Most importantly: If ANYONE has a cure for insomnia, you’ve got to tell me what it is. I sleep pretty much through the night maybe twice a week, but even on those nights I’m briefly awake one or two times. I’ve tried the prescription drugs and they’re unreliable. Plus, I remember what happened to poor Mary Richards–remember how Lou Grant had to tell her to get hold of herself? Pills to sleep and before you know it, you’re taking pills to wake up. It’s not pretty. So I’m not looking for mother’s little helper here–a nice natural remedy that works would be much appreciated, though, if you’ve got one.

So this morning I’m wide awake by 3 a.m. and I get out the computer and start looking at all the responses I received when I asked folks to tell me the best place to buy chicken salad. The taste testing will start next week and here are names that keep popping up. Above any others, Penny’s Pantry in Senatobia–they’ve either got a yummy chicken salad or a good PR person. There’s also the Wisteria Tea Room in Brunswick, the old Robilio’s grocery (now a Piggly Wiggly) at Summer and White Station, Wiles-Smith, Paradise in Regalia, Lenny’s, Costco’s rotisserie chicken salad, The Fresh Market (although Carole H specifically gives a thumbs down the Waldorf chicken salad there), and two versions made at the Mendenhall Kroger store. There are many others, but these keep popping up. And Holiday Ham, too. Over 100 people have emailed me about this–one woman sincerely thanked me for “taking on this important matter”!

What is it about this simple salad that inspires such loyalty? When the article comes out, late May or early June, I’ll share my favorite recipe (OK, more like a method with one constant–the Duke’s mayo). If you’ve got one, post it and I’ll give it a try.