So, who’s performing?  Here’s the scheduled list.

1. Heavy Horses—July 1.  Like rock & roll?  Then you’re sure to love Heavy Horses.  This band epitomizes archetypal rock like The Nutcracker embodies ballet.
2. Grupo Fantasia—July 8.  Caribbean music whisks us to sunny skies, perfect weather, sandy beaches, and sheer bliss: take heart, Grupo Fantasia will do the same.  Latin America, here we come!
3. The Diamond Connection—July 15.  Okay, hopefully love is not on the rocks (Love on the Rocks), you and Shilo will always feel young (Shilo), Magdalene is still a lady (Lady Magdalene), and Caroline will remain sweet forever (Sweet Caroline).  Tunes such as these live on, and The Diamond Connection brings them to you live
4. Decades by DeZyne—July 22.  Imagine being wowed by a collection of artists who have worked in partnership with legendary greats like Chuck Berry and Bon Jovi? Then check out Decades by DeZyne; they’ll leave you mesmerized.
5. Dale LePage and the Bobby Gadoury Trio—July 29.  Entertainment?  These artists personify the word.  You’ll be serenaded with dreamy classics like “Cry Me a River” and “My Funny Valentine.”
6. Sun Parade—August 5.  Talk about a youthful performer going places: Chris Jennings is a must-see act!
7. Dell Smart and Exit/In—August 12.  Naturally, we must visit the islands at least twice during the summer.  This band transports the senses to blue/green oceans and a tropical paradise.
8. Bees Knees—August 19.  Who likes a little bit of this and a little bit of that?  Then you’re sure to love Bees Knees.  American music never sounded so good.
9. Reprobates Blues Band—August 26.  Do you want to hear that funky music?  Then don’t miss this phenomenal group.  Gosh, the blues can melt even the hardest of hearts.
10. Drunken Uncles—Sept 2.  Love guitar?  The captivating tunes of these two musicians will enthrall even beyond the show.

Worcester is brimming with remarkable energy, fine food, and diverse culture, and the Out to Lunch summer series on the Worcester Common serves to reinforce the city’s commitment to the arts.

Hmm, lunch anyone?

So which updates generally pay off?  Here are a few.

• Outside Grooming.  This undertaking is sometimes simple and often produces a noticeable improvement in appearance.  Why?  Because the yard is the first place people see when they visit.  To economically beautify the outdoors, tidy or remove any clutter hanging around the lawn or porch.   If you do not have a shed to store items like gardening tools, rakes, and shovels, there are outside storage bins that can be purchased and inconspicuously placed.  Another suggestion?  Stain or paint a tired fence, the visual change is immediate.  A final low-cost thought?  Groom the bushes, it’s kind of like getting a new haircut: everyone notices.  Naturally, if the house is in need of painting or the vinyl siding could use repair, the outlay will be more substantial.  Nonetheless, if it is within your budget and feels right, then get at least three estimates (and references) and choose the one that seems best.
• Indoor Painting.  Occasionally we become immune to faded walls if we look at them long enough, but others tend to notice as soon as they walk in.  Consequently, a fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference in exhibiting a clean feel.  What color is best?  Neutral tones are wise if you plan to sell your home in the not-too-distant future.  However, if you are only out to please yourself, then go with bright red if you wish.  Keep in mind that an undercoat is often needed, but today there are paints that do not require this preparatory step.  They are somewhat more expensive, but they could save time.

• Renovate the Bathroom and/or Kitchen.  This kind of improvement can be easy or complicated, depending upon the condition of the room/s.  In some situations, particularly ones where the surroundings are completely outdated, a thorough overhaul will not only be amazing but may influence the sale of your home when the time comes.  Nonetheless, some people are simply not in the position to make a considerable investment.  In this type of situation, perhaps consider cabinet refacing, new wallpaper or paint, and an upgrade of fixtures (e.g., sink, knobs, toilet paper holder, towel rack, faucet/s).  The project will not be nearly as costly but still will produce positive results.

Renovations can enhance the way you feel about your home, and certain updates return the investment when you sell the property.  Naturally, if you feel compelled to choose designer tile imported from exotic locations, this may be an exception.  For example, installing $60,000 worth of pricey marble in an 8 by 12 bathroom may satiate your aesthetic taste buds but probably will not pay you back dollar for dollar.  Still, if the project makes you happy and you have the resources to indulge, reward yourself.  In short, keep within budget (and have fun!).

Okay, so where can we find all this history and color?  Here are a few thoughts.

