Category Archives: Taste This

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Wassail!

From the February 2008 Issue of Java with Jennifer
Contributed by Becky Williams, correspondent assistant.

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Wassail- There’s a very good reason that this warm winter drink has been popular throughout
much of British history. This savory cider-like drink has claimed fame in Christmas carols, as well as English folk literature like Beowolf and the classic plays of Shakespeare.

The name Wassail originated from “ves heil” (Old Norse) which translates into Old English as “was hál.” The phrase, eventually merged into “wassail,” means “be in good health.”

Perhaps I’m a bit biased after fifteen years of enjoying wassail, but I must say, drinking a mug of wassail in honor of a friend’s health is an annual tradition worth keeping. Wassail!

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Jane, Waco, and Leopard Print!

The New Year began with Connor staying up until midnight for the first time.  He shared sparkling cider with us and celebrated New Years Eve.  His profound comment after the ball dropped, we cheered and toasted our cider, was, “Is this all there is? Do we get presents?!”

2008 is the gift.  It’s a chance to start new, leave behind the old things and keep only what is wise and beneficial.  One thing I am definitely holding onto is my love for dead authors!

Jane Austen on PBSLately, I’ve been on a Jane Austen kick. December’s book was Persuasion, and this month, I’m reading Emma. How delightful that PBS is featuring her books on Masterpiece Theatre for the last and next few weeks!  You really must pick up one of her books or check out the series on PBS.  My next book of hers will be Pride and Prejudice – I’ll give you a ‘taste’ of it in next month’s Java.

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A Divine Intervention from Dr. Phil

January has already made quite an impression on my soul! I feel like I’ve done a years’ worth of living in just this one month. It began with a fierce battle between me and my washing machine. I don’t think I emerged victoriously! Then, I traveled to San Jose for a filming for CCN TV. We had a great time and then afterward, visited The Dr. Phil Show.

Jennifer, with both of the "Dr. Phil's" in her life.

Jennifer, with both of the “Dr. Phil’s” in her life.