Our Good Life: August 2018

Posted by Terri Steffes / 31 August 2018 / friday faves

Friday Favorites #12

Hello, friends!<br />
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I survived the work week and now I am going to treat myself and my family to a week long vacation to Palm Springs, California!  I cannot wait to share our trip with you in future posts.  What are your plans for this Labor Day Weekend?<br />
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I have had a blast collecting things to share with you this week. Did you know that September was Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month?  I did not, but I do believe that it is something that women should know, so I wrote a post on it and am giving away tickets to the Cardinals/Dodgers baseball game on September 4 to promote it.  The drawing is TOMORROW, so be sure to <a href="https://www.terristeffes.com/2018/08/september-is-national-ovarian-cancer.html">comment on my blog here to enter!</a><br />
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MightyFIX</h4>
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I am in love with my newest subscription:  MightyFIX.  Each month you will be sent one amazing green product that helps strengthen the environment. This month I got 3 dryer balls which will cut my usage of dryer sheets.  Listen to this:  <b><i>A car would fail an emissions test if its exhause were the same air that comes out of most dryer vents when using chemical dryer sheets.</i></b>  Read that again.  Scary thought.  These dryer balls are 100% New Zealand wool. By using these I am going to save 25% more energy, use 1000 less dryer sheets and contribute 0 toxins to the air.  Yay me!</div>
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<a href="https://mightynest.com/the-mighty-fix">Join up here!</a>  (not an affiliate, just love the product!)  The cost is $10 a month but use this code </div>
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<strong style="box-sizing: border-box;">INVITE7</strong></h4>
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to get $7 off your first month!  Isn't that awesome!</div>
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Rich Crazy Asians</h4>
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Have you seen this movie yet?  It is the Movie-of-the-Summer!  I went with a few girlfriends and we just had a blast!  Let me say this:  We Americans have a lot of catching up to do when it comes to weddings!  I highly recommend this movie!</div>
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Apolis Market Bags</h4>
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I am in love with these bags!  You have to go to their Instagram page and look at the crazy cute sayings people are personalizing them with.  Too, too, cute.  Can't wait to get one, but I can't come up with that perfect saying.  Of course!!!  Instagram at @apolis</div>
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It's waterproof (the website says you can use it as a cooler!) and can support 100 pounds AND is supposed to last for eight  years.  That makes it a bargain, even at $60+ !</div>
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Bedroom Redo</h4>
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I have been in my house for five years and had the same bedding the entire time. It was white, pretty but looking rather ragged. It was also a bit formal for the room.  Our house has a beach attitude to it, which means that it is subtle not in your face. I found this spread at Bed, Bath and Beyond for 30% off and I think I am liking it!  The decorative pillows might need to be changed out... still debating.  I love that one of the stripes matches the bedroom paint colors and the blue is the same as in my master bathroom and walk in closet! I'd love to know what you think!!</div>
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Have a happy Labor Day weekend and I will be back in touch after our trip to Palm Springs! </div>
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Friday Favorites #12

Hello, friends! I survived the work week and now I am going to treat myself and my family to a week long vacation to Palm Springs, Califor...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 27 August 2018 / cancer

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.  I am a cancer survivor so I find it very important to spread aware of the signs and symptoms of this hard-to-diagnose cancer.  The truth is that 22,000 women are diagnosed each year, and 15,000 die each year.  We can do better!<br />
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Know the symptoms!</h4>
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Ovarian cancer shows up in women in their 50s and 60s primarily although younger women have been diagnosed with the disease.  The symptoms are subtle and are</div>
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<li>bloating</li>
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There is no screener for this cancer, if you have symptoms like above and they last more than two weeks, seek advice from your physician. There is a 95% survival rate in the first five years if detected early.  Be your own best advocate!</div>
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For my Saint Louis readers, there are a number of events this September to heighten awareness of this cancer.  Check these out:</div>
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<li>September 4~Cookie Baking for Survivors at the Des Peres Dierberg's Cooking School.  Come and help back cookies that will be given to cancer patients at local gynecologic oncologists' offices.</li>
<li>September 11~ Teal Toes.  Come get a teal pedi at Nail Pro in Des Peres.  A portion of the proceeds benefits Saint Louis Ovarian Cancer Association (SLOCA.) </li>
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<li><b><i><span style="color: #3d85c6;">September 14~ The 14th annual SLOCA Night at Busch Stadium will commence at 7:15 against the Dodgers.  Tickets are $35 and include a free jumbo hot dog and soda.  Call 314-966-4562 to get yours OR ENTER TO WIN TWO TICKETS to the Cards Dodgers game by LEAVING A COMMENT about what you learned in this post.  Winners will be determined by me!  :)</span></i></b></li>
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<li>September 14~ If you are in St. Louis, the Planetarium will go teal!</li>
<li>September 23~ The Survive and Shine educational seminar will be held for survivors and their caregivers.  Topics include diet, nutrition, managing side effects and more.</li>
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Watch 4 the Symptoms!</h4>
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Be sure to visit the website at sloca.org to find out future events and how you can get involved. SLOCA has donated approximately $400, 000 for research.  They have speaker groups available as well.  Pay attention to your body, it's the only one you have! </div>
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Don't forget to leave a comment to win two free tickets to the Cardinals/Dodgers game on September 14!  Winners will be announce on September 1!<br />
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September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. I am a cancer survivor so I find it very important to spread aware of the signs and s...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 26 August 2018 / cocktail

