Eleven Eleven Mississippi, a St. Louis Restaurant

<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We celebrated our 38th anniversary this week!  We celebrated all week long with our Facebook friends!  Bob gave me a card and gift each day.  He knows my favorites, my splurges and my pitter pats (of my heart) and from this list you see below he hit them all!</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div> Monday:  gift card to Starbucks</div> <div> Tuesday:: BT Nails gift certicate</div> <div> Wednesday: a brick for my alma mater</div> <div> Thursday: flowers and a piece of pottery</div> <div> Friday:  gift card to Subway</div> <div> Saturday: dinner out</div> <div> <br /></div> <div> I have Bob six tickets to Samantha Fox, one of his favorite musical artists.</div> <div> <br /></div> <div> We chose to have dinner at Eleven Eleven Mississippi. Located in Lafayette Square, the restaurant is housed in a brick building with an outdoor courtyard. We sat upstairs and had a view of the kitchen and other diners. </div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GIMXJ1sl8B4/VYdQLOJ-qsI/AAAAAAAAQ30/mgpA9svrQFU/s640/blogger-image-675078270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GIMXJ1sl8B4/VYdQLOJ-qsI/AAAAAAAAQ30/mgpA9svrQFU/s640/blogger-image-675078270.jpg" /></a></div> <br /></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> Our server was very attentive and got us drinks right away. We ordered the stuffed grape leaves which were delicious.  </div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KY33BATaK78/VYdQM_rZf5I/AAAAAAAAQ38/i6jBvR_8uro/s640/blogger-image-85655811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KY33BATaK78/VYdQM_rZf5I/AAAAAAAAQ38/i6jBvR_8uro/s640/blogger-image-85655811.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> Next was the Tuscan kale salad with fig, blue cheese, almonds and mint. I really enjoyed this combination of flavors. I wasn't impressed with the fig, instead of fresh, they were dried.</div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-p2O6BpHZRI8/VYdQPM38WFI/AAAAAAAAQ4E/zX6pcIm5Jt8/s640/blogger-image-1847966428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-p2O6BpHZRI8/VYdQPM38WFI/AAAAAAAAQ4E/zX6pcIm5Jt8/s640/blogger-image-1847966428.jpg" /></a></div> <br /></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <br /> Our entrees came back at a nice pace, not rushed. Bob had the crispy trout over orzo .  Perfectly cooked with delicate but distinctively flavored sauce. <br /> <br /></div> <div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CVMPqFjVuSQ/VYdQRN6i9DI/AAAAAAAAQ4M/eKaSDaO_2RA/s640/blogger-image-21466197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CVMPqFjVuSQ/VYdQRN6i9DI/AAAAAAAAQ4M/eKaSDaO_2RA/s640/blogger-image-21466197.jpg" /></a></div> <br /></div> <div> <br />  I had the roast chicken with couscous.  The chicken was  juicy and well seasoned.  The couscous was cooked with broccoli and creamy.  The couscous had a pleasing bite to it and was seasoned perfectly.<br /> <br /></div> <div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HnnwxgZLDDw/VYdQHBTAavI/AAAAAAAAQ3k/V4BnLetUqcQ/s640/blogger-image-693482282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HnnwxgZLDDw/VYdQHBTAavI/AAAAAAAAQ3k/V4BnLetUqcQ/s640/blogger-image-693482282.jpg" /></a></div> <br /></div> <div>  The highlight for me was the dessert: their take on the classic Napoleon.  The vanilla custard was dotted with vanilla bean with layers of crispy crust in between.  Real whipped cream with chunks of dark chocolate finished the dessert beautifully.  All this was sitting on a bed of caramel, the good kind, not too sweet but creamy and addictive!<br /> <br /></div> <div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u4r-HPhYNys/VYdQI3WzS-I/AAAAAAAAQ3s/DAXW0YEVXeA/s640/blogger-image--595916004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u4r-HPhYNys/VYdQI3WzS-I/AAAAAAAAQ3s/DAXW0YEVXeA/s640/blogger-image--595916004.jpg" /></a></div> <br /></div> <div> A fabulous meal fitting to the occasion.  Definitely a restaurant to put on your short list if you are in the St. Louis/Lafayette Square area!</div> <div> <br /></div>

Eleven Eleven Mississippi, a St. Louis Restaurant

We celebrated our 38th anniversary this week!  We celebrated all week long with our Facebook friends!  Bob gave me a card and gift each day...

Tenacious Eats~The Blues Brothers!

