Latest news with #grandma
New York Times
4 days ago
- General
- New York Times
23 Classic, Memorable, Must-Make Salads
My grandma served the same salad at every family gathering, and always in the same tall-sided glass bowl. The salad was layered shredded iceberg lettuce, defrosted frozen peas, chopped parsley (curly) and bacon. Each layer would get a light sprinkle of sugar, and the top got generous dots of mayonnaise. She called it Mrs. Murphy's salad — I have absolutely no idea who Mrs. Murphy is — and as for the recipe, my mom's best guess is that it came from a cooking class my grandma attended. I realized this week that Mrs. Murphy's salad is a close relative of the classic seven layer salad, included among the 23 best salads of all time. Grandma's version didn't have all of the layers; Lidey Heuck's version includes hard-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes and a seasoned sour-cream-and-mayo dressing. As with most classic dishes, improvisations and alterations abound. 'Have fun with the layering,' Lidey writes, 'as long as you keep the lettuce and tomato far from the dressing so the salad stays fresh and crisp. The optional red onion is technically an extra layer, but its sharpness works really well with the richness of the dressing, bacon and cheese.' I think I'll add in some curly parsley (for nostalgia, but also because I think curly parsley gets a bad rap and I'm into reappraising foodstuffs these days) and definitely keep the shredded Cheddar. And while I enjoy my refreshing, crispy-crunchy salad, I'll consider which classic salad to make next. A big batch of tabbouleh? Sharp and sour som tum? I've never said no to niçoise … Featured Recipe View Recipe → Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
New York Times
6 days ago
- General
- New York Times
I Thought The Turbie Twist Towel Was a Waste of Money. Then I Had Brain Surgery.
I was watching reruns at my grandma's house when I saw a commercial for the Turbie Twist Microfiber Hair Towel for the first time. It was sometime in the early 2000s, and as a self-conscious preteen just starting to care about my looks, I was immediately captivated by the lightweight, tapered towels and the beautiful women wrapping their hair with them. By the end of the ad, I was convinced that this fitted hair towel was a necessity. When the 'buy now' number flashed at the bottom of the screen, I sat up straight and called out to my mom. 'I need one of those,' I announced with the kind of conviction only a bratty 12-year-old could muster. My mom, used to my antics, just rolled her eyes and said, 'No, you don't, we have towels at home.' I sat with my mom's words, turning them over in my head. She was right. We did have towels at home, and I'd been using them for as long as I could remember to dry my hair after a shower. I decided right then and there that a towel designed specifically for your hair was an unnecessary extravagance, even if this commercial tried to convince me otherwise. For nearly 20 years, I held on staunchly to this belief. Why buy a towel I can only use for my hair when I could easily twist a body towel (that I already own!) into a hair-wringing turban? Then, I had brain surgery, and suddenly the Turbie Twist became something I simply couldn't live without. Designed with a tapered shape and elastic loop for a secure fit, this hair towel is made from quick-drying microfiber that cuts down on frizz, prevents breakage, and stays put without the bulk of a traditional towel. $20 from Amazon (pack of two) If you've used a body towel to wrap up your hair after a shower, you're probably familiar with the process: You have to bend at the waist and flip your head forward so that your damp hair hangs upside down. From there, you place the long edge of the towel at the nape of your neck and twist the fabric around your hair, straighten up, and secure the towel atop your head. After I had brain surgery, flipping my head upside down was a no-go. For the first six weeks after my procedure, I was instructed to keep my head above my heart to reduce swelling and prevent dizzy spells. Without wringing out my locks, my long hair hung heavily down my back after I showered, clinging wetly to my skin. Desperate for a way to keep my sopping wet hair off the back of my neck, I caved and ordered a Turbie Twist. I haven't looked back since. Turbie Twist Microfiber Hair Towels come in a wide range of colors; I chose lilac and seafoam green. Elissa Sanci/NYT Wirecutter The Turbie Twist has a unique, tapered shape that resembles a hood and is closed at both ends, which allows me to capture all of my hair without bending over. To use it, I position the wider end at the base of my neck. I tilt just my head forward so my wet hair hangs freely and gather it into the skinny end of the towel. I twist the towel (and my hair) until it feels snug, then bring the twisted end up and over my head, securing it by threading it through the elastic loop on the wider end of the towel. Elissa Sanci/NYT Wirecutter As an extra precaution, while I still had staples in my head, I wore the Turbie Twist backwards. I didn't want my hair hanging over my staples, afraid that it could potentially get twisted in the metal and irritate the surgery site. So, I positioned the wider end of