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.
1) Trader Joes Maple Leaf Cookies
There are two types of children in this world: those who devour any treat put in front of them and those who hoard and parcel out any treat to make it last longer. Somewhere about the age of 35 I guess I grew from the first kind of child to the second, mostly out of metabolic necessity. The current evidence of this sits in my pantry: a single box of Trader Joes Maple Leaf Cookies. Once upon a time, had I gotten my hands on said delicacy, a sleeve would have disappeared in a single sitting and the other sleeve within 24 hours. Now I am doling them out lembas bread to sustain my happiness through these dark winter months. I am loath to recommend anything at Trader Joes simply because of the harrowing experience of navigating their parking lots, but it is worth it for these delectable treats. They taste of maple and sugar and fall and Canada and happiness and they practically melt in your mouth. So yes, I do urge you to risk life and limb and fender dents to get you some of these cookies.
2) Duckbill Bookshop
If you are a Nashville resident (or visitor) this is for you. Duckbill Bookshop opened up in Old Hickory late in 2025, and it is exactly what an independent bookstore should be. It is owned by locals who love their neighborhood and love good books (one of whom is a friend and a member of the church where I serve). It is warm and welcoming and well organized while maintaining that personal feel combining a kids playroom with a pile of books on the night stand with a comfortable old library. As an avid reader and a long-time publishing professional (in a former life), I am thrilled to see bookstores like this popping up. It is worth the time in the car and the few extra dollars to shop there. The experience of browsing books alongside other people who love books is unmatched, especially in a place that has roots and relationships and great recommendations too.
3) “Work Song” by Cannonball Adderly
If you don’t the music of the great saxophonist, Cannonball Adderly, you should. In fact, you should know him simply because he has one of the greatest musician names ever. If you are unconvinced, here is an example of all his smooth, bluesy, rich artistry.
