Cal Orey's Blog, page 91

Irish Nachos--Yes! It Is A Superfood!

By Cal Orey
Do you like nachos? You can find them at convenient stores to restaurants. And these days you, like me, can and likely have made a batch in the comfort of your kitchen. There are a garden-variety of nacho types, which include a quartered tostada or tortilla chips, with topping such as meat, poultry, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. Then there are “Irish Nachos” aka nacho potato skins also with these tasty ingredients sprinkled on top of French fries -- and even baked potato wedges.
More than a decade ago, one summer day after swimming (ah, the pre-pandemic days), I was famished. But due to our south shore heat I didn’t want to cook. I didn’t know about nacho potato skins. So, I plopped a handful of multigrain tortilla chips onto a plate; sprinkled cheddar cheese on top. I nuked it until the cheese was hot and bubbly. My Brittanys – two dogs Simon and Seth – were behind me the entire time making this easy snack to create a human challenge. And yeah, this popular appetizer is crunchy, chewy, and gooey. It’s fun and tastes good.Fast forward to a different time. New dog, and I have a more fussy palate. So, I gave nachos a tater twist for the health of it.
Nacho Potato Skins6 medium potatoes, russet (or sweet if you prefer)¼ cup butter1/2-1 cup cheddar cheese or mozzarella, grated2-4 Roma tomatoes, chopped (I also used store bought chunky salsa in a plastic container, not a jar)1-1 1/2 cups lettuce (kale, baby spinach, or iceberg), shredded1/4-1/2  cup sour creamHot peppers (to taste)½ cup fresh green onion, slicedFresh rosemary, minced (to taste)Chives, fresh or dried (to taste)
Wash taters and bake in the microwave for 15 to 20 minutes. (They are better baked in the oven but due to our heat wave – use the microwave.) Cut potatoes lengthwise or in four quarters (I did it this way.) On a plate, when cool scoop out potato but leave some intact. Brush each potato with butter. Place on a baking sheet and pop ‘em in 450 degrees for about 10 minutes or until crispy. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake a few more minutes. Remove from oven and top the cheesy potatoes with veggies, sour cream, and herbs. Makes 24 wedges or 12 halves. Serves 4-6. You can put leftovers in an airtight container and into the fridge for a day or so.

The bottom line: When you use chips it’s an appetizer as it can be with potatoes. But if you add plenty of toppings – like cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes -- it can be a light lunch or dinner. Embracing novelty can be delightful if we have choices – like choosing toppings for potato skins. Pair your Irish Nachos with iced tea or cold lemonade to chill and feel in control. That can be comforting (like hanging out with a canine companion) during these new and uncertain times.-- Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) Her website is http://www.calorey.com. 

