Ernie has been gone about a week and a half now. Bob has been, well, very, very quiet. I think things got SO bad, he missed Ernie SO much, that he finally has broken down and is being nice to me. Any port in a storm you know.

Last night I was starving as I hadn't eaten lunch. I peered in the refrigerator and pulled out some broccoli. I chopped it up, planning to steam it. I took a nibble though and it was sweet and good as it so I decided to have it raw. Hindsight being 20/20 I should have steamed it as I got tired of chewing after a bit. I added some sweet yellow pepper, some avocado, coconut, and flax seed, along with a seared piece of tuna. In going through my pantry the other day I had pulled out a bottle of ume plum vinegar that I hadn't used. I think it was my beloved Mary King that gave it to me. I could only use certain vinegars for a bit, so it had gone unopened. I tasted it and it was wonderful, sharp and salty but sweet. I made a quick vinaigrette with olive oil, the vinegar, and some maple syrup. It didn't even need salt as the vinegar is so salty. I poured it over my vegetables and tuna and good God in heaven…it was WONDERFUL. A real keeper. I will play around a bit more with proportions but it was fabulous…just with a dollop of each!

And lest you think I'm all healthy, I totally cheated with food and wine on Mother's Day and now feel like crap. Oh well!!

Onward.