For Mother's Day Bob treated me out to a brunch at Tenacious Eats to see "The Help."  It was so much fun that I repeated the event for him on Father's Day and it was such a blast.  First, the movie choice was spot on for dads: wild car chase scenes, rhythm and blues concert, hilarious, and slapstick, all at the same time.  If you haven't seen this iconic movie (and there was one in our group who hadn't!), it is worth your time to do so!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r6zbSizWQ0s/VYhQU-2C5sI/AAAAAAAAQ8s/TMKZ4jQY52A/s1600/BluesBrothers.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r6zbSizWQ0s/VYhQU-2C5sI/AAAAAAAAQ8s/TMKZ4jQY52A/s640/BluesBrothers.PNG" width="478" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> When we arrived we were greated with Duo Denim, a music duo who entertained us with the clarinet and guitar.  Oh my word, that lady could play the clarinet.  I could have listened to her a lot more! We grabbed up their email just in case we ever needed such great entertainment!<br /> <br /> There is always an alcoholic punch to greet you and the selection for this movie was a blue vodka punch.  It was delicious but I was remiss in asking what was in it.  I just enjoyed it!  There was also beer for the dads who preferred it and, there would be an empty can for later....<br /> <br /> Once seated, there are always a few shorts to watch, that is, meaning short films.  We saw the classic "Who's on First", "Jaws," and a clip from "The Poseidon Adventure" (the 1972 movie that scared me to death about going on a cruise).  After some brief introductions the movie started and our first course arrived.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dZyPzBCDfqY/VYhPcDVlGOI/AAAAAAAAQ7c/UzCTbQ7iKIM/s1600/IMG_8153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dZyPzBCDfqY/VYhPcDVlGOI/AAAAAAAAQ7c/UzCTbQ7iKIM/s640/IMG_8153.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> The first course was catfish.  The course was called, "I did it all for the Penguin" referring to the sister in charge of the school.  Served with black-eyed peas with hot sauce and toast (a reoccuring theme of the food, in honor of Elwood's toast fetish).  Each course is served with its own cocktail pairing and for this course it was a long island iced tea.</div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x5uC8hH1kSw/VYhQvChnahI/AAAAAAAAQ88/TcHpoAHllfg/s1600/IMG_8155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x5uC8hH1kSw/VYhQvChnahI/AAAAAAAAQ88/TcHpoAHllfg/s640/IMG_8155.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> The second course, "Did You Get Me My Cheese Whiz Boy?" was homemade cheese whiz on a brioche toast.  This was amazing and one of my favorite courses.  What goes with cheese whiz?  A shandy, of course!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eMax5omQWac/VYhQv_sy3oI/AAAAAAAAQ9E/mUNgruSE9o4/s1600/IMG_8156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eMax5omQWac/VYhQv_sy3oI/AAAAAAAAQ9E/mUNgruSE9o4/s640/IMG_8156.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> The third course was a shrimp and bratwurst sandwich with champagne marinated grapes.  This is the Chez Paul Offensive and was perfectly seasoned with slaw and a poppy seed roll.  The drink of choice was a Champagne PickMeUp.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-efkaE0V-FEc/VYhQwcHw1DI/AAAAAAAAQ9Q/zzEuq-szgiM/s1600/IMG_8157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-efkaE0V-FEc/VYhQwcHw1DI/AAAAAAAAQ9Q/zzEuq-szgiM/s640/IMG_8157.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> The fourth  course was buttermilk brined fried chicken served with greens and yes, white toast.  The chicken was so juicy and crisp. The sauce was made with Mexican Coca Cola.  What a completely perfect course to go along with the scene with Aretha Franklin.  The whole crowd was singing along with her!  The drink was a Dandy.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nty_2IlP8k0/VYhQxN08vII/AAAAAAAAQ9Y/FaE8oRAAOP8/s1600/IMG_8158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nty_2IlP8k0/VYhQxN08vII/AAAAAAAAQ9Y/FaE8oRAAOP8/s640/IMG_8158.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> The fifth course was cigar wrapped greens and the most tender beef brisket on top of creamy grits with roasted corn.  This course was served when the band is singing Rawhide at the cowboy bar.  Remember those beer cans?  That's right, they were all tossed at the chef, who in her wisdom, had chicken wire placed around her cooking station.  It was a hoot to see all those cans go flying!  The drink was not a beer, but a Daisy Cocktail, which was a first for me.  It was strong and really good.  Main liquor is rye whiskey.<br /> <br /> The last course, dessert, was so good.  We always look forward to see that the pastry chef puts together for the ending.  There was no disappointment today.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TtZzNe4KhSs/VYhQxCxva4I/AAAAAAAAQ9c/NVICTR64B2M/s1600/IMG_8159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TtZzNe4KhSs/VYhQxCxva4I/AAAAAAAAQ9c/NVICTR64B2M/s640/IMG_8159.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> Cornmeal and chocolate shortbread with strawberries and blackberries served with bourbon whipped cream.  Perfect ending to the meal!  The drink was a boozy thin mint shake.  Yum.<br /> <br /> Bob had a great time and we were so full when we left.  We laughed about how much we remembered from seeing the movie over the years.  We got a kick out of the shorts and how they always seem to be disaster films! <br /> <br /> The season for Tenacious Eats is done until fall, but you can be sure that we will be attending a few then.  Until then, we'll be waiting anxiously to see what Chef Liz puts together for us!

Tenacious Eats~The Blues Brothers!

For Mother's Day Bob treated me out to a brunch at Tenacious Eats to see "The Help."  It was so much fun that I repeated the e...

Around the Garden

We have had 98% rain since last Monday and although some of my flowers like it, most are starting to feel the effects of too much water.  Just like anything else, too much of a good thing is, well, too much.  We made some adjustments to our garden now that the sales have really kicked in.  At the Farmer's Market this week all hanging baskets, annuals and perennials were 50% off.  That means it is time to do whatever replanting we need to do.  For instance, one of the pots held lettuce.  The lettuce is done so now the pot has impatients in it.<br /> <div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YmmJ6Msx0fc/VYdP-aDGwpI/AAAAAAAAQ3M/o5wgMR9U5rc/s640/blogger-image--1449456081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="400" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YmmJ6Msx0fc/VYdP-aDGwpI/AAAAAAAAQ3M/o5wgMR9U5rc/s400/blogger-image--1449456081.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> We purchased three of the hanging bags of flowers, like seen at amusement parks.  We are trying them out to see if we really want to add them to our list of must haves each spring.  We also purchased two more summer rugs, one under the dining table and another for the lounging area.  </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NKNCWWgoYY8/VYdQB-Qz-1I/AAAAAAAAQ3U/2hh2wG1VRSc/s640/blogger-image-272126086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NKNCWWgoYY8/VYdQB-Qz-1I/AAAAAAAAQ3U/2hh2wG1VRSc/s400/blogger-image-272126086.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> We moved the lounging area from the deck to here.  This space feels a bit more private for sunbathing, even though it is closer to the fence. My back will now be facing the main road instead of looking at it!</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> We lost our lemon tree.  It just got too cold here in the early spring.  We thought we'd nutured it back, but this week the tree lost the last of its leaves.  That pot got the basil replanted in it.  The basil really took off this year!</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I4OfRQIniv8/VYdPzuCMj3I/AAAAAAAAQ20/MoT8dOVy3q4/s640/blogger-image--1905321610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I4OfRQIniv8/VYdPzuCMj3I/AAAAAAAAQ20/MoT8dOVy3q4/s400/blogger-image--1905321610.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> So now that I moved the lounging area, it opened up the deck.  I am thinking it is the perfect spot for a cafe table and chairs.  What do you think?</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Here's what's blooming:  our Stella de' Oros and daisies!  I love daisies!  They are so festive.  Loot at home many buds there are!</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fG7GhE7YEnc/VYdQFUnNg8I/AAAAAAAAQ3c/NQOzX4hXWbM/s640/blogger-image--978912176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fG7GhE7YEnc/VYdQFUnNg8I/AAAAAAAAQ3c/NQOzX4hXWbM/s400/blogger-image--978912176.jpg" width="300" /></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZC7b1lx_v08/VYdP3EePTmI/AAAAAAAAQ28/Vk9Sd86lCzs/s640/blogger-image-2029388800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZC7b1lx_v08/VYdP3EePTmI/AAAAAAAAQ28/Vk9Sd86lCzs/s400/blogger-image-2029388800.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Joining the fun today over at <a href="http://www.sidewalkshoes.com/2015/06/hosta-for-garden-tuesday.html">this party</a> to see more gardens and tours!  Enjoy!</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vqbWlS0jUok/VYnXpEspc1I/AAAAAAAAQ-E/TRhx4C17qKc/s1600/1223644228_rPCTM-S.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vqbWlS0jUok/VYnXpEspc1I/AAAAAAAAQ-E/TRhx4C17qKc/s320/1223644228_rPCTM-S.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> <br /> <br /></div>

Around the Garden

We have had 98% rain since last Monday and although some of my flowers like it, most are starting to feel the effects of too much water.  Ju...

Happy Father's Day!

