1463 – Summertime Fearless Flyer Holidays 2025

Episode 1463 – Summertime Fearless Flyer Holidays 2025

 

SCOOTER: Friends beyond the binary, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, fearless readers of the Fearless Flyer or traders of Joes, Joe-Joe theirself, or employees of Trader Joe's, shoppers of Trader Joe's, people that are like, what’s a Trader Joe? Well, it’s a grocery store, and I believe this episode will be my second trip, second episode, about going to my local…my new local Trader Joe's, only one option, and a bit away where I have to plan going. Not so far away, but no more spur-of-the-moment trips to Trader Joe's for Scoots, which is great for a sleep podcaster because what makes it work about a sleep podcast is that I do struggle sometimes for being intentional and planning, and I tend to be a meanderer, even during…and well, these…making this show, I can use my meanders for good.

 

It’s like, sometimes those…in day-to-day operations…I'm more of a bouncing meanderer at a higher speed during the day, which makes go…just driving a extra twenty minutes to go grocery shopping…it seems like quite the task. But that’s why I love making this show. If you're new, you're probably very, very confused, and I respect that. I’m here to try to help you take your mind off of stuff, keep you company, and then help you fall asleep, or you fall asleep as a result of that. Or if you can't sleep, at least you have a friend here keeping you company and taking your mind off of stuff. So, I’m glad you're here. This show is a bit different. So, the way it works is I’m gonna…well, I’ll just talk to you for…I'll explain it more in the intro coming up. But I’m really glad you're here. It does take a couple tries to get used to, so just see how it goes if you're new. If you're coming back or returning for a visit, so glad to be here with you.

 

These are a pretty popular style of show, where I read through the Fearless Flyer from Trader Joe's…this year, 2025, a holiday one. Kinda getting in that mood for the holiday season, and I do think a little bit light…I guess nostalgic celebrating in the summer the holiday season can be fun. One of our state parks does it and nearby that I used to visit, and I just think it’s a cool thing, especially when it’s in a public-service place like a state park. It can be fun, especially for the kids or the kid…people that are kids at heart. So anyway, whatever…how…and you could always listen to this later in the year, too, or you could just lay back and listen to me murmur.

 

But I am glad you're here, and what we got coming up is support; that’s just for the people that listen to the podcast all the time and whose lives are continually made better by the show. So, if you're new, you're not in a position to support the show, or you're not interested in supporting the show, you only listen occasionally, don't worry, we got you. Then after that will be a long, meandering intro meant to ease you into bedtime, not to put you to sleep, where we kinda hang out together, and then I’ll be talking about that Trader Joe's Fearless Flyer. So, I’m glad you're here, and again, if this podcast does make your life incredibly better or you couldn't replace this podcast or you wouldn't want to, these are the ways you could support the show back for all the good it brings your life, either these sponsors or directly. Thanks.

 

Intro: Hey, are you up all night tossing, turning, mind racing? Trouble getting to sleep? Trouble staying asleep? Well, welcome. This is Sleep With Me, the podcast that puts you to sleep. We do it with a bedtime story. Alls you need to do is get in bed, turn out the lights, and press Play. I’m gonna do the rest. What I’m going to attempt to do is create a safe place where you could set aside whatever’s keeping you awake. That could be thoughts, you know, thoughts on your mind, things you're thinking about, thoughts about the past, the present, the future, something you got coming up, something…thoughts; I got a lot of them.

 

It could be feelings, anything coming up for you emotionally related to those thoughts or feelings that are just there, it could be physical sensations, changes in time, temperature, routine, you could be going through something, in the middle of something, getting over something, travelling, you could have guests, maybe you work a different schedule or a inconsistent schedule or your schedule just changed. Whatever it is, the only reason I go through some of the things that might be keeping you awake is so you know you're not alone or you get a sense or a feeling that you're not alone, that you're welcome here, that even if you're not totally understood, there’s a sense of understanding, of shared understanding, where you could feel understood or you could feel at ease, that we get it, that we don't take whatever it is that brought you here lightly or too seriously, but respectfully, right?

 

Whatever it is that brought you here, most of us on a deep level have caring and respect for that because we’ve been there or we’ve been somewhere similar, and that’s really the foundation underneath the show and the thing that connects us. Again with a podcast, it’s indirect but it’s real. We are really connected here in the deep, dark night even though it’s indirectly or like…I don't know if there was ever…there probably was wireless Morse code. Or, I guess it’s…I never know if it’s Morse or Morris code. It’s definitely not Morris code, but that’s how I…I seem to…Morse code. I think it’s Morse code. Morris code? I’m not trying to do a bit, but my brain is. Is it Morse code or Morris code? It’s Morse code, Morse code. Morse…mores? More than what? Oh boy, I was trying to make a heartfelt thing and then my brain’s just…it’s Morse…not…it’s not Morris, like M-O-R-R-I-S. It’s Morse, Morse. There you go; I got it…there you go; I got it.

 

No more need to joke about it because I got it that time, I think. I just got…I don't know, is that…? Morse, Morse. You're saying…are you mumbling Morris or are you saying Morse? Okay, never mind. There is some lightheartedness in here because whatever it is that brought you here, I hope I can make you feel welcome. Even if you say to yourself, Scoots, there’s no possible way you could understand what it feels like for me right now and what brought me here, I can respect that, too, and I can try to create some space in the deep, dark night for it, because there is space here, welcoming space. Because the thing is, whatever it is that brought you here, there’s someone…there’s enough people listening that there’s someone listening right now somewhere in the world, maybe nearby, maybe pretty far away, who’s been there or been somewhere really similar, and they're really welcoming you. They're really glad you're here. They really do get it, and they're hopeful for you.

 

They're wishing you well. I don't know if you could take a second to feel that, but it is real. There are real people rooting for you right now, and there’s people that are going through something different; thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, changes…all the stuff I list. Some people, it’s just…they got a big test coming up or they've had a major life change, or you're brand-new and you're just listening to this for the first time and you're confused and maybe skeptical or doubtful. Those are all valid things. There’s people here, the regular listeners rooting for you to get a good night's sleep, or at least a night tonight that’s a little bit better, 'cause you could think…you could even say it in your bed. There are optional participations. Sending love and kindness or a softer version of that or indirect kindness across the deep, dark night is one. Another one would be saying Morris…trying to do that, it’s like…for me, at least, it’s harder than I think. Morse.

 

I almost got it, but then my brain said, nope, sounds like Morris. Morris. But it’s Morse. Morse? Morris. Yeah, it sounds like you're just saying Morris really fast. But no, I’m saying Morse. Okay, I’m just telling you it sounds like you're saying Morris fast. So, you could try that. It may bring some levity. Or, it doesn't need…it may not. But I guess that’s all a way of saying everyone listening is glad you're here. Even if the show doesn't work out for you, we’ll have other options for you, 'cause the thing about this podcast is everybody listening knows that you deserve a good night's sleep, that you deserve a bedtime that you could look forward to or feel neutral about, that doesn't have to start…for me, when I start dreading bedtime for Sunday night on like, Friday evening and definitely all through Saturday, and then that continues…you know, that whole thing.

 

You deserve something better than that or something that’s gonna help you with that so that you could get the sleep you need on a regular basis so your life is more manageable tomorrow and that you could become part of this wonderful group where it’s optional to send your kindness across the deep, dark night, where it’s optional to root for other people and to think of them fondly, but that…where that feels good, too, where you can give and receive this indirect kindness. It’s pretty nice. Hopefully you start getting the rest you need and you could be out there in the world flourishing. That means our world’s a better place to be in, with you in it flourishing…is the desire and the goal of the show, because that’s not a small impact if your life is better. It’s a big impact. Even if it’s a little bit better to me, that’s a big impact. So, that’s why I make this podcast. The way it works is I send my voice across the deep, dark night.

 

I use lulling, soothing, creaky, dulcet tones, pointless meanders, and superfluous tangents, which you've kinda heard already. It means I go off topic, something comes up, it takes me off track, my voice is not traditionally soothing, my humor is not traditionally funny; it’s…yeah, it’s like the only…I overuse amuse bouche, but it’s only the ‘amuse’ part of amusing, not the…well, no, not…you say, am I amused? Do I amuse you? I say, okay, let’s not get…how would a Joe Pesci character say Morse? I guess he’d more say, Morse, Morse. What are you going on…? Anyway, we better keep…we better move on. But it would be interesting to see a Joe Pesci character go on and on about Morse code. Or, well, I just…that time I did say Morris code. It’s like a Morris code-based…a pathway in my mind where it just says Morris. I’m pretty sure there was a famous cat in the eighties named Morris the cat. Not Morse the cat, but there’s probably cats named Morse the cat.

