Small things that made my May just a little bit better.

Recipe

This photo looks like November—pork surrounded by rosemary and sage. I know, I know it’s May here in Seattle too. But here’s the deal I make Ina Garten’s Herb Marinated Pork year-round. And I mean like twice a month year-round. It’s easy and flavorful and tender. Because I’m not a meat-lover by nature I feel like you can trust me on this one.

I have made many adjustments to this recipe for the sake of ease. And although I am all about easy rest assured I am unwilling to sacrifice taste. The big changes I make are (1) I do not marinate the pork and (2) I cook the pork in the crockpot.

Here’s my easy process: Purchase the 4-pack of pork loins at Costco and freeze. Remove pork loin from the freezer the night before (or not). Trim fat. Place pork and 1/2 cup water in the crockpot. Mix all remaining ingredients (except lemon juice since I’m not marinating) adding enough olive oil to make a nice paste. I often, well almost always substitute sage for thyme as I have a ready supply in my garden. (Feel free to use a big handful of herbs.) Once mixed pat on top and sides of pork. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Your house will smell delicious all day. Guaranteed.

Book

Fiction: If it weren’t for a friend (thanks Sherie!) loaning me Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman I doubt I would’ve read it. The title was too Dr. Seuss-y for me and I mean no disrespect to Dr. Seuss. This just proves that you can’t or shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.

As a result, I was completely surprised to enjoy this book. It is sad and funny and poignant without being sappy. A frank reminder of our common humanity, our need for connection and kindness. A peek into how childhood trauma lies dormant when untreated. I’ll admit I felt a little teary at the end.

PS…there’s only one favorite book this month. The other books I read just didn’t measure up. Standards, ya know.

The Everyday

I decided to add a new category this month. The ordinary, everyday things I use and love.

So to kick it off I’m sharing about the Ember mug which I use every single day. This self-heating smart mug changed the way I drink coffee. No longer chained to the microwave constantly re-heating a lukewarm cup.

This is a long story about a love-hate relationship. Bear with me as I explain.

I received my first Ember mug for Mother’s Day many years back. I loved dear Ember ever so greatly even as its white paint chipped. Unknowingly as I gulped down my coffee I digested the paint particles as well. No one could say I wasn’t devoted. If it weren’t for the intervention of my husband I’d probably still be using that original Ember to this day.

Without a receipt, Ember Corporate was not interested in my (and hundreds of others) paint-chipping problem. Ember is not cheap. At over $100 I consider it an investment. I mean you’ve got to be committed at that price point. It is at this juncture in the story that I became embittered against Ember mugs.

The following Mother’s Day I received a new black Ember mug. As if I had amnesia I raced to set up my new Ember without hesitation. Despite my underlying anger toward Ember Corporate I couldn’t deny the love I have for a hot cup of coffee.

Although I love my Ember mug and use it every single day I felt I would be remiss if I recommended it without full transparency. This is a love story told through the ages….love, conflict, change, and reconciliation.

Art Supply

Whenever I start a painting I generally use the Stabilo All black pencil to sketch out a simple design or outline. The pencil is water-soluble like charcoal but a bit darker. I have a few colors but black is my favorite. I love how it draws over anything, including wet paint. It’s a cheap workhorse.

For the portrait at right, I used the Stabilo All black pencil, water, and white paint.

From the Garden

Can you believe this explosion of white?

Our Clematis is definitely living its best life. Vigorous. Carefree. And happy. Brightening a dull area along the back fence.

Despite receiving virtually no care this vine is jam-packed with blooms. I planted this Clematis years ago adjacent to a fence so it would have a support to climb. I’m definitely impressed with its tenacity and abundance.

If you need a vine (or even if you don’t) you might want to give the Clematis a try. I can’t guarantee it will be this prolific but it’s certainly worth a shot.

Discovery

I like to bake but I’m not good at decorating cookies or cakes. I don’t use piping bags. Royal icing. Or special spatulas.

But sometimes I want a fancy look for a special occasion. What to do when you don’t have the expertise or equipment?

What I discovered is that chopped chocolate and nuts magically transform a poorly frosted cake. Throw those morsels on top and around the sides and instantly your cake is elevated. The nuts and chocolate cover a myriad of flaws and imperfections.

I made this cake for my son’s birthday and even I was impressed. Give it a try if you don’t believe me. And if you do send a photo of how it turned out.

I’m curious, what’s on your list of favorites?