Fresh Peach Daiquiri

When peaches are available in abundance, it is time to make Peach Daiquiris~ and here is a simple and delicious recipe that you will love. The full flavor of the peach, the sunshine and the sweetness. The juices have a viscosity to them that is a little thinner than syrup. At its peak ripeness, the flesh will be soft and be less tart than an unripe peach.  I eat them like an apple, with my head over the sink.<br />
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I love my frozen drinks, so it was easy to decide to make this one frozen!  When I was making these delicious drinks, it was in the 90s and the drink was so refreshing and cooling. <br />
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Here's how to make a Fresh Peach Daiquiri</h4>
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2 oz rum, Malibu is a good one!</div>
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3 oz sweet and sour</div>
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1/2 fresh peach, sliced, one slice reserved</div>
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1 c ice</div>
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Place all ingredients in your blender.  The drink should be smooth and no ice bits hanging around.  Garnish with another fresh peach slice or mint (we are so loaded with mint that I chose mint for our garnish, oh, and I ate the leftover slice.</div>
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Make a pitcher of these lovelies by multiplying all the ingredients by four.</div>
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Some fun daiquiri facts....</h4>
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Earnest Hemmingway and John F. Kennedy both stated that daiquiris were their favorite cocktails.</div>
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The daiquiri is name for a beach found in Cuba.</div>
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The developer of the daiquiri was Jennings Cox, an engineer and in Cuba during the Spanish American War.</div>
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FDR's Good Neighbor Policy allowed for rum to be brought from Cuba and neighboring islands to the states during a time when vodka and whiskey were hard to find, due to the rationing of sugar.</div>
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Fresh Peach Daiquiri

When peaches are available in abundance, it is time to make Peach Daiquiris~ and here is a simple and delicious recipe that you will love. T...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 24 August 2018 /

Friday Favorites #11

Hello, friends!<br />
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 My work week was a little crazy and in fact, I was away from home for two nights.  I am just got back on Thursday and attended a Books and Booze Party within minutes of coming in the door!  Today I am driving two hours north for a one hour meeting!  That's crazy, too! <br />
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Our weekend plans are so fun!  A dear friend is celebrating her 40th birthday with a party at the Wine Bar here in my community!  Cannot wait to celebrate her!  My husband's band plays at a new place on Saturday and on Sunday I am going to see Crazy Rich Asians with some friends.  I'll be gearing up for another busy work week next week!<br />
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Golf Cart Tour</h4>
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There is a canal that runs through the middle of our community.  The canal opens into two small ponds and goes under several bridges.  I am standing on the bridge where the canal splits into two ponds.  You can see one of the bridges and a nondenominational chapel in the background.  </div>
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New Starbucks Drink</h4>
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I read about a new Starbucks drink that is Keto friendly.  I don't think it has a name, but here is how you make it:  Unsweet Peach Citrus White Tea, 2 pumps of sugar free vanilla and a dash of heavy cream, blended.  It takes like a peach milkshake, it's that good.  This is a low carb, high fat drink, which is what makes it Keto.  It has about 50 calories, and 5 g of fat.</div>
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 Gathering with Friends</h4>
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I was fortunate that one of the nights I was away from home was the night that my dear friends were celebrating the upcoming wedding of Kristy, Denise's daughter. Having dinner with this circle is always such a blessing for me!</div>
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Have you heard of Rachel Hollis??</h4>
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That's kind of a silly question, as she is the hottest thing on the internet right now.  I just finished her book Girl, Go Wash Your Face.  I highly recommend the book and suggest that you get on that right now.  She will rock your world!</div>
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Have you heard of Lindsay Sutton and her <a href="http://essentiallymomming.com/">Essentially Momming Blog?</a></h4>
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Lindsay is my friend and neighbor and started her blog this past January.  She has an incredibly fun and humorous blog. A picture she posted on her Facebook page got the attention of Huffington Post and several other news outlets.  I highly suggest that you go and check out her blog and Facebook page!</div>
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Go and have a great weekend and then come back and rule the week!  Thanks for coming and reading each week, it truly makes my whole week!</div>

Friday Favorites #11

Hello, friends! My work week was a little crazy and in fact, I was away from home for two nights. I am just got back on Thursday and ...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 23 August 2018 / book review

Crack Yourself Up Jokes for Kids #ourgoodlifebooklist

I am a retired educator.  I spent 15 years in the classroom and 14 as a school administrator.  I have to say, my time in the classroom was a complete joy for me.  I loved working with children directly, having conversations about their learning, hopes and dreams, and how they navigated life.<br />
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I am fortunate that I have former students that are now classroom teachers themselves.  One of them, Madeline, sent out a request that we adopt one of her students and send a positive note for their school year, telling them how important education is and that we are sending positive thoughts (mine in the form of prayer) to them every day.<br />
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Well, I jumped on that bandwagon and started putting together a small box of goodies for my student (a boy.)  I included the book Crack Yourself Up Jokes for Kids by Sandy Silverthorne.  Why?  Because I remember as a teacher that sometimes it was hard to get boys to read. I am hoping this third grade boy finds this book as funny as I did!<br />
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Stock full of one liners, knock knock jokes, puns, this book will provide endless laughs for his classmates and teachers.  Madeline, let him read a joke a day.  I'm sure Sandy would approve!<br />
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So what's in my box?</h4>
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Oversized clips with pizza on them!</div>
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Crack Yourself Up Jokes for Kids</div>
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A Heart Rock</div>
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A blank notebook</div>
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My favorite pencils of all time</div>
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Page flags</div>
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And a Missouri Tiger hang tag!</div>
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Do you think he will like his box?  I'm thinking he will, and that the book will be his favorite!<br />
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I received this book for free in exchange for my honest review.  All words are my very own!</div>