 

I think I just said it again, so I’ll just stop saying it now. If I say it correctly…but my brain’s like, just try it one more time. So…oh, I’m glad you're here…oh, this podcast is not traditionally…it’s different than what you may have expected when you got here. So, it does take a couple tries to get used to. That’s what most regular listeners’ experience was. The first time they got here, they were like, what, are you kidding me? This is a sleep podcast? Which tonight would be a pretty normal reaction. People recommend this thing? People listen to this? Well, they kind of listen. I can't believe this is a sleep podcast. Well, here’s the thing; it’s…it does take…just give it a few tries, 'cause on the first try that’s pretty much the majority of people’s reaction. Now, there are people that on the first try they're like, oh, this is what I’ve been looking for my whole life. I didn't know this existed.

 

Finally I get a version of Abbott and Costello or whatever that’s…I've always wondered if the Borscht Belt humor could be less funny and more put-me-to-sleep or whatever, like the Bored Belt. But yeah, you say…or, I would love someone that’s quoting that stuff that has no idea what he’s really talking about. He doesn't know the difference between the…this is a person that puts the Catskills in Poconos. You say, come on, man, don't you realize there’s a difference? I say, okay, thank you. So, these are some deep attempts at humor. Not deep in depth. Has anybody ever done…? I guess that’s why this show is only humor-esque. You say, I mean, what do you…you don't know the difference between the Catskills and the Poconos? I mean…someone’s gonna tell me, oh, the Poconos mountains are in the…I say, okay, well, there you go. I guess that clears that up.

 

I’d be remiss if I didn't say somewhere in those…one of those mountain ranges is not only the place where fictionally Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey’s fictional characters dance with one another, but also within one of those two regions or that region is also the beautiful…former beautiful Mount Airy Lodge, for anybody that listened to WPIX as a child. So, what was my point? Oh, most people don't like this show when they get here. Surprised? That’s okay, right? Give it a few tries. See how it goes. Then on the second or third try you're like, oh, it does feel like it’s…it’s not quite as beautiful as Mount Airy Lodge, but he’s kind of like…it is airy in there in old Scoots’ brain, warm air, for sure. So, just give it a few tries and see how it goes. Now, if it doesn't work out or you already know the show is not for you, that’s fine, too. I still want to help you out.

 

So, I have a website set up, sleepwithmepodcast.com/nothankyou, where you could go. It has other sleep podcasts and sleepy stuff on there so you could still find something that’s gonna help you out. So, check out that website and find something that’s gonna work for you. But give it a few tries. See how it goes, 'cause, yeah, besides the style of the show and my personality, which do take some getting used to, this is also a podcast you don't really listen to. You just kinda barely listen to it. So, that takes a little bit of getting used to, right? You say, okay, I just barely listen to it? Okay, well, yeah, this is gonna take some getting used to. It’s kinda like background noise or a TV on in the other room or a show streaming under your pillow or a friend or a roommate or a partner telling you a story that you're not really paying attention to. Or, like a lot of people put it, like being in class or a seminar or a meeting in a warm room where you can't even pay attention.

 

It’s happened to all of us, where this kind of limbic thing takes over. Maybe it’s 'cause you're tired or maybe it’s the warmth of the room or because you're calm or the person’s not that interesting, but you can't even stay awake, right? So, yeah, this is kinda what that podcast is, elevated background noise that you could listen to but you don't need to listen to. This is also a sleep podcast that’s been around since 2012, not 202012, but I’m not here to put you to sleep. There’s no pressure to fall asleep with this show. It’s not designed to put you to sleep directly but indirectly, 'cause there’s people listening who can't sleep at all, who need a break during the day, who need something else to listen to at work, who are waking up in the middle of the night, and I’m here to the very end to keep them company and you company whether you're awake or asleep, whether you're listening to me or not. Again, yeah, there’s no pressure to fall asleep.

 

That’s why the shows are over an hour, so you don't have to think, oh, I gotta be asleep in fifteen minutes? That definitely wouldn't work for me. Two days ago I had to get up early for something and I was like…even that…and I even tried to go to bed early. But, you know, it’s like, as soon as I think about that, it gets in my head. So, yeah, this is…what was my point? It’s like that…oh, there’s no pressure to fall asleep. My job is to keep you company and take your mind off of stuff so you could fall asleep. So, I’m here to be your bore-friend, your bore-bae, your bore-sib, your bore-bud, your bore-bruh, your bore-cuz, your borebie, boreman, bores, your Boris Borelaf, your chairman of the boreds, your best bore-friend f’eva, and just to hang out with you and keep you company so you could fall asleep or so you're comforted in the deep, dark night, so you feel like somebody’s there to hang out with you. Maybe they're just inane enough and they're hanging out that you drift off.

 

So, yeah, I’m glad you're here. Just try that out, 'cause it’s another thing that takes some getting used to, though once you get used to having a bore-friend, it’s the kinda thing…you're like, man, this is pretty good. Now, here’s…what else? Oh, the other thing I like to go through in the intro is the structure of the show, 'cause it’s very different, and when you're new, the structure definitely throws new listeners off, understandably. So, the show starts off with a greeting; friends beyond the binary, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, so you feel seen and welcomed in. That’s an important part of anything, right? Then the next part…so, this version of the show that’s supported mostly by listeners and then by sponsors benefits the maximum amount of people it can, 'cause paying for it’s optional, and it’s optional for new listeners, people who can't afford to support the show or the sponsors, people that choose not to, and then people that only listen time to time as they're going through tough times for a week or two or a month or two.

 

So, the support makes that optional. You don't gotta worry about it. You could listen to it for free instead of having to buy every episode as it comes out or pay a monthly fee, which now we have to do anyway, and then there’s still advertising. So, this version of the show…yeah, that works for most of those styles of listeners. So, that’s what the support’s about after this intro. Then there will be a long, meandering intro meant to ease you into bedtime, where I introduce what the podcast is but it takes me like twenty, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-one, twenty-two, twenty-five minutes or so. But I follow a familiar structure every time so it’s reassuring, but every intro is new so it has that variety that whatever keeps you awake can't quite get used to. So, hopefully that helps. That’s one of the things I’ve found that helps me, is having something with variety. Otherwise my brain gets used to it and it stops working. So, that’s why every intro is new.

 

The reason the intro, other than my natural ability to go off topic…the reason we kinda set the intros around fifteen to twenty-five minutes is because they're not meant to put you to sleep. While there is a small percentage of people that fall asleep fast — and we do beg those people to support the show directly, 'cause that’s a kinda paradox thing — most listeners are winding down when they listen to the intro. They're getting ready for bed, they're in bed getting comfortable, and they're doing some other chill activity; petting their pets, doodling, looking out the window, coloring, drawing. It could be anything to kinda chill out and wind down. The intro is kind of a part of that wind down. That’s what works for me most of the time and what I’ve seen studies show works for most people, is having a wind down to ease you into bedtime. Yeah, that’s why the intro is like, fifteen to twenty minutes or twenty-five minutes long, to have a buffer.

 

Now, if you decide you don't like the intros but you like the show, we do have a version in every podcast app called Bedtime Stories from Sleep With Me that just has the stories of the show and the greeting. Then on Sleep With Me+, if you want…it has…the episodes come out in a full ad-free version and then a story-only version the same day. But for most people, yeah, if you're in one of those groups, the intros can be part of your routine, the part of the show where we all hang out, wish each other well. I don't know, it’s kinda the most indirect community time of the podcast. Then after the intro will be support. Again, the support is only for those people that listen and their lives are made incredibly better by the podcast. For everybody else, supporting the show is totally optional. Then after the support will be our reading of the Fearless Flyer from the holiday season of 2025 and my thoughts on it, and, yeah, all told, I’ll be here about a hour.

