I live about 4 miles from one of the largest nuclear facilities in the United States. While the facility played a significant role in developing the atomic bomb, today it is home to some of the most advanced nuclear research, including the fastest computer on earth, called “Frontier.” Many of my friends are retired from the “Lab,” as the facility is affectionately known. They are truly dedicated scientists.

On the other hand, I had a chemistry set when I was about 10 years old. My most notable scientific experiment involved a vial of some liquid catching fire, and I put it out using the back of my mom’s favorite hairbrush. Clearly, a future career in science was not in the cards for me.

When I checked on the delivery date, I noticed the “surcharge applied” on my purchase. While this amount is small, I worry this might be something we all have to deal with. This coffee maker is probably made in the far east, which doesn’t seem like a good sign.

Since childhood I’ve loved fountain pens and have posted about them and penmanship in general. This morning, by accident I discovered a Facebook group titled “Fountain Pen Enthusiasts”. I dove in and this is the first posting I saw. Gee, I’m out of their class for sure.

Not too long ago, a few of us were chatting about some really helpful computer resources. Some of the PC tools back then, like Encarta, were quite impressive. If I recall correctly, that disc was flying off the shelves everywhere. It sold for about $99.00.

Today, it feels like anyone can quickly type anything on our smartphones or computers. Wow, if I had this kind of information back in 1959, I know I would have definitely gotten better grades.

Alright, everyone, here’s a fun sample from an adventurous ad agency! Yesterday, I spotted this shampoo in my usual big-box store, and I just had to pick it up after reading the label. Imagine yourself in the shower, trying out the product for the very first time. I lathered up, feeling excited and hopeful, looking forward to feeling refreshed and, hopefully, spending the whole day with that wonderful “marine & driftwood scent’ lingering in the air.

I’m happy to share that I haven’t been swept away by the driftwood, but I did end up buying the product. That means there’s a copywriter at the ad agency who must be pretty happy with their work!

This morning I happened to see this photo in a magazine. While none of my family went to this fashion length, I surely did see plenty of women looking like this. Heaven only knows how anyone managed to keep this up.

The family who owned this flower stand was famous in San Francisco. One of the owners had a running bit-part in several police dramas filmed in San Francisco.

I worked for several years a block from the cart; when my youngest daughter was with me, she would select the flowers she wanted. He’d always include a free corsage for her. I love that memory.

For all you shoppers out there, this might not be a big surprise. It’s been a little while since I last visited, and I have to say, I was genuinely surprised. Right when you walk in, you’re greeted by an impressive display of TV sets.

Interestingly, one of my friends manages that department — he was there when I was checking out a 98“ TV that was priced at $2,500. Honestly, I found that quite astonishing. He immediately showed me another 100-inch set priced at $2,995. He laughed and said, “You know, that’s a pretty good buy.“ Interestingly, he’s the same guy who sold me a much smaller set years ago for just $300, and he was so excited about that deal. I moved on to the meat department.

I had the choice of a special on a Japanese Wagyu steak for $290 or a frozen pizza for $19; I took the pizza. Just as I was getting ready to check out, I saw a tremendous, exceptional bargain – 24 cans of Spam for $16. I snapped that up and called it a day.

There aren’t many “authentic” Mexican restaurants here in Tennessee! While I’ve tried a few and haven’t been completely wowed yet, I still enjoy exploring new places. My friends often find the local spots pretty good, and I appreciate that there’s always something new to discover and enjoy.

I’ve chatted with a few owners nearby, and they all share the same thing: the ingredients needed to craft a authentic taco al pastor just aren’t available here. I’ve attempted to make them the traditional way but haven’t had much luck. Maybe I should just stick to the BBQ styles I know well in my area. I’ll sneak in some salsa.

Oscar Wilde coined this phrase, and if you’re a “foodie” like me or simply a traveler searching for a wonderful hotel that you might not have considered, The Cavendish Hotel in London is a fantastic choice. This charming property boasts a rich history of exceptional service, comfortable accommodations, and a superb location. The guest rooms are spacious, elegantly designed, and ideal for both leisure and business travelers.

I really enjoy staying in their Executive rooms; they feel so luxurious and even have a walk-in shower, which I wish I had at home! Their restaurant is both cozy and classy, perfect for their delightful daily afternoon tea. The Petrichor bar is a wonderful spot to meet up for some pre-theatre snacks and drinks, with a charming 1920s vibe. The hotel’s location on Jermyn Street is absolutely ideal. From one end of the street to the other, it’s full of wonderful places that showcase the best of London. Plus, just steps away from the hotel, you’ll find my favorite food shops, Paxton and Whitfield.

They offer world-class cheeses, including the best Stilton I’ve ever had. A few more paces away are Fortnum and Mason. Visiting here is a “foodie” must, and it’s possible to spend a couple of hours (and hundreds of British Pounds) here surrounded by delights. Sometimes it’s Ok to spend money on something wonderful..