• Walden Pond State Reservation.  Maybe this National Historic Landmark in Concord is famous because of Henry David Thoreau’s book, but the area would still be magnificent even if Thoreau never wrote it.  The reservation includes a deep, glacial pond, over 2,500 acres of mostly-untarnished woods, and connections to what is now known as the “conservation movement.”  Walden Reservation belongs to the Massachusetts Forests and Parks System, and tours are available.  The experience?  Wonderful information and great foliage!
• Mount Auburn Cemetery.  Okay, perhaps you cannot imagine being captivated by a burial ground, but Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge will change all that. This amazing National Historic Landmark is an architectural wonder.  Its horticulture collection, gothic buildings, plethora of shrubs and trees, mirror-like ponds, and small, rolling hills make it a place where romance lives.  An impressive number of esteemed individuals are buried there, and tranquility describes the exploring experience.  And the foliage?  Typically breathtaking!
• Mohawk Trail (The Indian Trail).  This 60-plus mile ride along Route 2 is clearly one of the most traveled foliage destinations.  Why?  The scenery is fabulous, and the history is intriguing.  A distinguished travel spot for both the Indians and early settlers, the Mohawk Trail is now considered a scenic route by Massachusetts legislation.  In fact, The National Geographic Traveler deemed the Mohawk Trail one of the most scenic travel ways in America!  What’s there to see along the drive?  Summits, monuments, a famous “hairpin” turn, covered bridges, and, well, awesome foliage!
• Quabbin Reservoir. This man-made water supply distributes the drinking water to assorted Massachusetts areas, including Boston.  The basin is located in Belchertown and boasts a visitors’ center, observation tower, workshops, and other interesting offerings.  If you go, be sure to catch the amazing waterways, aqueducts, hiking trails, bike paths, mountain views, and fabulous array of woods filled with wildlife.  Two lookouts offer unsurpassed views, and the scenery is awesome!

Fall foliage will soon be peaking, but there is still time to enjoy.  So, get out and explore!

Naturally, a number of us do not have the resources or desire to do this on a daily basis; nonetheless, it’s definitely a treat every now and then.

Well, if you are someone who enjoys restaurants, then the next two weeks are for you.

Why?  The Worcester Restaurant Week of 2010 is now being held August 2 until August 15.  Numerous restaurants are participating, and the cost, at least when you consider all the food you get, is excellent.

How much is it?  Well, for $22.10 per person (excluding tax and tip), here’s an example of a few of the 3-course offerings.

• Tweeds Pub.  Onion soup as a starter, flame-broiled steak served with potato and veggie, and grapenut pudding as a delectable ending.  (By the way, there are two other 3-course meals to choose from!).
• Sole Proprietor.  First course choices consist of green salad, jumbo shrimp cocktail, calamari, or California roll.  Entrees options are haddock, tuna (we’re not talking canned here), or grilled salmon.  And the finale?  Flourless chocolate cake, sundae, or chocolate cup.  Yummy!!!
• Via ItalianTable.  Beginnings?  Jumbo shrimp cocktail, goat cheese salad with asparagus, insalata mista, or calamari.  Second course?  Tuscan shrimp scampi, sirloin of beef, or chicken parm.  Sweet conclusion?  Gelato, cannoli, or panna cotta.
• 111 Chop House.  For starters, there’s a choice of lobster bisque, jumbo shrimp cocktail, or fried calamari.  The main event includes a selection of hanger steak with scallop stuffed jumbo shrimp, baked haddock with scallop stuffing, or ribeye steak.  Did we save the best for last?  Perhaps, especially if you enjoy fruit cobbler, chocolate tulip cup, or vanilla ice cream with cookie.

There are numerous dining facilities participating in Worcester Restaurant Week 2010 in addition to the options listed above.  Some others?  Aspara, Biagio’s Evo, Flying Rhino, Webster House, Viva Bene, Old Timer, Squire’s Val’s  (and many more!).

Dining out tends to brighten up many a face; after all, everyone has to eat.  For a more comprehensive listing concerning this “palatable” event, you may wish to log on to www.worcesterrestaurantweek.com.

So which peas are popular in America?  Here are a few.

Garden Peas.  A positive feature to these peas?  It is difficult to beat the taste and texture; they are sweet and firm.  A negative?  They can be labor-intensive (you have to shell them).  If purchasing, one pound will usually equate to one cup of peas.  Be sure to choose firm, green pods when making your selection; they tend to be the freshest.  Oh, and as a side note, they are worth the work!

Snow Peas. Snow peas look like skinny, unshelled garden peas.  Yet, this variety is completely edible, so you actually eat the pod.  Snow peas are popular in stir-fry recipes, but they can also be consumed raw.  If cooking, do not do so for long, the pod should have a crisp bite.  And the flavor?  Sweet!