 

I’m really, really glad you're here whether this is your first time or your ten-thousandth time listening. I’m glad you stopped by. I really hope I can bring you some sleepy joy and delight this year in the deep, dark night or every year, whatever you happen to be listening to this, and help you fall asleep. Myself and a team of people work really hard on this show 'cause we really believe in it and we really love helping people out in the deep, dark night. So, if you're a regular person impacted by that work, if you could consider checking out one of these sponsors or supporting the show directly, it’d be a big help, and I’d really appreciate it. Thanks.

 

Alright everybody, it’s Scoots here, and I’m reading through the 2025 holiday guide Fearless Flyer, which I picked up, I thought, three days ago, four days ago, and then it must have stayed in my cart, because I had it in my cart to go in my bag when I made…did a shopping trip. But when I got home it wasn't there. So, I had return…I actually had other errands to run out there. So, I’m gonna be reading through this Fearless Flyer. Maybe you're hearing this in the holiday season; maybe it’s the summer holiday season. It would be nice to put this out for…what is it, holidays in…holidays in July? Shouldn't it be holidays in June? I always get that mixed up. But anyway, I think it is holidays in July. Well, maybe we’ll put it out then. This will also be a double check of what I need to purchase. I still have…what is there…? Twelve days in the holiday season for me when I’m recording this. Also, now I live in a ALDI's area, so I don't know if I’ll bring up any ALDI's purchases, which I did.

 

Alright, this…so, this is a holiday guide. There’s carollers. For Joe-Joe’s worth a darn tootin’, there’s simply no substitutin’. Get this; there’s no gluten at TJ's this year. There’s also a gingerbread person, some holly or mistletoe, gingerbread star or a shortbread star. The first thing I see here is something I feel like I should have…I didn't see, but it’s a definite purchase, maybe; Cashel Blue…Cashel Blue cheese potato chips. I love blue cheese, and these may be blue cheese potato chips. All the culinary exports Ireland is famed for, two of our favorite are hearty, homey potatoes and creamy, full-flavored cheeses. So, there’s both of them in one savory snack. There’s your first alliteration. Can you imagine how excited we were? Cashel Blue cheese Irish potato chips. Cashel Blue cheese, elevated Emerald Isle elegance. Oh boy, it’s a snacking situation. Let’s see, Cashel Blue is considered to be Ireland’s most popular cheese. Cool, creamy, ripe picante overtones clearly come through. Sounds delicious. $2.99.

 

Okay, next up…I don't know about this one 'cause I don't know about honey. Organic fig and honey batard. I do like fig, though. French bread, iconic baguette…what about a spelts bread more rotund presentation, batard? For our money, this lesser-known shape is equally delicious. This one, it comes from a bakery. Figs and honey…just a bit of sweetness. Okay, so, that’s all I could take, is a bit of sweetness in my entire life. Shaped into a oblong loaf…I've been called an oblong loaf before. Light golden-brown, soft and airy on the inside. I’ve never been said…I've never been called soft or airy on the inside, though right now I feel soft and airy on the outside. Warming and crisping in the oven…that does sound really good. Then glorious gluten-free candy cane Joe-Joe's. These are good; I just could never…maybe I should get some. It’s…how do they do it? Well, it’s a ingenious mix of rice flour, oat flour, and tapioca scarch…no, tapioca starch. Classic sweet wintery confection, gluten-free.

 

Those are pretty good. So…but the blue…so, this is a definite and two maybe’s on the front page here. Okay, first one…the first one I’ve had is on Page 2, and it’s a peppermint brookie. You say, what up, my peppermint brookie? You say, I’m Peppermint Patty, Chuck. Please. So, am I your peppermint…am I a peppermint…? Is Charlie Brown a peppermint brookie? These are questions that shouldn't even be asked. Double-decker confection…really good. It’s a peppermint-powered portmanteau. Man, peppermint-powered portmanteau. Just…I'm not being…this writing is unbelievable. Peppermint-powered portmanteau. It really is delicious. They do get it right. I really liked it. 10.5 ounces. It’s in the bakery section. Break-apart reindeer…what is this? Break-apart reindeer. Break-apart reindeer. What is break-apart reindeer? I don't know. It’s a sweet, seasonal joy in a whimsical…small, whimsical package.

 

At first glance it appears to be a simple, cute milk-chocolate reindeer with a sweet, cheery face. However, inside lies a peppermint twist; red-nosed-shaped gummy candies which are gelatin-free. Made in the UK. Clever confectionaire behind a break-apart bunny. Is that different, like it’s hollow? I guess it has to be, right? But this is not just flavorless chocolate. It’s some darn good chocolate. Interesting. I guess I could bring it somewhere and give it to somebody. Then two reindeers are gifting…one’s gifting another one. To my favorite reindeer, who always makes me go to pieces. Oh, Rudolph, are you blushing or is that just your nose thing? I genuinely can't tell. Alright, this is from Milan. How do you say this word? Panettone…Panettone. Panettone. Panettone. Tony, Tone, Tone called. They said, Scoots, learn to pronounce popular words. I said, thanks. Panettone; that’s an Italian sweet bread, anticipated dessert in the holiday season.

 

I still have…I bought it but I still have never eaten it. I don't think I’ve had any panettone in the modern…since I’ve been making this podcast. I probably bought it seven times. But this is a fun twist. It’s panettone and chocolate gelato-style frozen dessert. That’s a lot. Gelato-style frozen dessert; that sounds…no offense, TJ's, like a science project to me. Is that anything like that stuff, whipped topping, dairy-free whipped topping? Okay, but who is to judge? It’s marble chocolate syrup swirls in a panettone-flavored base. I don't even know what panettone tastes like. But to take that deliciousness a step further, there’s pandoro bread and candied citrus peel added. It’s…is it…? Try this with wine or sweet wine. Oh, it’s in the pint; so it’s a pint of frozen-style…gelato-style frozen dessert. Okay, now I get it. Gelato is like a technical term. So, it doesn't…it’s done in the gelato style, or whatever the…they're doubling down on ginger…triple ginger brew. That’s $3.99. That’s a ginger ale.

 

It’s got a big bite. It’s good. Okay, this one I have on-hand, this next one, but I haven't eaten it yet. Come on, it’s lovely weather. Trader Joe's sleigh ride cookies. It’s time for cookies, lots and lots of cookies. This year it’s clear; we're gonna have some cookies. This is crushed candy cane pieces, broken-up candy cane Joe-Joe's, and sweet sugar cookie…sugar cookie dough base. Sounds great. Sounds like right up my alley, maybe. We’ll find out. I haven't had it yet. $3.99. 22-inch pine cone wreaths; $12.99. Don’t have that. We got…we have one…we have two wreaths. We have one front door and we got a wreath on it. Then I have another Trader Joe's…what are those, yarn wreaths or wool wreath…wool wreath…wool wreath. That’s hard to say. Wool wreath. But we have that. I don't need anymore wreaths. No offense, Trader Joe's. Milk chocolate coin and coins of the world…I saw they have this giant coin. I think my daughter showed me on TikTok.

 

Yeah, get yourself some guilt, man, and let’s…I've got five dreidels here. People…in the past, people laughed at me. They said, why did you buy so many…? I said, they were on sale. One was a four-pack, four different hand-painted dreidels, and then the other one. So, yeah. So, there. Get yourself some guilt. I mean, I don't ever have a problem getting the guilt; I have a problem doing the stuff. There’s like…that, then there’s a night during…Saint Nicholas’ night or something where they're supposed to put your candy in your shoes. I always miss all those things. Okay, this one…if you're travelling in a plane, I highly suggest putting this in your bag. There’s two different versions. This one gets…for travel, five stars, especially travel during the busy season. I’m telling you, if you're at Trader Joe's, buy one of these cans and then keep it…'cause even if you don't open it, you'll be glad you had it. Because it’s really good…it’s in a can, so it can't be crunched. But also, if you don't use it, it stays fresh.

 

This is a step up to the snack bar mix. It’s honey mustard pretzel pieces, chili lemon corn sticks, honey-roasted peanuts, and even Trader Joe's cheddar rocket crackers, or they have a spicy version, and both are good. So, keep it in your pouch if…I mean, if you have a pouch. I don't think…it’s probably not approved for kangaroos, though. So, that’s more of a figurative pouch. Alright, what do we got here? We’ve got Trader Joe's wintery blend coffee. Interesting. I didn't see this. I did buy…they had the cinnamon coffee I bought. It’s 100% coffee beans, obviously. I mean, they got all these fancy…these terms. Medium-dark Vienna roast. It’s got whole red-and-green peppercorns, cloves, and chunks of cinnamon. This does sound very good. It’s not flavored, per say. It’s spiked with spices. Okay, put that on my list. I should have brought a pen. Gingerbread oat creamer…we, for some reason…we’ve had guests and we have too much creamer in the fridge.