Crack Yourself Up Jokes for Kids #ourgoodlifebooklist

I am a retired educator. I spent 15 years in the classroom and 14 as a school administrator. I have to say, my time in the classroom was a...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 21 August 2018 / crafts

Dollar Tree Fall Wreath Tutorial #pinterestchallenge

Welcome to the August Pinterest Challenge Blog Hop, hosted by <a href="https://mypinterventures.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">My Pinterventures</a>. The purpose of this Pinterest Challenge is to motivate all the participants of this hop (and you too) to not just pin, but to make it happen! This month, I chose to create a Dollar Tree Fall Wreath.<br />
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<strong>To join next month's #pinterestchallenge, click here to sign-up ⇒ September Pinterest Challenge.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong> I was inspired to create my own wreath after seeing the cutie made by Kristen at <a href="https://www.peppermintsandcherries.com/blog/2018/3/10/pretty-in-pink-spring-wreath-dollar-store-craft-challenge-blog-hop?format=amp">Peppermints and Cherries.</a>  Her cute wreath was made for spring but I saw the potential for making this wreath a fall one once all the fall goodies were out at Dollar Tree.<br />
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To make my Dollar Tree fall wreath you will need:</h4>
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1 wire wreath</div>
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2 rolls of burlap ribbon</div>
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hot glue gun and glue</div>
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bows </div>
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3 branches of fall silk flowers</div>
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First I always take off all the price tags and snip off the flowers from the branches.  I take the wrapping off the ribbon and heat up my glue gun.  When that is all done, I am ready to start!</div>
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I wrapped my wreath with the ribbon, overlapping closely because the ribbon is somewhat see-through. At the end of each roll, I hot glued the end on the back.  It took two rolls of the ribbon. </div>
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Next I take my cut flowers and pre arrange them where I want them to go.  With the burlap, you can stick the wired stems of the flowers right into the ribbon!  Then I lift each flower, put a dollop of hot glue on the back and then return it to its place and press and hold about 20 seconds.  Continue to do this until all the flowers are glued on.</div>
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Lastly, I positioned the bow where I wanted it and hot glued it on and pressed it in place with my fingers (be very careful, the glue is exceptionally hot!) about 20 seconds. </div>
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I always wait about 30 minutes before hanging.  I'll give the wreath a good shake and anything that moves or falls off, gets another dose of hot glue.  I'll wait 30 minutes each time I have to reglue.</div>
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The whole wreath took me less than 30 minutes to make.  The total cost for me was $6.50, since I didn't use all the supplies I purchased.</div>
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So, what do you think of my fall wreath?  Would you make one for your home?</h4>
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Now let's see what other things Pinterest inspired! Head over and visit the other hosts to see what they crafted, cooked, built, or tried!</div>
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Erlene - <a href="https://mypinterventures.com/">My Pinterventures</a> • Jenny - <a href="http://www.cookiescoffeeandcrafts.com/">Cookies Coffee and Crafts</a></div>
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Alexandra - <a href="https://eyeloveknots.com/">EyeLoveKnots</a> • Joanne - <a href="http://www.ourunschoolingjourney.com/">Our Unschooling Journey</a></div>
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Chelc - <a href="http://www.insidethefoxden.com/">Inside The Fox Den</a> • Erin - <a href="https://www.theusualmayhem.com/">The Usual Mayhem</a></div>
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Beverly - <a href="http://www.acrosstheblvd.com/">Across the Boulevard</a> • Lynne - <a href="https://myfamilythyme.com/">My Family Thyme</a></div>
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Laurie - <a href="http://myhusbandhastoomanyhobbies.com/">My Husband Has Too Many Hobbies</a></div>
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• Lydia - <a href="https://lydiasflexitariankitchen.com/">Lydia's Flexitarian Kitchen</a></div>
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• Leslie - <a href="http://onceuponatimehappilyeverafter.com/">Once Upon a Time & Happily Ever After</a></div>
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Lauren - <a href="http://momhomeguide.com/">Mom Home Guide</a> • Emily - <a href="http://domesticdeadline.com/">Domestic Deadline</a></div>
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Debra - <a href="https://www.shoppeno5.com/">Shoppe No. 5</a> • Roseann - <a href="https://www.thisautoimmunelife.com/">This Autoimmune Life</a></div>
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Terri - <a href="http://www.terristeffes.com/">Our Good Life</a> • Lisa - <a href="https://blogghetti.com/">Blogghetti</a></div>
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Kelli - <a href="https://olympicnest.com/">The Olympic Nest</a> • Rebecca - <a href="https://hellocentralavenue.com/">Hello Central Avenue</a></div>
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Bri - <a href="https://halfpintpartydesign.com/">Halfpint Design</a> • Cherryl - <a href="https://www.farmgirlreformed.com/">Farm Girl Reformed</a></div>
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Julie - <a href="https://www.sumoftheirstories.com/">Sum of their Storie</a><strong style="color: black;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"><a href="https://www.sumoftheirstories.com/" rel="noopener" style="color: #3366ff;" target="_blank">s</a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></strong></span></strong></div>
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<a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=792826" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div>
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Dollar Tree Fall Wreath Tutorial #pinterestchallenge

Welcome to the August Pinterest Challenge Blog Hop, hosted by My Pinterventures . The purpose of this Pinterest Challenge is to motivate all...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 20 August 2018 / book review

