Back in the Saddle Again- Doing back to Philly Area

Do you remember the old 1939 Gene Aurtry song, Back In The Saddle Again?  We have officially left Florida and are presently on the road heading back to our home in Philly area for the summer and early fall months! After 14 years of snowbird life, we’re changing up the way we do this long drive home this season.

19 Hour Trip 

It’s about a 19-hour trip (counting bathroom stops). In past years, we powered through it pretty quickly. We packed a cooler with food, stopped only when necessary, drove about 12 hours the first day, slept overnight, and then finished the last 7 hours the next day.

This year looks a little different. After some health concerns for my husband this past winter, we decided there’s no reason to rush. Instead, we’re breaking the trip into three shorter driving days — about 6 ½ hours the first day, 6 ½ the second, and around 6 hours the third day.

Two Nights In Hotels

We’ll spend two nights in hotels, have more time to stretch our legs, and avoid sitting in the car for endless hours. Long stretches without moving around really aren’t a good idea for my husband right now, so this slower pace just makes more sense for us. We will drive about two hours and stop for 1/2 hour, walk around, have a snack etc. Then repeat- It will probably take us 8 hours to drive what I consider a 6 hour destination. 

Savannah Georgia 

Our first overnight stop will be in Savannah, which is a lovely place to spend the first night. I’m looking forward to walking around the historic district, enjoying a good dinner, and making the drive feel a little more like part of the vacation instead of just surviving the highway. I’m still deciding where we’ll stop the second night.

Taking the Warm Florida Weather With Us

We left behind gorgeous 88-degree sunny beach weather in Florida, but it looks like we’ll be arriving in Philly to some pleasantly warm summer-like weather too. Yay !!!

Beanie Bagels- High Fiber Easy To Make Flourless Bagels

 

Beanie Bagels: A Flourless Easy To Make Bagel Packed With Fiber

What in the world is a Beanie Bagel? These unique high fiber bagels are made with dry beans instead of flour, creating a hearty, filling, and surprisingly tasty alternative to traditional bagels and they are really easy to make too.

In the past, I once made brownies using cooked black beans, but bagels made from dry white beans instead of flour? That was definitely new to me. After seeing several recipes for flourless bean bagels online, curiosity finally got the best of me and I decided to give them a try.

To be honest, I expected them to be dry, maybe dense, and difficult to eat. But I was pleasantly surprised! These homemade bagels turned out moist, soft enough to slice in half easily, and actually quite good. 

Hearty and Healthy Not Processed 

Are they a bakery-style New York bagel? No. They are not fluffy and doughy like heavily processed bagels that offer little nutrients and lots of calories. They are a healthy, high fiber bagel- satisfying, wholesome and delicious.  They are also a good gluten-free option.

 Thanks to ingredients like beans and ground flax, they provide lasting energy making them a great part of a grab-and-go breakfast, base for a snack, or a healthy part of a light lunch. I especially enjoyed my bagels topped with fresh sliced  on the vine tomatoes and avocado. Everything bagel seasoning is also tasty or any of your favorite toppings would all work beautifully too.

Soaked and drained uncooked white beans

Dark Color 

The texture and dark color of this bagel reminds me a little of pumpernickel bread. I think the dark color is because of the flaxseed meal or maybe the psyllium- not sure. 

Freezer Freindly 

Another reason I love this recipe is how practical it is. The bagels stay moist in the refrigerator for several days and freeze well for weeks, making them perfect to have on hand when needed. Just grab one when you need a quick and healthy snack that provides valuable fiber and protein.

 Four to Six Bagels 

The recipe makes about 4 to 6 bagels depending on the size you shape them. Prep time is only about 15 minutes (not including soaking the dry beans), and they bake in about 30 minutes for the 6 smaller bagels or 35 minutes for 4 larger ones.

We are talking simple- no yeast, no rising, no boiling!! The only caveat is the psyllium- It is a vital nesccesity for the bagel but it is an unusual ingredient you would need to buy. I bought it on Amazon, but I believe Whole Foods sells psyllium husks too.

 If you’re trying to add more fiber to your diet, need a gluten free alternative or simply enjoy experimenting, these high Fiber high protein Beanie Bagels are definitely worth a try. 

Ingredients: 

1 cup of dry white beans ( I used  beans), soaked overnight and drained

1/3 cup of water

1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar (I used lemon juice)

3 tablespoons of ground flax seed

1/4 cup of psyllium husks ( I bought and used ground by mistake)

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon of salt

Directions: 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Drain soaked beans. Place beans, water, and lemon juice (or vinegar) in the food processor and process in intervals , scraping the sides down a few times until your get a creamy smooth texture.   It might take about 3 minutes or so. Then add psyllium husks, ground flax seed, baking soda and salt. Process a few times and scrape down the sides of the bowl multiple times until your get a soft dough. 

