bread made from barley flour is a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional wheat bread. Barley is an ancient grain that has been cultivated for thousands of years and is known for its rich, nutty taste. It contains several important nutrients, such as dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

To make bread from barley flour, you can follow a similar process to making wheat bread.

Friday, May 26, 2023

Light Switch Repair

 


A couple of days ago my son replaced the light switch in the bathroom. The one we had used a round knob, push for on/off and turn for intensity. The new one is called a slide dimmer. The thing is, the switch is between two pieces of trim and the plate is just a tad too wide. I used a file to shave it down a bit. Not too long age you had a plate with two screws. Now it has a second plate which pushes over the first one to hide the screws. Had to shave that one too but not so much. 

In this day and age men continue to perform small repair jobs around the house. There are no limitations on gender when it comes to home maintenance and repairs. Anyone, regardless of their gender, can learn and engage in these tasks.

It's important to remember that home repair skills are not inherently tied to gender. Anyone can acquire the knowledge and develop the necessary skills to tackle various repair jobs around the house. With the right tools, resources, and a willingness to learn, both men and women can handle tasks such as fixing leaky faucets, repairing electrical outlets, painting walls, assembling furniture, and much more.

In fact, many people find great satisfaction and fulfillment in taking care of their homes by learning basic repair and maintenance skills. Whether you're a man or a woman, there is no reason why you cannot handle small repair jobs and make improvements around the house.

Thursday, May 25, 2023

Water the Garden

 

I told my wife about this guy I saw on Facebook watering his garden. He put the hose in the top of the water can and just walked around with it, watering the plants, not having to go back and fill the can. My wife said, "Why doesn't he just use the sprayer on the hose?"

Tuesday, May 23, 2023

Egg Day

 

What I mean by that is that is the day I buy eggs. It has its own day because I buy them at an egg farm. A flat of cracked eggs for $7.00. They're not really cracked, they're just not perfect. As it happened, they didn't have any cracked, so I had to buy regular which is $9.50 a tray. For $9.90, I could get brown. I chose brown because I never do. It's just that whenever I see eggs in a T.V. scene, they are always brown. Weather it's a cooking or eating scene, they are always brown. 

The prevalence of brown eggs in TV shows can be attributed to a few factors:

  1. Perception of Naturalness: Brown eggs are often associated with a more natural and organic image. Many people believe that brown eggs come from free-range or organically raised chickens, while white eggs are assumed to come from factory-farmed chickens. This perception of brown eggs being more "natural" and healthier has led to their frequent portrayal in TV scenes.

  2. Visual Appeal: Brown eggs have a distinct visual appeal on screen. Their darker shell color can create a pleasing contrast against other objects and backgrounds, making them visually appealing and easier to capture on camera.

  3. Market Prevalence: Depending on the region or country, brown eggs might be more prevalent and commonly consumed than white eggs. TV shows often aim to reflect the reality of their target audience, so if brown eggs are more commonly consumed in a specific area, they might be featured more frequently on screen.

It's important to note that the portrayal of brown eggs on TV shows doesn't necessarily reflect any inherent superiority or nutritional value compared to white eggs. The nutritional content of both brown and white eggs is virtually the same, and the color of the shell has no impact on the egg's taste or quality.

Monday, May 22, 2023

My Ladyfinger cactus named "Adios"

 


 Ladyfinger cacti, also known as Echinocereus, are native to Central Mexico and are known for their unique appearance and beautiful flowers. My cactus, named "Adios," has been with me for 50 years since it immigrated to its new home. Cacti are known for their resilience and ability to adapt to different environments, which could explain its longevity.

Taking care of a cactus like Adios typically involves providing it with adequate sunlight, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering. Ladyfinger cacti are generally low-maintenance plants, making them suitable for various indoor and outdoor settings.

Sunday, May 21, 2023

Night Shadows (Forbidden Iceland #3)


"Night Shadows" by Eva Björg Ægisdóttir is a captivating psychological thriller that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. With its chilling atmosphere, complex characters, and intricate plot, Ægisdóttir demonstrates her mastery in the genre, delivering a dark and suspenseful story that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

Set in the atmospheric backdrop of Reykjavik, Iceland, "Night Shadows" follows Detective Inspector Elma, a dedicated and resilient investigator, as she tackles a puzzling case. When a series of brutal murders shocks the city, Elma finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and hidden connections that span decades. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a dark underbelly of corruption, revenge, and long-held grudges.

One of the strengths of this novel is Ægisdóttir's ability to create a palpable sense of unease. The author masterfully weaves together descriptions of the Icelandic landscape, weather, and folklore, adding an extra layer of atmosphere and tension to the narrative. The bone-chilling setting becomes a character in itself, intensifying the feeling of impending danger and providing an eerie backdrop to the unfolding events.

The characters in "Night Shadows" are multifaceted and realistically flawed, which makes them relatable and adds depth to the story. Elma, in particular, is a compelling protagonist. Her determination, intelligence, and vulnerability make her a character that readers can invest in and root for. The supporting cast, including her colleagues and suspects, are equally well-developed and contribute to the overall complexity of the plot.

The plot of "Night Shadows" is intricately woven, with numerous twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. Ægisdóttir expertly reveals just enough information to maintain intrigue while withholding key details until the opportune moment, heightening the suspense throughout the novel. The pacing is generally well-maintained, although there are moments where the story loses some momentum, causing a slight lull in the otherwise gripping narrative.

Furthermore, the exploration of Icelandic folklore and its connection to the crimes adds an intriguing layer to the story. Ægisdóttir seamlessly blends the modern-day investigation with ancient legends, creating an engaging juxtaposition of old and new. This element adds depth to the overall narrative and showcases the author's talent for weaving together different threads to create a cohesive and immersive reading experience.

However, "Night Shadows" does require a certain level of patience from readers. The intricate plot and extensive cast of characters can be overwhelming at times, and some may find themselves losing track of certain storylines. Additionally, while the atmospheric descriptions contribute to the overall mood, they occasionally overshadow the pacing of the plot.

In conclusion, "Night Shadows" is a mesmerizing thriller that will satisfy fans of the genre. Eva Björg Ægisdóttir showcases her talent for crafting suspenseful narratives filled with intricate details and compelling characters. With its chilling atmosphere, unexpected twists, and exploration of Icelandic folklore, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a dark and immersive psychological thriller.