It's Father's Day!  <br /> <br /> I would like to take the time to let you know about my husband Bob, as a father.  Many of my family and friends know that he is a great dad and father.  Nearly everyone knows that he had a wonderful role model in both his own father and his older brother.  Good role models are important.<br /> <br /> What people might not know is this:  I had to convince my husband that having a family was a good idea.  We had been married for seven years and we really liked our life!  We traveled, purchased a house, continued our education, bought what we needed and things we didn't, and enjoyed being able to GO without a second thought.  He was sure that having a baby would change all these things and he wasn't sure he wanted to give them up.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FHyQApzJPC8/SO0iGPuxFKI/AAAAAAAABA4/x4Asb3TfTgI/s1600/IMG_1022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FHyQApzJPC8/SO0iGPuxFKI/AAAAAAAABA4/x4Asb3TfTgI/s640/IMG_1022.JPG" width="480" /></a>He was right, having a baby changed all these things.  <br /> <br /> What he didn't realize though, was all the things we would GET.  Like hours and hours, days and days, years and years of constant entertainment!  Our daughter made us laugh all the time, with the things she said and did, some which still elicit belly laughs from time to time, such as Ashley speaking with a southern drawl when she was four.  We got a mediator for our (often) discussions (arguments) who to this day can see the right we each bring to a discussion (argument).  We got a partner in crime for whatever passion we have.  Bob-Ashley (wine).  Terri-Ashley (spa treatments).  Bob-Ashley-Terri (books).  Bob-Ashley (fashion).  Terri-Ashley (shopping). Bob-Terri-Ashley (education).  Bob-Ashley-Terri (travel).  Bob-Ashley-Terri (foodies).  We got unconditional love and constant ego boosting (You are the best mommy, daddy, teacher, principal).  We took better care of our health (because of our daughter), stayed young (to keep up with our on-the-go kid), and learned to think of others (Ashley's needs first) before ourselves.  We "grew up" and acted accordingly.  Well, except for singing at the Liberty Bell that one time in Philadelphia...<br /> <br /> Once Bob looked into those big blue eyes, he knew two things immediately:  that her name was Ashley (we hadn't decided before we went to the hospital, she was three weeks early and we thought we had time) and that he was totally in love with a baby.  He couldn't get enough of her.  He cried when he told his dad that she had been born, on his (Grandpa Jake) birthday and that her name was Ashley.  He knew from that moment he was changed.  We were a family and that was his number one priority.<br /> <br /> So, Happy Father's Day, Bob, and for making your family a priority, during all times of your life, even when the decisions were hard and meant giving up something you wanted.  Much love!<br /> <br />

Happy Father's Day!

It's Father's Day!  I would like to take the time to let you know about my husband Bob, as a father.  Many of my family and friend...

Father's Day Giveaway

I am happy to participate in the Two Gals Giveaway for Father's Day! Today is the last day to enter, so be sure to get your entry in. I have included the link below.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gBUB103Fxi4/VYTrw49t68I/AAAAAAAAQ1Y/Ef2w-CeGRrw/s1600/123.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gBUB103Fxi4/VYTrw49t68I/AAAAAAAAQ1Y/Ef2w-CeGRrw/s640/123.PNG" width="636" /></a></div> <br /> My dad taught me the fine art of the comeback.  He was a quick thinker and always had something to say to our comments.  We were quick, too, but he always had the last word (in a good way, mostly).<br /> <br /> What would you do with $300???  Here's my list:<br /> <br /> 1. <span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Sterling SSm 3r', 'Sterling SSm A', 'Sterling SSm B', serif; line-height: 20px;">Paloma's Venezia Goldoni heart band ring in sterling silver. From Tiffany's.</span><br /> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Sterling SSm 3r', 'Sterling SSm A', 'Sterling SSm B', serif; line-height: 20px;">2.</span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;"> </span><a class="title" href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/michael-michael-kors-bedford-tassel-medium-convertible-leather-shoulder-bag/3649266?origin=category" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; color: #393939; display: inline !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">MICHAEL Michael Kors 'Bedford Tassel - Medium' Convertible Leather Shoulder Bag</a> in red.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">3. I'd do a spa day at my favorite spa!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Since it is not budgeted money, I would definitely splurge!  The only way to win is to enter and you can do that<a href="http://wp.me/P3HNbD-1Ax"> HERE!</a>  Good Luck!</span>

Father's Day Giveaway

I am happy to participate in the Two Gals Giveaway for Father's Day! Today is the last day to enter, so be sure to get your entry in. ...

Summer Tour of Homes

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-64QACzemSII/VXoDtCvJBAI/AAAAAAAAQlU/4Yn0vx0AM4o/s1600/summer%2Bhome%2Btour%2Bseries%2B2015%2Bbutton%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-64QACzemSII/VXoDtCvJBAI/AAAAAAAAQlU/4Yn0vx0AM4o/s320/summer%2Bhome%2Btour%2Bseries%2B2015%2Bbutton%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Head over to  <a href="http://shelstringblog.blogspot.com/">Shelstring Blog</a> to see our home on the Summer Tour of Homes.  Here is a teaser of what you will see...<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qrqnqBHYiPQ/VXoDBnfWSmI/AAAAAAAAQk0/BWFekiXVbiA/s1600/IMG_8429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qrqnqBHYiPQ/VXoDBnfWSmI/AAAAAAAAQk0/BWFekiXVbiA/s640/IMG_8429.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DgOAwQpNSf8/VXoDPFM3fDI/AAAAAAAAQlM/8iXbAh9XwOM/s1600/IMG_8427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DgOAwQpNSf8/VXoDPFM3fDI/AAAAAAAAQlM/8iXbAh9XwOM/s640/IMG_8427.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qT5NgF0cfA4/VXoDOkrjYZI/AAAAAAAAQlE/R3uQIick2eY/s1600/IMG_8428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qT5NgF0cfA4/VXoDOkrjYZI/AAAAAAAAQlE/R3uQIick2eY/s640/IMG_8428.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>

Summer Tour of Homes

Head over to  Shelstring Blog to see our home on the Summer Tour of Homes.  Here is a teaser of what you will see... ...