Follow Your Nose to Nature's Pharmacy: Essential Oils Can Fight Viruses

What Essential Oils Can Fight Viruses
By Cal Orey
Forget risky drugs or waiting for a vaccine and use one of these nature’s pharmacy potions for immune health instead.
People have been using essential oils to help beat flu and plagues for centuries. Top health doctors know certain essential oils contain antiviral and antibacterial components for bolstering immunity against germs.
In the twenty-first century, viruses and bacterial infections are contracted wherever you go, be it at the workplace, store, airplane, or even your home with family and friends. Essential oils and their protective compounds may help guard you from catching a virus or flu—deadly even in a present-day pandemic as we live with a novel virus spreading around the globe.
As we learn more about Covid-19, a new respiratory virus—coronavirus--and other viruses and the flu (common in the fall and winter) we are not powerless. Nobody is immune. But it doesn't take a virologist to figure out that if you bolster your immune system, your body will be in better shape to ward off a virus and fight the symptoms of getting sick and if you do fall ill you may get well faster.
Here are essential oils that you can use to stave off viruses as part of your anti-virus arsenal to stay well.
5 Oils to Bolster Your Immune System
#1 Eucalyptus. Eucalyptus oil is one of the best essential oils to keep the flu at because it apparently boosts your immune system. Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, founder of the Pacific Aromatherapy Institute points out that “the most effective essential oils for viral infections are those with sizable contents of cineole, mono terpene alcohol, and mono terpene hydrocarbons.” He adds, “These types of components form an effective antiviral synergy.”
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Mix 6 drops of eucalyptus oil into a large pot of hot water. Cover your head with a lightweight towel and inhale the steam for a few minutes.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Research shows that eucalyptus oil may be helpful because of its antiviral and antibacterial properties. Bronchitis, which is a viral health ailment that can be contagious, too, can be made less severe and recovery may be quicker than if one inhales eucalyptus oil.
#2 Lavender.During the fall and winter months when the temperature drops and we’re indoors more and closer to people, colds are common. But the right essential oil can help bolster your immunity and keep a miserable cold at bay!What Scent-sational Rx to Use:Take a lavender-scented bath. Mix 3 drops of essential lavender oil with ¼ cup of jojoba or almond oil. Put the concoction into a tub filled with water.Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine:Lavender is a calming bacteria-fighting essential oil. Its anti-inflammatory compounds can help to keep you safeguarded against germs found on surfaces and the environment.#3 Rosemary.When you have that irritating tickle in your throat and need to cough, well, its’ irritating. Hacking can hurt, too!What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Combine 4 drops of rosemary essential oil into a diffuser or vaporizer. Or simply put the oil onto a handkerchief and take a whiff or two.Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine:Rosemary can be an aid to lessen the need to cough with due credit to a compound called 1,8-cinole. It may calm the muscles in the respiratory system, preventing coughing.#4 Lemon.Ouch! A sore throat is an unwelcome irritation of scratch pain when you talk and swallow. It can be a sign that you may be coming down with a cold or flu. (Refer to #1.) Or it could be caused by seasonal allergies or even talking too much.What Scent-sational Rx to Use:Try putting 1 drop of lemon oil in 8 ounces of hot water. Add 1 teaspoon raw honey for taste. Repeat twice daily.Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine:The oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This popular oil also may trigger saliva, which can keep the throat hydrated. Use the magical cure--you’ll be chatting soon!#5 Sage. The primary compounds include the main antibacterial compounds, including a-pinene, camphor, b-pinene, nyrcene, and limonene—which may help lessen the risk of developing inflammation, and even protect again microbes.What Scent-sational Rx to Use:Make a spray or lotion including sage oil isn’t a bad idea. Note to self: Bring a sage spray before entering hotel rooms when traveling, and at home after being around people.Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Sage oil is a versatile essential oil. It can be used in a vaporizer to zap germs and fight viruses. You can use it diluted with a carrier oil such as olive oil. Sage is also a culinary oil—which means diluted you can use it (1 toothpick drop) in a soup or fish dish with garlic, another germ warrior.
The bottom line: The essential oil cure may be the cure-all for you. Plus, taking care of you during uncertain times – can provide more health benefits and keep your immune system healthy.
8 Anti-Virus Warrior Tips to Fight Against Germs

During the fall we're often indoors more often and can cause us to be more vulnerable to catching a cold or flu. Other ways to build your immune system? Take a look.
1. Drink plenty of fluids. Drinking water, herbal teas, and vitamin C-rich liquids can flush out any toxins that you accumulate.2. Wash your hands often to keep germs away.3. Eat right. Plant-based foods contain carotenoids and flavonoids that have antiviral and antibacterial activity. So eating nutritious produce daily will help keep your immune system strong. 4. Forego sugar. Sugar can interfere with the proper functioning of the immune system.5. Take vitamin C and D or get it in fortified foods like cereal, juice, or milk. Most of the research says that it improves the immune system. 6. Zinc yourself well. Zinc is a potent virus-fighter that can cut the time you spend in misery.7. Exercise, exercise, exercise. It lowers stress levels and ups better sleep to allow the immune to get revitalized." pointed out the health practitioner that taught me well.8. Chill out. By keeping your stress levels down, sleep better and you can keep your immune system up and healthy.
Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, and Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) For more information.