 

So, note to myself; don't buy any creamer unless we start…unless I have a ton…it would be good for a dirty Coke, though, a dirty gingerbread Coke. So, never mind; I take everything I said back. Scoots, make a dirty gingerbread Coke with that. Coke Zero, a dirty gingerbread Coke Zero. There’s something you probably…you've probably heard me say it before, maybe, but…okay, this is something I have on-hand. I highly recommend it; bourbon vanilla bean syrup. Oh wait, do I have a syrup? I have a paste. Interesting. I don't think I have this. Maybe I do. Maybe it’s just…I didn't read the label. Triple-fold, concentrated bourbon vanilla, caramelized sugar syrup, and vanilla bean seeds. It’s rich with vanilla. Oh, it’s…oh no, this is interesting; it’s like a syrup you put on stuff, like maple syrup. Interesting. Huh. Okay, call me interested. Okay, cinnamon sugar waffles, $2.99 each. Let’s just see how many come in a thing. Yeah, I don't know.

 

Cinnamon sugar waffles…it’s a cinnamon-infused batter, cinnamon sugar bits throughout. Oh boy, those do sound…that does sound good. You could put ice cream on it. Okay, eight waffles…so, that’s pretty good because I saw this ad for another waffle, and it was acting like one waffle that…it said, hey, do you believe our waffles are only forty-eight cents a waffle? To me, that back…to me I was like, no offense to these style of mass-market freezer waffles. I put them at a ten cent…I mean, Trader Joe's…this one, at least, is flavored, right? A plain one…I value a frozen waffle at ten cents. If you want to know anything about me, my value system, how I view the world, a plain freezer waffle is worth ten cents. You say, eight…? Okay, I’ll pay…yeah. Okay, I could see your point. You’re gonna buy a box of it for eighty cents, Scoots? When are you gonna live in reality? Okay, so, I’d say…okay, a $1.20. I could see at the store paying $1.20 and maybe even $1.50.

 

I guess if it’s cinnamon sugar flavored…but if there was six waffles at $3.00, that’d be fifty cents a waffle. So, Trader Joe's is a little bit below, what, forty cents or something? I’m not into math, but…I mean, I just can't believe the company was ad…they bought…it was a print ad or maybe it was a billboard, even. I said, are you bragging that your waffle, that’s a manufactured item…? You know you can make your waffles…you can make waffles at home even without a waffle maker. I used to make them on my cast iron grill. That cost about four cents, I bet. Okay, end R-A-N-T. But I’m just saying…I mean, I guess I’m saying I probably would buy these for $2.99, but I love cinnamon sugar. Okay, then we got a Humpty Dumpty…he’s got yogurt…eggnog-flavored yogurt. They do have Trader Joe's eggnog, but whatever…I haven't had it in quite a long time. They have dairy-free oatnog.

 

But it’s the one eggnog I’ve had that doesn't agree with me, though I did have three eggnogs to film a video, three different…four different ones the other day. Two days ago? And one of them did not…they did…it did the same thing of the Trader Joe's one, and I’ve been doing the elimination thing. So, today I had one. No reaction. It just gives me…it doesn't really…it’s not like I’m…it’s just something my body does not like, one of the thickeners, I think. So anyway, that’s enough about me, right? But they have Greek yogurt; $0.99. I think I tried that last year and it was…I said, eh, I’ll stick to nog. Oatnog…imitation eggnog just doesn't work, though I am trying to make some eggnog powder based on some internet recipes. Powdered eggnog…okay, so you won't eat…yeah, no, I mean, I’m not…in case I need eggnog the rest of the year…okay, pomegranates; $2.99. There are those who theorize the Garden of Eden’s forbidden fruit was a pomegranate or represented…a seeded apple.

 

Pomegranates; they're one beautiful fruit. Pomegranates…these ones are really big, three point…beautiful. Put them on a table. Pomegranates; put them on a table. $2.99 each. Lovely. Chocolate mascarpone cheese. Is this the cheese that goes inside of cannolis, maybe? Buttery…it’s like creamed…Italian cream cheese, they say. Divert…dessert devotees’ best friend. Indispensable ingredient in tiramisu, no-bake cheesecake, fresh fruit. This one’s chocolate flavored. All butter everything. Alright, they've got these all-butter tart cherry pecan…oh, pecan shortbread. I didn't realize they were cherry and pecan. Pecan? Pecan. Pecan, pecan. Don't pick on me for the way I say ‘pecan’, man. Come on. I say pecan. Don't pick on me. Pecan me…I do like pecan…what are those called? Sandy…whatever those things are called, Sandy Shores cookies or whatever? I may have to try these. So, I’m overstocked on shortbread right now.

 

So, I don't think my shortbread…'cause I don't wanna…I don't think my shortbread…the person that runs the cabinets in this house is gonna let me purchase any more shortbread cookies. But maybe I’ll sneak one…I mean, I’ll ask Santa. I’ll just wrap it up and give it to myself. Roasted turkey, herb seasoned brined, bone-in half turkey, $4.99 a pound. Sounds easy, man. Kaleidoscope of carrots…Koa likes these. $2.99 each. Organic carrots of many colors. Seasoned lamb shoulder rack…I'm not a lamb consumer. Loaded mashed potatoes; this is a tray. Is it in the freezer section or the fridge section? All together…they're in the refrigerators. $5.99 each. What do we got in here? This is a good…you just put it…pretend you made it. It’s got sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, scallions, and bacon. Maximalist joy. That’s $5.99 each. What do we got here? A delicious dynamic duo, mini-quiche duo. That’s a good idea. Keep a…Trader Joe's advice; keep a bend…abundant supply of appetizers on hand.

 

But let’s see, mini-quiche duo…what is the mini-quiche? Six umami-rich mushroom and Swiss cheese, and six uncured bacon and sweet onion mini-quiches. Put them in the air fryer. We don't have a air fryer, but we did somewhere. But then things didn't work out. I don't know where it is. Maybe it got given away. But mini-quiches…twelve mini-quiches, $4.79 in the freezer. Like Uncle Ebenezer. What is mini-fillet and croutes? In croutes? Does that mean in bread or something? Okay, this is…you'd like to…more…it’s an appetizer. It’s a bite-size Wellington and miniature…tasty bits of beef tenderloin, finely-chopped sauteed mushrooms, shallots, and a egg puff square of puff pastry. Not postry. They cook quickly. These are easy part dinners, too, or kids’ lunches. I mean, I don't know if you could send your kid to school with a mini filet mignon, but…yeah. Alright, this is…what do we got here? Spicy cheddar cheese and jalapeno cheese biscuit bites. Wait a second, a biscuit bite?

 

You can't judge a book by its cover. Okay, Trader Joe's spicy cheddar cheese and jalapeno biscuit bites. Can we break it down for you, Scoots? Yeah, spicy…okay. Cheddar cheese and jalapeno biscuit bites. Wait, they even say fainting couch territory. Savory, peppery, buttery, full-flavored. Yeah, they…cornmeal biscuity interior, cheesy…oh boy, oh boy, call me…don't call me maybe. Okay, then date with destiny. These are dates. $4.99. Dates go great in your smoothie, or if you're making…what do they call that? Cold breakfast overnight oats. Oh, boy. Alright, honey, honey, honey. It’s honey. Trio of flavored honey. So, that’s a gift you could give. $10.99. Lemon honey…no, no, don't call…lavender honey, and ginger honey. Don't call…just don't call me honey. Gingerbread ice cream sandwiches; these are two gingerbread cookies…oh boy. Vanilla ice cream, flex of vanilla beans…oh, man. I don't have room for all this stuff. Then Scrooge is looking out the window. Today’s the day.