the towel against my forehead rather than the base of my neck, and twisted the length of my wet hair into the skinny end. Then I brought it up over the back of my head, securing the end in the elastic loop. The correct way to wear the Turbie Twist is pictured on the left; on the right is how I modified it to accommodate my surgery staples. Elissa Sanci/NYT Wirecutter The Turbie Twist is made of microfiber, a highly absorbent material that helps hair dry faster than a regular towel. In fact, microfibers are capable of 'absorbing over seven times their weight in water and they dry in one-third of the time of ordinary fibers,' according to authors S.A. Hosseini Ravandi and Masoumeh Valizadeh in Improving Comfort in Clothing . Soft microfiber cloth is also more gentle on your hair, which reduces breakage and frizz and, more importantly, was crucial for my head's post-surgery tenderness. Even though I've fully recovered from my surgery, I still use my Turbie Twist after every shower — and now that my staples have been removed, I wear it the right way. Before I tried the Turbie Twist, I was convinced that it was no different than the body towels I'd been using for years. After using it every day for six weeks, though, I've realized how delightful it is to dry your hair with a towel designed specifically for that purpose. It's thin and lightweight, which makes it more comfortable to wear, and, unlike the top-heavy turbans I used to twist out of my body towels, it stays in place until I'm ready to remove it. And I've noticed that my hair looks and feels a lot healthier too; it's not as frizzy as it used to be, and it tangles a lot less now. I've even bought a few more Turbie Twist towels to take with me when I travel. Because they dry so quickly, I never have to worry about packing a damp towel in my bag when my vacation comes to a close. I also like to keep one in my swim bag, often wearing it home from the pool after a workout. A standard bath towel turban is double the height of the Turbie Twist turban. Elissa Sanci/NYT Wirecutter The Turbie Twist has been around since the early aughts, and in the years since it first debuted, it's inspired a handful of competitors. Curious to see how other brands compared, I ordered a set of three Hicober hair towels, an affordable option with mostly positive reviews on Amazon. I wasn't impressed when they arrived: Though they were the same shape and length as the Turbie Twist, the Hicober towels were made of a thicker material that took a lot longer to dry. I also found Hicober towels harder to secure; you have to loop the elastic around a button, which requires a lot of fiddling. The Turbie Twist towel (top) and the Hicober hair towel (bottom). Elissa Sanci/NYT Wirecutter The Turbie Twist material (left) is thinner, while the Hicober towel material (right) is fluffier and less absorbent. Elissa Sanci/NYT Wirecutter The Turbie Twist towel (top) and the Hicober hair towel (bottom). Elissa Sanci/NYT Wirecutter If you had asked me a year ago, I would have told you the Turbie Twist is an unnecessary waste of money. And unless you are having brain surgery, it really may not be a necessity. But, in my experience, it is better than using a regular towel as a turban to dry hair. So, do you really need a Turbie Twist? No. But is it one of my favorite little luxuries? Absolutely. This article was edited by Hannah Rimm and Megan Beauchamp. TikTokkers swear by the UNbrush , a square hairbrush that gently detangles hair. And after testing it out ourselves, we agree that it's fantastic. They won't give you perfect hair or skin or solve your sleep woes, but they bring a bit of sumptuousness to bedtime. Plus, they're affordable enough to buy two.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Teen's Grandma Gifts Her a Brand New Car. Her Parents Want Her to Sell It to 'Make Things Fair' for Siblings
When her grandmother gave her a brand-new RAV4, one teen was thrilled, until her parents demanded she sell it to make things fair for her siblings A teen seeks advice from the Reddit community following a family dispute over a brand-new car her grandmother gifted her. In a post titled 'AITA for not returning the car my grandma got me,' the 18-year-old explains the complicated situation between her, her siblings and her parents. 'When my brother got his permit, my grandparents bought an almost new Prius and said it would be for both of us to share,' she writes. However, things didn't go as planned once she got her own license. She recalls that she was 'barely able to drive the car,' and when she finally got her license, her parents gave her 'a 12 year old civic because it would be too difficult for us to share a car.' She says it was all her parents could afford at the time, but her grandparents were not happy about how things turned out. 'My grandma said she picked that car out specifically for me,' the teen writes, adding that she has always been her grandmother's favorite because she's 'the only one that spends time with her or helps her out.' Her grandparents were disappointed that the original plan for the shared Prius didn't work and promised they would 'fix it' when she turned 18. Now 18, the teen says her grandma recently asked her what car she wanted. 