TEA Book Graced with #1 Bestseller Banner Many Times

By Cal Orey
Last  August 1, The Healing Powers of Tea once again gets bestselling banner on amazon!It's a perfect read for late summer days... a perfect book to escape with travelogues, DIY home cures, and recipes...



Also, The Healing Powers of Tea has attracted readers on a variety of online bookseller websites, including amazon, barnes and noble, walmart, kobo, apple, and google.

This book is #6 in the Healing Powers Series... 

Also, the popular, prestigious Fairmont Hotel in Victoria, B.C., Canada will be carrying both The Healing Powers of Tea and The Healing Powers of Honey in their tearoom gift shop. Foreign rights to Estonia! Publisher's Weekly Review! It's a favorite in the Healing Powers Series. *Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices: Timeless Treasures is ready for pre-order, coming this December!

The Healing Powers of Tea Kindle Edition(Amazon)by Cal Orey   (Author)4.9 out of 5 stars    #1 Best Sellerin Coffee and Tea See all 2 formats and editions
Kindle 
$1.99Earn a 75% creditRead with Our Free App      Paperback 
$10.97 31 Used from $4.4154 New from $10.22

File Size: 1871 KBPrint Length: 321 pagesPublisher: Citadel (December 26, 2017)Publication Date: December 26, 2017Sold by: Penguin Random House Publisher ServicesLanguage: EnglishASIN: B06XZQKD4FText-to-Speech: Enabled X-Ray:Not Enabled Word Wise: EnabledLending: Not EnabledEnhanced Typesetting: Enabled Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #280 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store)#1 in Coffee Tea (Books)#1 in Coffee Tea (Kindle Store)#1 in Health Reference

NEW Book: Timeless Treasures in The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices

By Cal Orey The mega-popular Healing Powers series from bestselling nutrition writer Cal Orey continues with its 9th installment, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices, exploring the many ways fresh herbs in your fridge and dried spices in your kitchen cupboard can provide medicinal powers, home cures, weight loss benefits, beauty treatments, and adventurous flavors and textures to enhance plant-based dishes.The key to vibrant health for all generations is in your kitchen...
Anise, bay leaf, garlic, parsley, turmeric, and more--for thousands of years, herbs and spices have been praised for preserving and flavoring food, as well as preventing and curing illnesses. The latest research reveals that the seasonings already in your pantry--or easily found fresh in your supermarket or garden--can lower your risk for cancer, heart disease, and obesity. This A-to-Z guide catalogues the most popular and versatile herbs and spices, drawn from the Mediterranean Diet but suitable for any diet plan. You will learn how to harness herbalism to heal your body and mind.

Discover how to use nature's gifts including allspice, chives, fennel, oregano, pepper, tarragon, saffron, and special blends like Herbes de Provence to:

●Bring abundant zest to your table while lowering your cholesterol, balancing your blood sugar, and revving up your metabolism--at any age!
●Ward off colds and flu, banish a hacking cough, and even ease PMS or menopause woes, by adding tasty plant therapy to your favorite food or drink.
●Lessen your anxiety and boost your mood with aromatic natural ingredients found in dried and fresh flavorings.
●Soothe aches and pains without harmful side effects--and trigger feel-good endorphins--using sweet and savory garnishes, including edible flowers.
●Create in-home spa treatments using the same herbal potions featured at luxury spa resorts.
Caraway Breadsticks, anyone? How about Cilantro Lime Slaw, Herbal Greek Bean Soup, or Roasted Paprika Cornish Hens? With over 50 taste-tempting recipes, along with personal stories and fascinating historical anecdotes on medicinal uses dating back to biblical times, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices is your go-to guide to embracing limitless energy and healthy longevity while feasting on memorable meals full of aroma and deliciousness!
With a Foreword by Will Clower, Ph.D., CEO Mediterranean Wellness and author of The Fat Fallacy and The French Don't Diet Plan The mega-popular Healing Powers series from bestselling nutrition writer Cal Orey continues with its 9th installment, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices, exploring the many ways fresh herbs in your fridge and dried spices in your kitchen cupboard can provide medicinal powers, home cures, weight loss benefits, beauty treatments, and adventurous flavors and textures to enhance plant-based dishes.