 

I haven't missed it. I’m gonna get some of those gingerbread ice cream sandwiches. We bet you love the Dickens out of these. Lebkuchen, lovely lebkuchen. I don't know if I’ve had this or not. When you think of gingerbread, the first thing you might think of is these people-shaped cookies that are well suited to dunking in hot cocoa, or a cozy cottage made of the stuff. But what about wafer gingerbread? Wait a second, wafer gingerbread? I have no…I had no idea. Oh, how little I’ve known. I thought this was more of a thicker thing. Pleasantly spiced lebkuchen is…or gingerbread biscuit dough is baked atop a very thin wafer cookie, or as it’s known in Germany, oblaten. These cookies must be 12.5% nuts. Scooter, 88%, probably. The lebkuchen we offer during the holidays meets those standards. The dough…oh, candied orange…hm, huh. Spices, and a seed…ginger, coriander, cove, pimento, mace, cardamom, and cinnamon. 25% almond, hazelnuts, and walnuts.

 

Here’s the thing, Scoots; why not try it, right? Two lebkuchen are better than one. We offer a chocolate-covered option and a sugared-ice version. I think I’ll try the sugared-ice version. I am not made of sugar, spice, and everything nice, but I do like that. It’s just the packaging. I always thought it was…I didn't realize it was a wafer dough. I’m still not sure I’m understanding that. To me, a wafer dough is like a thin thing, then some cream, then a thing…thin thing. But I don't know. I will try it. Okay, we got three things, then we're gonna go through the checklist. We're gonna check it twice. I have a pen. I picked up a pen since we last chatted seconds ago. Okay, here we go. Juicy…oh, balsamic glazed short ribs. I love balsamic. Not many of us have the equipment or time to sous vide, but that’s why this is a fully-cooked heat-and-serve entree, Trader Joe's balsamic glazed bone-in beef short ribs. This might be handy to have on hand.

 

Umami-tinged, balsamic glazed, vacuum bag, cooked at low temperature for twelve hours. Tantalizingly tender. Oh boy, when you use alliteration, it makes me feel tantalizingly tender. We’ve taken care of that for you. All you gotta do is heat them up on the oven or the stove top and pick out some sides. Big, bold, sweet and savory flavors…oh, so tender texture. Oh boy, alliterate me more. So, okay, seasonal…sensationally seasoned. A great option…holiday feast. $12.99 per pound in the refrigerator section, yes. Okay, I don't know what this means; Hardywood Park — that’s trademarked, I think — meets peppermint bark. Oh, this is a drink, maybe. Hardywood Park is a brewer. Oh, okay. This is a drink, peppermint-bark stout. Okay, interesting. If you're able to enjoy it, go for it. Jingle Jangle for Dogs. Jingle Jangle for Dogs. Well, Jingle Jangle for Dogs is a canine counterpart. Holy alliteration. Jingle Jangle…each tin…it’s dog biscuits in fun and festive shapes. Maybe I’ll get this for Koa.

 

What is the flavors? That’s the question. There’s one with peanut butter dip. Bacon flavor, carob…she’s not much of a hard biscuit girl, Koa. She’s so soft on the inside and the outside. She’s actually not that soft on the outside, but…I mean, she is soft and fluffy. You hear me, Koa? She’s sleeping right now. $4.49 each. Alright, unfortunately — I don't know if I said this already — we do have something that’s been eliminated from purchasing that I tried since I recorded the first part of this, and maybe this will be a three-parter while I go shopping. But let’s see, organic fig and honey batard; that’s a question mark. Peppermint brookie; we already had that. I don't think we need it again just 'cause…probably we’ve had enough, you know? Eggnog; we can't have that. Gingerbread oat creamer; that’s a question mark, maybe. Oatnog; no. Sparkling honeycrisp apple; yeah, that’s…New Year’s Eve, baby. Triple ginger brew; that might be good for New Year’s Eve. Wintery blend coffee, yeah.

 

Brie-flavored spread; I'm not sure. Probably not. No. Coastal cheddar with truffle; no. English cheddar with champagne; no. La fondue; oh, yes. So, yeah, that’s a yes. Oh, I guess I…I'm checking them. Oh, check it twice; okay. Fondue is good to have on hand. Okay, pine cone wreaths, amaryllis, cut butternut, gold potatoes, carrots of many colors; yeah, let’s get that. Dates; not right now. Poinsettias, pomegranates, cinnamon sugar waffles; that’s a maybe. Gingerbread ice cream people; yeah, that’s a definite yes. I don't know what that is. Mini-fillet and croute…maybe. I don't have that many…much room in my freezer, though. Panettone and chocolate gelato; maybe I’ll try that for the team, you know? Jalapeno cheddar biscuit bites; definitely. Quiche duo; maybe. Truffle risotto; no. Okay, grocery…three spreads for cheeses and toasts. I don't know, that’s coming up. I’m not sure. Bourbon vanilla syrup; that’s a yes. Chocolate peppermint baking mix; that’s no.

 

Greek extra virgin olive oil…I just got some olive oil, so we're in good shape. Pasta gift set; no. Trio flavored honey; no. Okay, refrigerated…balsamic glazed short ribs; maybe. I don't know. I don't know how much hosting I’m gonna be doing. Eggnog yogurt; that’s a no. I tried it last year. Half season, half turkey…probably not. Loaded mashed potatoes; that’s a maybe. Pasta Festiva; I don't know…we haven't got to that. Ham; no. Lamb rack; no. Break-apart reindeer; probably not. Candy cane almonds; I still have a stock of those. Cashel Blue potato chips; yes. Chocolate-covered lebkuchen; no. They only have that one listed? What are they…what are you doing to me, Trader Joe's? Coins of the world, gelts; no. Well, maybe. Danish gingerbread snaps; hm. Gluten-free candied Joe-Joe's; maybe. Sleigh ride cookies; okay, that’s a no. Let me finish…step up to the bar. Stack mix; yes. Oh, there’s sugar ice lebkuchen. Thank you. Tart cherry pecan…no. Too much shortbread. I’d love to get you.

 

Maybe next year. Sundries…a balsam-scented candle. Definitely. Smell like a tree. Soap spritz; no. Room spritz; huh, interesting. I wonder how much that is. Maybe. Hand cream and serum duo; no. Jingle Jangle for Dogs; yes. Marine Radiance; I don't know what that is. Hand moisturizer. Okay, so, before we move on with the thing, I got my shopping list here. So, I did have the…what are those cookies called? Sleigh ride cookies. Okay, so these are not for me, but that doesn't mean they're not for you, and I will say if you like dunking cookies…I wouldn't say…maybe in hot cocoa or milk or a milk substitute or a milk alternative, they'd be pretty good. They're smaller but they're hard cookies. They're not anything like a Chips Ahoy, but that’s what I always think. I’m not a big fan of a hard cookie. I know you say, Scoots, times have changed. Get those ultra-thin Tate’s cookies or whatever. I say, I’ll stick to Tate McRae versus Tate cookies. I prefer my pop singers hard and soft at the same time.

 

My cookies; soft, unless there’s some exception to that. But so, these were good cookies. They're just not my taste. There was nothing wrong with them. I think I will keep them…I'll just transfer them to some smaller bags or something as a quick snack. If you're on the road, put six of these in a bag for a child or an adult. You say, huh, have a little cookie snack here. But I just won't be buying them again because they're small, hard cookies. That’s just not…but I know a lot of people like them. So, and again, this isn't a cookie criticism cast. There’s your alliteration from Scoots. Was that excellent alliteration or not? But yeah, so, that’s just the thing, is I don't…is this a permanent…perpetually…am I…? No, I was just saying…I'm trying to think of the word. Perpetuating…my perpetuating their use of…permanently their use of alliteration, Trader Joe's. But anyway…so anyway, that’s just a short commentary. Alright, let’s move on. Cheese…there’s a cheese page, and now some cheese.

 

English cheddar cheese with champagne. Champagne. Champagne. We propose a toast. Cherished cheddar from a family of cheese-makers in Somerset, England. Artisanal, nearly two centuries…it’s got…infused with a bright and bubbly champagne as well as a touch of dry and fruity Marc de Champagne brandy. I don't know, I do like a wine cheese spread 'cause it doesn't taste like wine, you know? But that one…but that’s just from childhood. It’s very…this is not that, though. Sounds nice. With all fondue respect, Scoots, Trader Jacques’ la fondue comes from the French alps. Gruyere, Emmental, and Comte cheeses are crafted. This fondue is beautiful, bubbly, alluringly aromatic, and you could prep it in five minutes. We’ve had this. It’s really good. There’s two different kinds of Trader Joe's fondue, so you could have a duo de fondue, too, sometimes. I don't know if this time there is. This one comes in this tub or cup, they say. $7.99. You could have it as a appetizer with just bread.