Sugar Snap Peas.  Sugar snap peas are a hybrid pea.  They seem to be a cross between garden peas and snow peas.  Like snow peas, they are consumed unshelled; like garden peas, their pod has a larger girth.  A likely reason they are called sugar snap?  They make a discernible snap when broken, and they almost taste like sugar.

Chickpeas.  Chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans) are unlike the above varieties; in fact, they are not green but instead tan-colored.  Chickpeas are very popular in areas like Italy, Latin America, and the Middle East.  In fact, a famous Middle Eastern dish, falafel, is made by frying mashed chick peas.  This pea variety is hearty and makes a nice substitution for meat.

Black-Eyed Peas.  Black-eyed peas seem to be the least-known pea in the immediate area, although the dish is quite popular in some Southern states.  The off-white color is oval-shaped with a black spot in the middle (thus, black-eyed).  Black-eyed peas are great as a side dish, in soups, and in some casserole meals.

Peas can also be purchased dried or frozen and make hearty soups (like split pea).  They are versatile and beloved by adults and children, alike.  They contain vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and thiamine.  They are low in fat and simply delicious.

Well, what more can be said?

So what are some varieties to try?  Here are a few ideas.

• Corn.  Fresh corn is probably one of the more popular summer vegetables, and the delicious taste explains why.  The more common types are butter and sugar, white, and yellow.  As far as cooking goes, corn is typically de-husked and boiled in water for 3 to 6 minutes.  It is also yummy on the grill (it is not unusual to keep the husks on).  A bonus?  Corn offers a nice dose of fiber and vitamin C.
• Arugula.  Okay, so maybe you have seen the name, particularly in bistro-type restaurants, but you’re still not certain what it is all about.  Arugula is a leafy vegetable that is often used in salads.  Its taste can range from mild (smaller leaf variety) to something considerably stronger flavored (larger leaf).  Arugula is packed with nutrients like calcium and vitamin C.
• Cucumbers. Cucumbers are a much-loved favorite; when the salad bowl is being passed around, mostly everyone wants to make sure that at least one slice is on their plate.  Cucumbers should not be restricted to salads, though.  They can be used in sandwiches, as appetizers (with a dollop of peanut butter, shredded cheddar, or cream cheese), and as a stand-alone evening snack.  Cucumbers contain vitamin C and are packed with water (so they’re great for hydrating).
• Avocados.  Avocados can be an odd sort.  Some people love them, while others don’t even know what they look like.  This tasty vegetable is best known for its use in Mexican food, particularly guacamole.  It can also be mashed or included in spicy salsa.  Avocados are high in many nutrients including vitamins A, C, and B6.  They should be stored at room temperature and are ready to eat when pressure on the outside skin yields moderate give (kind of like a yoga mat).  If they are hard like an apple, they are not yet ripe.
• Eggplant. Eggplant is a staple food in many Mediterranean countries.  It offers a healthy (and hearty) measure of culinary pleasure.  This veggie can be breaded and fried, scooped out and stuffed, brushed with oil and grilled, and so much more.  Extra-virgin olive oil always seems to complement its taste, so use when on hand.
• Zucchini. Okay, what would the warmer months be like without zucchini?  It seems synonymous with the summer.  This versatile vegetable can be sliced and sautéed with onions and eggs, coated in bread crumbs (or flour) and fried, tossed in a stir fry, added to soups, seasoned and baked, etc.  Oh, and the blossoms?  They’re delectable (make a batter from flour and egg and fry in olive oil until slightly golden).  Just be sure to pick the blossoms that stand alone (male) if you are growing zucchini.  The flowers attached to the zucchini plant (female) might not yield the fruit if the blossoms are removed.
• Peppers. Peppers are delightful at any time, but they are especially enjoyable in the summer.  They provide vitamins A & C and are adaptable when cooking.  For example, peppers can be stuffed and baked, sliced and sautéed, cut and roasted, added to egg dishes, sautéed with sausage and onions, topped on salads, the options are many!

Summer vegetables are wonderful, filled with nutrients, and please the palate.  It is important to remember to take notice of the vegetables’ appearance when making your selections, though, as it can be an indication of freshness.

Next week, think peas.  But for now, be sure to eat your veggies!

Still, seniors must be particularly mindful in protecting themselves in this much-anticipated season, chiefly on hot or sticky days.  Why?  Because older individuals can especially fall victim to the less-pleasant effects of the heat.  Therefore, the suggestions below are thoughts to consider in enhancing summer enjoyment.