A Rumored Fortune #ourgoodlifebooklist

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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">I was given this book for free in exchange for my </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">honest opinion.  All opinions are my own.</span></i></div>
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Most of you know that I love a good historical romance.  I have reviewed many here at Our Good Life and I am happy to recommend others, just ask!</div>
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I adored the setting of this book, an old castle with a huge vineyard.  Doesn't that already give you goosebumps?  The book doesn't disappoint, the author successfully weaves the setting into the plot, making the reader want to go and spend time here.  The book's premise is that Tressa, the daughter of the late Master Harlowe, needs to find a treasure that will save her mother and herself from destitution. She's not the only one who wants to find it, so does Donegan Vaughn, the new manager of the vineyard that was the pride and joy of Master Harlow.  Tressa herself spent much time in the vineyard with her father, and she is uneasy with Donegan working with the vines, as her father had a special plan for them that Donegan could not know.</div>
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The story goes on as others try to find the fortune, causing the Mansion to be further and further in debt.  The servants aren't paid, and the workers aren't paid, and there are bills all over the village for the food the mansion needs to feed all the visitors.  It becomes imperative that the treasure be found and quickly.</div>
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A twist in the plot, as the Donegan has secrets he hasn't shared with Tressa.  Those secrets nearly get her killed.  Read on to find out how the mansion comes to be in the hands of the rightful owner.</div>
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What I love about this book is that Joanna Davidson Politano uses the book to tell the story, not just through the plot and characters, but by the use of quotes from a viticulturist at the beginning of each chapter. Those quotes are a foreshadowing of what is going to happen in the chapter.  She also sprinkles in Bible verses, such as the one at the end of the book from John 15:5.  "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."</div>
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A beautiful reminder of what we have been told for over two thousand years.</div>
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If you would like to order your own copy, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0800728734/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=our071-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0800728734&linkId=94767c021068817d4c86eaa4822f2b75">use this link to order the book</a>.  I am an Amazon Affiliate, and I will receive a small commission.  The price of the book won't change for you!</div>
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A Rumored Fortune #ourgoodlifebooklist

I was given this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own. Most of you know that I love a good hist...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 19 August 2018 / Dessert

Individual Peach Short Cakes

In my third of a series about peaches, I wanted to share with you a quick and simple recipe that is perfect for a crowd.  These Individual Peach Short Cakes are a fabulous way to use fresh peaches, which are at the top of their season, right now!<br />
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My daughter made these for a book club event she attended recently.  She needed to take a dessert and wanted something a little different from cake, brownies or cookies.  We had just went to a local farm stand and had bought these great peaches. <br />
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This isn't so much of a recipe as it is an assemblage.  To recreate this dessert, peel and chop 1/2 peach per person.  Keep the juices.  Set aside.  Make homemade whipped cream, or use cool whip or even the whipped cream from the can.  I know some people have made a whipped topping from coconut milk and that would be great, too!  Next, use a store bought shortcake, southern style biscuit, or a homemade shortcake that you love.<br />
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Layer in this order:  in a decorative container, or even a throw away one like the one Ashley used,  crumble up the shortcake or biscuit in the bottom.  Next, spoon peaches and juice over the biscuits.  Top with whipped topping of your choice.<br />
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This is such a simple dessert that really shows off the fresh peaches.  You will want to use this recipe over and over.  Be sure to use the ripest peaches available to you!

Individual Peach Short Cakes

In my third of a series about peaches, I wanted to share with you a quick and simple recipe that is perfect for a crowd. These Individual P...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 17 August 2018 /

Friday Favorites #10

Welcome back to my Friday Favorites!  I had a nice and quiet work week, which is good, because next week will be busy!  Our weekend is TOO full.  Have you had weekends like that?  Listen to this:  On Friday I am headed to an art fair from 4-5, then to dinner wih friends from 6:30-8:00 then to hear my husband's band from 8-midnight.  On Saturday I am going to a daylily sale, to a friend's anniverary celebration (she lives 2 hours from me) and then to scout out some bars for my husband's band.  On Sunday, I (hope) I am heading to see Cyndi Lauper and Rod Stewart in concert!  That's nuts, right?<br />
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Ok, so given this weekend, I am trying to do all kinds of things to get ready for my busy work week next week today.  Do you operate like that, too?  I sometimes get so stressed about my organization (or really, lack of) that I really wish I had my own administrative assistant. JK, or maybe, not?<br />
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Let me share with you my goodies from this week:<br />
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Golf Cart Tour</h4>
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Our neighborhood has an organic farm and this week the sunflowers were blooming!  So my daughter, her husband and I headed over to snap some pictures.  Here are a couple of my favorites:</div>
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<br />What I am Reading</h4>
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My daughter has a book blog, Hasty Book List, that features author interviews, articles on reading and books and book reviews.  She was asked to be the interviewer at a Saint Louis Library this week, who happened to be Fiona Davis, the author of <i>The Masterpiece</i>  (which I am reading now) and two other books.  All her books are set in a New York City building.  <i>The Masterpiece</i> is set in Grand Central Station.  The research she does is incredible.  Ashley has an online book club on her blog, and Fiona will be present to answer questions about her book!  </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ashley is on the left, Fiona on the right.</td></tr>
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My Favorite Snack, lately</h4>
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First off, you have to know that I adore ice cream and can eat it nonstop all day long.  That being said, I have been trying to find an alternative that isn't so bad for me!  I just tried Enlightened and it is a nice alternative.  Only 360 calories for the entire container.  I found that I only needed to eat about 1/3 of the container to be satisfied, which is awesome! </div>
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Next week on the blog</h4>
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I have two book reviews coming up on the blog next week, one called<i> Crack Yourself Up, Jokes for Kids</i> and <i>A Rumored Fortune</i>.  The first is a perfect back-to-school gift as you will see in my post and the second is a great historical fiction romance read.  I will be sharing my Peach Daquiri recipe and a wreath I crafted from supplies from Dollar Tree!  Hope you will come and visit!</div>
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Have a wonderful weekend, you all!  I'd love to hear your plans for the weekend, too!  </div>
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Friday Favorites #10