Bread Rises to the Pandemic--It's Back and Hot!

By Cal Orey

The pandemic has got me, and perhaps you, too, hooked on bread like everyone else around the Lake. It’s a comfort and cheap food you can bake at home to beat cabin fever blues, sort of. As a devout proponent of quick or fast bread aka a staple without yeast and with self-rising flour (no baking soda or baking powder required).  Quickie breads are often called cakes or loafs, too. The cool thing is, lemon bread can be made in one easy peasy all-in-one bowl. It’s versatile (served for breakfast, brunch, or dessert) and simply summerish. This week as I write an article about traveling during a pandemic (a painful task as I miss my solo adventures to feel connected to humanity). I find myself longing for going on a book tour like I enjoyed in the past. I recall one Barnes and Noble discussion and signing in Seattle, Washington. After the busy event with a full audience (no masks or social distancing needed) instead of talking more with the locals I, the introvert, escaped to the Pike Place Market. It’s a tourist trap, packed with people, and a farmer's market rich in produce. I got a lemon and berries, and bought a few slices of fresh nut bread from a baker.

This lemon loaf is inspired by my trip to the Northwest, a place I have flown to numerous times – and miss --- but now this treat will have to suffice and take me there vicariously.
West Coast Lemon Bread½ cup salted butter (save 1 tablespoon for greasing loaf pan; I cannot find European style variety because rumor is all the town bakers get it first)1 cup granulated sugar3 eggs¾ cup buttermilk2 cups self-rising flour½ cup fresh lemon juice2 tablespoons lemon rind1 1/2 tablespoons poppy seeds (optional)Confectioners’ sugarFresh blueberries, almonds, sliced, thyme for garnish
Summer Sale 2.99Grease 9” x 5” loaf dish. In one large bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, and buttermilk.  Mix in flour. Add juice, stir. Fold in rind and poppy seeds. (These are good for you, look nice like a poppy seed bagel, but they can get caught in your teeth.) Pour batter into a butter greased loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes or until golden brown, Remove from oven and cool before taking out of loaf pan. Serves 8-10. Before serving, sprinkle with sugar. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, berries, and nuts for more flavor, varied texture, and eye-catching presentation. Pairs with coffee or tea. Freezes well in an airtight container.Mid-week, when it was cool in the afternoon, I baked a batch of this citrus quick bread. The aroma of sweet and tart energizing lemons lingered in the kitchen and living room. This bread is super moist and dense like a buttery pound cake I enjoyed as a kid. The thyme, blueberries, and nuts give it a sophisticated healthful West Coast flair.

So, I settled for a slice of lemon delight and watched the local news. I fantasized about booking a flight late fall to Emerald City.  But now it’s bread, tea and thou with a Pacific Northwest vibe enjoyed on the south shore of Lake Tahoe.

— Cal Orey, M.A. is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, and Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. The Healing Powers of Chocolate is featured by Newsmax. Her website is  http://www.calorey.com .

