Cuke water and the never-ending uses for gravy boats

For a wonderfully fresh take on serving a pitcher of water, use cold water and lots of ice, slice about half of a peeled cucumber into the pitcher and let it set for about an hour. You'd think it would be overpowering or fight with the flavors of whatever you're eating, but I find it way better than regular water. I sip it and pretend I'm at a ritzy spa. Don't knock it 'til you try it.

And I love my vintage gravy boats. To use as bowls, eyeglass holders . . . too pretty to keep in the cupboard and pull out just for gravy.