As parents, we are supposed to bake and take 2 dozen cookies or other treats for the children’s class party on Thursday. I’ve been scouring the internet for Halloween cookie recipes, and just can’t find much of interest.

The best that I came across so far are these meringue ghosts. They are probably very easy to make and after you stick a couple of eyes and maybe even a mouth on them, you have some really cute ghosts.

One of my favorite comfort foods is chicken and dumplings. I have tried several different recipes for it. Some of the local restaurants have good versions. But the one I make at home with Bisquick is the best.

We are grilling today. This is a big deal for us. Most of the time I just cook on the stove top or in the oven. So to put meat on the grill and stand there while it cooks to make sure it does not catch on fire or burn will be a challenge. I hope it does not rain on us. That would make our grill out not very pleasant and not practical for this holiday weekend. If we get rained out today, at least we have tomorrow for a second chance.

Today I saw a commercial for Chiquita bananas. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a commercial for bananas before! It was such a surprise to see a banana commercial that I don’t even remember what they were saying except that Chiquita bananas are shipped quickly so that we get the freshest bananas. And at the end they were advertising a new Chiquita product, fresh pineapple spears packaged individually for a healthy fresh snack.

There is an ongoing dispute between Poland and Russia as to which country was the first to invent vodka. There is also a competition between them for the best vodka.

My vote goes to Poland for their Sobieski. Do you have a favorite?