Lemon Confetti Bundt Cake #BundtBakers

The June theme for Bundt Bakers is lemon!  My favorite of all flavors, I was excited to participate in this yummy celebration.<br /> <br /> There are so many delicious cakes on this month's list.  I had plans to do something with ricotta cheese and blueberries, but if you will notice, there are already two selections this month with those flavors.  You-might-guess-who was slow in getting <strike>my </strike>her cake listed this month.<br /> <br /> All it did was to force me to confront the only issue I have with confetti cake.  It's the wrong flavor.  It screams to be lemon, not vanilla.  It really does.  I heard it.  This is too easy for words, too.<br /> <br /> When you taste this cake, you will agree with me that this is how confetti cake was supposed to be.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YVO3XYxdWfQ/VXn9tokJfbI/AAAAAAAAQkY/WCusz6hs4V4/s1600/LemonConfetti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="536" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YVO3XYxdWfQ/VXn9tokJfbI/AAAAAAAAQkY/WCusz6hs4V4/s640/LemonConfetti.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="hrecipe f12"> <div class="fn single_recipe_header" style="font-size: 18px; margin: 5px 5px 5px 0px; padding: 0px;"> Lemon Confetti Bundt Cake</div> <img alt="" class="photo" src="http://www.recipage.com/images/user3997/1434058331/recipe_image.jpg" style="clear: both; float: left; padding: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 261.198px;" /><br /> <div class="single_recipe_text" id="author" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 5px 5px 5px 0px; padding: 0px;"> by <span class="author">Terri Steffes</span></div> <div class="single_recipe_text" style="font-size: 12px; margin: 4px; padding: 0px;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cook Time:</span><span class="cooktime"> 40 minutes</span></div> <div class="single_recipe_text" style="font-size: 12px; margin: 4px; padding: 0px;"> </div> <br /> <div id="ingredients"> <div class="single_recipe_header" id="ingr_header" style="clear: both; font-size: 18px; padding: 0px;"> Ingredients</div> <ul class="single_recipe_text" id="ingr" style="font-size: 14px;"> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1 Confetti cake mix</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">3 eggs</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1 c water</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1/3 c vegetable oil</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1 T lemon extract</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1 T powdered sugar</li> </ul> </div> <div id="instructions"> <div class="single_recipe_header" id="inst_header" style="font-size: 18px; padding: 0px;"> Instructions</div> <div class="instruction"> Preheat oven to 350.</div> <div class="instruction"> Prepare Bundt pan with Crisco or Pam.</div> <div class="instruction"> Combine all ingredients. Beat for three minutes or until all ingredients are well mixed.</div> <div class="instruction"> Pour into prepared Bundt pan.</div> <div class="instruction"> Bake for 35-40 minutes.</div> <div class="instruction"> Cool for 10 minutes in pan.</div> <div class="instruction"> Remove from pan and cool completely on a rack.</div> <div class="instruction"> Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.</div> </div> <div class="single_recipe_text" style="font-size: 10px; text-align: center; width: 653px;"> Powered by <a class="single_recipe_header" href="http://www.recipage.com/" style="color: black; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Recipage</a></div> </div> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CzQB2Is4swI/VXn_txCXZuI/AAAAAAAAQkg/6mG_0FEx2Q8/s1600/BundtBakers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CzQB2Is4swI/VXn_txCXZuI/AAAAAAAAQkg/6mG_0FEx2Q8/s200/BundtBakers.JPG" width="199" /></a><br /> <br /> Go check out these delicious lemon bundt cakes. You will find everything from simple (like mine) to deliciously complex flavors and techniques. Something for everyone!<br /> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.foodlustpeoplelove.com/2015/06/bees-knees-lemon-honey-bundt.html" target="_blank">Bee's Knees Lemon Honey Bundt</a> from Food Lust People Love</li> <li><a href="http://www.caliscuisine.com/2015/06/blueberry-lemon-breakfast-bundt.html" target="_blank">Blueberry-Lemon Breakfast Bundt</a> from Cali's Cuisine</li> <li><a href="http://lamejormaneradehacer.blogspot.com/2015/06/bundt-cake-de-limon.html" target="_blank">Bundt Cake de Limón</a> from La Mejor Manera de Hacer</li> <li><a href="http://www.seduceyourtastebuds.com/2015/06/eggless-lemon-bundt-cake-for-bundtbakers.html" target="_blank">Eggless Lemon Bundt Cake</a> from Seduce Your Tastebuds</li> <li><a href="http://loschatoschefs.blogspot.com/2015/06/extra-lemon-bundt-cake.html" target="_blank">Extra Lemon Bundt Cake</a> from Los Chatos Chefs</li> <li><a href="http://magnoliadays.com/2015/lavender-lemon-cake/" target="_blank">Lavender Lemon Cake</a> from Magnolia Days</li> <li><a href="http://unmordiscounpecado.blogspot.com/2015/06/lemon-lime-cheese-bundt-cake-bundtbakers.html" target="_blank">Lemon & Lime Cheese Bundt Cake</a> from Un Mordisco Un Pecado</li> <li><a href="http://curries-shilpi.blogspot.com/2015/06/lemon-apple-upside-down-bundt-cake.html" target="_blank">Lemon Apple Upside Down Bundt Cake</a> from Simply Veggies</li> <li><a href="http://www.tartacadabra.blogspot.com/2015/06/lemon-basil-bundt-cake-bundtbakers.html" target="_blank">Lemon Basil Bundt Cake</a> from Tartacadabra</li> <li><a href="http://recipesfoodandcooking.com/2015/06/18/lemon-bundt-cake/" target="_blank">Lemon Bundt Cake</a> from Recipes, Food and Cooking</li> <li><a href="https://sewyoucancook.wordpress.com/2015/06/18/bundtbakers-lemons/" target="_blank">Lemon Buttermilk Bundt Cake with Tart Lemon Glaze</a> from Sew You Think You Can Cook</li> <li><a href="http://www.terristeffes.com/2015/06/lemon-confetti-bundt-cake-bundtbakers.html" target="_blank">Lemon Confetti Bundt Cake</a> from Our Good Life</li> <li><a href="http://ilovebundtcakes.blogspot.com/2015/06/lemon-curd-bundt-cake-with-lemon-glaze.html" target="_blank">Lemon Curd Bundt Cake with Lemon Glaze</a> from I Love Bundt Cakes</li> <li><a href="http://www.brunchwithjoy.com/eats/lemon-honey-bundt-cake/" target="_blank">Lemon Honey Bundt Cake</a> from Brunch with Joy</li> <li><a href="http://www.jennyandsweet.com/2015/06/lemon-marble-bundt-cake-bundtbakers.html" target="_blank">Lemon Marble Bundt Cake</a> from Jenny and Sweets</li> <li><a href="http://bakinginpyjamas.com/2015/06/18/lemon-meringue-chiffon-cake-bundtbakers/" target="_blank">Lemon Meringue Chiffon Cake</a> from Baking in Pyjamas</li> <li><a href="http://livforcake.com/2015/06/lemon-poppy-seed-bundt-cake.html" target="_blank">Lemon Poppy Seed Bundt Cake</a> from Liv for Cake</li> <li><a href="http://cocinadeaisha.blogspot.com/2015/06/lemon-poppy-seeds-bundt-cake-bundtbakers.html" target="_blank">Lemon Poppy Seeds Bundt Cake</a> from La Cocina de Aisha</li> <li><a href="http://adayinthelifeonthefarm.blogspot.com/2015/06/lemon-poppyseed-bundt-for-bundtbakers.html" target="_blank">Lemon Poppyseed Bundt</a> from A Day in the Life on the Farm</li> <li><a href="http://fromgatetoplate.com/2015/06/18/lemon-rhubarb-bundt-cake-bundtbakers/" target="_blank">Lemon Rhubarb Bundt Cake</a> from From Gate to Plate</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiceroots.com/lemon-ricotta-and-poppyseed-bundt-cake-bundtbakers/" target="_blank">Lemon Ricotta and Poppyseed Bundt Cake</a> from Spice Roots</li> <li><a href="http://www.loveandconfections.com/2015/06/lemon-ricotta-bundt-cake-bundtbakers.html" target="_blank">Lemon Ricotta Bundt Cake</a> from Love and Confections</li> <li><a href="http://takeabiteoutofboca.com/2015/06/lemon-cranberry-poppyseed-bundt-cake-bundtbakers.html" target="_blank">Lemon-Cranberry Poppyseed Bundt Cake</a> from Take A Bite Out of Boca</li> <li><a href="http://livingthegourmet.com/2015/06/mini-limoncello-bundts-bundtbakers.html" target="_blank">Mini Limoncello Bundts</a> from Living the Gourmet</li> <li><a href="http://rebekahrose.blogspot.com/2015/06/bundtbakers-pink-lemon-pound-cake.html" target="_blank">Pink Lemon Pound Cake</a> from Making Miracles</li> <li><a href="http://janesadventuresindinner.com/2015/06/bundtbakers-pink-lemonade-bundt.html" target="_blank">Pink Lemonade Bundt</a> from Jane's Adventures in Dinner</li> <li><a href="http://brooklynhomemaker.com/2015/06/18/rhubarb-pound-cake-bundt-bundtbakers/" target="_blank">Rhubarb Pound Cake Bundt with Lemon Glaze</a> from Brooklyn Homemaker</li> <li><a href="http://passionkneaded.blogspot.com/2015/06/soft-lemon-rosemary-bread-bundtbakers.html" target="_blank">Soft Lemon Rosemary Bread</a> from Passion Kneaded</li> <li><a href="http://adventuresinallthingsfood.blogspot.com/2015/06/spring-strawberry-lemon-bundt-cake.html" target="_blank">Spring Strawberry Lemon Bundt Cake</a> from Adventures in All Things Food</li> <li><a href="http://bakingandcreatingwithavril.blogspot.com/2015/06/strawberry-lemonade-bundt-cake.html" target="_blank">Strawberry Lemonade Bundt Cake</a> from Baking and Creating with Avril</li> <li><a href="http://www.frommysweetheart.com/sweet-lemon-bundt-with-blackberry-glaze/" target="_blank">Sweet Lemon Bundt with Blackberry Glaze</a> from From My Sweet Heart</li> </ul> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.foodlustpeoplelove.com/p/bundtbakers.html" target="_blank"><img alt="BundtBakers" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XE9bwZnyL9c/UtYEgkZErAI/AAAAAAAAWL4/xg6KeKrZJD0/s1600/BundtBakers+post.png" /></a></div> #BundtBakers is a group of Bundt loving Bakers who get together once a month to bake Bundts with a common ingredient or theme. You can see all of our lovely Bundts by following our Pinterest board right <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/flpl/bundtbakers">here</a>. We take turns hosting each month and choosing the theme or ingredient. Updated links for all of our past events and more information about BundtBakers can be found on our <a href="http://foodlustpeoplelove.com/p/bundtbakers.html">homepage</a>.

