In January 2007 I interviewed Joan Waldbaum for her awards as a champion swimmer at the Maccabi Games in Australia in 2006. Believe it or not, Joan became a gold medal winner again at the Maccabi games held recently in Argentina. She emailed me this message: “I thought you would like to know that I won 6 gold medals at the Pan Am Maccabi. I was the oldest female swimmer!!!!!(again) It was a wonderful experience.” Then, the next day or so she emailed me that on May 12th she will be inducted into the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame. Congratulations, Joan!!!

Despite the bare branches of another tree outside my window, Joan’s achievements (Above) and Jeanne’s comments (Below) warm my heart!

Last month (January 2008) I reviewed Jeanne Siphron’s book, Fit to be Crazy. I also asked Jeanne to send me a list of books she found helpful in searching for answers for her manic-depressive illness. I plan to add my own book list and post it in May, National Mental Health Month. Attached to the list were some heartfelt comments I wanted to share with you, with Jeanne’s permission:

“Your beautiful MENUPAUSE website is colorful and appealing. The positive approach, sense of humor and congenial language shine through winter’s darkness and offers warmth and hope to the viewers…..The profile gives hope to me, manic depression and Fit to be Crazy. I am cheered that you included your inspiring article on your website.”

Thank you, Jeanne, for all your positive comments. Comments such as these keep me writing!

March is coming with St. Patrick’s Day and my emphasis on green-colored foods, such as kale, chard, spinach, broccoli, etc. Below is a dish with two foods you probably rarely eat: Kale & Tempeh (made from soybeans).

I hope the recipe next month will encourage you to try it, even if only one or two bites. You might be pleasantly surprised. Other recipes with more familiar ingredients will also be included, thank goodness!