 

Oh man, maybe that fig…huh, that fig bread might be good with that if you toast it. Fig…huh, interesting. What was the other flavor? Honey and fig. Interesting. What else could I add to that? Then have…so, have that as your part…as…for guests. We're not talking a regular dinner. You got me. Three cheers for three spreads. This is…when constructing a cheese board, add fruit spreads, they say. This time we’ve added three spreads to the…three spreads for cheeses and toast. So, they have a pleasantly piquant strawberry and black pepper, spellbindingly sweet rhubarb and vanilla, and a terrifically tart and tropical mango and yuzu spread. Oof, you had me when you start…you had me with your wordplay. Okay, next up is coastal cheddar with truffles. I’m not a truffle person. I don't mind it once a year, but I’m not something that’s like, I gotta have truffle in my popcorn. Oh boy, can I get…?

 

I bought the Trader Joe's triple truffle powder before, and I’ve just said, huh…like, I guess it’s like something that’s gotta be…it’s better suited in the hands of a professional, I guess is what I’m saying, for me. Not even once a year, but like, if I’m sitting at a restaurant that has a chef…I don't know, what is Richard Blais’ philosophy on truffles? He’s probably…he says, oh yeah, well, what we do is…I take my truffles, I take them up in a hot air balloon, and we stay up there. Then I use the air…that…then the truffles hang off the hot air balloon and they…I get them to a certain part of the stratosphere where they absorb something, then I bring them down and I take them…put them in a particle collider, and then that is what you have in front of you, particle-collided truffle risotto. I’m just…that didn't happen, but…but yeah, I’d say I prefer my truffles in the hands of a professional.

 

Not that I’ve eaten at a Richard Blais restaurant, but I’ve seen the sign for one multiple times at one of my favorite hotels to stay at, Grand Cypress Orlando. Okay, Marine Radiance Kit…you say, what’s got that dolphin…? You say, hello, dolphin. It’s…changes in humidity. This is Marine Radiance Kit. It’s dry brushing. Hm, I’m lost already. A three-step system. Brush, scrub, and oil to revitalize and exfoliate the skin. So, first you take the brush on your dry skin prior to a shower, then during the shower or a bath, apply the scrub and rinse it off. Then while drying yourself, put some oil into your skin to lock in the moisture. What is that under, sundries and stuff? Maybe. I crossed it out as a ‘no’. That’s a mistake, huh? Okay, it’s $12.99. Cedar balsam bonanza; deck the halls with cedar balsam, fa-la-la-la-la-la. Now at Trader…TJ’s for a small sum. Okay, so they have hand soap, room spritz, a sprayable shortcut to fresh crunched…fresh-cut Christmas tree ambience, and luminous balsam-scented candles in giftable jars.

 

Bring a bit of cedar…oh, so the candle’s not cheap; it’s $12.99, but worth every penny. Amaryllis bulbs in wax, pre-sprouted, hand-dipped paraffin wax. It has all the nutrients and moisture that are required for growth and bloom. The wax color bulb…means when you get your bulb, you just place it on the counter or the window and periodically turn it, and that’s it. No water, no soil, no watching, no kidding. $7.99. Wow, it’s like a science experiment, almost. Okay, it’s easy to go butternutty. They have somebody doing a comedy routine with a butternut head. Cut butternut squash…I'm not a butter…you know, pasta festival…Pasta Festiva; not a pasta festival. It’s something to enjoy about the holidays. It’s red-and-green ravioli…okay, wait a second. Hello. It’s tomato and spinach powder, super-thin sheets of pasta stuffed with creamy ricotta and garlicky aromatic pesto. That does sound good. Yeah, that could be a good dinner. Here’s something; has anybody ever had…?

 

Here’s an idea, free idea from me; what about combining…? I’d say more of a tortellini. You'd have to…al dente tortellini and fondue, huh? Anybody? Anybody out there? I should try it? Okay, maybe I will. Extra virgin olive oil from Crete, which they also have people from Crete that are famous from mythology. Mini, he calls it. Daedalus and Mini, who’s bullish on olive oil. Okay, so, I’ll try that when…next time I need some olive oil. Boneless beef rib roast; this is roasted meat as a time-honored holiday tradition. Trader Joe's…we got this…it’s premium Angus beef, boneless rib roast. 100% Angus beef, centerloin. It’s excellent. Loaded mash; $12…$16.99 a pound. So, it sounds good. A big bag of gold potatoes; $4.99. Truffle risotto; I was just making a joke about that, but…bold, savory flavor. Velvety, toothsome texture. Classically Italian ingredient. Sparkling honeycrisp apple juice beverage; huh, wait a second, where’s that beverage part come from?

 

Sometimes you're in the mood for a merry beverage without the alcohol — that’s me — but you don't want a soda, either. Is this one in a can? Honeycrisp…I think I’ve had this, then. Oh yeah, single 12-ounce cans. This is good. So, I’ve had it before. I was thinking it was in a bottle. You know what’s not in here is the drink that’s in the orange can, which I forgot what it’s even called, but it’s one of the holiday drinks. Then the…Trader Joe's also has some sort of winter wassail punch that I’ve talked about. I can't have it straight, so I like mixing it with zero-sugar lemon-lime beverages or a holiday version zero-sugar lemon-lime beverages. Or, I’m gonna try it with a holiday-flavored sparkling water. Maybe I’ll do a video for that just to cover it. Fully-cooked spiral-sliced uncured ham; yeah, that’s like that place, that other place where they're baked in honey or whatever. Excellent value. $6.49 a pound.

 

Okay, chocolate peppermint loaf and baking mix; I used to think that’s…but do I laugh about that every time I do this? Who are you calling a chocolate peppermint loaf, Chuck? Chocolate peppermint loaf and baking mix; they add that just to be safe. $4.49 a pound. Dark chocolate plus almonds times peppermint…it’s like a math equation. Trader Joe's candy cane-covered almonds; I’ve bought these but I’ve just never eaten them before. Or, you know what I mean? So, I don't want to buy them again. Danish gingerbread snaps; are these the ones they always have or is this just for the holidays? I do like a gingerbread snap, but I kinda am telling that lebkuchen…Shakespeare liked them, according to…I don't know, I can't quite read it. I don't have my reading glasses, so I can't read the comic part. Synonymous cookie of the season…styled more snap than cookie. These brunkeigers…brun keyer, brown cake, as they're known in Denmark, are traditional. We got poignant poinsettias.

 

These are introduced in the nineteenth century from Mexico. Flores de Nochebuena. Synonymous with the winter season…near ubiquity except here. Maybe I’ll put…$3.99 to $14.99, and a hydrating hand serum and cream duo. So, one thing I’m…I don't know, I know people’s hands get dry. Mine don't. My face does. You say, maybe if you washed your hands. I wash my hands pretty…I mean, pretty much every time I go, 100% of the time I go. Did I cover that? Wait, there’s a secret word here? Interesting. They do have the crossword. Then on the back page we have Italian tomato pasta sauce trio gift set. So, this is for the foodies on your list. There’s…let’s see, the first one is made from roasted vegetables; zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. The second one is with datterini, cherry tomatoes, baby Romas, sweet, intense tomato flavor. That sounds good. Oh whoa, the last one is made…classic sauce with kalma…olives. I will have to buy this 'cause my daughter loves olives.

 

So, I just gotta return to my list here. Where is that? Is that a gift or a sundry? Some people go through the list like they're looking for something. I’m like, hm. Okay, wait a second…so, okay, I tried to circle it. I crossed it out. I was wrong. I’ve been wrong before. Brie-ng it on. So, this is the brie…brie cheese-flavored spread. Creamy texture, marvellously mild flavor. It’s all the qualities of brie but the rind. Sounds like a great idea. Okay, then we have a French…West Brittany, France…the 1860’s Queen Amann, Queen Amann, from the Breton Queen cake, butter cake. Wait a second, popular among pastry appreciators and the home baker. It’s a miniature folded-up croissant cake? I’m sorry, hello. Luxurious layers of laminated dough…wait a second. Slowly baked and steamed to be a captivating caramelized…wait a second. How have I never paid attention to this before? They're challenging to make at home. Freshly-baked ones can be difficult to come by, but Trader Joe's got you covered.