Welcome back to my Friday Favorites! I had a nice and quiet work week, which is good, because next week will be busy! Our weekend is TOO f...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 15 August 2018 / sides

Cauliflower Gratin inspired by Julia Child #fantasticalfoodfight

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Happy birthday, Julia Child!</h4>
I am so excited to be a part of today's Fantastical Food Fight fun as we celebrate Julia's birthday. Thank you, Sarah, for creating this theme!  If you'd like to join us as we celebrate different themes each month,<a href="http://www.fantasticalsharing.com/p/fantastical-food-fight.html"> find us here!</a>  To celebrate, I made this cauliflower gratin, a lighter version, inspired by her decadent one!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bx15lvkwaxI/W3HVD8skI4I/AAAAAAAAsfQ/RnVpUJL5_zYfsnheB2KMEauK18jFXc4PACLcBGAs/s1600/Quick%2BTarts%2B%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cauliflower Gratin" border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bx15lvkwaxI/W3HVD8skI4I/AAAAAAAAsfQ/RnVpUJL5_zYfsnheB2KMEauK18jFXc4PACLcBGAs/s640/Quick%2BTarts%2B%25281%2529.png" title="" width="426" /></a></div>
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Our challenge was to create one of Julia's recipes, or use one of hers to inspire one of ours!  My family is watching their food intake, so I wanted to be respectful of their work yet provide a tasty dish to all of you.  Here's what I came up with.<br />
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A creamy white sauce, using lower fat milk and less cheese.  To keep the dish decadent, I add swiss cheese to the top of the sauce before baking. I use less cheese overall, but still enough to feel like the dish is amazing!<br />
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<span class="yield" itemprop="recipeYield"><strong>Yield: </strong>6</span><span class="author" itemprop="author"><strong>Author: </strong>Terri Steffes</span><button class="printbutton" id="printbutton" onclick="this.parentElement.querySelector('.print-options').className='print-options show-print-options'" style="background: rgb(252, 34, 5);" type="button">Print Recipe</button><br />
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<h3 class="recipe-name" itemprop="name">
Cauliflower Gratin</h3>
<div class="time">
<span class="prepTime" content="PT10M" itemprop="prepTime">prep time: 10 mins</span><span class="cookTime" content="PT40M" itemprop="cookTime">cook time: 40 mins</span><span class="totalTime" content="PT50M" itemprop="totalTime">total time: 50 mins</span></div>
<div class="summary" itemprop="description">
A lightened version of the Julia Child classic.</div>
<div class="ingredients">
<h3>
ingredients:</h3>
<div class="ing-section" itemprop="recipeIngredient">
<div>
1 head of cauliflower, broken into chunks<br />
<div>
8 c water</div>
<div>
2 c milk, divided</div>
<div>
1/2 medium onion</div>
<div>
nutmeg</div>
<div>
salt </div>
<div>
pepper</div>
<div>
3 1/2 T cornstarch</div>
<div>
1/2 c freshly grated parmesan</div>
<div>
1/2 c freshly grated swiss cheese</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="instructions">
<h3>
instructions:</h3>
<div class="ing-section" itemprop="recipeInstructions">
<div>
Preheat oven to 350F.   Put 8 cups of water into a large saucepan.  Add cauliflower and bring to a boil.  Reduce heat and cook until cauliflower is fork tender.  In the meantime,  pour 1 and 1/2 cups milk into a saucepan.  Cut the onion into large chunks.  Place in milk and bring to a simmer.  Simmer 1-2 minutes, then turn off heat.  Let set for 10 minutes.  Remove onion and discard.   Add nutmeg, salt and pepper to your liking. In the 1/2 c of remaining milk, stir in cornstarch.  Turn the heat back on and whisk in the cornstarch mixture.  Whisk until mixture thickens, about 4 minutes.  Add parmesan and stir until cheese melts.  Check cauliflower for doneness.   Butter or grease a baking dish.  Drain cauliflower, and put into baking dish.  Pour white sauce over cauliflower.  Sprinkle on swiss cheese.  Bake in oven until cheese melts, about 10 minutes.  Watch carefully as the cheese melts quickly.   Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.  Serve warm.</div>
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<h4>
Fantastical Food Fight</h4>
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Cauliflower Gratin inspired by Julia Child #fantasticalfoodfight

Happy birthday, Julia Child! I am so excited to be a part of today's Fantastical Food Fight fun as we celebrate Julia's birthday. ...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 14 August 2018 / lunch