Watermelon Pizza Pizazz

By Cal Orey

‘Tis the season for tree pollen around the lake that can cause seasonal allergies. Achoo! Nature’s superfoods – yogurt, fruit, nuts, and honey -- come to the rescue. Not only do they taste good – they’re good for you.
After a past Independence Day trip to Victoria, British Columbia, images of the hotel’s breakfast buffet (plenty of watermelon balls), lingered on my mind. I thought about adding fresh melon to my summer diet. Once back home when I saw those cute mini-watermelons at the supermarket, I changed it up. I made one of those melon bowl salads.
This year, I do miss being able to whisk off to Canada (the borders are closed as we survive the pandemic); so, I decided to bring food memories here to you on the south shore.  I created a watermelon pizza (my new spin for the thrill of it) inspired by unforgettable journey.
½ cup Greek honey vanilla yogurt 2 large round slices watermelon (about 1-inch thick, cut from center of melon) ½ cup berries (blueberries, raspberries) ½ cup hazelnuts, chopped 2 to 3 teaspoons honey (local) Fresh basil or mint leaves
Spread 1/4 cup yogurt mixture on top of each slice of melon. Top with berries, nuts and fresh herbal leaves. Serves 4-6.
One afternoon this week I tried this recipe. Wow. It is so easy and quick to do. The cool thing is, the “pizza” and slices look super elegant!
And the honey? Every July when the yellow pollen arrives like an uninvited visitor at Lake Tahoe, I hold a tissue in one hand and am on the phone to a pharmacist with the other. Proponents of honey tell me that your immune system will get used to the local pollen in it (it should be within a 50- mile radius). So, drizzle it on! And, of course, you can use any fruit and nut toppings you’d like – just like a take-out superfood pizza!
— Cal Orey, M.A., is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.)  Her website is www.calorey.com .

Aloha Fudge!

Cal Orey Ah, breakfast. Yep, it can be a bowl of whole grain cereal with milk, sliced bananas, and a glass of OJ. But sometimes, it’s okay to break the rules. After all, rules are made to be broken, especially when the world is still unpredictable and we need a feel-good change for the thrill...
I remember during a trip to Kauai; one morning I awoke to the scent of fresh brewed coffee. It was dawn – bright sunshine, birds chirping, and dozens of cats outdoors by the swimming pool. I got up and joined my gracious host at the breakfast table. We nibbled on pieces of dark chocolate, some with nuts, and ate fresh berries. I felt guilty, sort of, because this wasn’t a traditional breakfast. It was sinful and a time to forget I was on an assignment for work and go with the flow.This year, due to the ongoing roller coaster pandemic, flying to the Hawaiian Islands isn’t happening for me, or perhaps you either. But this decadent fudge – with macadamia nuts, a popular treat and superfood in Hawaii – may give you a taste of that exotic vibe.
CHOCOLATE MACADAMIA NUT FUDGE

14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (I used an organic brand)
10 ounces Ghirardelli 60% Cacao Bittersweet Chocolate Premium Baking Chips 8 ounces white chocolate chips 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract ½ cup pecans, chopped 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1/2 cup macadamia nuts, chopped (rough chop)
In a pan, on medium heat milk and chocolate until mixed well and smooth. Remove from stove top. Add vanilla, and fold in pecans. Use parchment paper and line an 8-inch by 8-inch glass dish. Pour fudge into it and spread evenly. Cover with foil and chill in refrigerator for 2 hours. When the fudge is set, place on cutting board and peel off paper. Top with macadamia nuts. Cut into squares. Makes 16 servings.  Or cut more to enjoy mini squares. (It freezes well. Wrap each square in foil and place in an airtight plastic container with a lid.) The texture is super smooth and super creamy complemented by a nice crunch from the two types of nuts. Savoring a piece with fresh raspberries or strawberries is sweet, naturally. One square is perfect and will provide you with a feel-good jolt. And note, dark chocolate contains mood-enhancing compounds, including caffeine, endorphins, and serotonin. Go ahead -- pair a square or two with a cup of hot java in the morning or iced coffee (or tea) in the afternoon. It’s not Hawaii but it will transport you there in flash without a long flight or jet lag – just happy.
— Cal Orey, M.A. is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, and Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. The Healing Powers of Chocolate is featured by Newsmax. Her website is  http://www.calorey.com .

INTERVIEW EXCERPT WITH AUTHOR CAL OREYCoffee Has PerksLos...

