Columnists

You may have noticed something quite peculiar in the produce section and farmers market these last few weeks. What appear to be “pumped up” string beans are in fact fava beans. Many cultures around the world, including Italians, consume fava beans. In this week's column, I look to my Sicilian heritage for some fava bean inspiration in the form of my Grandma Virginia’s unique preparation for this vegetable.

Recently I was left in charge of my granddaughters – 5 1/2-year-old Gracie and 4-year-old Emily – for several hours  while my daughter and son-in-law ran a half marathon in Santa Cruz. (Yes, I know. The only explanation is that they gave me the wrong baby at the hospital; no way did I give birth to an actual marathon person).

April is National Adopt-a-Greyhound-Month. Every year, rescue groups, including The Greyhound Project, put out the word that they have dogs looking for homes. There are large numbers of dog racetracks across this country, and greyhounds and whippets are the breeds of choice for trainers and gamblers in this sport.

Every spring millions of homeowner experience the annual ritual of getting their home ready for summer. For me, it starts with power washing the patio and pool decks, setting up outside furniture and getting the pool ready. And every year, as I pick up the paint brush, fire up the power washer and prep the pool, I wonder if there isn't an easier way. Although I enjoy having everything in tip top shape and having a nice place for family to visit, my motivation for home repair and maintenance isn't what it used to be. And frankly, I'm not convinced that I will get more motivated as I continue to age.

The Terracotta Warriors is a long moment in history that tells of what seems to be a never ending struggle for security in a violent and dangerous world. It is a saga of astonishing success, ingenuity, determination and the will to survive, and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world – known as The Eighth Wonder Of The World.

It has been a weird week, and my emotions have run the gamut. From excitement, nervousness and joy (before 2:50 p.m. on Marathon Monday) to shock, confusion, sadness and anger...to list a few.

Of course, every religious institution has its own method of choosing its leadership. The news recently guided us through the ancient process by which Francis I became Pope, leader of the Roman Catholic Church's one billion members.

This is not the easiest column to write, but is in many respects perhaps the most important one. There are two compelling reasons to read this; No. 1: Some day you may need to deal with the loss of a loved one and No. 2: Some day a loved one will deal with the loss of you. No, not the most popular subject, but necessary all the same.