Quick Tarts for School Lunches #FestiveFoodies

I've joined a new group on Facebook called Festive Foodies. I am so excited to be a part of a group of wonderful food bloggers.  Many fresh food ideas will be coming your way!  Today we are sharing a bunch of ideas for back-to-school, quick lunches, breakfasts and even a few dinners to make your week go smoothly.<br />
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I adore tarts and hand pies. I make them very simply, with store boughten pie crust, jams and leftovers.  Today I'm sharing two tarts:  a blackberry tart that is good for breakfast or dessert, and a tart made from the leftovers of this chili I made last week.<br />
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What I love so much is that they can be held in your hands and that they are so versatile that you can change up the fillings with whatever you want!  Another added bonus: they are delicious at room temperature!<br />
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<span class="yield" itemprop="recipeYield"><strong>Yield: </strong>2</span><span class="author" itemprop="author"><strong>Author: </strong>Terri Steffes</span><button class="printbutton" id="printbutton" onclick="this.parentElement.querySelector('.print-options').className='print-options show-print-options'" style="background: rgb(252, 34, 5);" type="button">Print Recipe</button><br />
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<h3 class="recipe-name" itemprop="name">
Quick Tarts</h3>
<div class="time">
<span class="prepTime" content="PT20M" itemprop="prepTime">prep time: 20 mins</span><span class="cookTime" content="PT10M" itemprop="cookTime">cook time: 10 mins</span><span class="totalTime" content="PT30M" itemprop="totalTime">total time: 30 mins</span></div>
<div class="summary" itemprop="description">
Quick tarts for using up leftovers, perfect for a school lunch.</div>
<div class="ingredients">
<h3>
ingredients:</h3>
<div class="ing-section" itemprop="recipeIngredient">
<div>
1/2 c leftovers, such as chili, sloppy joes, beef stew<br />
<div>
1 refrigerated pie crust, unbaked</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="instructions">
<h3>
instructions:</h3>
<div class="ing-section" itemprop="recipeInstructions">
<div>
Preheat oven to 350.   Take the refrigerated pie crust from the refrigerator and let come to room temperature (about 30 minutes.)  Sprinkle flour on your work surface, and unwrap the crust.  Unroll the crust on the surface, on the flour.  Using a saucer as a guide, cut out two circles about 5" in diameter.  Use the left over crust to make cinnamon sugar crust strips, or a small tart filled with jam.  Take one circle and put 1/2 c of the leftovers in the center of the crust, avoiding the edges.  Fold the crust in half, bringing the edges together to make a half circle.  Use a fork to crimp the edges.  Brush with melted butter.  Bake about 10 minutes, watching crust to see that it doesn't over brown. Remove from oven, and let cool.  Once cool, wrap in foil and place in lunch box.  These items do not need to be heated, as they are delicious cold!</div>
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<h4>
Here are more school lunch ideas~</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.thetipgarden.com/2018/08/baked-banana-oatmeal-cups.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Baked Banana Oatmeal Cups</a> by The Tip Garden</li>
<li><a href="https://www.hezzi-dsbooksandcooks.com/2018/08/brookies.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Brookies</a> by Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks</li>
<li><a href="https://familyaroundthetable.com/2018/08/15/oreo-mug-cake/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Oreo Mug Cake</a> by Family Around the Table</li>
<li><a href="https://katerecipebox.com/2018/08/15/peanut-butter-granola-bars/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Peanut Butter Granola Bars</a> by Kate’s Recipe Box</li>
<li><a href="http://adayinthelifeonthefarm.blogspot.com/2018/08/piperade-ala-julia-child.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pipérade</a> by A Day in the Life on the Farm</li>
<li><a href="https://www.terristeffes.com/2018/08/quick-tarts-for-school-lunches.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Quick Tarts for School Lunches</a> by Our Good Life</li>
<li><a href="http://culinary-adventures-with-cam.blogspot.com/2018/08/spiced-rack-of-lamb-backtoschool.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Spiced Rack of Lamb</a> by Culinary Adventures with Camilla</li>
<li><a href="https://jolenesrecipejournal.blogspot.com/2018/08/yogurt-pancakes.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Yogurt Pancakes</a> by Jolene’s Recipe Journal<br />
  </li>
</ul>

Quick Tarts for School Lunches #FestiveFoodies

I've joined a new group on Facebook called Festive Foodies. I am so excited to be a part of a group of wonderful food bloggers. Many fr...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 12 August 2018 / Dessert , dinner

Peach Flat Bread

This is the second in a series of Sunday posts about peaches.  We like Calhoun County peaches from Illinois.  The county is known for its peaches in the summer and apples in the fall.  There are orchards all over the county, which makes it a destination place where you can bird watch, antique shop or visit historical places.  We are all about the peaches right now!<br />
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I made this flat bread for my neighbors at a block party we had in our alley.  We are close in proximity and it is important for all of us to respect one another, which we do remarkably well!  The neighbors loved the flatbread as I could tell from my empty pan!  I had a lot of nice comments about it, too.<br />
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The peach flat bread is super simple to make.  I use some store ready ingredients which helps it be a quick dish to make.  I love that I can whip it together in no time!<br />
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<span class="yield" itemprop="recipeYield"><strong>Yield: </strong>4</span><span class="author" itemprop="author"><strong>Author: </strong>Terri Steffes</span><button class="printbutton" id="printbutton" onclick="this.parentElement.querySelector('.print-options').className='print-options show-print-options'" style="background: rgb(252, 34, 5);" type="button">Print Recipe</button><br />
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<h3 class="recipe-name" itemprop="name">
Peach Flat Bread</h3>
<div class="time">
<span class="prepTime" content="PT10M" itemprop="prepTime">prep time: 10 mins</span><span class="cookTime" content="PT10M" itemprop="cookTime">cook time: 10 mins</span><span class="totalTime" content="PT20M" itemprop="totalTime">total time: 20 mins</span></div>
<div class="summary" itemprop="description">
Made from store bought naan, fresh peaches and mint from your garden!</div>
<div class="ingredients">
<h3>
ingredients:</h3>
<div class="ing-section" itemprop="recipeIngredient">
<div>
2 Naan flat breads<br />
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2 T olive oil</div>
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3 peaches, peeled and diced</div>
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4 sprigs of fresh mint</div>
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1 4 oz ball of fresh mozzarella</div>
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balsamic vinegar</div>
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<div class="instructions">
<h3>
instructions:</h3>
<div class="ing-section" itemprop="recipeInstructions">
<div>
Preheat the oven to 400.  Remove the flat breads from the package.  Cover a baking sheet with parchment.  Place the flat breads on the parchment and brush olive oil onto each one. Slice the fresh mozzarella into thin pieces.  Place on top of the flat breads.  Spoon peeled and diced peaches on top of the cheese.  Bake for approximate 10 minutes, or until cheese has melted.  Remove from oven, sprinkled with chopped mint.  Drizzle with balsamic, cut into pieces and serve warm.</div>
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<h4>
So what do you think?  Could this peach flat bread find its way to your table?</h4>
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Peach Flat Bread