'I told her I wanted a RAV4,' she writes, and just a week later, her uncle delivered a brand new RAV4 Hybrid to her driveway. The teen says the car means a lot to her emotionally as well. 'When I'm having a rough day I literally just go out and sit in the car. It's like my safe space,' she shares. However, her new vehicle sparked jealousy and tension within the family. Her parents believe the situation is unfair, saying there's 'a huge disparity between our cars.' Her grandmother, however, isn't backing down. She told the teen's parents that 'it wouldn't have happened if they would've either had us share the car or sold it and gotten us equal ones.' The teen says her brother is now pushing their parents to trade in his car for something similar to hers. But their parents, unable to afford such a car, are turning to her and asking her to sell the RAV4 and 'get something 'more appropriate' to make things fair.' Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 'I'm refusing because it was a gift from my grandma and I love it,' she writes. But her parents are not happy with her stance, and they're calling her 'self centered' and accusing her of not thinking of her siblings. The teen also notes that her 15-year-old sister isn't getting a car at all, which adds another layer of pressure. Still, her grandmother remains firm in her support, telling her, 'you deserve the car and they all suck.' Despite her grandmother's reassurance, the teen admits she's starting to feel conflicted. 'I'm starting to feel bad,' she says, before asking the community, 'AITA for not selling the car?' In the comments, one Redditor points out the root of the issue: 'Sounds like your brother made no effort to share the Prius and your parents didn't sell it and split the money.' They added that since the family 'went back on the deal, your grandparents made it right.' Read the original article on People Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
11 Vintage Hosting Tips That Are Worth Stealing From Grandma
When it comes to hosting, no one does it better than grandma. From formal invitations to name cards to take-home goodies, she always finds a way to make every guest feel special. And although not every get-together has to be formal, there are still plenty of occasions where applying a few of grandma's best vintage hosting tips can make a huge difference. "In a fast-paced world that's grown more casual with each passing decade, some social graces still shine like silver. Civility is timeless. Courtesy is unforgettable. And manners? They're never out of season," says Lisa Grotts, an etiquette consultant known as the Golden Rules Gal. Read on for grandma-approved vintage hosting tips that are still applicable today — plus learn how to execute them perfectly, according to etiquette Invitations Ditch the last-minute text message and give guests more of a heads up with formal invitations. "Letting people know well in advance shows thoughtfulness. It respects the busy rhythm of life and allows guests time to make arrangements. A well-timed invite is the first gesture of hospitality," says Juliet Mitchell, CEO of Life Etiquette Guests at the Door Can you remember a time grandma didn't personally greet you or another guest at the door? We didn't think so. "There's something so classic and charming about being welcomed personally as you arrive. Whether it's a hug, a handshake or simply opening the door with a smile and eye contact, this small gesture instantly makes guests feel appreciated and seen. It sets the tone for the entire event," says etiquette trainer Myka Let a Guest Go Empty-Handed Show your guests around and immediately offer them a quick bite or cocktail so they feel comfortable from the jump. "Never let a guest stand around empty-handed. Offer a drink, point them to the restroom and introduce them to others. These simple acts are the cornerstones of hospitality — and perfect icebreakers," says Forget Table Manners Grandma might have been the one to teach you table manners in the first place, so it only makes sense that she'd want you to keep them in mind when hosting. "Today, dining skills are one of the most important skills to have because it shows you have taken the time to invest in yourself and make other guests feel comfortable," says Diane Gottsman, national etiquette expert and founder of The Protocol School of Name Cards "Personal touches — like a handwritten place card or a small token — go a long way. They show that each person matters and offer something meaningful for them to remember the moment by," says Mitchell. Plus, organized seating arrangements might even make guests more comfortable if they know they're seated next to someone they're more familiar the Senses Forget the television — go with ambient music instead. "It sets the tone of the day or event, and unless it's a sports viewing party, keeps everyone glued to conversation and nothing more," says Meier. She also suggests choosing a signature scent, whether it's a candle or a dessert baking in the oven. RELATED: 25 Best-Smelling Candles for a Luxurious HomeIntroduce Unfamiliar Guests There's nothing more awkward than going the whole party without being introduced to someone you don't know — even if the gathering is super casual. As the host, it's your job to take on that role. "Giving a