Remove the dough and shape into a ball. Divide into 4-6  equal balls. Flatten each ball and shape into a bagel (making a hole in the middle with your thumb). Lay on a parchment covered cookie sheet and bake for about 30 minutes for 6 bagels and 35 minutes for 4 bagels. Check frequently towards the end to prevent burning. When done, remove from oven and place bagels on a wire cooling rack. 

When completely cool, cut bagels in half and store in the refrigerator for 2 days or in the freezer for up to a month. 

My Notes: 

***This recipe calls for psyllium husks not ground psyllium husks powder. I bought ground psyllium husk powder by mistake and since it was all I had - I used it .... and it came out darker but still tasted great. 

                                               

Zucchinni Noodle Pasta Bowl- A Tasty-High Protein Plant- Based Meal

Calling all pasta lovers who watch their carbs and calories and want high protein and high fiber meals. Try something new!!!! Fresh zucchini made into noodles!!! Use it in your favorite pasta dishes. Cooks up in a skillet in minutes.

If you love pasta as much as I do, but are concerned about blood sugar and waistline, this easy Zucchini Noodle Pasta Bowl has vibrant flavors and is a satisfying alternative recipe. It may not be real pasta, but it's a great substitute when you are craving spaghetti and is naturally gluten-free.

It's transition Time : Goodbye to Snowbird Season- Almost

As the  Florida season comes to a close for us snowbirds, there’s a familiar rhythm for me setting in. After seven wonderful playful months, it’s transition time—time for organizing, cleaning out, and getting ready to close up our condo before we head back to the Philadelphia area for the summer.

Strolling Through Coral Gables- A Charming South Florida Escape

Last week we went to Coral Gables in Miami. Coral Gables is 45 minutes South of where we live in North Miami, if there is no traffic. With traffic (which there usually is) it can take more like 1 hour and 15 minutes. Consequently, we don't go very often. 

Scrambled Tofu (Better Than Scrambled Eggs?)

You say scrambled eggs, I say scrambled tofu! 

The resemblance is almost uncanny—both in taste and texture—making this plant-based version a satisfying swap for a classic breakfast favorite.

Norwegian Aqua Review: Spa, Food, Balcony Room

Norwegian Aqua Cruise Review: Spa Experience, Dining, and Balcony Stateroom

I’m back from a relaxing 5-day Bahamas cruise on the Norwegian Aqua—but honestly, we barely left the ship. This trip was all about unwinding in the spa. It was our first time sailing on the Norwegian Aqua, and I had promised I’d share a full review.

5 Day Spa Cruise

We’re heading off on a five-day spa cruise to the Bahamas—leaving Sunday and back by Thursday—and I'm excited.

Mega Ship

We chose Norwegian Cruise Line, mainly for one very specific reason: the spa. Their newer mega ships—especially the Norwegian Aqua—have incredible thermal pools with waterfalls and massage jets in beautifully designed spa areas, as well as salt rooms, saunas, etc. that you can access all week. That’s really the heart of this trip for us… a chance to use the spa, relax, unwind, and fully enjoy those massage jets in the thermal pools.

The ship (Norwegian Aqua) itself is fairly new and has been getting solid reviews, so we thought it would be fun to try it- I'll report how it is when we get back. Taking Norwegian Lines is new for us; we usually go on Celebrity. 

No Hassle- 45 minutes to the port in the morning

Living in the Miami area makes it all so easy—no flights, no hassle, just a quick trip to the Miami port and we’re off. It also means we can take advantage of those last-minute cruise deals, which makes it even better.

Easy Fast Packing: 

I packed very simply for the 4 nights : white pants and two different tops, black dress, 1 skirt and top. For during the day I have a pair of workout pants and t-shirts, a skort and top, 2 bathing suits and cover up and of course underwear and pj - wearing my sneakers and packed flip flops and 1 pair of flats for dinner- and I'm off. All in a carry on.

I posted a plant-based simple recipe yesterday for an easy cauliflower-rice and chickpea bowl . If you missed it. click here

Looking forward to the spa, the shows, and the sit down dinners. 

See you on Thursday. 

A Vegan Chickpea and Cauliflower-Rice Bowl that I Make Again and Again

If you’re looking for an easy, healthy vegan meal that comes together in minutes, this simple chickpea and cauliflower bowl may become one of your new favorites. Made with protein-rich chickpeas, cauliflower rice, fresh arugula, and a few simple seasonings, it’s a light yet satisfying plant-based meal I make again and again. Of course, it's naturally gluten-free as well.

