From Banana Bread to Pickleball: A Taste of Life's Flavors

NO!  Nada!  Never!  Niet!  Non!  You get the picture.

And since my children know me, they immediately asked, no, demanded to know, where the life insurance policies are kept.  Hmmm.  What makes them think I have life insurance?  I mean, all those surgeries were expensive!

I jest.  They’re covered.  But despite the injury rates I don’t think I’ve heard of a pickleball fatality yet, right?  Yes, I’m biting my tongue and as my grandmother would say, ‘poo, poo, poo’.

Btw, my husband was much more understanding.  He retrieved the crutches, knee scooter, cast cover, pain killers, and shower seat from the garage and simply googled the various wait times at the local ER’s.

I proceeded intelligently, at least that’s my version.  For a half hour I volleyed (not in the kitchen-look it up if you’re a newbie), served (cross court and IN the kitchen) and learned I need to buy the right sneakers, invest in conditioning, perform fewer split steps, and I might have to let some of those overheads go. But mostly I learned that I loved it.

So, in a pickle about pickleball (cheesy, forgive me). Banned, not for being a bad sport or poaching a serve into my opponent’s face, but by a loving family who is tired of seeing me in pain and unable to do the other activities I love. What to do, what to do.

Well, have you met me yet?

“Kids, the insurance policies are in the file cabinet, third drawer from the top.”

See you on the court.

Sometimes, the best recipes aren’t the ones with the longest ingredient list or the most complex techniques. They’re the ones that make you feel something. Cooking isn’t just about what you put on the plate; it’s about what it brings into your life. The simplicity of a home-cooked meal, prepared with love, is often more nourishing than any elaborate dish.

Imagine standing in your kitchen, the scent of fresh herbs wafting through the air. You’re not rushing; you’re not trying to impress anyone. You’re simply in the moment, letting the rhythm of chopping, stirring, and tasting guide you. This is the essence of “Keep it Simple.” It’s about more than just cooking—it’s about living.

In a world that often encourages us to do more, to be more, there’s something incredibly powerful about choosing to do less. It’s about stripping away the unnecessary, focusing on what truly matters, and allowing space for creativity and joy to flourish. When you’re not overwhelmed by complexity, you can see the beauty in the basics—a perfectly ripe tomato, the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil, the satisfaction of a meal well-prepared.

This principle applies beyond the kitchen. In life, we often complicate things, adding layers of worry and stress that don’t need to be there. But what if we chose to simplify instead? To let go of the things that weigh us down and focus on what truly brings us joy? Just like in cooking, the most meaningful moments are often the simplest. They’re the moments when we’re fully present, not distracted by the noise of the world around us.

So, the next time you find yourself overcomplicating things, whether in the kitchen or in life, take a step back. Breathe. And remember, sometimes the most profound things are the simplest.

Let’s talk bread—specifically, banana bread and sourdough bread. On the surface, these two might seem worlds apart: one is sweet, soft, and comforting, while the other is crusty, tangy, and robust. But there’s a lot more we can learn from these contrasting loaves than just their flavors.

Banana bread is like a warm hug. It’s sweet, mild, and welcoming. It’s perfect for those days when you need a bit of comfort and simplicity. Imagine curling up with a slice of banana bread on a rainy afternoon—its softness and gentle flavor provide a sense of calm and reassurance. This is akin to moments in life when a gentle approach, a bit of kindness, or a comforting presence can make all the difference. Sometimes, being soft and sweet like banana bread is just what’s needed to nurture relationships, support others, or simply find solace in a hectic world.

On the flip side, sourdough bread is a whole different story. With its tough, chewy crust and complex flavor, it’s built to withstand more than just a gentle touch. It represents resilience and strength. The process of making sourdough is patient and demanding, requiring time and dedication. Its robust nature makes it perfect for hearty meals and challenging conditions. Just as sourdough thrives under pressure, there are times in life when you need to channel your inner strength, embrace challenges, and stand firm, much like the crust of sourdough.

Neither type of bread is inherently better than the other; they each have their time and place. Banana bread offers sweetness and comfort, while sourdough provides strength and durability. The key takeaway is understanding when to embrace each quality. In life, knowing when to be gentle and comforting versus when to be strong and resilient can help you navigate challenges with grace and wisdom.

If I could script a better example of why there are no failures in cooking therapy, this would be it! 🌟 I put these cookies in the fridge without the chips, tried to soften them, and ended up with an incredible new creation—chocolate swirl chip cookies! 🍫

The lesson? Don't rush or you'll end up taking more time. Mistakes in the kitchen or life aren't failures—they're discoveries. Whether it's realizing you're not in the best relationship or identifying a negative habit, it's all about what you learn. 🌱

So, here’s to chocolate swirl chip cookies and the beautiful discoveries along the way! 🍪✨

A taste of what’s cooking on Instagram—follow @debraborden for more bites of inspiration, humor, and healing.

Until next time,