Food is central to every culture. The what, why, and hows of culinary history are diverse and fascinating. From the forgotten Roman condiment to the short-lived hot soda, there’s no end to the depth of interesting food facts. NO. 1: DOUBLE-DIP FAUX PAS The nobility of the Ottoman Empire followed a complex but rational code of culinary conduct. After washing with soap and water, they ate primarily with their hands. Once the meal began, they followed rules much like ours. Double dipping and lip-smacking were frowned upon, and eating more than one bite of a dish was rude, too. Luckily, meals had dozens of unique dishes. NO. 2: THE LOST CONDIMENT The Romans left behind a vibrant legacy. Aqueducts are still used throughout Europe, while their language is the basis of many other languages. One thing that hasn’t stood the test of time is garum. They poured this condiment on almost everything they ate. Made from fermented fish, garum’s salty, fishy flavor no longer appeals to the average Westerner’s palate. NO. 3: HOT BEVERAGE FAIL Dr. Pepper, like most sodas, is best enjoyed cold. This means there are fewer soda sales during the winter when people opt for comforting, warm beverages. To remedy this, the soda company tried to push hot Dr. Pepper in the 1960s. Meant to be served warm with lemon, they marketed it to magazines, television, and radio. The campaign was unsurprisingly unsuccessful. NO. 4: ROAMING RAMEN Ramen is one of Japan’s most iconic dishes, but it doesn’t actually originate from Japan. The noodle soup comes from China, where it is known as shina soba. It became popular in Japan after World War II. The country had undergone a food shortage for years but had finally started importing supplies. Chinese food was believed to be nourishing and filling, so street vendors offering cheap but delicious ramen became a mainstay. Once instant ramen was invented, the noodle soup became associated with Japan worldwide. Whenever you sit down for dinner, consider how you eat and the odd traditions you unconsciously observe. We’re all part of a marvelous culinary culture and should celebrate what makes us unique. 4 FASCINATING HISTORICAL FOOD FACTS
Tips for Working Parents Parenthood is one of the most rewarding life experiences a person can have. But warming up baby bottles between meetings or caravaning your kid’s friends to soccer practice after work can leave you ready for a nap. For working parents, having the ability to succeed in the workplace and get plenty of quality family time can be a balancing act. While there’s no such thing as a perfect work-life balance, you can find harmony in your life by focusing your time and remaining kind to yourself. FROM BOTTLES TO BOARDROOMS
Here’s some practical advice for busy working parents.
CREATE A SCHEDULE. Scheduling is essential when working on your career and family obligations. Share your schedule with your family so they understand when you are available or when you are in a meeting. Be sure to block out time for self-care, socializing, and activities with your children. If possible, create work-life boundaries by setting working hours and non-working hours. TALK TO YOUR KIDS. Leaving your children at daycare as you head to the office can be difficult to get used to, but have honest conversations with your children about your job. Explain to them what you do for a living and how it impacts the lives of others. You are the best person to help your children understand that sometimes you will be busy at work and not free to spend time with them. FIND SHORTCUTS. Seek out shortcuts that will make everyday responsibilities easier and quicker. Are there options to make multiple lunches for the week at once? Can you create a chore chart to have the family help you with obligations around the house? You can also find hacks at work without compromising your productivity, like finding a helpful project management program to aid you in scheduling your calendar. DO WHAT’S BEST FOR YOU. Working moms especially can receive criticism from others, but what others think about you is their business, not yours. Focus on what’s best for you and your children. Prioritize self-care because you need energy to accomplish all your personal and professional goals. You can do small things for yourself, such as reading a new book or enjoying a new scented candle. Self-care also means getting proper sleep, eating right, and keeping one’s stress under control. Parenthood looks different for everyone. If you are a working parent, stay positive, reach out to others for help when needed, and remember to celebrate yourself for the fantastic work ethic and grace you’re passing on to your children by example.
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