Lemon Confetti Bundt Cake #BundtBakers

The June theme for Bundt Bakers is lemon!  My favorite of all flavors, I was excited to participate in this yummy celebration. There are s...

Green is Good, part 2

Last week I had a guest blogger writing about some products that are good for the environment and for us.  Justine sent me a few samples of the products and here is my review of them.<br /> <br /> Laundry detergent:  The laundry detergent, liquid, is super concentrated so I used the recommended amount, 1 tablespoon, per load.  Bob and I do not get very dirty in our line of business and we usually only wear each outfit once before we through it into the washer.  Our clothes came out smelling wonderful and seemed clean and fresh.<br /> <br /> Dishwasher tablets:  The dishwasher tablets seemed to work fine as well.  The dishes were clean and sparkling, and the scent is very nice.  They are smaller tablets than the ones at the store, but I am sure they are concentrated as well.<br /> <br /> Dish soap:  This stuff is very concentrated!  A basin full of water and only a couple of drops of soap made all this lather!  It lasted for a long while.  As a person who usually puts a drop or two on a sponge, I am sold on filling up the sink with water first.  Wow.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_vErF6JYiYg/VX8nl5Pz46I/AAAAAAAAQyY/iMKAr3-xA3w/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%252843%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_vErF6JYiYg/VX8nl5Pz46I/AAAAAAAAQyY/iMKAr3-xA3w/s640/FullSizeRender%2B%252843%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> Laundry stain remover stick:  I used this on one garment with an older, tomato based stain.  It did not remove the stain completely, but I did see some improvement on the garment.  If the stain was fresh, I believe it would work better.<br /> <br /> Thank you, Justine, for the samples and for letting me try them! 

Green is Good, part 2

Last week I had a guest blogger writing about some products that are good for the environment and for us.  Justine sent me a few samples of ...

