There are choices we can make for the best possible nutrition during these challenging times. Convenience foods come at a price. So do specialty items, like organic, farm raised, foreign foods, gluten-free, vegan and the like. How do you select what’s best for your health and economical?

You just might have grown up without trying this tropical, natural treat. I sure didn’t. The first time I tried whole coconut was on a river craft in Panama. The shell was filed with coconut and juice of some kind, mixed with a powerful alcohol. Mostly, the creamy sweetness of the coconut camouflaged the alcohol which made that boat sway plenty! Instead … Come value this tropical fruit in all its forms!

I’m making my eggs due. I’ve got a coveted dozen that I cherish. Some cartons of egg whites. And a willingness to be creative. That means baking powder, chickpea flour, fruit purées, ground chia and flax seeds, mashed potatoes, plant milk, potato starch and plenty of cans of chickpeas with their magic-like liquid—aquafaba! Wonder if those Chinese and Egyptians knew about this elixir way back then! Eggcentric! Just see …

I thought I reached my pineapple pinnacle while traversing the Caribbean islands, but nothing beat the pineapple selections I discovered in French Polynesia! Pineapples are everywhere here—by the side of road, in the forests, alongside the hilly slopes, at roadside stands, and YES! on many a menu. Come enjoy this tropical treat at its finest!

Got the travel bug? Need to eat on the fly? Neither is easy-peasy. Both require plenty of planning, last-minute changes on-the-run and loads of uncertainties. Missed flights and bad (or no) food are common. My simple advice helps prep your body and mind for the sky ahead!

Fresh or dried, Greek oregano is the indescribable essence of what makes many a Greek dish memorable. While some of us are fortunate to have inside herb gardens or all-year outdoor herb beds, so many rely on little herb packages or dried herbs from the grocer. Grow Greek oregano you’ll thank me!