bit of information about each guest was an art that grandma had down to a science and it's still important today for a host to make proper introductions," says a Signature Cocktail Remember that one snack or dessert you always knew grandma would have ready for you? Invent your own. And remember, it doesn't have to be complicated — simply whip up your favorite (or simplest) drink or appetizer for a signature menu item everyone will look forward to come future gatherings. "A signature cocktail or favorite recipe always makes the host shine," says Gottsman. RELATED: Signature Wedding Cocktail IdeasSet the Table Early Set the table the night before so you're not scrambling minutes before guests show up. "It's something many of our mothers and grandmothers did, and it's still brilliant advice. Setting the table in advance gives you time to focus on cooking, getting ready or enjoying a few quiet minutes before guests arrive. It also helps you visualize the ambiance and add those special little touches, like candles or flowers," says for the Occasion While it certainly depends on the occasion, dressing up can set the tone. Regardless of what you decide dress-code wise, make sure you let everyone know beforehand. "Even an informal affair requires guests and the host to dress for a party and not for a trip to the grocery store," says a Thank-You Note Thanking guests for taking the time to attend your celebration or event is an old-fashioned gesture grandma would never skip. "In grandma's time, she reached for her monogrammed stationery, penned a heartfelt thank you and had it in the mail within 24 hours. It's a small gesture, but one with enormous meaning. In today's world of likes and emojis, a handwritten note is a standout act of appreciation," says Grotts. RELATED: Thoughtful "Thank You" Messages for Any Occasion You Might Also Like 67 Best Gifts for Women That'll Make Her Smile The Best Pillows for Every Type of Sleeper Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
20-07-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Woman with Fertility Issues Says Her Grandma Ruined Her Gender Reveal — but Her Dad Says She's ‘Overreacting'
The woman, who shared her story on Reddit, said she had told her grandma that she wanted to share pregnancy news on her "own terms" after "multiple miscarriages"NEED TO KNOW A mom-to-be says her grandma revealed the gender of her baby to their church congregation — despite specifically being asked not to She also said that she has struggled with fertility issues in the past and wants to share news about her pregnancy on her "own terms' The woman — who shared her story on Reddit — said her dad is now defending her grandmother's behavior, and she's not sure who's in the wrongA mom-to-be is upset that her grandmother shared big personal news about her pregnancy — but her dad says she's being unreasonable. The woman shared her story on the popular Reddit forum 'Am I the A------,' a place where people can go to get advice on interpersonal issues. In her post, the Reddit user shared that she and her husband are both almost 30, and that they are about to have their first child in December 'after multiple miscarriages and adoptions falling through.' The woman said that she has only been telling very close friends and family details about the pregnancy 'in case I lose this baby as well.' However, she says that her grandmother keeps 'pestering' her to tell more people because she is 'so excited.' The woman went on to say that she and her husband recently found out the baby's gender, and that while they don't want to have a gender reveal party, she still wants to be able to tell people in her own time 'and on my own terms.' However, she said that her grandmother disregarded her wishes and 'told everyone' in their church — which she explained is in a small town community. 'Church members just began walking [up] to me saying congratulations on [my] baby's gender!' the original poster (OP) said, adding, 'My sister saw I was obviously distraught and told my grandma to stop telling people, which upset her.' The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now! 'Now, I feel I can no longer share information about my baby without [my grandmother] going behind my back and telling everyone every little detail,' the OP continued. 'My father says I am overreacting because 'this baby is all she has.' ' 'AITA [am I the a------] for not wanting her involved in my progress anymore?' the woman asked at the end of her post. The woman's fellow Reddit users were quick to assure her that she is not the unreasonable one in this scenario. 'It's not hers,' one person said, adding, 'She's not doing any of the work. She doesn't get a say. Tell her and [your] dad to kick rocks. NTA [not the a------].' Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Another person said, 'NTA. She can't be trusted to keep a secret. It doesn't matter if she's excited or not - it's your baby and not hers. Also, with a history of losses, that's a delicate subject and she needs to keep her mouth shut. Sorry, Dad, but you're wrong.' 'NTA for wanting to share your own news, but you need to stop telling granny info you don't want others to know yet,' added someone else. Read the original article on People Solve the daily Crossword
