Persimmon, Christmas Movies and Compassion
Intrigued by seeing persimmon fruit in the produce section of the grocery store, I decided to be adventurous.
The Fuyu variety that I found are about the size of tomatoes. When choosing persimmons, select those that are deep red or orange, have glossy, smooth skin and have their green leaves intact.
I bought two not knowing anything about them. We ate one a few days after purchase and the other sat for about 5 more days.
The first one was firm and sweet, however the second one was sweeter with more of a honey flavor. It probably had time to ripen, since I kept it at room temperature. Refrigeration stops further ripening. 
Cut persimmon like you would an apple, by removing the green stem, inner core and slicing into bite-size pieces. The skin is a little tough—good fiber.
Persimmons have lots of important nutrients, are a good source of fiber, promote heart health, support healthy vision, reduce inflammation and aid in digestion.
When I shared one with Mr. Non-Compliant, he asked “So why would I eat this instead of an apple, if it’s like eating an apple?”
My response, “It’s good to add variety to your diet to get lots of nutrients and experience adventures in eating.”
He ate it. I think he then pulled out the container of M&M’s. More variety and adventure, I’m guessing.
I’ll be buying more of these. Persimmon would be delicious in a salad with greens, goat cheese, walnuts or pecans, extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Great eye appeal too.
You could also add this attractive fruit to hot cereal, smoothies, baked goods, yogurt. 
If you choose the heart-shaped Hachiya persimmons, they must be fully ripe to be enjoyable. This variety is on the mushy side and is well-suited for chutneys, pies and puddings.
Christmas Movies
When you think of Christmas movies, what comes to mind? The Santa Clause, Home Alone, It’s a Wonderful Life, Elf, to name a few. The dispute in our home is whether or not Die Hard is in this category.
I vote NO. I’m outnumbered.
Curiously, what do YOU think? I’d love to know. Is Die Hard a Christmas movie?
I’d like to settle this once and for all.
Thanks for your input. (Please vote NO.)
Compassion
It’s that time of year when life can feel a bit crazier than normal. As our patience is tested to the extreme, may we all be more compassionate and offer others grace.
We never know what our neighbor or fellow driver may be dealing with.
Remember to drink your water, eat some vegetables and get sleep. It’ll be easier to find compassion for the rest of humanity—and for yourself.
Sending you love,
Health Coach Carol
“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” — Dalai Lama