Category: Original Pie!

Daily Prompt @ The Pie!

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Daily writing prompt
Write a letter to your 100-year-old self.
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Hey, old man! I hope you’re reading this with a smirk, maybe a glass of something strong in your hand. It’s probably more like a cup of tea if the doctor’s finally won that battle. I’m sitting here in 2025, trying to imagine what a century of life looks like on you. I’m picturing a lot of wrinkles, a few scars, and, if I’ve done this right, a hell of a lot of stories.

I’m wondering what you’ve made of your life. Did we chase those dreams I’m scribbling about today? The ones about building something that matters, loving hard and seeing every corner of this wild world? I hope you’re nodding, thinking, “Yeah, kid, we did alright.” I’m betting you’ve got some epic tales. How about that time we climbed a mountain, or made a family, or just sat quietly somewhere beautiful and felt alive?

I’ll admit, I’m a little nervous writing this. What if we didn’t figure it all out? What if we stumbled too much? But I’m choosing to believe you’re proud of me. You’re proud of us. I hope you’ve learned to forgive the dumb stuff I’m probably doing right now, like stressing over things that won’t matter in a decade, let alone a lifetime.

How’s the world now? Did we fix the mess we’re in, or is it still a chaotic ride? I hope you’re surrounded by people who matter like some kids, grandkids, friends who’ve stuck around. I’m working hard to set that up for you. And if you’re alone, I hope you’ve found peace in it, because I’m promising you now that I’ll live a life worth remembering.

Take care of yourself, alright? Don’t give up on the little things. Stretch those creaky bones, laugh at something stupid and tell someone you love them. I’m rooting for you from back here, trying to make sure you’ve got a good story to tell.

Pineapple On Pizza?

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Few topics in the culinary world ignite as much passion (or outright chaos) as the question of pineapple on pizza. Known as the Hawaiian pizza (despite its questionable Hawaiian credentials), this topping combo of sweet, juicy pineapple and savory, melty cheese has been dividing pizza lovers since its inception. So, should pineapple be allowed on pizza? Let’s slice into the debate, weigh the pros and cons and see if we can find some common ground. Or do we agree to disagree over a hot slice?

Let’s start with the pro-pineapple camp, because I’ll admit that I’m a bit of a convert. Pineapple on pizza brings something unique to the table: a burst of sweetness that cuts through the richness of cheese and the saltiness of toppings like ham or pepperoni. It’s a flavor contrast that works in the same way a drizzle of honey elevates a charcuterie board, or a splash of balsamic glaze transforms a Caprese salad. Sweet and savory isn’t a new concept. I mean, it’s a classic for a reason.

The texture’s another win. Those golden chunks of pineapple add a juicy, tender bite that complements the crisp crust and gooey cheese. When paired with ham or Canadian bacon (as in the classic Hawaiian style), it’s a nod to surf and turf vibes. There’s land and sea, sweet and salty, all in one bite. Plus, it’s a mood lifter. There’s something inherently fun and rebellious about pineapple on pizza! It’s the topping that says, “I don’t play by the rules and I’m delicious doing it.”

On the flip side, the anti-pineapple crowd has some strong arguments, and I get it. The pizza traditionalists aren’t wrong to clutch their pearls. Pizza, at its core, is an Italian masterpiece born from simple, harmonious ingredients: dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella, maybe some basil or a sprinkle of oregano. Pineapple feels like an interloper, a tropical gatecrasher at a Mediterranean party. For purists, it’s not just a topping, but rather a betrayal of pizza’s soul.

Then there’s the practical gripe: pineapple can make pizza soggy. Its high water content seeps into the crust, turning a perfectly crisp base into a mushy mess if not handled with care. And let’s talk about taste. Some people argue that the sweetness overwhelms the balance, clashing with the tangy sauce and savory toppings rather than complementing them. “Pizza’s not dessert!” the detractors cry, and they’ve got a point here. We agree there’s a line between innovation and absurdity, and pineapple might just be tiptoeing over it.

So, should pineapple be a pizza topping? Yes, because it can be, and plenty of people love it. I include myself inthis grouping on the right day. But if you’re a staunch traditionalist who thinks it’s an abomination, I respect your right to a pineapple free pie. The real magic of pizza is that there’s room for all of us at the table. We welcome the purists, rebels and everyone in between. Just don’t ask me to share my slice.

Daily Prompt @ The Pie!

