Here we are - the last Friday before Christmas. How did that happen?!? I'm still running right on time over here, taking it one day at a time. Things will slow down after today and I'm looking forward to slowing down and enjoying the remainder of the holiday season. But first, let's look at today's Five on Friday ~
1. Virgin River - Season 6
Virgin River is back! I'll be binging this series if I have a moment to spare this weekend. The long-awaited wedding of Mel and Jack is promised at some point and I can't wait to see it. There are 10 episodes sitting out there ready to be watched. Yay!
2. Mufasa: The Lion King
Disney's new movie, Mufasa, is opening today! Here's the summary ~
"Mufasa: The Lion King" enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka--the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny--their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe.
Last weekend Santa visited our house while our niece and nephews were here. He brought each of them one of these flying orb balls. I have to admit, they were pretty darn cool! The kids could throw the ball, run with it and then catch it. It looks like you can still get it delivered from Amazon before Christmas. If you're looking for that one more gift for the kiddos, this could be it!
Finding something to cook day in and day out is not easy. This cookbook could be a lifesaver! It's high on my wish list and I'm really hoping to see it under the tree on Christmas. Bon Appetit says it's the best cookbook of the year! Here's the summary ~
With three little boys less than two years apart and a packed schedule as an online creator, Caroline Chambers often doesn’t feel like cooking. Can you relate? When you just can’t motivate yourself in the kitchen, this is the simple cookbook you should reach for.
Inspired by Caro’s wildly popular Substack newsletter of the same name, What to Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking is brimming with efficient recipes that take the guesswork out of dinner—in fact, each one is a complete meal: protein, veg, starch, done! The recipes are organized by the amount of time they take to cook, so whether you have 15 minutes to throw together Peanutty Pork and Brussels or a little bit longer to simmer Turkey Bolognese with Sneaky Veggies, dinnertime is totally doable. On top of that, Caro gives you more ways to choose, so you can search by protein (Chicken thighs waiting in the fridge? Make White Chicken Chili. Nothing but beans in the pantry? Cannellini Caprese with Burrata is it!) or mood (Tomato Farrotto is perfect for a cozy craving, and Crunchy Honey Harissa Fish Tacos are an excellent way to show off). Most importantly, these recipes include Caro’s famously extensive swaps, riffs, tips, shortcuts, and more to be sure they work best for you, helping you save money, improvise, and even learn a thing or two. They don’t compromise quality or flavor—and they deliver every time. With as few ingredients, steps, and, of course, dirty dishes as possible, dinner awaits!
Perfect for beginners and those seeking easy cookbooks for simple meals, What to Cook When You Don't Feel Like Cooking is the ultimate "I don't want to cook" cookbook. With its focus on efficient, flavorful recipes and minimal ingredients, this easy dinner cookbook appeals to time-constrained parents, working professionals, and anyone who craves delicious homemade meals without the fuss. Readers seeking uncomplicated cookbooks for beginners will appreciate Caroline Chambers' approachable style, clever shortcuts, and flexible recipe options, making this book a go-to resource for satisfying meals on even the most exhausting days.
5. Me right now...
Now let's get the weekend started! Come 5:00 pm I'm off work until after the holidays and I'm giddy with excitement. Hope you have a wonderful weekend and I'll see you next week.