• Protection from the Sun.  Protection from the sun is important for everyone, but seniors require special care.  As some people age, blood circulation slows and sweat glands become less efficient.  As a result, the sun is not tolerated as well.  Subsequently, try to stay out of the excessive heat as much as possible.  If you are outdoors and become too warm, immediately find a cool place to go.  Another sun alert?  Sun exposure can cause dangerous skin cell changes, so be sure to use sunscreen (30 SPF or above).
• Medication Considerations.  The risk of hyperthermia may increase with certain types of medication.  Drugs for the heart, emotional well-being, blood pressure (e.g., diuretics) sleep patterns, etc., can exacerbate perspiration difficulties and inhibit the body’s ability to naturally deal with higher temperatures.  Because of this, it is important to talk with your doctor about your medication and the heat.
• Hydrate. Some seniors periodically become dehydrated because they do not drink enough fluids (like water, vegetable juice, and 100% fruit juice).  Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages tend to deplete liquids, so these drinks can be counterproductive to staying hydrated.  Naturally, water intake is extremely important in any season, but it is particularly vital in the warmer weather.  How much is enough?  Ask your physician.  Typically, 4 to 8 glasses is the recommended amount, but more may be needed.
• Dress According. Proper clothing can be significant in maintaining the right body temperature.  Lightweight, cotton, lighter-colored, and loose-fitting attire help our bodies breathe better and more easily adapt to higher temperatures.  Nonetheless, always bring along a sweater or jacket in the evident you enter an air conditioned room.

Many people take pleasure in the warmer months and eagerly await their arrival.  However, precautionary measures are sometimes necessary to optimize health.  The above suggestions are but a few of the many ways to ward off problems and heighten your summer happiness.  So, now that summer is officially here, be aware but enjoy!

Portland Area.  Greater Portland is about a two-hour drive from Boston.  This enchanting area abounds with wonderful ocean views, pictorial landscapes, antique shopping, sandy beaches, charming stores, and so much more.  The Old Port area is a diverse collection of old and new, and Casco Bay is delightful with its vibrant boats.  What else is in the area?

• Desert of Maine.  No, it’s not a section of Arizona transplanted into Maine, but it is a desert: well, sort of.  Back in 1797, the land was a working farm owned by the Tuttle family.  They successfully grew potatoes and raised sheep.  However, the family extensively cleared and overgrazed, and they failed to adequately rotate the crops.  This miscalculation led to soil erosion and unearthed a sand-like substance called glacial silt.  At first, the problem was controllable.  Within time, it spread to unmanageable means.   Since 1919, the property has become a “desert” attraction.  What does it offer?  Large sand dunes, nature trails, picnic areas, tours, and other interesting activities (like sand painting!).
• Freeport. Freeport (yes, the Desert of Maine is in Freeport) is a lovely coastal town situated about 15 minutes north of Portland.  It has many outdoor activities and great shopping (there are over 200 outlets stores).  The world-renowned L.L. Bean has its flagship store in Freeport.  L.L. Bean Discovery School, an interesting part of the L.L. Bean experience, offers reasonable lessons in archery, sporting clay, and kayaking.  Snow-shoeing and cross country skiing are available in the winter months.

Next stop?  Mount Desert Island.  What’s so great about the place?  For starters, Bar Harbor. This town is filled with romance, towering cliffs, upscale shops, and an outdoorsy kind of excitement—e.g., kayaking, whale watching, hiking, bicycling.  Think “a more casual” Newport.  Other ideas?

• Arcadia National Park.  This popular national park encompasses in excess of 40,000 acres.  Overall, the scenery is incredible, as much of the land abuts the coastline.  Valleys, mountains, and forests all call out to the nearby ocean, receiving saltiness as an aromatic gift.  Campgrounds, beaches, museums, hiking trails, picturesque drives, and so much more are also available to delight even the toughest critic.
• Cadillac Mountain.  Cadillac Mountain sits in Acadia National Park.  With an elevation of over 1,500 feet, it is the tallest mountain in the park.  Originally, it was called Green Mountain, but in 1918 it was renamed Cadillac Mountain.  Multiple hiking paths and a paved road lead up to the summit.

Maine is chock-full of vacation possibilities. Other thoughts?  Sebago Lake (west of Portland), Kennebunk/Kennebunkport (south of Portland) and Baxter State Park (north of Portland).  Wow, no wonder this Northern New England state is called vacationland!

Maine is a delightful state filled with amazing beaches, great shopping, and many outdoor activities.  In addition, it boasts dreamy villages, majestic lighthouses, serene parks, charming shops, and cozy B&B’s.  We begin our Maine journey crossing over the Piscataqua River Bridge from New Hampshire into the Gateway of Maine.  Where are we?  Kittery, of course!

