The Howard County Historical Society has just released its new community cookbook called "Let's Dish." This book is the 50th anniversary edition and includes a "then and now" recipe collection — new recipes as well as recipes from the past.
I picked up my copy last week and it makes for great reading, and I know it will be fun to cook from. It features information about various historic homes in the county, and illustrations and information about various pieces in the society's museum collection.
So you can learn to smoke 1,000 pounds of meat or make a tasty treat for your horse or find a classic recipe for crab imperial. The book is $14.99 and proceeds go to support the various programs sponsored by the society. For purchasing information, call 410-480-3250.
For the girls
Make a party out of holiday shopping by enjoying "Girls' Night Out," happening Dec. 18, from 5 to 9 p.m. Start out at the Wine Bin where you can sample some wine and pick up a complimentary reusable goodie bag filled with coupons and treats. Then, make your way down the street and look for special deals in participating shops-you'll know which ones by the pink flags out front.
Pop-Art Poe
The Still Life Gallery, at 8173 Main St., is showing a whimsical exhibit called "Pop-Art Poe." The art features Edgar Allan Poe paired with a variety of local icons, reminiscent of Andy Warhol. Catonsville artist Lisa Martin came up with ideas like "Poe loves Natty Boh." Stop in soon. The exhibit runs through January. For more information, call 410-461-1616.
Family
One nice gift you can give yourself during this holiday season is the gift of knowledge about your own family. The nice folk at the Genealogical Society are available at the Historical Society's space in the Miller Library the third Saturday of each month from 1 to 4 p.m. to help you find your way through the available materials to learn more about your heritage. They will be there this Saturday, Dec. 20.
Shanty Grille
Speaking of crab imperial, Shanty Grille has returned that perennial favorite to their menu. The iconic restaurant closes on Dec. 31, so get down there soon. My husband Tom and I visited the restaurant last week and I enjoyed the crab imperial and their famous stuffed potato. We will miss that place.
Model trains at B&O
It's just a week until Christmas and nothing can put you in the holiday spirit better than a visit to the model train display at the B&O Railroad Museum, Ellicott City Station. The focal point is the huge multi-level LEGO display built by the D.C. Metro Area LEGO Train Club.
It's a 360-degree display, with interactive lights, motors and sounds. It really is a lot of fun to see, and you should walk around it at least twice to be sure of taking in all the features.
We don't have little kids to take with us anymore, but we enjoy the squeals of delight coming from the other young visitors. Don't miss it. While at the museum you can also see the O-scale model train layout, the children's push-button layout, and an N-scale layout.
You can also enjoy interacting with the folk in period dress who can tell you about the museum, and be sure to stop in the gift shop for last minute stocking stuffers. The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday. Members get in free; adults are $8, seniors $7 and children (2 to 12) are $6. For more information, call 410-461-1945.