People often ask me what I actually eat as a vegan, and I always laugh a little because I think many expect the answer to be something complicated, wierd, or unusual. The truth is, a lot of what I eat is incredibly simple—basic, wholesome foods put together in ways that are nourishing, satisfying, and delicious.

Stuffed Artichoke Bottoms- With Falafel and Creamy Tahini Sauce

Have you ever tasted falafel?  It looks like a meatball, but is plant-based and made with chickpeas.

These falafel-stuffed artichoke bottoms with a creamy tahini dressing were the star appetizer of my last dinner party. 

The Tradition Behind Decorating Easter Eggs

When did the tradition of dying and decorating Easter eggs begin? 

Lent
The tradition behind decorating eggs for Easter actually started in a practical way. During Lent, many people gave up rich foods such as eggs. However, they didn’t want the eggs they had to go to waste—so they would boil and preserve the eggs instead. By the time Easter arrived and the fasting period ended, there were plenty of eggs ready to be eaten. People began decorating them to make the celebration feel a little more special and festive.

IN My Kitchen April 2026

It's the beginning of a new month, and I'm joining Sherry at Sherry's Pickings for her monthly blog share of IN MY KITCHEN where anyone can join in the fun and share what's doing in their kitchen. 

I have 2 new decorative plates for display in my kitchen and probably use them for serving at parties.  

Happy Passover 2026

Wishing my readers who celebrate Passover a joyous holiday filled with the love of family and friends. 

Greek White Bean Dip (Creamy Garlicky and Better Than Hummus)

Do you like dips? You will love the simplicity of this Greek recipe,

We had lunch the other day at a local Greek restaurant, and I fell in love with the creamy dip that the server placed on the table that she  referred to as hummus.

Dolce & Gabbana in Miami - Spectacular Exhibit

Hold on to your seat—because I’m buzzing with excitement. I just experienced the Dolce & Gabbana: From Heart to Hands exhibit in Downtown Miami, and it was nothing short of spectacular. 

This wasn’t simply a fashion display. Yes, there were breathtaking garments, shoes, and handbags of wearable art—but each of the many rooms on multiple floors unfolded like a fully immersive world of its own to match the artistic creations. 

Should Holiday Food Be Healthy? Rate Your Meal

A Fresh Take on Easter and Passover Meals

I'm already thinking about the upcoming holidays (Easter and Passover). I'm thinking about the indulgences and wondering why holiday food can't just be healthy food? Should it? 

 

Manatee Sightings

I am extremely excited to share with you some manatee photos seen from our friend's condo balcony on the 10th floor over the intracoastal.  The photos were taken with a cell phone. It appears to be an adult with a baby. 

-

Spring Mushroom Soup (Instant Pot or Stovetop Recipe)

What's in my soup pot right now? 

With the first signs of spring beginning to appear, my trusty soup pot naturally starts to feel a little lighter, and I start to think about making my light spring mushroom soup.  

Pink Martini Steals The Show

Are you familiar with the musical group called, Pink Martini? Do you like International music? 

Chocolate Chia/Flax Pudding- A Heart Healthy Dessert

Do you love a rich chocolatey pudding? 

What if I told you this pudding recipe is not only rich, creamy and indulgent, but actually nourishing too? 

In MY Kitchen March 2026

Yay! It's March first and I invite you to take a peek into what's been happening in my kitchen this past month. I'm sharing on Sherri's monthly In My Kitchen Share. 

Last Friday night I hosted a Shabbat (Sabbath) dinner.  I invited four couples to share the evening dinner with us. 

A Manatee Outside My Condo Building

Guess What I saw in the water outside my condo last week !!

He is hiding in the foliage and eating away happily. 

He is swimming away after being satisfied with his meal. 

I was beyond excited seeing a manatee swimming around and eating the foliage in the intracoastal waters outside of my condo building. I think he was a baby. 

Instant Pot Carrot Apple Ginger Soup (6 Ingredients & Easy)

When the temperatures drop and everyone starts talking about snowstorms, all I want is a warm, cozy bowl of soup. Even though there’s no snow here in sunny Florida, my family in Pennsylvania and New York has been sending blizzard photos — and let’s just say, it’s serious soup weather up there!

Transform Pretty Decorative Napkins Into Beautiful Mod Podge Plates

Have you ever Mod Podged? I'm not a crafter but I made this little soap dish plate for my bathroom using a very simple craft technique . I just wanted to share it.

Ditch Your Teabags -They May Contain Plastics That Leach Into Your Tea

Are you a tea drinker?  Then you need to read this. 

