Menu & Recipes for August 16th

Happy Saturday!! It appears that the pinnacle of summer might have actually passed. There are no temperatures above 100 for the next week. The cooler temperatures make meal planning and preparation so much more enjoyable. I cannot wait for fall. Most of my favorites are cooler weather dishes and I am looking forward to sharing them with each of you!

I hope each of you will enjoy the next week. Those of you with little ones have one last week of summer before school starts so take advantage. (We are sleeping in!)

http://docs.google.com/View?id=dc7vbv4c_10mnjrj5gc

Story Time - The Bake Shop Ghost

There is something so relaxing about a good book and an hour in my hammock. Then there is story time with my nieces and nephew. I love finding wonderful books to share with them. The Bake Shop Ghost by Jacqueline K. Ogburn is one such treasure.

I found this wonderful book at an independent gourmet kitchen shop in Lee's Summit, called A Thyme for Everything. I have already read it three or four times myself and heard my son read it another half dozen times. I highly recommend this read! Another suggestion, find it at an independent bookstore and help support Main Street USA! They are more than happy to order it if not currently in stock.

This is going to be one of my Christmas gifts this year. I'm going to record myself reading the story on CD and place it with the book for my god daughter and nieces. We can share story time even when I can't be with them!

Limited Time Only Deals

We are all looking to shop wisely and save as much money as possible. I always keep my eyes open for really great sales & special deals. (Hate that I missed that 50" flat screen on www.bestbuy.com this morning that was listed for $9.99!) I want to share two really good deals that are one-day-only offers. But first, I want to remind you that you are only saving money if you are purchasing something that you already need and will use.

Kroger grocery stores are going to double all manufacturer coupons up to $1.00 for one day only - Saturday, August 15th. Get to clipping, sorting, and making lists!

Coldwater Creek is celebrating their birthday Aug 27 - Aug 31 by taking 25% off all in-store purchases.

Menu & Recipes for August 9th

The last of the summer days are flying by too fast. This week's menu is a little late, but full of great dinners. Surprise your family with one of the Summer Sweets for a wonderful dessert!

This menu offers a couple of great recipes to get the kids into the kitchen - Golden Chicken & Rice Casserole and Baked Basil Pasta are easy enough for the kids to help prepare. I hope you will enjoy some extra time sharing the love of cooking with your angels! Have a really wonderful week.

http://docs.google.com/View?id=dc7vbv4c_9td5kmrhs

Back to School

I cannot believe that the kids are back in school in just two weeks! This summer has definitely sped right by us. I finally found all of the items on the school supply list - including the green, medium point pens (Staples).

There is an elementary school near our home that is asking for help with school supplies. The majority of families that attend are without jobs. The local recreation center started a supply drive to help out. I'm sure that there are other schools that are facing the same challenge this year. If you and your family are able, take a moment to inquire at your school. Most of the supplies are low cost (Walmart has great prices this year) and they are also included in the Texas Sales Tax Holiday on August 21st - 23rd. It is an investment in the future!

Summer Sweets

Summer cookouts are a staple in my family. Hamburgers, steaks, hot dogs and the Southern fish fry, but.....what about the desserts? Everyone always has their eyes on the dessert table. We start planning which one (or ones) we want long before the meal is served.

I love baking! It has to be my favorite stress reliever! (I sometimes have people intentionally stress me out just so I will bake.) Today, I'm sharing some of my favorites that stay on the quick and easy side - Strawberry Cream Cheese Bars, Peanut Butter Cheesecake Brownies, Lemon Brownies and Fresh Strawberry Bread. I hope you will enjoy sharing them with your family and friends!

http://docs.google.com/View?id=dc7vbv4c_8gw2745dw

My Country Kitchen - Menu for August 2nd

I love finding new recipes and sometimes tweaking those recipes. This week includes a new recipe that takes many of us out of our norm - Spaghetti alla Carbonara. This is a great pasta dish! It really doesn't take much to prepare. Hope you enjoy it!

Be watching for a special My Country Kitchen bonus this week....it is going to be too sweet to miss!

Have a tasty week!

http://docs.google.com/View?id=dc7vbv4c_6dbr2cfdm