Lemon Bits Oatmeal Cookies #CreativeCookieExchange

Lemon and summer go hand-in-hand.  Think lemonade, iced tea with lemon, and now...Lemon Bits Oatmeal Cookies! <br /> <br /> #CreativeCookieExchange is a group of bloggers who like to bake cookies and each month we are guided by a theme and this month our theme is Chips, Chunks or Bits.  When I found these <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/lemon-bits-8-oz">lemon bits at King Arthur's Flour</a>, I knew I would be incorporating them into my cookie for this month.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6SvZAv6oVs8/VXYKA2X459I/AAAAAAAAQVE/zKOHP7cCy0I/s1600/LemonCookie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="lemon bits oatmeal cookie" border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6SvZAv6oVs8/VXYKA2X459I/AAAAAAAAQVE/zKOHP7cCy0I/s640/LemonCookie.jpg" title="lemon bits oatmeal cookie" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> I love this cookie.  It's different from my usual cookie in that it is thin, a bit chewy and lightly flavored.  The oatmeal, flavored with a bit of ginger, is a nice compliment to the lemon bits. The lemon is not overwhelming at all, just a bit of freshness at the end! <br /> <br /> <div class="hrecipe f12"> <div class="fn single_recipe_header" style="font-size: 18px; margin: 5px 5px 5px 0px; padding: 0px;"> Lemon Bits Oatmeal Cookies</div> <img alt="" class="photo" src="http://www.recipage.com/images/user3997/1433798979/recipe_image.jpg" style="clear: both; float: left; padding: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 261.1875px;" /><br /> <div class="single_recipe_text" id="author" style="font-size: 15px; margin: 5px 5px 5px 0px; padding: 0px;"> by <span class="author">Terri Steffes</span></div> <div class="single_recipe_text" style="font-size: 12px; margin: 8px 4px 4px; padding: 0px;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Prep Time:</span><span class="preptime"> 8 minutes</span></div> <div class="single_recipe_text" style="font-size: 12px; margin: 4px; padding: 0px;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cook Time:</span><span class="cooktime"> 11 minutes per batch</span></div> <div class="single_recipe_text" style="font-size: 12px; margin: 4px; padding: 0px;"> </div> <br /> <div id="ingredients"> <div class="single_recipe_header" id="ingr_header" style="clear: both; font-size: 18px; padding: 0px;"> Ingredients<span class="single_recipe_text" style="color: black; font-size: 14px;"> (3 dz)</span></div> <ul class="single_recipe_text" id="ingr" style="font-size: 14px;"> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1/2 c softened butter</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1/2 c brown sugar, packed</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1/2 c white sugar</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1 t vanilla</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1 egg</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1 c flour</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1/2 t baking powder</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1/2 t baking soda</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1/2 t salt</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1/4 t ground ginger</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1 c oatmeal</li> <li class="ingredient" style="margin-bottom: 3px;">1/2 c lemon bits (King Arthur's Flour)</li> </ul> </div> <div id="instructions"> <div class="single_recipe_header" id="inst_header" style="font-size: 18px; padding: 0px;"> Instructions</div> <div class="instruction"> Preheat oven to 375.</div> <div class="instruction"> Cream butter and sugars</div> <div class="instruction"> Add egg and vanilla, mix well.</div> <div class="instruction"> Stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ginger.</div> <div class="instruction"> Add flour to butter mixture in small amounts, stirring to incorporate.</div> <div class="instruction"> Fold in lemon bits.</div> <div class="instruction"> Prepare cookie sheet by spraying with cooking spray or by covering with parchment paper.</div> <div class="instruction"> Drop by teaspoonfuls on to parchment.</div> <div class="instruction"> Bake for 8 minutes, check for color.  Cookies should be golden brown.</div> <div class="instruction"> Cool for one minute, then remove to cooling rack until thoroughly cooled.</div> </div> <div class="single_recipe_text" style="font-size: 10px; text-align: center; width: 653px;"> Powered by <a class="single_recipe_header" href="http://www.recipage.com/" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Recipage</a></div> </div> <span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.66px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></span><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.66px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.66px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://www.thespicedlife.com/creative-cookie-exchange"><img height="200" src="http://www.thespicedlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Creative-Cookie-Exchange-2014.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></span><br /> <br /> <div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-c958679b-fbf2-88d0-63ca-e9a347fb5a63" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline;">The theme this month is Chips, Chunks or Bits! If you are a blogger and want to join in the fun, contact Laura at thespicedlife AT gmail DOT com and she will get you added to our Facebook group, where we discuss our cookies and share links. Please be patient though, as this month Laura is off to Italy and will not be checking email quite as often!</span></div> <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline;">You can also just use us as a great resource for cookie recipes--be sure to check out our Pinterest Board and our monthly posts (you can find all of them at The Spiced Life). You will be able to find them the first Tuesday after the 15th of each month! Also, if you are looking for inspiration to get in the kitchen and start baking, check out what all of the hosting bloggers have made:</span></div> <ul> <li><a href="http://studyathomemama.ca/" target="_blank">Banana Pudding Bars</a> from Study at Home Mama</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiceroots.com/" target="_blank">Cherry and Chocolate Chip Scones</a> from Spiceroots</li> <li><a href="http://www.karenskitchenstories.com/" target="_blank">Chocolate Andes Mint Cookies</a> from Karen's Kitchen Stories</li> <li><a href="http://cookiedoughandovenmitt.com/" target="_blank">Chocolate Stout and Pretzel Cookies</a> from Cookie Dough and Oven Mitt</li> <li><a href="http://rhubarbandhoney.com/" target="_blank">Flourless Dark Chocolate Espresso Oatmeal Cookies</a> from Rhubarb and Honey</li> <li><a href="http://www.hezzi-dsbooksandcooks.com/" target="_blank">Gourmet Iced Oatmeal Raisin Cookies</a> from Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks</li> <li><a href="http://2cookinmamas.com/" target="_blank">Hazel Espresso Cookies</a> from 2 Cookin' Mamas</li> <li><a href="http://www.terristeffes.com/" target="_blank">Lemon Bits Oatmeal Cookies</a> from Our Good Life</li> <li><a href="http://www.yummysmells.ca/" target="_blank">Nibbed Caramel Blondies</a> from What Smells So Good?</li> <li><a href="http://basicndelicious.com/" target="_blank">Nutty Bits Cookies</a> from Basic N Delicious</li> <li><a href="http://noshingwiththenolands.com/" target="_blank">Peanut Butter Chunk Cookies</a> from Noshing With The Nolands</li> <li><a href="http://www.upstateramblings.com/" target="_blank">Rocky Road Cookies</a> from Upstate Ramblings</li> <li><a href="http://suzzie43.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies</a> from Made With Love</li> <li><a href="http://magnoliadays.com/" target="_blank">Sour Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies</a> from Magnolia Days</li> <li><a href="http://bakinginpyjamas.com/" target="_blank">Strawberry n White Choc Chunk Blondies</a> from Baking in Pyjamas</li> <li><a href="http://www.abakershouse.com/" target="_blank">Trail Mix Cookies</a> from Holly at A Baker's House</li> <li><a href="http://www.foodlustpeoplelove.com/" target="_blank">Uncle Hector's 100 Cookies</a> from Food Lust People Love</li> </ul> <ul> </ul>

Lemon Bits Oatmeal Cookies #CreativeCookieExchange

Lemon and summer go hand-in-hand.  Think lemonade, iced tea with lemon, and now...Lemon Bits Oatmeal Cookies!  #CreativeCookieExchange is ...