Kittery is known for its mansions, rock-strewn ocean paths, and cavernous coves.  What else is in Kittery?

• Kittery Historical and Naval Museum.  The Kittery Historical and Naval Museum is an interesting stop.  It includes ship models, navigational instruments, and historical information about the area.
• Fort McClary.  Located along 103, Fort McClary was a protective site (fort) established in 1808 and deactivated in 1918.  The land now operates as a state park, but a restored blockhouse remains.  People come to enjoy the grounds, picnic, and marvel at the view of Portsmouth Harbor.
• Kittery Outlets.  Who could forget the infamous outlets located along Route 1?  They boast over 120 stores!

York is barely a stone’s throw from Kittery.  It swanks a beautiful shoreline and welcoming beaches.  What are some York attractions?

• Cape Nubble Lighthouse.  The Cape Neddick Lighthouse Station, first opened in 1879, sits on an island near the entrance of the York River and York Harbor (it’s a must-see for lighthouse lovers!).
• The Museums of Old York.  The Museums of Old York are eight 18^th century dwellings featuring interesting “changing” exhibits.
• The First Parish Church.  The First Parish Congregation Church, the oldest Maine religious society that still continues, is housed in a quintessential New England structure built in 1747.
• York Harbor.  York Harbor offers a spectacular ocean-view walkway alongside impressive waterfront homes.
• Stonewall Kitchen Headquarters.  Stonewall Kitchen makes delectable jellies, mustards, jam, spreads, and other condiments.  Many tasting stations exist throughout the store, and a cooking school is on the premises.

Ogunquit is an addicting place; once you go, you have to go back.  This upscale, foot-friendly village offers a splendid coastline and beautiful scenery.  Other Ogunquit thoughts?

• Perkins Cove.  Perkins Cove is a dazzling waterfront delight offering seafood restaurants and charming shops.  This picturesque place begins a one-mile footpath with stunning views of the ocean.
• Ogunquit Playhouse.  This summer theater attracts impressive actors, great shows, and strives to entertain.
• The Ogunquit Museum of American Art.  The art museum includes inspiring oils and works to keep your more refined tastes satisfied.

Maine is a beautiful destination that seems sure to please even the most discriminating vacationer.  Naturally, it is relatively large, so next week we will look at more Northern areas.

Nonetheless, geographically, it’s not that far away!

In most cases, herbs should be used in moderation.  However, without the spice, the food would likely be devoid of its true personality.  It is hard to beat the aromatic pleasure of these fresh-grown pleasers; the dried variety, while acceptable at some level, tend to lack excitement.

Sunlight and soil are essential to successfully growing indoor herbs.  The soil should be neutral, with a ph of about 6.5.  Watering should take place about once a week (or whenever the soil feels dry).  Drainage should be excellent, meaning the plants should not reside in sitting in water.

You can buy herb plants from a garden center (unless you wish to start from scratch with seeds).  Position the plants in a sunny area, preferably one that has southern exposure.  During colder months, additional lighting, such as fluorescent or grow lamps, might be needed (or the plants could die).  Herbs tend to love light and typically require 10 to 14 hours of luminosity per day.  Still, during the dead of summer, it might be necessary to protect the plants from direct sunlight.

It is important to keep herb plants away from drafty areas.  If the windowsill you have chosen has air flowing through, then it’s probably not the right location.  Fertilizing with an edible-type product roughly once a month will help your plants to thrive.

So which herbs grow well indoors?  A number do.  Here are a few favorites.

• Basil.  Basil is a tried and true choice, and its enchanting fragrance is synonymous with utopia.  This herb is great in Thai dishes, Italian food, and can’t be beat as a fresh mozzarella and tomato pizza topping.
• Parsley.  Parsley is another well-known star.  This popular spice goes wonderfully in Italian sauces, salads, pasta dishes (such as spaghetti and oil), and so much more.  And the best part?  It garnishes most dishes with an elegant touch.
• Oregano. Oregano has a unique taste that appropriately spices up many foods.  It is fabulous on pizza, in sauces, and in some stews.
• Sage. This wonderful herb complements stuffing, many roasted meats (particularly in French cooking), and German sausage dishes.  It also makes a great tea and can be used as a sore throat elixir!
• Rosemary. Rosemary is famous with chicken dishes.  It is also exceptional on pork chops, vegetables, and as a topping for some types of bread (like Focaccia).

Purchasing herbs from a vegetable stand or supermarket can be pricey!  One small package of basil or oregano can cost between two to four dollars; and once it is used up (or goes bad), you have to buy another package.  Growing your own variety not only saves money but can also be kind of exciting.  And just think, the leaves will be available for the taking!