We Finished Another Book!

 

Teri and I finished another novel, and this one was just as enjoyable to read to her as the last. This time, we read James Patterson's Cross Justice. He's one of my favorite authors, and his writing style is easy to read aloud.

Cross Justice is a fast-paced thriller that takes Alex Cross back to his roots, uncovering long-buried family secrets in his North Carolina hometown. The novel blends intense action with a deeply personal investigation, as Cross juggles solving a brutal murder case while confronting painful childhood memories.

Patterson’s signature short chapters keep the momentum high, making this an easy page-turner. The dual storylines—one focusing on Cross’s family and another on a disturbing trial—intertwine cleverly, leading to shocking twists. The emotional depth adds weight to the narrative. The revelations about Cross’s past are particularly gripping, offering fresh layers to his character.

Patterson’s skill at crafting suspense keeps readers hooked. Fans of the Alex Cross series will appreciate the mix of psychological drama and high-stakes action.

Overall, I thought Cross Justice is an engaging thriller that delivers both surprises and emotional depth. While not the strongest in the series, it’s still a must-read for longtime fans and a solid entry in the Alex Cross saga.

The Things People Believe...

Miguel has a co-worker with a great sense of humor. A couple days ago, two of his students asked his co-worker where he worked. He told them he was a bottomless pit inspector. It's a classified job, and he is often on call. 

They believed him! 

He strung them along for two days. And no, these weren't little kids. One of the students is 20 and the other is 35, one going to school to be a PA and the other to be an environmental scientist. 

I worry about our future...

The Family Tree Restaurant

Good food and good company are a tough combination to beat. Recently, I had the pleasure of dining at a restaurant I’d never visited before, and it turned out to be one of those afternoons you wish you could replay. I had a blast with Sue, Dan, Mike, Suzanne, and Lynn.

The Family Tree Restaurant is known for their classic Greek cuisine, but they also offer a variety of other dishes. I really enjoyed their Western Sandwich. But the real star? Their custard caramel. Creamy, rich, and topped with just the right amount of whipped cream, it was the kind of dessert that makes you consider sneaking back for seconds. Or thirds. 

The prices were as satisfying as the food. It’s not often you find a place where you can indulge without breaking the bank. Add a table full of friends, lots of laughs, and lively conversation, and it felt like a recipe for happiness. 

The Role of Technology in Education

Technology is reshaping education, breaking barriers, and creating opportunities for learners worldwide. From online learning platforms to virtual classrooms, educational technology is transforming traditional systems, making learning more accessible, interactive, and personalized.

Online learning platforms like Khan Academy, Coursera, and edX have revolutionized how students access knowledge. These platforms offer courses on virtually any subject, often free or at a fraction of traditional costs. Students can learn at their own pace, revisiting materials as needed, which is especially valuable for those balancing education with work or family responsibilities. This flexibility allows education to reach individuals who might otherwise be left behind by conventional systems.

Educational apps have also become game-changers. Apps like Duolingo for language learning, Photomath for solving math problems, and Quizlet for study aids make learning engaging and convenient. Gamification—adding elements like badges, leaderboards, and levels—motivates students to practice skills in a fun and interactive way. These tools can complement classroom learning, catering to various learning styles and preferences.

Virtual classrooms have taken center stage, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams enable teachers and students to connect in real time, regardless of location. Virtual classrooms often include features like breakout rooms for group work, screen sharing for presentations, and integrated quizzes for instant feedback. This blend of synchronous and asynchronous learning creates a dynamic and versatile educational environment.

However, these advancements come with challenges, such as the digital divide, where not all students have equal access to devices or the internet. Teachers also need training to effectively integrate technology into their lessons.

Despite these hurdles, technology continues to democratize education, empowering learners and educators alike. By embracing these innovations while addressing their challenges, we can build an inclusive, adaptive, and future-ready education system.

Mexican Chocolate Chili

 Seriously good chili for cold winter days! 

2 T olive oil

1 onion, diced

1 t chopped garlic

2 lbs lean ground beef

1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies

1 packet taco seasoning mix

1 can diced tomatoes

1 jar (16 oz) Ortega Thick & Chunky Salsa

2 c water

1/2 c semisweet chocolate chips

1/2 c slivered almonds

1 t ground cinnamon

1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained

Heat oil over medium heat in large pot until hot. Add onion and garlic. Cook and stir until unions are tender, about 3 minutes.

Add beef, chiles, and seasoning mix. Cook and stir about 5 minutes or until meat is browned. 

Stir in tomatoes, salsa, water, chocolate chips, almonds and cinnamon. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Simmer 45 minutes stirring every 15 minutes. Add beans, heat 15 minutes longer or until beans are heated through. 

Makes 8 servings. 

Garnish with crumbled taco shells, shredded cheddar cheese, cilantro and diced tomatoes

Prep Time:  15 minutes

Start to Finish: 1.5 hours