What Does it Say about a Man Who Orders the Same Food at a Restaurant when Dating? By Vivienne Diane Neal

 

Photo by Jep Gambardella

Recently, I was watching a talk show where the host shared a celebrity’s feelings on a podcast as to why she would never continue to date a man who orders the same food at a restaurant.

After watching the podcase, the host made an important point which I never gave thought to. She highlighted that a man who loves or desires ordering the same cuisine at a restaurant is someone you can depend on and trust and is dedicated to you.

Some people are creatures of habit, especially when it comes to food. I have a favorite food that I enjoy ordering when doing take-out, but that is just me. If you’re dating a man who always orders the same dish at every restaurant, you might wonder what it really says about him—or your relationship. Is he predictable in a comforting way, or is he just stuck in a rut?

There’s something to be said for consistency. A guy who sticks to his favorite meal might just know what he likes and doesn’t like, like wasting time stressing over the menu. You’ll never have to worry about him stealing bites off your plate, because he’s perfectly happy with his usual order. In a world full of endless choices, his decisiveness can be refreshing.

On the other hand, if he never deviates from his go-to meal, it might hint at a deeper resistance to change. Does he avoid trying new things in other areas of his life too? If he’s unwilling to step out of his comfort zone, it could mean he’s less open to spontaneity—whether in travel, hobbies, or even relationships. A little adventure keeps things exciting, and if he won’t even switch up his entrée, will he be up for surprises in other ways?

Then again, maybe his unwavering order is just a quirk. Some people find comfort in routine, especially if they’ve had a long day or feel overwhelmed by too many options. If he’s adventurous in other ways—maybe he’s always down to try a new activity or explore a new place—then his unchanging restaurant order might not mean much.

If it bothers you, suggest sharing dishes next time. That way, he can still have his usual while you both get to taste something different or pick a restaurant that doesn’t serve his go-to meal—gently nudging him out of his comfort zone without making it a big deal.

At the end of the day, what someone orders at a restaurant are not a make-or-break deal in a relationship. But if his predictability starts feeling more like rigidity, it’s worth paying attention to whether that mindset spills over into bigger aspects of your connection. Either way, it’s just food—unless it’s not.

Would it matter to you if your date ordered the same cuisine at a restaurant. Let us know, by leaving your comments below. 💕

How to Be a Shrewd Supermarket Shopper by Vivienne Diane Neal

 

Photo by David Gomes

When COVID-19 appeared in 2020, it seems as though supermarket prices went through the roof. I remember seeing a gallon of bleach going for $12.99, which was approximately $4.99 before the pandemic.

 

It is now 2024. Although the annual inflation rate has cooled recently, it’s unlikely to cause a drop in grocery store prices.

 

As the cost of food keeps escalating, shoppers continue to seek cost-effective and healthy food products.

 

During inflationary times, there is a growing interest in the usefulness of foods and less emphasis on brand names or store loyalty. For that reason, it is important to examine food products before making that final purchase. Do comparison shopping at various supermarkets, food co-ops, green markets, and fish and meat markets, since prices will vary. I find myself shopping at 4 different stores to save money. I had to cut down on certain items and instead of shopping every week, it is down to every two weeks.

Following are some cost-saving tips to help you make better choices when it comes to shopping for groceries.

• Always make a list and carry a calculator with you. This way you will not end up buying or spending more than your budget will allow.

• Never shop on an empty stomach. You may be tempted to buy more than you need.

• Buy only what you need.

• If possible, leave children at home when you plan to go supermarket shopping. Colorful products aim at children at usually displayed at their eye level.

• Usually, less expensive products are displayed on the bottom shelves.

• Purchase more protein foods from plant origin and eat less animal food. A four-ounce to six-ounce serving of fish, poultry, legumes or tofu will satisfy your protein requirement for the day. Tofu/bean curd has more protein than a serving of some meats. Select fresh tofu because prepackaged tofu will cost more.

• Skim milk or non-fat dry milk is usually less expensive than whole milk.

• Look for meats without a lot of bone, gristle, and fat. They add more weight, less meat per pound, and you end up spending more money.

• Get large cuts of meat and whole chickens when on sale and cut and freeze for later use.

• Buy foods, which increase in volume during cooking. You will get more servings for your money. These foods include whole grain wheat, rice, pasta, millet, barley, oats, couscous, beans, peas and grits.

• Check to see if your supermarket lowers the price of their meats in the evening.