Around the Garden-New Town Garden Tour

This week I am going to share with you photos of the New Town Garden Tour that was held this weekend.  These are just teasers and I am hoping others will share their photos, too.  The Garden Club held its pre-tour on Friday so that all the workers could see the gardens on the tour.<br /> <br /> Each garden was unique to its special properties which I will try to highlight in each photo.  I hope you will enjoy the tour!<br /> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VPdkhF1mWP8/VXxB3z_y_kI/AAAAAAAAQqI/uUWZz0CCYeo/s1600/IMG_7938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VPdkhF1mWP8/VXxB3z_y_kI/AAAAAAAAQqI/uUWZz0CCYeo/s640/IMG_7938.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The back porch to a really beautiful garden.  Hanging planters on the privacy fence and a special water feature and eating area are not seen.  The garage is detached and creates this pocket garden between the house and garage.<br />  </td></tr> </tbody></table> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xZ7ZTVngqWM/VXxB7XjiqrI/AAAAAAAAQqw/eS381LigIIM/s1600/IMG_7939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xZ7ZTVngqWM/VXxB7XjiqrI/AAAAAAAAQqw/eS381LigIIM/s640/IMG_7939.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These flowers grace the front of the house.  The house is located by a canal on its west side and all the garden space is there.  The sitting area has a beautiful pergola with a beautiful ironworks light in the center.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-__k0wUwdRr0/VXxB5Okvi5I/AAAAAAAAQqU/Fp1G3rLSjLs/s1600/IMG_7940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-__k0wUwdRr0/VXxB5Okvi5I/AAAAAAAAQqU/Fp1G3rLSjLs/s640/IMG_7940.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This house faces a lake.  This backyard courtyard features the beautiful fountain you see in the background.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2UKV3mS_afo/VXxB5HD17bI/AAAAAAAAQqQ/ZPykvflPQ0A/s1600/IMG_7942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2UKV3mS_afo/VXxB5HD17bI/AAAAAAAAQqQ/ZPykvflPQ0A/s640/IMG_7942.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These flowers are an example of the multiple pots of annuals that surround the home.  All the yard is in ground cover, with plant or mulch.  The yard space is low maintenance in this home.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vQC6-uEIcVw/VXxB6LYHUzI/AAAAAAAAQqg/3_6uxjQJLrw/s1600/IMG_7943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vQC6-uEIcVw/VXxB6LYHUzI/AAAAAAAAQqg/3_6uxjQJLrw/s640/IMG_7943.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This home features a v shaped courtyard with a space right off the back door as you see here, with a garden bench, this arbor and another seating area with an concrete umbrella stand and trellis.  </td></tr> </tbody></table> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_0GZf_SvS9o/VXxB7Ox8HsI/AAAAAAAAQqo/kY5s1lBeRAY/s1600/IMG_7944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_0GZf_SvS9o/VXxB7Ox8HsI/AAAAAAAAQqo/kY5s1lBeRAY/s640/IMG_7944.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This garden is nearly completely covered in flagstone and large rounded stones.  It also features a large cascading water feature.  The owners recently moved in and have many plans for updating this space.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-comCuZQqTcA/VXxB7F2hWII/AAAAAAAAQqs/Wpt04icEqew/s1600/IMG_7945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-comCuZQqTcA/VXxB7F2hWII/AAAAAAAAQqs/Wpt04icEqew/s640/IMG_7945.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This tiny space is well utilized.  The paver patio connects the back porch to the garage and is a delightful seating area full of beautiful annuals and the clematis you see in the background.  A gorgeous spot for coffee in the morning and wine at night!</td></tr> </tbody></table> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mRiBf2z6JQg/VXxB76R0LnI/AAAAAAAAQrA/BGANlDeLv0M/s1600/IMG_7947.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mRiBf2z6JQg/VXxB76R0LnI/AAAAAAAAQrA/BGANlDeLv0M/s640/IMG_7947.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This garden has the most beautiful water feature, a LARGE stone drilled down the middle with water gurgling from the top.  It is most definitely the feature in this garden but there is a beautiful, zen-like seating area and a hammock, too!</td></tr> </tbody></table> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a8E5VgrbpOU/VXxE6uNuIoI/AAAAAAAAQrM/-QOQkX-0RFE/s1600/IMG_7941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a8E5VgrbpOU/VXxE6uNuIoI/AAAAAAAAQrM/-QOQkX-0RFE/s640/IMG_7941.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This beautiful garden feature a lovely, carpet like yard, in addition to a gorgeous seating space right off the back door.  This lovely patch of annuals surrounds a huge tree sporting lime green (new growth) and purple leaves.  It was spectacular.</td></tr> </tbody></table> The pre tour was wonderful.  We had had a big storm pull in an hour before the tour started, and some plants were a little messed up, but still each garden's charm was apparent from the moment we stepped into it.  New Town gardens are small and private, with each one having unique characteristics that set them apart from the others.  I enjoyed this pre tour so much.  Thank you to our garden tour participants!<br /> <br /> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qm99PhUFc3I/VX8SVAXUAzI/AAAAAAAAQyI/xhWVQmvAfxo/s1600/Garden-Party-button%255B1%255D.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qm99PhUFc3I/VX8SVAXUAzI/AAAAAAAAQyI/xhWVQmvAfxo/s1600/Garden-Party-button%255B1%255D.png" /></a>Head over to <a href="http://www.newhousenewhomenewlife.com/2015/06/whats-blooming-this-week-garden-update-june-15.html">this party</a> to see more gardens and tours!  Enjoy!

Around the Garden-New Town Garden Tour

This week I am going to share with you photos of the New Town Garden Tour that was held this weekend.  These are just teasers and I am hopin...

Flag Day!

<div style="text-align: center;"> Enjoy these photos of Flag Day around my neighborhood, New Town of Saint Charles!</div> <div style="text-align: center;">  </div> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yQiT20DPN2g/VXszoC2Zb1I/AAAAAAAAQmY/EMpJtLM8Ygw/s1600/FlagDay2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yQiT20DPN2g/VXszoC2Zb1I/AAAAAAAAQmY/EMpJtLM8Ygw/s640/FlagDay2015.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add caption</td></tr> </tbody></table> <div style="text-align: left;"> Flag Day celebrates the adoption of the American Flag in 1777.   In 1916 the day became a national holiday but not a federal holiday so you don't hear much of any parades or cookouts!  In any case, it is fun to see all the flags flying throughout the US.  Happy Flag Day!</div>

Flag Day!

Enjoy these photos of Flag Day around my neighborhood, New Town of Saint Charles!   Add caption Flag Day celebrates the adoption of...

