Oh hey, it’s Friday! And it’s May 1st. Wow.

We are closing out our seventh workweek-from-home with a calm vibe and a positive outlook: sunshine and warmth are coming! We hope. I’ll believe it when I feel that warm sunshine on my face during our morning walk and experience temps above 50 for more than one day at a time. ;)

Weather aside, this week’s Buffet has lots to offer (extra recipes! more reading!) as we begin the new month. Time flies when you’re always home. Kind of. Maybe?

Let’s get to the Buffet!

Have a good weekend and please stay safe, stay home.

Read

The basically newsletter this week includes a comment on whether or not everyone is just living on carbs right now. We are, indeed, living on carbs. It’s OK.

In defense of Lesser Evil-brand popcorn, even if the brand’s name is not quite appealing.

While you may not be able to support them by purchasing their food, you can support restaurants in NYC by buying their “merch.” Not a bad idea, let me take a look…

An amusing skit from SNL last week about grocery shopping amidst the coronavirus. Of course, it’s not a laughing matter, but this skit is entertaining which is worth something (I think).

In case you’re wondering, it is possible to grow mushrooms at home. I guess I’m a little curious; I guess I shouldn’t be surprised?

Cook

Blistered Green Beans with Fried Shallots - In an effort to eat more vegetables, I think we need to add this dish to the list. Fried shallots?! Yes, please.

Cauliflower Rice Veggie Bowls - Keeping up with that veggie theme. Bowls like these are surprisingly filling and pretty delicious.

Sesame Noodle Salad - We have made this before, but I’m including it anyway. It’s so, so good and now I think we’ll make it on the weekend.

Spicy Sicilian Cauliflower - This sounds yummy and refreshing despite it being a dish made in the oven. Pairs well with everything, I assume.

Not a recipe, but try this very-handy “Pantry Recipe Finder” from Epicurious and who knows what dish you’ll find… you can select up to three “tags” to see recipes made with those ingredients/requirements.

Dine

Every weekend (or really, whenever) is an opportunity to support a local restaurant, or just one of your favorites, by ordering takeout/delivery/contactless pick-up. I’d recommend researching your favorite spots to see if they’re offering any of these safe options.

While I’m anxiously awaiting the day it’s safe to go to the bars/restaurants we love so much, I know that supporting them in any way possible right now is still important. It will be a while; maybe it’s time to start stocking up on gift cards (and distributing them to family and friends).

Check out my Boston dining guides for inspiration.

Shop

Browsing around this week, I found a few goodies…

Is it time to invest in a silk pillowcase? I’ve been hearing so many positive reviews and am wondering if using one may help my hair (and skin) in the long run. Something to consider…

I hope you’re wearing a face mask any time you leave your home right now. Check out this guide to find out where to order a variety of handmade, cloth face masks. Supplies will vary as these are often made by very small teams (or possibly just one person).

Bloomingdale’s is having a great sale on shoes. Yup.

Mother’s Day is around the corner! And while it may look a little different this year, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t celebrate (even if it’s from afar). I have some ideas in mind, but my mom reads this. :)

Mother’s Day gift ideas for moms that are far away.

Mom deserves luxury at home; this hand cream would be a great gift. Especially with all of the hand-washing right now!

The best cotton blankets for the couch are an excellent gift - an essential item for movie nights and hanging out (every night / all the time).

Enjoy, be safe, and stay home.

Mollie

Gluten Free Mollie D