• Buy fruits and vegetables in season when prices are usually lower. Cook and store in the freezer for future use.

• Do not be mislead by words such as, wheat bread, which is the same as white bread. Look for the word, “whole wheat.” It has more nutrients.

• Making your own bread, pancake or biscuit mixes may be more economical. You will know what is in the mix.

• Try to purchase foods that have nutritional labeling so you can select healthier foods.

• Plan meals that use leftovers, which can be frozen and reheated in the future.

• To prevent spoilage, store your foods properly.

• Store brand food products are usually less expensive than national brands. They must meet the same nutritional standards as national food products. Check the store brands with less fancy labels.

• When you purchase canned vegetables, consider buying a lesser grade if visibility is not important. Whether you buy Grade A, B, or C, the nutritive value will be the same.

• Brown shell eggs have the same nutritional value as white shell eggs, so there is no need to spend more money on brown eggs.

• To save money, buy solid cheese and grate it at home.

• Avoid expensive convenience foods that are precooked, individually packaged, instant, canned or frozen.

• Purchase 100 percent fruit juice. Avoid beverages labeled fruit drinks, fruit cocktails, and fruit punches. You get less juice and more water and sugar. They also cost more.

• If you are a senior citizen or college student, many supermarkets may offer discounts on certain days.

• Try to tune out the background music, which can cause you to purchase unnecessary items; the melody is not there for your pleasure but to get you to buy!

 

• If you are a dual Medicare/Medicaid recipient, many health insurance plans offer allowances for food, rent, utility and over the counter drugs. This may vary according to the state you reside.

 

If you have cost saving tips to share when shopping, please leave them in the comment section. Thank you.

 

New Year's Eve Traditions Around The World

Delicious ways people celebrate the New Year from around the world.

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The Ultimate Caribbean Holiday FEAST

 

Original Flava will prepare some of their delicious Christmas cuisine.

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Eat Your Way to a Healthy Immune System

 

Image by kalhh from Pixabay

With the onset of COVID-19, the flu, and the common cold, our immune system will need all the help it can get. While healthy foods will not necessarily prevent colds and other illnesses, a proper diet is crucial to maintaining a strong immune system. Give yourself – and your taste buds – a boost with these nutritious, delicious foods:

·   Button mushrooms: Enjoy them raw or cooked for immune-boosting selenium, riboflavin, and niacin.

·   Yogurt: The probiotics in yogurt can help ease the severity of colds. Make sure the label says, “live and active cultures.”

·   Spinach: Eat raw or lightly cooked spinach for maximum benefits including folate (folic acid) and Vitamin C.

·   Sweet potatoes: These contain one of the richest natural sources of beta-carotene, which your body converts into Vitamin A to support your immune system and gut health.

·   Broccoli: Phytochemicals in broccoli are great for the immune system so serve up a healthy portion anyway you like it – raw, roasted, or steamed.

·   Garlic: It packs so many flavors and that is not all. Some studies have shown that eating garlic can reduce the frequency and duration of colds.

·   Ginger: Add fresh ginger to stir-fries for a spicy kick, and because it is a great source of antioxidants.

·   Red peppers: Citrus fruits are known for their Vitamin C, but red peppers actually contain about 3 times more Vitamin C than oranges, and Acerola cherries are extremely high in Vitamin C.

·   Chicken soup: That old saying about chicken soup turns out to be true. If you do have a cold, a nice hot bowl of it can help ease your symptoms and get you on the road to recovery faster. 

Quick and Easy Chili

As the temperatures start to drop, you will need warming, crowd-pleasing recipes that are fast and easy to prepare. Chili is a great option. You can season it to your liking and add or substitute ingredients to suit your tastes.

Ingredients 

1 pound chopped beef, chicken, or turkey

1 large chopped onion

1 chopped green or red pepper (optional)

1 tablespoon of vegetable oil

1 can red or pink beans

1 can chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce

Chili powder

Cumin

Oregano

Salt

Pepper

Directions

Sauté your choice of chopped meat over medium heat until brown, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste. Stir in the chopped onion and pepper, and cook until the onions turn translucent. Add the can of beans with liquid. Let simmer for 2 minutes, uncovered. Add tomato sauce or chopped tomatoes with juice. Simmer uncovered, 5-7 minutes, or until desired consistency – not too dry but with just enough liquid to be saucy, but not soupy. Add more chili powder, cumin, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Serve over rice, couscous, or noodles.

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Source: EmblemHealth