RAMBLING STYLE FILES

It's tomato season where I live … one of my favorite times of the year. There is nothing like the taste of a fresh tomato! One of the easiest, most refreshing ways to enjoy them is by making a simple gazpacho.

Let’s talk packing. I am what you would call the opposite of a light packer, but I only want to bring a carry-on. See the problem. Here’s my secret: compression bags!! You will be blown away by how much you can fit in these.

I still don’t love golf, and who knows if I ever will. Golf is so much more than swinging a club. What I do love is the experience, and you don’t need to be an expert. Think of walking the course as rambling in a beautiful park.

I love creating an at-home salad bar. Why? I can prepare everything ahead so I am not stuck in the kitchen when entertaining. Everyone gets to build their salad just how they like it.

What do I do? When I’m rambling, I wear a mosquito netting jacket called The Original Bug Shirt. I will admit it’s not the most stylish, but it does the trick.

As ramblers, we are outside a lot. What does that mean? We need to protect our skin!! So let’s talk sunscreen - two types, chemical and mineral. here are pros and cons to both. Here are my recommendations.

Let’s talk pickleball … I’m obsessed!! It is my new favourite activity and I cannot get enough of it. In reality, I started taking lessons about a year and a half ago. From the minute I stepped on the court I was hooked.

The amount of time I spend in the kitchen you would think I love to cook but truth be told I don't. I'm always looking for simple, easy to follow recipes that don't make a mess. This is a great one!

I’m injured … ugh!!! I’m not good with injuries. First there is the mental anguish of not being able to do what I love then there is the physical pain. I can’t play pickleball, I can’t ramble and I’m going away for five days. What to do?!?!?’

Remember Turtles? Oh were they delicious!! A Canadian staple! I call my version Healthy Turtles. They hit all my needs … satiate my late afternoon hunger, stop my sugar cravings, and I don’t feel deprived and they can easy be made for grab and go.

So, I took the plunge and invested in a weighted vest. I have to admit, I did not love it at first. Heavy is an understatement!! It astounded me how 10 pounds could feel so heavy!! Once I used it I was hooked!!

During the pandemic, I started to ramble everywhere, and that prompted a new sneaker obsession, especially for the platform leisure sneaker. Comfort and height … a dream come true!!

I am not sure why it took so long for me to take the plunge and start using hiking poles. I am now hooked! Using walking poles gives one a full body workout, excellent for stability, balance, and strengthening core muscles.

This cream cheese board had the criteria I require when I host: failproof, simple ingredients, easy to make, beautiful presentation, and of course, delicious. What a crowd-pleaser!! The compliments were flowing. 

The Lululemon Belt Bag is the perfect size for my phone, AirPods, credit card carrying case, sunglasses, travel size Purell, and travel size sunscreen. You can wear it as a belt bag or crossbody. 

Here is the recipe! Feel free to get creative by switching the nuts and seeds. You can even add dried fruit or chocolate chips once baked. The possibilities are endless. I promise, this is a foolproof recipe with very little prep time and easy clean up.

When in NYC, I like to ramp up my rambling style, while still being comfortable. My number one recommendation are flare or bell bottom leggings. They elevate any outfit, are super comfortable, easy to ramble in.

Today I want to share with you my secret sauce to rambling, my obsession and my addiction - my Hokas! I have been wearing mine since my podiatrist recommended them in 2010. I had been suffering with foot discomfort and pain for years. My feet have never felt better.

My must use gear for open water swimming is my Swim Buddy a neon pink bubble that floats on top of the water and is attached to my waist.  It makes you instantly visible.

Meet the Airism zip-up hoodie from Uniqlo. You are probably thinking why would you wear long sleeves in the heat? It actually has a cooling effect as well as UV protection.

I use frozen strawberries and bananas and I just discovered frozen pitted cherries which are delicious. They're also good on their own as an after dinner treat. While I’m on the subject of after dinner treats, have you ever tried frozen grapes?