Each week (give or take one or two here and there) I share three things I like – It could be a book, a movie, a podcast, an album, a photo, an article, a restaurant, a food item, a beverage, or anything else I simply enjoy and think you might too. You can find a whole pile of things, especially books, I like and recommend HERE.
It’s only fitting to celebrate Tolkien’s birthday by appreciating his greatest work. I first read LOTR in late elementary school or maybe middle school and have re-read it many times since. It is, in my estimation, the greatest story ever written, fantasy or otherwise. Tolkien practically created a genre, and did so with such depth, intricacy, and significance that no fantasy/myth writer since has created even a vague reflection. The story itself is the true treasure, but this particular edition of LOTR is especially wonderful. It is not merely illustrated, it is illustrated *by the author*! It includes his own maps and sketchings throughout, adding a delightful depth to the already imaginative wonder. I still have my ratty yellowing paperbacks that I first read, but this edition is the one I look forward to re-reading next.
Rye Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic whiskey cocktail that can be spruced up or despoiled (here’s looking at you, Wisconsin) in any number of ways. When it is done right, it is delectable. My preferred Spirit is a good rye whiskey because I like the added spice. Knob Creek, Sazerac, or Michter’s are all reasonably priced and tasty options. I eschew all muddled fruit and prefer a simple slice of orange peel for flavor and garnish. Most recipes call for a cherry to be added, but I will leave that to your discretion. If you want to enhance the flavor a bit you can use infused simple syrups or flavored bitters (pecan is quite nice). But be sure to go easy on the simple syrup, because an Old Fashioned that is too sweet is quite unpleasant.
“The C-Jam Blues” by Oscar Peterson, live in Denmark, 1964
I never tire of Oscar Peterson’s music. He is my favorite Jazz musician and maybe my favorite musician period. Sit back and enjoy this upbeat groove.