 

You could have it with your…oh, it’s a overnight proofing. Wow. Each box comes with four of them. Holy mackerel, put this on my list. Hopefully it stays below freezing here, 'cause I got more things than I can put in my freezer. But that’s another one. It sounds delicious. Alright, well, that’s it from me for now. I don't know the time of this…that I have recorded. So, I’ll say goodnight, but there may be a chance Scoots is back now or next year or on the next Fearless Flyer with a update of my purchases. But for now, sleep well, and I guess I’ll put this out in the holidays in July. Maybe I could set aside some of this stuff to have a little party for you. Goodnight, everybody.

 

[End of recording]

Transcription performed by LeahTranscribes

Fearless Flyer

 

Borscht Belt

https://www.borschtbeltmuseum.org/history

https://dorascorner.net/the-borscht-belt/

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/pop-up-exhibition-on-the-catskills-borscht-belt-to-evolve-into-permanent-museum-180982906/

 

Christmas in July

https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/christmas/how-did-christmas-july-start

https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/news-entertainment/a65476582/how-did-christmas-in-july-start/

https://www.mentalfloss.com/holidays/christmas/christmas-in-july-history

 

Lebkuchen

https://germanculture.com.ua/german-traditions/the-history-of-german-gingerbread-a-sweet-christmas-tradition/

https://splashofseasons.com/2024/11/30/the-sweet-history-of-lebkuchen/

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/best-gingerbread-recipe

 

Fearless Flyer December 2025

https://www.aol.com/articles/2025-trader-joe-holiday-fearless-022200300.html

https://www.bhg.com/trader-joes-fearless-flyer-holidays-2025-11859447

https://www.foodandwine.com/trader-joes-best-holiday-items-2025-11860473

 

DOWN TO BUSINESS

Traders of Joes

JoJo herself

What’s a Trader Joe?

I only have one local Trader Joe’s

I’m more of a bouncing meanderer in the daytime

Reading through the Fearless Flyer

I guess it can be nostalgic to do the holiday season during the summer

 

PLUGS

Sleep With Me Plus; SleepPhones; Story Only Feed; Emily Tat Artwork; Crisis Textline

 

SPONSORS

Helix Sleep; Zocdoc; Progressive; Quince; Talkiatry; AquaTru; DripDrop

 

INTRO

Thoughts: You’ve Got A Lot of Them

You’re not alone

A sense of shared understanding

Is it Morse code or Morris code?

I’m not trying to do a bit

I was trying to do something sincere

I think I finally got it

Someone listening right now has been somewhere really similar

Real people are rooting for you right now

Whatever you’re feeling, those are all valid

Our world is better if you’re in it, flourishing

How the show works

My humor is not traditionally funny

I overuse “amuse bouche”

How would Joe Pesci say, “Morse,” or, “Morris”?

Well, that time I definitely said Morris code

Wasn’t there a famous cat in the 80s named Morris the cat?

“I always wondered if borscht belt humor could be less funny”

The Bore Belt

I put the Catskills in the Poconos

I know that has to do with Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey

And the Mount Aery Lodge

Shoutout to WPIX

sleepwithmepodcast.com/nothankyou

You just barely listen to this show

I’ve been in my head about sleep lately

Your Bore Friend

Explaining the show structure

A buffer between day and night

I’m really glad you’re here

 

STORY

I’m reading through the 2025 holiday guide fearless flyer

I picked this up 3 days ago, but I accidentally left it in my card so I had to go back

Maybe it would be nice to put this out in the summer

Is it holidays in July? June?

There’s 12 days left in the holiday season

I now live in an Aldi’s area

No gluten at TJ’s this year

Shortbread Star

Cashel Blue Cheese Irish Potato Chips. Gotta get these

Emerald Isle Elegance – wow

Organic Fig and Honey Batard – I don’t know about this

I’ve been called an oblong loaf before

Gluten free candy cane Joe Joe’s

Those are pretty good. That’s a maybe

Page 2 – Peppermint Brookie. I’ve had this

What up, my Peppermint Brookie?

Peppermint-Powered Portmanteau

This writing is really unbelievable

Break-apart reindeer

Gummy candies inside a chocolate reindeer

Panettone – from Milan

I haven’t had any panettone since I started making the show

Gelato-style frozen dessert that’s also panettone. I don’t know about this one…

Oh it comes in a pint container

Doubling down on triple ginger brew

Sleigh ride cookies

Pine cone wreaths

I have 2 wreaths this year

Wool Wreath is hard to say

Milk chocolate coins and coins of the world

Get yourself some gelt

I bought a 4 pack of dreidels because why not

The next one is a great travel snack

Step Up to the Snack Bar mix

It stays uncrushed in its can

Wintery Blend Coffee

100% coffee beans. Oh good.

It’s got spices in there too

Gingerbread Oat Creamer

Not to self, don’t buy any more creamer

But this might be good for a dirty gingerbread Coke Zero

Bourbon Vanilla Bean Syrup. I have the paste version

Oh, it’s like maple syrup. Wow

Cinnamon sugar waffles

I saw an ad for a mass-market freezer waffle

I didn’t think it was a good selling point that it cost 48 cents each

In my value system, one plain freezer waffle is worth 10 cents

I did do an eggnog taste test a few days ago

Greek yogurt for 99 cents

Imitation eggnog just doesn’t work for me

I’m trying to make powdered eggnog on my own

Pomegranates

Chocolate Mascarpone

Tart cherry pecan shortbread

Don’t peek on me for how I say pecan

I’m currently overstocked on shortbread

Roasted turkey

Koa likes these kaleidoscope of carrots

I’m not a lamb consumer

Loaded mashed potatoes, holy cow

Mini quiche duo

Mini Filet en croûte? 

Bite sized Wellington in miniature

Spicy cheddar and jalapeno cheese biscuit bites

Wait, biscuit bite??

Hoo boy

Some dates

Trio of flavored honeys

Lemon, Lavender, and Ginger Honey

Gingerbread cookies

I don’t have room for all this stuff!

Lovely lebkuchen

Wafer gingerbread??

Oh wait, it has candied orange. Hmm…

Scoots, why not try it

I’ll try the sugared ice version

I still don’t fully know what wafer dough is

I’ve now picked up a pen

Balsamic Glazed Shortribs

Tantalizingly Tender

Sensationally seasoned

Hearty Wood Park’s Peppermint Bark Stout

Jingle Jangle for Dogs

What are the flavors in this?

Koa’s not much of a hard biscuit girl

Reviewing my shopping list

Sparkling honeycrisp apple drink

No to these cheese (except the fondue)

Poinsettias

No to the truffle risotto

I don’t know how much hosting I’ll be doing this year

Balsam Scented Candle – yes!

Room spritz? Hmm.

I don’t know what Marine Radiance is

Okay, I have my shopping list here

The sleigh ride cookies are not for me, but they might be good for dunking

I’m not a big fan of a hard cookie

Welcome to the Cookie Criticism Cast

And now, some cheese

English cheddar cheese with champagne

Trader Jacques’ La Fondue from the Alps

Honey and fig is good

Don’t forget fruit spreads on your cheeseboards

You had me with your wordplay

Coastal Cheddar with truffles. Meh

I’m not a big truffle guy

Richard Blais’s hot air balloon truffle preparation method

Particle Collider Truffle Risotto

Marine Radiance Kit. What is this?

3 step exfoliation kit

Cedar Balsam Bonanza

Amaryllis Bulbs in Wax

Pasta Festiva

Red and green ravioli, hello

Extra virgin olive oil from Crete

Boneless beef rib roast

Sparkling Honeycrisp Apple Beverage

Was this in a can?

What’s the drink in the orange can?

I have to cut it

I like the holiday-flavored seltzers

Spiral-Cut Ham

Chocolate Peppermint Loaf

Dark chocolate + almonds x Peppermint

Danish gingerbread snaps

Poignant Poinsettias

Flores de Noche Buena

My hands don’t get dry

There’s a secret word here? What does that mean?

Italian tomato pasta sauce trio gift set

#1 – roasted vegetables

#2 – cherry tomatoes

#3 – classic sauce with kalamata olives

My daughter loves olives

Brie Cheese Flavored Spread (no rind!)