This is the second in a series of Sunday posts about peaches. We like Calhoun County peaches from Illinois. The county is known for its pe...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 10 August 2018 / friday faves

Friday Favorites #9

This week is a little better paced than last week.  My family and I went to the PGA Championship tournament at the Bellerive Country Club in St. Louis this week. More on this later. We plan to go back on Saturday for the Finals. I organized a fun back-to-school party for some neighbors and had a wonderful time meeting new people and chatting with them.  Our book club met and chose a new book.  More on that later, too!<br />
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<h4>
What about you?  </h4>
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I love hearing about your upcoming plans and all that you have done this week. We are all busy people but I think one of the best ways to build relationships is to be able to ask questions about our lives.  Alli, did you find a new book to read?  My friend Kerry remembers the landslide that Cottage by the Sea refers to.  That was such a sad event.  Amber, did you get some Oui?<br />
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Let's get started on my Favorites!<br />
<h4>
<br />PGA Championship</h4>
</div>
<div>
The PGA Championship is being held in St. Louis this weekend, at the gorgeous Bellerive Country Club in Town and Country (a suburban area of St. Louis.)  It is an old school, elite country club, one of four such country clubs in St. Louis. The club  opened in 1897, and came to its current location in 1959, after selling its location to Normandy School District for an affordable college option for its students.  The University of Missouri-St. Louis is on that site now.  The tournament is huge and fancy and fun. There are people all over who have a tremendous love of golf.  The shop is 50,000 square feet!  It was hot, but I stayed in the shade and enjoyed seeing some top golfers, such as Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods!</div>
<div>
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<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="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YjC87WLoXF8/W2yC_WAmMqI/AAAAAAAAsco/9modoclSy04UvnkPa1zwGthmKrrQVjaTACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YjC87WLoXF8/W2yC_WAmMqI/AAAAAAAAsco/9modoclSy04UvnkPa1zwGthmKrrQVjaTACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_0048.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiger Woods</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<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="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hlcn92ay_n8/W2yDDrnrZ7I/AAAAAAAAscw/oMXUxSKMbkY90qfVcMq6CHRX1drV6tSNACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hlcn92ay_n8/W2yDDrnrZ7I/AAAAAAAAscw/oMXUxSKMbkY90qfVcMq6CHRX1drV6tSNACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4444.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The attention to detail is incredible.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<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="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1ScS6D8bmxs/W2yDDjJgqxI/AAAAAAAAscs/GimE32fESAcD1vANvk0l8EFeJGN6iTJ2wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1ScS6D8bmxs/W2yDDjJgqxI/AAAAAAAAscs/GimE32fESAcD1vANvk0l8EFeJGN6iTJ2wCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4449.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copy of the trophy!</td></tr>
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<div>
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<h4>
The New Town Book Club chooses The President is Missing by Bill Clinton and James Patterson</h4>
My book club chose the new book by James Patterson and Bill Clinton.  The book is co-authored by the two friends, which made it fun to select. I have just started but I am liking it so far. It is going to be a great book to explain the ins and outs of being the President of the United States. I know I will love that part!<br />
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<h4>
Olay's Strawberry and Mint Foam Wash</h4>
<div>
I am in love with the scent of this foaming body wash. It is fresh and a bit fruity but not like you are taking a bath in strawberries. I typically don't like fruit smelling washes, but I adore this one.  It's around $5 a bottle, and it says you can get 30 showers from the one can.  I won't because I love the foam and use more than I need to in the shower!  There are only three scents to choose from in this line.</div>
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<h4>
Dollar Tree Pineapple Fairy Lights</h4>
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I was in the Dollar Tree store by my home, getting a few things I needed for future recipes, when I saw these adorable pineapple fairy lights at the checkout.  The lights are about 3' long with 10 lights, battery operated. So cute that I bought two, one for me and one for my neighbor.  I know she will appreciate them!  Anyone else into pineapple decor these days?  I try to keep it simple, but it is so cute!</div>
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Enjoy your weekend!  We will attend the finals of the PGA Championship on Saturday and on Friday we are going out for a nice meal with the entire family. My husband found a Groupon for 801 Chop House and decided to take out our daughter and her husband.  Stay cool if you can!</div>

Friday Favorites #9

This week is a little better paced than last week. My family and I went to the PGA Championship tournament at the Bellerive Country Club in...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 09 August 2018 / dinner