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Daily writing prompt
What is your middle name? Does it carry any special meaning/significance?
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My middle name is Eugene. Unaware of any real personal meaning or significance to me in relation to immediate family, I decided to dig a little deeper into the name.

Historically, Eugene has popped up in some fascinating places. It’s tied to European royalty (think princes and dukes from centuries past) and even has a religious angle with figures like St. Eugene, a 7th century martyr who stood his ground for his beliefs. There’s also Pope Eugene III in the 12th century, who led the Catholic Church during some wild times, like the Second Crusade.

Closer to home, I found out it’s a name that’s had a steady presence in the U.S. as well. It seems to have peaked in popularity around the early 20th century, often as a first name, but still hanging on as a middle name for folks like me.

I’m not sure how much of that “well born” vibe I’ve earned yet. I mean, I try to be a decent person, but I’m no saint or prince. Still, there’s something motivating about carrying a name with that kind of legacy. It makes me wonder if names shape us in subtle ways. Like, do I feel a little more responsible, a little more grounded because of it? Or is it just a fun piece of trivia to pull out at parties? Either way, I’m kind of proud to have Eugene tucked in there, like a hidden badge of honor.

Check The Backseat…

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Ever think about how much your car’s backseat spills the tea on who you are? It’s like the junk drawer of your life. The exception? It’s on wheels and way more public when you’re giving someone a lift. Whether it’s a pristine void or a chaotic landfill, that space is a dead giveaway about your personality, habits and maybe even your deepest secrets (kidding about that last one… or am I?)

If your backseat looks like it’s ready for a magazine shoot (empty, vacuumed, maybe even sporting a faint new car smell) you’re probably the type who thrives on order. You’re the friend who color codes their pantry and never misses a deadline. A clean backseat screams control freak (in the best way) or someone who just doesn’t have time for mess. Bonus points if you’ve got a single, purposeful item back there, like a yoga mat. That’s peak “I’ve got my life together” energy.

Now, if your backseat’s a graveyard of coffee cups, gym bags and that jacket you swore you’d drop off at the cleaner’s three months ago, you’re likely living life at 100 miles an hour. You’re busy, practical and maybe a little scatterbrained. This isn’t a judgment, after all, it’s a lifestyle. You’re the one who’s always got a story about why there’s a random flip flop back there, and honestly, we love the vibe. It’s relatable.

Crumbs, juice boxes, a rogue Lego piece that will stab someone’s foot someday. Does that one sound familiar? If your backseat’s a shrine to kid chaos or covered in pet hair, you’re the MVP of family life. Your car’s less a vehicle and more a mobile HQ, complete with snacks, toys and probably a spare diaper or two. You’re juggling a million things and your backseat’s proof you’re keeping it together (even if it doesn’t look like it).

Do you have blankets, a dog eared paperback, a stash of granola bars in your backseat? You’re the spontaneous soul who’s always down for a detour. Maybe you’ve got a guitar or a camping chair tucked back there, just in case. Your car’s an extension of your free spirit, ready for a picnic, a nap, or a deep chat at 2 A.M. under the stars. It’s curated chaos and it’s charming as hell.

And then there’s the wildcard: the backseat that defies explanation. A single mitten from 2019, a half-eaten bag of chips, a mysterious sock. You’re not sure how it got this way, but you’re rolling with it. This is the “go with the flow” energy we all secretly admire. There’s zero pretense and all of the authenticity.

So, what’s your backseat saying about you? Next time you hop in your car, take a peek back there. It might just reveal more than you’d expect.

Time To Celebrate!

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Happy National Cereal Day, everyone!

Today marks the annual celebration of one of the world’s most beloved breakfast staples. Whether you’re a fan of crispy flakes, sugary puffs, or hearty granola, this day is all about honoring the bowlfuls of joy that have fueled mornings (and late night snacks) for generations.

So, grab your favorite box, pour some milk (we’re not here to judge if you skip the milk) and let’s dive into why National Cereal Day deserves a spot on your calendar.

While the exact origins of National Cereal Day are a bit murky (no official proclamation exists), it’s widely recognized every March 7th as a nod to cereal’s enduring legacy.

Cereal as we know it began in the late 19th century, thanks to pioneers like Dr. John Harvey Kellogg and his brother Will Keith Kellogg. What started as a health food experiment at their Battle Creek, Michigan sanitarium turned into a global phenomenon. Corn Flakes, introduced in 1894, were the spark that ignited a breakfast revolution and the next thing you know, cereal became a household name.

