I Simply Remember These Favorite Things with Dr. A~ April 2025
I have definitely joined the ranks of the “getting older people”. By definition, we are the ones who complain that the days get longer while the years are getting shorter. The latter is indeed so; how can it already be April, about to turn to May? Thank goodness, we always have something to look forward to; here are a few more favorite things we can dream about.
A Plant - Japanese roof iris, Iris tectorum
It has been hinted that some of my plant choices are a little esoteric, that is, wonderful but not easy to find. The Japanese roof iris is almost a no-brainer in nearly everyone’s garden and is easy to find at your local retail garden center. Sporting handsome blue or white flowers in the spring, often before the bearded iris, it is simple and yet consistently delightful.
As plants get larger over time, many flowers are formed, and compared to many other irises, blooms for relatively long period of time. I have grown this in various gardens for years, and I still marvel at how much pleasure it provides.
A Garden - Royal Botanical Gardens, Hamilton, Ontario
I have been writing this account of my visits here every month for nearly two and a half years; you would think I would run out of obvious places to share. However, as I look back on my list of great gardens, I’m surprised I haven't taken you to the Royal Botanical Gardens, Canada’s national botanical garden.
Opened in 1941, Canada’s most extensive garden comprises over 2,100 acres of gardens and nature preserves. Its importance to the ecosystem was recognized when RBG was designated a Canadian National Historic Site in 1994. All of those honors are indeed impressive, but for those of us who relish the exercise and appeal of gardens, there are over 100 acres of organized gardens and miles of wonderful walking trails. Enjoy your visit.
A Book - The Poisoner’s Handbook, Murder and the Birth of Forensic Medicine
Author: Deborah Blum
Non-Fiction
My daughter asks me, “Dad, what depressing book are you reading this month?” It is sometimes difficult to disagree that some of the books are rather gruesome, but history tends to be shocking at times. Actually, it is a mystery book that follows the adventures of the emerging science of toxicology in New York City during the 1920s and 1930s. Poison was one of the easiest crimes to commit and also one of the most difficult to convict because there were essentially no tests to determine the poison.
The book follows Dr. Charles Norris and Alexander Gettler as they try to unravel how various poisons affect the body and how to use the newfound science of toxicology to bring justice to the unfortunate victims of poisoning. One of the most interesting chapters was how the Prohibition laws resulted in more deaths by alcohol poisoning than ever before or after. Despite its name, it is a fascinating and positive book.
A Show/Movie- Jiro Dreams of Sushi, a documentary
Perhaps some of my choices this month are a little over the top. However, finding a show that was so surprisingly refreshing about a topic that, at least to me, is so uninteresting, is well worth sharing.
This is the story of 85-year-old Jiro Ono, considered to be the world’s greatest sushi chef. He owns a very unprestigious restaurant in an unprestigious location in a Tokyo subway station. Despite its inauspicious appearance, it was the first restaurant of its kind to be awarded three Michelin stars.
The story of Jiro’s relentless efforts to be the best chef in the world is fascinating, showing how he chooses the best tuna to how he studies the reactions of his customers. However, such dedication comes at a cost, and the story touches on his relationship with his son Yoshikazu, the worthy heir of his father’s legacy but who is unable to step out from Jiro’s shadow.
The documentary was released in 2011. Today, Jiro is 99 years old, and his restaurant is run by his son.
A Place - Athens, Georgia
Downtown Athens
The Arches, University of Georgia
There are no snowcapped mountains in the vista, no surf crashing on an ocean coast; in fact, even the rivers are kind of disappointing. Yet, Athens has been discovered by young and old alike, appearing on lists of Best Retirement Town, Best Value City, Best College Town, and many more. There is so much about this small city that attracts people from all over the world to settle here. That it is a bustling healthy college town brings in the youth and the brains; the University of Georgia being unanimously recognized as one of America’s outstanding public Universities.
There are restaurants to cater to the student population (bars, pizzas) and to high end guests (from Thai to Sushi, cafes and bistros). There is always something going on, including the very famous music scene (think REM, the B-52s, and the Spreadheads), the equally well-known UGA Bulldogs sports teams, and not just football and B-ball. The swimming, volleyball, tennis, track, and equestrian teams are always outstanding great fun, without the crazy hordes of people. And speaking of smart people, Athens is a progressive town, an oasis of blue in an otherwise red state.
And lastly, you know a guy. Let me know when you will be visiting The Classic City; we’ll have a wonderful time.
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Anyone who enjoys reading, traveling, and gardening could write a column like this. So, if you're keen, please send me feedback on your favorites and include a book, place, plant, or garden you recommend.
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