Spicy Chili with Kielbasa

I have been pondering a chili recipe that features one of my favorite meats, kielbasa.  I do love my traditional chili, so I don't want compromise that taste.  This month for Improv Cooking Challenge we were asked to come up with recipes using both Ketchup and Mustard.  So this chili was born!<br />
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Do you love kielbasa as much as I do?  I love that it is so convenient and has amazing flavor. In this Spicy Chili with Kielbasa the smokiness adds a depth of flavor to the chili that makes you swoon. I love that you don't have to set up a smoker to get that flavor!<br />
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The ketchup and mustard do add a wonderful layer of flavor without having to do a ton of seasoning. It surprised me that it added the "spicy" to the Spicy Chili with Kielbasa recipe!<br />
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<h4>
Sooo.... are you ready to make some chili??? </h4>
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<span class="yield" itemprop="recipeYield"><strong>Yield: </strong>6</span><span class="author" itemprop="author"><strong>Author: </strong>Terri Steffes</span><button class="printbutton" id="printbutton" onclick="this.parentElement.querySelector('.print-options').className='print-options show-print-options'" style="background: rgb(252, 34, 5);" type="button">Print Recipe</button><br />
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<h3 class="recipe-name" itemprop="name">
Spicy Chili with Kielbasa</h3>
<div class="time">
<span class="prepTime" content="PT5M" itemprop="prepTime">prep time: 5 mins</span><span class="cookTime" content="PT40M" itemprop="cookTime">cook time: 40 mins</span><span class="totalTime" content="PT45M" itemprop="totalTime">total time: 45 mins</span></div>
<div class="summary" itemprop="description">
A traditional chili recipe with an interesting twist, kielbasa. The spiciness comes from the addition of ketchup AND mustard. Check it out.</div>
<div class="ingredients">
<h3>
ingredients:</h3>
<div class="ing-section" itemprop="recipeIngredient">
<div>
1 pkg pre-cooked kielbasa, diced in small pieces<br />
<div>
1 lb hamburger<br />
<div>
1  15 oz can of pinto beans</div>
<div>
1 15 oz can of stewed tomatoes</div>
<div>
1/2 c ketchup</div>
<div>
2 T spicy mustard</div>
<div>
1 small onion chopped</div>
<div>
1 c tomato sauce</div>
<div>
1 c water</div>
<div>
2 T chili seasoning</div>
<div>
2 T brown sugar</div>
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</div>
<div class="instructions">
<h3>
instructions:</h3>
<div class="ing-section" itemprop="recipeInstructions">
<div>
In a Dutch oven cook the hamburger until slightly pink.  Add chopped onion and cook until soft.  Drain hamburger.  Add all the rest of the ingredients, bring to a boil, then turn to simmer.  Simmer for 30 minutes.   Serve hot, garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapenos, whatever you love on your chili!</div>
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Spicy Chili with Kielbasa

I have been pondering a chili recipe that features one of my favorite meats, kielbasa. I do love my traditional chili, so I don't want ...

Posted by Terri Steffes / 06 August 2018 / dinner

Vegetable Garden Soup with Italian Meatballs #TasteCreations

Goodbye to Summer, Hello Summer Produce!!<br />
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The produce of summer!  That's what Taste Creations bloggers are sharing with you in August. It is back to school time and that means money for clothes and school supplies, so use budget-friendly ingredients for meals in order to bank some bank!<br />
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Our vegetable garden did pretty good this year.  All the veggies in this recipe were grown by us or by generous friends. We got our zucchini from a friend who had a bountiful crop!  For me, summer doesn't necessarily say "soup" but with the summer veggies and the ease of frozen meatballs, this is a great dish to serve anytime.<br />
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<span class="yield" itemprop="recipeYield"><strong>Yield: </strong>6</span><span class="author" itemprop="author"><strong>Author: </strong>Terri Steffes</span><button class="printbutton" id="printbutton" onclick="this.parentElement.querySelector('.print-options').className='print-options show-print-options'" style="background: rgb(252, 34, 5);" type="button">Print Recipe</button><br />
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<h3 class="recipe-name" itemprop="name">
Vegetable Garden Soup with Italian Meatballs</h3>
<div class="time">
<span class="prepTime" content="PT20M" itemprop="prepTime">prep time: 20 mins</span><span class="cookTime" content="PT40M" itemprop="cookTime">cook time: 40 mins</span><span class="totalTime" content="PT60M" itemprop="totalTime">total time: 60 mins</span></div>
<div class="summary" itemprop="description">
Fresh summer produce and frozen meatballs make this an inexpensive and quick dish to make.</div>
<div class="ingredients">
<h3>
ingredients:</h3>
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1 green pepper, chopped<br />
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1 medium zucchini, chopped<br />
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6 Roma tomatoes, chopped or 1 15 oz can of diced tomatoes<br />
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1 onion, chopped</div>
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10 basil leaves, torn in bits</div>
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2 sprigs of thyme, remove stems</div>
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2 sprigs of Italian oregano, remove stems<br />
1 c pasta</div>
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2 c beef broth</div>
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2 c tomato juice (reduce to 1 cup if using canned tomatoes)</div>
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salt and pepper<br />
1 lb frozen Italian style meatballs</div>
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1 T olive oil</div>
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3 cloves of garlic, minced</div>
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<div class="instructions">
<h3>
instructions:</h3>
<div class="ing-section" itemprop="recipeInstructions">
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Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven.  Add vegetables, garlic and meatballs into the Dutch oven and cook until vegetables soften and meatballs are browned.  Add broth, juice, herbs, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes to an hour.  at the 15 minute mark, add pasta and cook to al dente. Salt and pepper to taste.</div>
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<div class="notes">
<h3>
NOTES:</h3>
<pre style="white-space: pre-line;">To serve, ladle hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Serve with Italian bread and salad.</pre>
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See what summer goodies our Taste Creations bloggers concocted!<br />
<br />
Nikki from <a href="https://tikkido.com/blog/no-churn-peach-ice-cream-recipe">Tikkido </a>is using peaches!<br />
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Lauren from <a href="http://momhomeguide.com/chicken-avocado-bacon-caprese-salad">Mom's Home Guide</a><br />
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<br />
Rosemary from An Italian in My Kitchen<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129;"><a href="https://anitalianinmykitchen.com/crumb-pie/">Homemade Apricot Jam Crumb Pie</a></span></span><br />
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Here are more veggie recipes for your summer eating!<br />
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