Let’s be real: cereal is a cultural icon. It’s the breakfast of champions (thanks, Wheaties!), the midnight munchie of choice and a lifesaver for anyone too busy to cook. It’s versatile so it can be eaten dry, soaked in milk, or even sprinkled over yogurt. There’s a cereal for every mood, from the wholesome bran flakes that scream “I’m adulting” to the neon colored loops that whisper “I’m still a kid at heart.”

Not sure how to mark the occasion? Here are a few ideas to make March 7th extra delicious:

Try a New Cereal: Step out of your comfort zone. If you’re a die-hard Cheerios fan, give a quirky, limited edition flavor a whirl. The cereal aisle is a treasure trove of surprises.

Host a Cereal Party: Invite friends over, have everyone bring their favorite box and set up a cereal bar. Bonus points for pairing them with unexpected milks like almond, oat, or even chocolate.

Get Creative: Use cereal in a recipe. We’re thinking cereal crusted French toast, homemade granola bars, or a crunchy topping for ice cream.

Nostalgia Trip: Revisit the cereal of your childhood. Pour yourself a bowl and let the memories flood back.

Share the Love: Post a photo of your cereal setup on social media with #NationalCerealDay. Spread the joy and see what others are eating!

So, here’s to cereal! It really is the unsung hero of breakfast. Whether you’re team soggy or team crispy, let’s raise a spoon to National Cereal Day 2025. What’s your favorite way to enjoy it? You can let us know in the comments!

Daily Prompt @ The Pie!

~ Pie President ~ 2 Comments
Daily writing prompt
What is one question you hate to be asked? Explain.
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Where do you see yourself five years from now?

Honestly, it’s a loaded one. Five years feels far enough away to dream big, but close enough that I can’t just shrug it off with some vague, “Oh, I’ll figure it out.” So, here I am, putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) to wrestle with it.

If I’m being real, five years from now (March 2030) I’d love to see myself in a place where I’ve got a bit more figured out. Not everything, mind you; I’m not delusional. But I’d like to think I’ll have a stronger grip on who I am and what I want out of this wild ride called life.

Right now, I’m juggling a million things with work, relationships, that nagging voice telling me I should’ve started that side hustle already. In five years, I hope I’ve carved out a path that feels less like a chaotic sprint and more like a purposeful stride.

Career wise, I see myself growing into something I’m proud of. Maybe I’ve climbed a few rungs up whatever ladder I’m on, or maybe I’ve ditched the ladder entirely and built my own thing.

I’ve always had this itch to create something. It’s writing, designing, or just throwing ideas at the wall until something sticks. By 2030, I’d love to have a project or a role that lets me flex that creativity while still paying the bills. I don’t need to be a millionaire (though I wouldn’t say no) but I want to wake up most days feeling like what I do matters.

The truth is, I can paint rosy pictures all day but life has a way of throwing curveballs. Five years ago, I couldn’t have predicted half the stuff I’m dealing with now. The good or the bad.

So maybe the real answer is less about specifics and more about a vibe. In 2030, I want to be a human who’s still curious, still learning, still laughing at dumb stuff. I want to look back at today (March 6th, 2025) and think, “You didn’t have it all figured out, but you were on the right track.”

I’d like to be a little wiser, a little braver and still very much me with some better stories to tell.

Is It Crispy?

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Over the past decade, the use of “crispy” and “crispiness” in Yelp restaurant reviews has jumped by 20 percent in the U.S., according to data floating around from folks like Bon Appétit who’ve dug into the trend.

It’s not just random chatter either as it reflects how much people obsess over texture in food. “Crispy” isn’t just a buzzword, guys, it’s a sensory hook.

Studies from way back, like Alina Szczesniak’s work at General Foods in the ‘50s, show crispiness is a big deal psychologically as it keeps you eating, triggers that satisfying crunch sound and signals freshness or quality. Yelp’s a goldmine for spotting this shift because it’s where people gush (or gripe) about their meals in real time.

Why the uptick? It seems that part of might be cultural. We have fried chicken sandwiches, potato chips and all sorts of crispy innovations that continue to have moments.

Social media amplifies it as well with those viral food pics where the crisp factor is front and center. Plus, restaurants are engineering it on the daily! Chefs tweak batters or frying techniques to hit that texture sweet spot and diners notice.

On Yelp, “crispy” often pops up praising wings, fries, or even fancy stuff like “inverted crispy pork skin” from high end spots. It’s less about the word itself and more about what it promises…We all want that bite that delivers!