Food Wine Design

Last year Bob and I attended the Food Wine Design event.  When we had the chance to go to this year's event, we knew we wanted to go and we also knew we were going to spring for the VIP tickets.  We are so glad we did!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j6BDPNEkgMs/VXYalTiNS6I/AAAAAAAAQWQ/tbXB1XQyzIM/s1600/IMG_7769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j6BDPNEkgMs/VXYalTiNS6I/AAAAAAAAQWQ/tbXB1XQyzIM/s640/IMG_7769.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> Here is how the event is promoted: Indulge your senses at St. Louis Magazine’s Culinary Week – Food Wine Design. Each night, a duo of the city’s most celebrated chefs will prepare a one-of-a-kind meal complete with carefully selected wine and beer pairings. Plus, enjoy live music, cocktails from top mixologists, and inspirational tabletop designs. <br /> <br /> <strong>Chefs</strong><br /> Lou Rook — Annie Gunn's<br /> William Cardwell — Cardwell's at the Plaza and BC's Kitchen<br /> <br /> <strong>Music</strong><br /> Fanfare<br /> <br /> <strong>Wine host</strong><br /> Ward on Wine<br /> <br /> <strong>Mixologists</strong><br /> Brooksey Cardwell of Cardwell's at the Plaza<br /> Spirits of St. Louis<br /> <br /> When we arrived, we were met by Mungenast Lexus of St. Louis for a cocktail party.  The featured cocktails were a Blackberry Sage Gin Fizz and a Strawberry Rhubarb Old Fashioned Punch.  I tried the strawberry and it was amazing!  The appetizers served were...<br /> <br /> Annie Gunn’s prime strip loin tartare on Guinness bread<br /> Maine lobster roll<br /> Seared king salmon on Yukon Gold potato chip with crème fraiche and caviar<br /> Spring vegetable fritto misto with meyer lemon mayonnaise dipping sauce  <br /> <br /> Amazing, explosions of goodness in your mouth!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FERDOLT5MI4/VXYa_R2kOdI/AAAAAAAAQXA/2vEAdMJNfLY/s1600/IMG_7751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FERDOLT5MI4/VXYa_R2kOdI/AAAAAAAAQXA/2vEAdMJNfLY/s640/IMG_7751.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> After the cocktail party, we come into the banquet hall and feast our eyes on stunning floral arrangements.  Our arrangements were done by Mary Tuttle's Flowers, and from the talk at the table, her daughter was seated across from us.  These displays were sold at the end of the evening for a donation to the Food Bank.<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NdaykkK_XaQ/VXYbAUAzwpI/AAAAAAAAQXI/b1cqO28j7DE/s1600/IMG_7755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NdaykkK_XaQ/VXYbAUAzwpI/AAAAAAAAQXI/b1cqO28j7DE/s640/IMG_7755.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F_Y467RyvKo/VXYbBXQPFkI/AAAAAAAAQXc/9FUubgbuj84/s1600/IMG_7759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F_Y467RyvKo/VXYbBXQPFkI/AAAAAAAAQXc/9FUubgbuj84/s640/IMG_7759.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> The chefs came out and told us about the food we were to eat, and their descriptions had us all ready to gnaw at the table legs!!  We were famished, even after all the cocktails and appetizers!<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cQO_wHepJM8/VXYaiieUl_I/AAAAAAAAQVk/p1ahjJoxAP4/s1600/IMG_7757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cQO_wHepJM8/VXYaiieUl_I/AAAAAAAAQVk/p1ahjJoxAP4/s640/IMG_7757.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rR9FcC2M2Eg/VXYaklJRSNI/AAAAAAAAQWI/IS-0BDgag1E/s1600/IMG_7765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rR9FcC2M2Eg/VXYaklJRSNI/AAAAAAAAQWI/IS-0BDgag1E/s640/IMG_7765.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">  </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-soTAwFAj2F0/VXibbdf1NSI/AAAAAAAAQeY/rJnA1LHr7vM/s1600/20150604_FWD_Thurs_0004%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-soTAwFAj2F0/VXibbdf1NSI/AAAAAAAAQeY/rJnA1LHr7vM/s640/20150604_FWD_Thurs_0004%255B1%255D.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My place setting.  I happen to see the photographer take the photo!  Photo courtesy of St. Louis Magazine.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kp_SLazWZaA/VXibblBWMLI/AAAAAAAAQeU/Q1zyes4xHzs/s1600/20150604_FWD_Thurs_0380%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kp_SLazWZaA/VXibblBWMLI/AAAAAAAAQeU/Q1zyes4xHzs/s640/20150604_FWD_Thurs_0380%255B1%255D.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob and I are seated second and third from the left.  Photo courtesy of St. Louis Magazine<br /> <br />  </td></tr> </tbody></table> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">  </div> <br /> The courses as they were served:<br /> <br /> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>First Course</strong></span><br /> <strong><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></strong><br /> Fish stew provençal with roasted prawns, bouillabaisse relish, and rouille crostini<br /> <div class="wine"> Crios Rosé of Malbec, Argentina</div> <div class="wine">  </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMZMLN9SydY/VXYakd7PrKI/AAAAAAAAQWA/VtCBtheX03A/s1600/IMG_7768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMZMLN9SydY/VXYakd7PrKI/AAAAAAAAQWA/VtCBtheX03A/s640/IMG_7768.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <div class="wine">  </div> <h5> Second Course</h5> Confit of heritage hog pork belly, grilled housemade Belgium beer sausage, spring vegetable potato salad, and Banyuls vinegar bacon dressing<br /> <div class="wine"> Beer pairing: Goose Island Matilda</div> <div class="wine">  </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NeeBccU9yIk/VXYamOta7PI/AAAAAAAAQWY/wWsOt542xv4/s1600/IMG_7771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NeeBccU9yIk/VXYamOta7PI/AAAAAAAAQWY/wWsOt542xv4/s640/IMG_7771.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <div class="wine">  </div> <h5> Third Course</h5> Grilled porcini crusted Aurora Farms prime “Manhattan” style strip loin with wild mushroom ragout, bone marrow gremolata, and a smattering of spring vegetables<br /> <div class="wine"> M.Chapoutier Cotes Du Rhone, France </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sZ_QvZ3uDx8/VXZeXr-RtvI/AAAAAAAAQYA/Eyg_4X-sUfA/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%252841%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sZ_QvZ3uDx8/VXZeXr-RtvI/AAAAAAAAQYA/Eyg_4X-sUfA/s640/FullSizeRender%2B%252841%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> <h5> Dessert</h5> Baetje Farms goat cheese panna cotta with strawberry rhubarb compote and orange madeleines<br /> <div class="wine"> Augusta Ice Wine, Missouri</div> <!--<p> </p> --> <!--<p> <strong>Beer pairing: Leffe Blonde</strong></p> --> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ImTOCuuAuWM/VXZeXvra3cI/AAAAAAAAQYI/6tjLP5zZDBo/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%252842%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ImTOCuuAuWM/VXZeXvra3cI/AAAAAAAAQYI/6tjLP5zZDBo/s640/FullSizeRender%2B%252842%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div> <strong></strong><br /> <strong>Gourmet coffee bar by Thomas Coffee</strong><br /> <strong></strong><br /> After the meal, there was a drawing for a table lamp and an auction for a Progressive Dinner Party at Caldwell's and Annie Gunn's for eight, and you were driven to the restaurants by Lexus!  The winning bid was over $3000.  All for the<a href="http://stlfoodbank.org/"> Food Bank</a>.  Such a great gift, Chefs!<br /> <br /> The swag bag was nice, too.  A Riedel wine glass, a Stella Artois glass, chocolates, a wine bottle cap, and a complete wine opener set for travel in addition to the latest St. Louis Magazines.  The ticket includes valet parking.<br /> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3sttgIoGL-Q/VXibXkpH1FI/AAAAAAAAQeM/jrE-6smtMyg/s1600/2015.6.4-FoodWineDesign_MicahUsher-8%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3sttgIoGL-Q/VXibXkpH1FI/AAAAAAAAQeM/jrE-6smtMyg/s640/2015.6.4-FoodWineDesign_MicahUsher-8%255B1%255D.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Having a great time !  Photo courtesy of St. Louis Magazine</td></tr> </tbody></table> As we were driving home (not in a Lexus, darn it!) we discussed how much we loved coming to this event.  We love the cause, we love the food, and it is such fun to be around people who enjoy it as much as we do.  Next year we are going to look for others who want to join us!

Food Wine Design

Last year Bob and I attended the Food Wine Design event.  When we had the chance to go to this year's event, we knew we wanted to go and...