MID-MARCH 2021: GRAMMYS, IDES OF MARCH, AND ST. PATTY’S DAY
This has to be a quick one because I have to start preparing my mind for the real main event of this month–this week-end’s March Madness tournament! But that merits its own column in a few days, so here are my brief thoughts on the rest of this week’s happenings.
Look at the creative way Beyonce is wearing her mask, so she doesn’t have to put it over her ears! She attached it to her sunglasses! Photo by Karen Salkin, from the TV screen.
THE GRAMMYS—It was the worst one ever! But I can’t put my finger on why that was. Trevor Noah was the best host they ever had. He kept it light and moving, he was super comfortable, never once made it about him, and he was probably the most intelligent host they’ve ever had! And the performances still went on, without looking different on TV than on any other year; the only difference there was the lack of the usual fawning in-person audience. And just about all of the nominees were still in attendance.
So why was it so bad? I think it was most likely because not one performance or speech was special. None of them got to me or Mr. X. So between watching the show and some of the arrivals, and now writing this little review, that’s enough of my time spent on the 2021 Grammys!
THE IDES OF MARCH—In case you hadn’t realized it at the time, yesterday, the 15th, was the Ides of March. I didn’t want to warn you in advance because of the concept of self-fulfilled prophecy. (Meaning: I didn’t want you to worry yourself into something bad happening to you!)
But the day before, when I was just thinking of writing about it, I fell down some slippery steps after I had worked-out, and injured every single part of my body! Of course. So I guess I had a pre-Ides accident, of which I might be the only one capable.
ST. PATRICK’S DAY—No worries–it’s not until tomorrow. I don’t usually mention this one until the day of, but, since I hope we’re all celebrating this fun holiday in the house this year, I figure I should give you this heads-up in case you need to go out today for the appropriate provisions.
If you’re a real cook, the traditional dish you should try is corned beef and cabbage with boiled potatoes. But if you’d like a more fun repast for the occasion, how about make a little Irish-themed Afternoon Tea? Everyone will appreciate that one, I feel. You can serve cute little cucumber sandwiches, thick Irish soda bread instead of scones, and some lime or mint petit fours. And, of course, green tea!
Grasshopper Pie. Yum!
Of course, there are always fun alcoholic beverages that are easy to sip at home. There’s the basic crème de menthe, or the more fun Grasshopper you can make with it. Or turn the latter into the famous Grasshopper Pie (which I have even made myself on occasion, so it’s not that hard to do) to enjoy with your tea! Or double down on the liqueur-tinged goodies and have a slice with an Irish coffee.
I really encourage you to stay home for this holiday despite the temptation to start going out again. This was a really stupid week for the powers-that-be in most cities and states to choose to reopen bars and restaurants because the St. Patty’s celebrants, (most of whom will be imbibing,) will be out in full force, even more than in normal years. (If you are one of them, please, please, please do not drink and drive!) The overzealous drinkers even need to be watched-out for during the day tomorrow, (as opposed to only at night,) because they start early on this one!
My green St. Patty’s nails, (which will also double for celebrating Spring’s arrival this week-end.) Photo by Karen Salkin’s right hand.
So I say, just stay home, polish your nails green, (as I did, of course,) watch some good old Ireland-heavy movies, and enjoy the foods I suggested above.
And most importantly, please make sure to stay safe on your (hopefully slow) return to pre-pandemic life. I’ll meet you back here in a couple of days to preview March Madness for you. Erin go bragh!