French kouign-amann

Folded up croissant cake?! Hello!

Oh, it takes overnight proofing

There’s a lot of things I want to get

 

SUMMARY:

Episode: 1463

Title: Summertime Fearless Flyer Holidays 2025

Plugs: Sleep With Me Plus; SleepPhones; Story Only Feed; Emily Tat Artwork; Crisis Textline

Sponsors: Helix Sleep; Zocdoc; Progressive; Quince; Talkiatry; AquaTru; DripDrop

Notable Language:

• Traders of Joes
• Thoughts: You’ve Got A Lot of Them
• Morse / Morris
• Amuse Bouche
• I put the Catskills in the Poconos
• Shortbread Star
• Emerald Isle Elegance
• Oblong Loaf
• What up, my peppermint brookie?
• Peppermint-Powered Portmanteau
• Wool Wreath
• Get yourself some gelt
• Dirty Gingerbread Coke Zero
• R-E-N-T
• Don’t peek on me for how I say pecan
• Biscuit Bites
• Wafer Dough
• Tantalizingly Tender
• Particle Collider Truffle Risotto
• Lebkuchen
• Flores de Noche Buena

 

Notable Culture:

• • Trader Joe’s
  • Morse Code
  • Joe Pesci
  • Abbott & Costello
  • The Bore Belt
  • Catskills
  • Poconos

• Dirty Dancing

• • WPIX
  • sleepwithmepodcast.com/nothankyou
  • Aldi

• Peanuts

• • Tony! Toni! Toné!
  • Humpty Dumpty
  • “Call Me Maybe” – Carly Rae Jepsen

• A Christmas Carol – Charles Dickens

• Tate McRae
• Tate’s Cookies
• Cookie Criticism Cast
• Richard Blais

 

Notable Talking Points:

• Thoughts: You’ve Got A Lot of Them
• You’re not alone
• A sense of shared understanding
• Is it Morse code or Morris code?
• I’m not trying to do a bit
• I was trying to do something sincere
• I think I finally got it
• Someone listening right now has been somewhere really similar
• Real people are rooting for you right now
• Whatever you’re feeling, those are all valid
• Our world is better if you’re in it, flourishing
• How the show works
• My humor is not traditionally funny
• I overuse “amuse bouche”
• How would Joe Pesci say, “Morse,” or, “Morris”?
• Well, that time I definitely said Morris code
• Wasn’t there a famous cat in the 80s named Morris the cat?
• “I always wondered if borscht belt humor could be less funny”
• The Bore Belt
• I put the Catskills in the Poconos
• I know that has to do with Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey
• And the Mount Aery Lodge
• Shoutout to WPIX
• sleepwithmepodcast.com/nothankyou
• You just barely listen to this show
• I’ve been in my head about sleep lately
• Your Bore Friend
• Explaining the show structure
• A buffer between day and night
• I’m really glad you’re here
• I’m reading through the 2025 holiday guide fearless flyer
• I picked this up 3 days ago, but I accidentally left it in my card so I had to go back
• Maybe it would be nice to put this out in the summer
• Is it holidays in July? June?
• There’s 12 days left in the holiday season
• I now live in an Aldi’s area
• No gluten at TJ’s this year
• Shortbread Star
• Cashel Blue Cheese Irish Potato Chips. Gotta get these
• Emerald Isle Elegance – wow
• Organic Fig and Honey Batard – I don’t know about this
• I’ve been called an oblong loaf before
• Gluten free candy cane Joe Joe’s
• Those are pretty good. That’s a maybe
• Page 2 – Peppermint Brookie. I’ve had this
• What up, my Peppermint Brookie?
• Peppermint-Powered Portmanteau
• This writing is really unbelievable
• Break-apart reindeer
• Gummy candies inside a chocolate reindeer
• Panettone – from Milan
• I haven’t had any panettone since I started making the show
• Gelato-style frozen dessert that’s also panettone. I don’t know about this one…
• Oh it comes in a pint container
• Doubling down on triple ginger brew
• Sleigh ride cookies
• Pine cone wreaths
• I have 2 wreaths this year
• Wool Wreath is hard to say
• Milk chocolate coins and coins of the world
• Get yourself some gelt
• I bought a 4 pack of dreidels because why not
• The next one is a great travel snack
• Step Up to the Snack Bar mix
• It stays uncrushed in its can
• Wintery Blend Coffee
• 100% coffee beans. Oh good.
• It’s got spices in there too
• Gingerbread Oat Creamer
• Not to self, don’t buy any more creamer
• But this might be good for a dirty gingerbread Coke Zero
• Bourbon Vanilla Bean Syrup. I have the paste version
• Oh, it’s like maple syrup. Wow
• Cinnamon sugar waffles
• I saw an ad for a mass-market freezer waffle
• I didn’t think it was a good selling point that it cost 48 cents each
• In my value system, one plain freezer waffle is worth 10 cents
• I did do an eggnog taste test a few days ago
• Greek yogurt for 99 cents
• Imitation eggnog just doesn’t work for me
• I’m trying to make powdered eggnog on my own
• Pomegranates
• Chocolate Mascarpone
• Tart cherry pecan shortbread
• Don’t peek on me for how I say pecan
• I’m currently overstocked on shortbread
• Roasted turkey
• Koa likes these kaleidoscope of carrots
• I’m not a lamb consumer
• Loaded mashed potatoes, holy cow
• Mini quiche duo
• Mini Filet en croûte? 
• Bite sized Wellington in miniature
• Spicy cheddar and jalapeno cheese biscuit bites
• Wait, biscuit bite??
• Hoo boy
• Some dates
• Trio of flavored honeys
• Lemon, Lavender, and Ginger Honey
• Gingerbread cookies
• I don’t have room for all this stuff!
• Lovely lebkuchen
• Wafer gingerbread??
• Oh wait, it has candied orange. Hmm…
• Scoots, why not try it
• I’ll try the sugared ice version
• I still don’t fully know what wafer dough is
• I’ve now picked up a pen
• Balsamic Glazed Shortribs
• Tantalizingly Tender
• Sensationally seasoned
• Hearty Wood Park’s Peppermint Bark Stout
• Jingle Jangle for Dogs
• What are the flavors in this?
• Koa’s not much of a hard biscuit girl
• Reviewing my shopping list
• Sparkling honeycrisp apple drink
• No to these cheese (except the fondue)
• Poinsettias
• No to the truffle risotto
• I don’t know how much hosting I’ll be doing this year
• Balsam Scented Candle – yes!
• Room spritz? Hmm.
• I don’t know what Marine Radiance is
• Okay, I have my shopping list here
• The sleigh ride cookies are not for me, but they might be good for dunking
• I’m not a big fan of a hard cookie
• Welcome to the Cookie Criticism Cast
• And now, some cheese
• English cheddar cheese with champagne
• Trader Jacques’ La Fondue from the Alps
• Honey and fig is good
• Don’t forget fruit spreads on your cheeseboards
• You had me with your wordplay
• Coastal Cheddar with truffles. Meh
• I’m not a big truffle guy
• Richard Blais’s hot air balloon truffle preparation method
• Particle Collider Truffle Risotto
• Marine Radiance Kit. What is this?
• 3 step exfoliation kit
• Cedar Balsam Bonanza
• Amaryllis Bulbs in Wax
• Pasta Festiva
• Red and green ravioli, hello
• Extra virgin olive oil from Crete
• Boneless beef rib roast
• Sparkling Honeycrisp Apple Beverage
• Was this in a can?
• What’s the drink in the orange can?
• I have to cut it
• I like the holiday-flavored seltzers
• Spiral-Cut Ham
• Chocolate Peppermint Loaf
• Dark chocolate + almonds x Peppermint
• Danish gingerbread snaps
• Poignant Poinsettias
• Flores de Noche Buena
• My hands don’t get dry
• There’s a secret word here? What does that mean?
• Italian tomato pasta sauce trio gift set
• #1 – roasted vegetables
• #2 – cherry tomatoes
• #3 – classic sauce with kalamata olives
• My daughter loves olives
• Brie Cheese Flavored Spread (no rind!)
• French kouign-amann
• Folded up croissant cake?! Hello!
• Oh, it takes overnight proofing
• There’s a lot of things I want to get