Daily Prompt @ The Pie!

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Daily writing prompt
You’re writing your autobiography. What’s your opening sentence?
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“I came into this world with a howl and a grin, a scrappy kid from nowhere, ready to wrestle life’s big questions under the wide, unblinking sky.”

I really was a scrappy kid. Oh, and I’ve had cute dimples every day since.

What’s That Smell?

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We all have our quirks, right? Those little things about us that make people raise an eyebrow or tilt their head in confusion. Mine? I secretly love the smell of gasoline. Yes, that pungent, chemical whiff that wafts around gas stations. It’s the one most people recoil from like it’s a personal attack on their senses. To me, it’s weirdly delightful, and I’m here to explain why.

I know, I know, gasoline doesn’t sound like a contender for “favorite scent.” It’s not exactly lavender fields or fresh baked cookies. But there’s something about that sharp, tangy bite that hooks me every time I fill up my tank. It’s not like I’m sitting there sniffing the pump (let’s not get carried away), but when that faint vapor hits, I catch myself taking an extra breath. It’s crisp, bold, and oddly invigorating. It’s like a shot of espresso for my nose.

Maybe nostalgia is doing the heavy lifting. Growing up, I’d tag along on road trips where the gas station stop was a ritual. We would stop and stretch our legs, grab snacks and listen for that glug-glug of the pump. Or maybe it’s from watching my dad tinker with lawnmowers and old cars, the garage steeped in that unmistakable aroma. Whatever it is, gasoline’s scent has a pull that’s hard to shake.

I’m fully aware most people disagree. To them, it’s a noxious, headache inducing stench. For most people, it’s something to escape, not embrace. I’ve seen friends grimace and wave their hands like they’re fending off a swarm of bees when we’re near a fuel spill. “How can you stand that?” they ask, as if I’ve just admitted to liking moldy socks. And fairly admit it’s not a “pretty” smell. It’s raw, industrial and tied to fumes most associate with pollution or car exhaust. But to me, that edge is part of its charm.

I can’t be the only one with a soft spot for a “gross” smell. Some folks swear by the earthy funk of rain soaked dirt or the briny tang of fish markets. Others confess to loving the sweaty, lived in smell of a gym bag (okay, that one’s a stretch for me). Point is, our noses are weirdly personal. What’s revolting to one person can be comforting to another. Gasoline just happens to be my oddball pick.

So, I’ve spilled my secret and now it’s your turn. What smell do you secretly enjoy that makes other people gag? Maybe it’s wet dog fur, burnt popcorn, or that funky cheese that clears a room. Drop those answers in the comments!

Life’s too short to pretend we all love roses and vanilla, right?

Daily Prompt @ The Pie!

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Daily writing prompt
What are three objects you couldn’t live without?
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We all have those things that make life not just bearable, but enjoyable, and they are absolute must haves that we’d be lost without.

For me, it boils down to three: coffee, music, and the internet. Sure, I could technically survive without them (I mean, humans did it for centuries), but why would I want to?

Coffee is my lifeline. I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s the first thing I think about when I roll out of bed. That rich, bitter aroma hitting my senses is like a gentle nudge from the universe saying, “You’ve got this.” Whether it’s a strong black brew to kickstart a busy morning or a frothy latte to savor during a quiet moment, coffee is non-negotiable. It’s not just about the caffeine (though that’s a big perk); it’s the ritual, the warmth, the little burst of joy in every sip. Without it, I’d be a groggy shell of myself, stumbling through the day like a zombie. No thanks.

Next up is music. I can’t overstate how much it shapes my world. There’s something magical about how a single song can lift you up, calm you down, or just make you feel understood. Need to power through a workout? Cue the high energy beats. Feeling introspective? Give me some mellow acoustic vibes. Music is my constant companion whether I’m cooking, working, or just staring out a window pretending I’m in a movie. Without it, life would feel flat, like a film with no score. It’s not just background noise; it’s the pulse that keeps me going.

Finally, the internet. I know, it sounds basic, but it’s a game changer. It’s how I stay connected to friends across the globe, dive down rabbit holes of random knowledge (did you know octopuses have three hearts?) I also waste a lot of time scrolling memes when I should be productive. Beyond the entertainment, it’s a tool that keeps me informed, inspired and occasionally employed. Could I live without it? Maybe in a cabin in the woods type scenario, but in the real world, it’s my tether to everything that matters. Plus, how else would I order takeout on a lazy night?