Alert: Did you know that many popular tea brands of regular, green tea, or herbal teas, use tea bags that contain micro plastics that can leach into your cup of tea when steeped in hot water? I had no idea and it could be serious.

Scary, right?

Valentine Balloons Along The Waterfront Marina For Passing Boaters

Happy Valentines Day!

Yesterday on my routine morning walk, I strolled along the marina side of Haulover Park (in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida) and saw the sweetest surprise that was displayed for all the boaters. — 

A whole section decorated for Valentine’s Day with balloon pop-ups for the boaters to see as they passed by on their boats!

Instant Pot Black Bean Soup: My Shortcut Recipe Everyone Loves

Easy Instant Pot Black Bean Soup (Perfect for game night)

Looking for a soup recipe that you can throw together quickly for a last minute weeknight meal or get together?

I love a good bowl of hearty black bean soup, especially when it’s quick, comforting, and easy to make at home. The other night, I had friends over for a fun evening of playing Rummikub, and I thought—why not turn it into a soup and salad dinner before the game.

Yellow Squash Soup Recipe (High Fiber & Delicious)

What To Do With Yellow Squash?

I made this delicious yellow squash soup!

In My Kitchen Feb 2026

It's time for February issue of In My Kitchen. I'm joining Sherry of Sherry's Pickings where anyone can join in and share what's happening in their kitchen.  

31 Degree Cold Spell in Miami- Rediculous

This has to be one of the coldest Januaries I can remember in South Florida. It's been in the 50's and 60's most of the month but this coming Sunday morning, temperatures are expected to dip down to 31 degrees—yes, 31! The photo above  is of my friend feeding the sea gulls on our morning walk about 7:30 AM when the temperatures were around 50 degrees.

Comfort Food: Bean and Lentil Recipes for Snowy Days

It's been cold ( but not snowy here) and I'm Looking back through my blog at some of my older bean and lentil recipes. It feels a little like I am flipping through an old photo album. I’ve been blogging for 16 years now and during that time my recipes have naturally evolved right along with the way I eat and cook.

Book Review-Into The Magic Shop

                                              

I highly recommend the book Into the Magic Shop by James R. Doty.

It’s one of those rare books that reads like a simple, engaging story while quietly teaching about our brain and thoughts along the way. I never felt like I was being “instructed,” yet as the story unfolded, the lessons naturally sank in.

Years ago, I read Jonathan Livingston Seagull, a book with a powerful spiritual message, and later The Greatest Salesman in the World, which did the same. Into the Magic Shop belongs in that category for me. It’s an easy, approachable read based on the author's memoirs with a straightforward story that I found carried deep and meaningful insights.

What makes this book even more compelling is the author himself. James R. Doty, MD, was a renowned neurosurgeon and former professor at Stanford University School of Medicine. His background in science and medicine gave the book an added level of credibility for me, while his personal life story was interesting and touching.

The subtle information that he shares doesn't feel theoretical—It's grounded in his own experiences and his deep medical training and  understanding of the human brain.

The book offers practical tools for calming the mind, opening the heart, and cultivating compassion and resilience. 

As I read this memoir, I found myself naturally reflecting on my own patterns of thinking and behavior, noticing how small shifts in awareness and intention actually can make a difference in our experiences.

This is the kind of book you finish feeling inspired, reflective, and quietly changed—with insights that stay with you long after you turn the last page.

I've been under a lot of stress lately- this book was just what I needed.

Zesty Lime Marinade Over Black Beans and Rice- Ready in 30 Minutes

This is my new go-to black beans and rice dinner for those busy  nights when I'm tired and want something healthy and satisfying that comes together in 30 minutes. Do you know what I mean? 

Grated Radish and Apple Salad (Easy & Refreshing)

It’s amazing how endlessly creative salad making can be. This grated radish and grated apple salad became a new favorite of mine after I bought a bunch of red radishes and quickly realized I had no plan or idea what to do with them. 

Easy Mushroom, Pepper, and Onion Pasta Sauce (One-Skillet Comfort Food)

Craving a tasty pasta dinner that’s big on flavor but low on effort? This hearty mushroom, pepper, and onion pasta sauce delivers comfort, convenience, and serious savory goodness—all in one skillet.

Let’s be honest—no matter how good the pasta is, the magic is always in the sauce. And this one? It’s one of my go-to favorites.

Happy New Year 2026: A Stunning Miami Fireworks Display Seen From Our Balcony

Happy New Year 2026!

The highlight of our New Year’s Eve celebration was an unforgettable fireworks display over Miami and surrounding areas. My husband and I chose to stay in and enjoy a quiet, cozy evening at home in our Florida condo—a perfect way to welcome the New Year.