Loathe

Everything about this is most unfortunate.

I'm Down With O.P.P.

I intend to live the remainder of my life free of the responsibilities of pet ownership. I don't want to deal with the hassles associated with caring for animals. Other people's pets are another matter. This cat, for instance, is one of my best friends. And I'll never have to clean her litter box.

Waiting for the U.F.O.s

Western Kansas' wind farms supply a visual feast for attraction-starved travelers. I recently discovered that their appearance is even more interesting at night. The turbines emit synchronized red flashes that alert human and alien aircraft of their presence.

Hot Tamale

Perhaps the best aspect of being a fatty an epicurean is the opportunity to fall in love several times a day. Reyna's Mexican Bakery on Kansas Avenue represents my latest fling. The fruit-filled pastries are very good, but it's the tamales that make my heart sing.

Gates and Pineapple

I recently discovered the ultimate flavor combination- pineapple and Gates' "Classic" brand barbecue sauce. Although I enjoy the direct dipping of pineapple slices, I recognize that some diners might consider that approach a little extreme. I've found that the tandem works best when used with other ingredients. I recommend substituting Gates for guacamole in tortilla-style wraps with rice, ham, vegetables and pineapple. Delicious!

Historic Outhouse

I recently broke up the tedium of a cross-Kansas trek with a visit to the Tallgrass Prairie National Reserve. As it was too cold to chase down the park's small herd of buffalo, I contented myself with appreciating a rancher's handsome three-hole outhouse. After all, the family that... (Meesha documented the charms of the Flint Hills in a more elaborate post a few months ago.)

Cupcake

My inner ninny emerged as I took a serious look at a potential new home this morning. I didn't like the way the homeless guys on the sidewalk sized me up. The streets around here aren't plowed when it snows? That's simply unacceptable. And horror-of-horrors- there's almost no closet space! I am such a milksop.

Half Shell

I'm rather partial to Jazz restaurant at 39th & State Line. It's certainly not the chain's misleading name that keeps me coming back. Nor is it nostalgia for Jimmy's Jigger, the semi-legendary institution once housed at the same location. The Cajun food is fine, but the menu isn't the primary draw either. The restaurant's clientele is what makes it unique. Jazz is one of the few public places in Kansas City that attracts people from almost every walk of life. It's unfortunate that such a simple proposition remains so rare. Until that changes, you'll find me at Jazz.