INTERVIEW EXCERPT WITH AUTHOR CAL OREYCoffee Has Perks
Lose weight, fight cancer and help your heart. The author of The Healing Powers of Coffee tells why a good ol' cup of Joe is being recognized as a hot new health food.
In her new book, The Healing Powers of Coffee, Cal Orey pours over the research to brew up some incredible facts about these magical beans. Here, she sits down for a little coffee Q&A, where she shares insights and tips on how coffee can wake up your wellness routine, helping you to not only stay trim, but also reduce your risk of chronic diseases--even substantially lowering your risk of a heart attack and even help you shed those unwanted pandemic pounds!.
Q: What inspired your interest in coffee?A: I have penned the Healing Powers series--books on superfoods. Since coffee gets a bad rap, I thought it would be fascinating to write about a vice that has gone to virtue. The health benefits of java are controversial, but groundbreaking research shows that it's got perks. Coffee has been touted as the "newest health food."Q: What gives coffee its many health benefits? A: Coffee's amazing antioxidant power is what makes it special. Two mighty antioxidants--chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid--have been given credit for its health benefits. Coffee boasts other health-boosting antioxidants, including benzoic acids, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins.
Q: Do certain types of coffee have more benefits than others?A: Drinking freshly ground coffee from whole beans can help lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.Q: What about the benefits of green coffee beans?A: Green coffee refers to the new or unroasted [beans] of Coffea fruits. It has been praised for its weight-loss benefits on the popular "Dr. Oz Show." One study published in January 2012 in the Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity Journal shows 16 adults using green coffee bean extract lost an average of 17 lb in just 22 weeks. It's believed that chlorogenic acid slows absorption of fat from food intake and also boosts metabolism of extra fat. Evidently, it may be a better source of chlorogenic acid than traditional brewed coffee.
Q: What's an interesting fact about coffee that most people don't know?A: You can cook and bake with coffee. You can incorporate coffee in recipes like Cappuccino Biscotti, Thai Coffee Spiced Chicken Sates, Coffee Cheesecake and Maple Espresso.--This text refers to the paperback edition.Review"Cal Orey delivers a tour de force in coffee culture revealing the health benefits and discovering news trends along the way. She does all the work so you can reap the benefits." -- Coffee.org

Sweet Pandemic Getaway

By Cal Orey

It’s time. We are now in a new season and it’s time to lose those unwanted pandemic pounds. Summer is when we take it off – less clothes, less food. And when it comes to making a pie that means single crust not a double crust. Enter homemade single crust rustic apple pie.
Two summers ago, in the early summer I escaped to Victoria Canada. The trip was one I had postponed because of fear of flying on the CRJ700 that would take me to the island. But there wasn’t a cloud in the sky and no rough air.  
Swimming daily and enjoying a picturesque panoramic view of a boat harbor in the 22ndfloor hotel suite was heavenly. One afternoon I was walking on a dock next to the water and befriended by a single otter. It was a surreal connection that made me feel welcome. Then, sitting on a bench, I treated myself to an iced tea and an apple tart. This rustic pie is Victoria-inspired with a taste of Tahoe.
Single Crust Apple Pie 1 store bought pie crust, deep dish 1 egg (use egg white water for blind baking the crust) 5 Granny Smith apples, peel, cut in thin slices ¾ cup white granulated sugar ¼ cup brown sugar ¼ cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon apple pie spice or allspice 1 teaspoon cinnamon ¾ cup organic half-and-half 2 tablespoons European style butter Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Use a fork and prick holes into the bottom of the pie crust. Brush top of crust with 1 egg white mixed with a few tablespoons water. (This will seal the crust so it’s not soggy.) Bake the crust for about 12 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside in the fridge. In a bowl, combine apples, sugars, flour, and spices. Put into cooled pie crust. Pour half-and-half on top. Drizzle the apple mixture with butter. Bake at 350 degrees for about 50 minutes or until crust edges are golden brown and apples are bubbly and soft. Remove. Let cool. Tip: If you put it into the fridge it will guarantee perfect slices when cutting. Dust with sugar.


Okay. So, the deal is, this pie wasn’t like the apple tart I savored in Victoria. But, the fresh homemade apple pie at dusk here in our town was the next best thing. After all, the borders to Canada are still closed. Sometimes we don’t get what we want but we get what we need. And yes, this pie did whisky me away to a Zen place without going anywhere but home.-- Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) Her website is http://www.calorey.com. 

COVID-19 DIARY: Doctor, Doctor--I've Got the Pandemic Blues

By Cal Orey

Dear Diary,

I'm jaded. Lockdown fatigue. It's been over a month since I've come to you. I fantasize about booking a trip. Not so fast. If I go to Alaska it's mandatory to take a virus test three days prior and/or enjoy a 14 day quarantine. Today, the CAD-US borders are going to shut for another month. Read: Cabin Fever is high. And I am losing hope.

Face Masks and Bunny Slippers
You know it's bad when receiving two new black face masks and cozy slippers are in the post box -- and you smile. My life as I knew it is gone. No swimming (the pool is closed). No flying off to wherever I go. No hard copy advance copies of my new book -- it will be sent in digital format.  And I woke up at 2:30 A.M. and watched reruns of the world unraveling.


I Am Legend Coming Soon
At the end of June boaters from around the nation will arrive in my home -- a tourist hub. Translation: We are a petri dish and more people will get sick. So, my plan is to prepare like a wildfire is coming or a great earthquake. Note to self: More bottled water, chocolate, tea, pet food, dried fruit, nuts, and grow herbs. 
I will not leave the cabin until it's safe. And after viewing people -- tourists and locals -- without masks and no social distancing it's anything but safe.

Treats for Me and the Dog
On the upside, I did get my teeth cleaned, the pup's teeth cleaned, went to the dermatologist. (I had a pimple under my nose. No, it wasn't cancer. It was a zit from the face mask. I did get antibiotic cream and antibiotics -- this is good in case I get sick from the virus. Better than hydroxy and it makes your skin so smooth. Actually, this med is used for pneumonia so if it gets bad -- I have a little blue pill that may save me. Or not.
What's more, puppy got a bath, nails clipped and me? I finally let go of the hair stylist and found a new one...no grays, pale yellows and my curly locks are back. The canine is happy because I am happy and not going anywhere because travel is not an option -- for now. Cabin fever is driving me seriously crazy. I want to book that Fairbanks trip and go do a book signing. But I do not. 

Lose Belly Fat
CAD Borders ClosedIronically, the next article topic chosen by my editor is about pudge around the tummy. Good choice. When lockdown began many moons ago in March I lost 10 pounds. Now, it's time to healthy up. So even though I've written about this subject before, a brush up coarse couldn't hurt. And I sense if we go in lockdown two -- it won't matter. The less you eat, the flatter you tummy is. Good to know.

Doctor, Doctor Tell Me the News
In my imagination I want to call my gp and say, "I'm sad. I can't go to Canada. You knew that. I know you knew that when I asked you months ago, "Will I be able to go north this fall?" Your eyes got big (I could see them widen on the computer screen during our quick telemedicine call) and you there was silence...


We will be in a second wave during autumn -- both you and I know that. I guess I will get the flu shot despite the fact I never get the flu or shots. God, I'm feeling down. So much toxic energy around the globe. And there is nowhere to escape.

Civil Unrest, Virus(es), Political Chaos
I am painting the front deck. I bought the trees. I have been spring cleaning. I have tried to make the cabin full of Zen-like places to get through the insanity of it all. It works, sort of. But I'm too sensitive. Observing everyone fighting, getting sick, dying -- and acting like it's normal. It's crazy. Wonder if there is an anti-pandemic blues pill.  If so, I need it. If not there should be.
The fact remains, it's not over -- and it may not have even started.