St. Louis Home and Happenings - November 2018

S A I N T

L O U I S

& HOME AND HAPPENINGS

NOVEMBER18

5 Steps to Incorporate Universal Design page 10-11

This special publication brought to you by Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate

A note from the editor...

www. STLHandHMag .com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Wade Brewer

DESIGN Brian L Spurgeon

The November issue of St Louis Home and Happenings is here and packed full of ideas to make this time of year even better for you. If you’re considering making some home improvements before hosting holiday events, we’ve got tips on ways to bring classic character to your kitchen, ways to incorporate universal design and insuring that your heating system is ready for the cold weather ahead.

Five Hacks for Holiday Hosting offers some outstanding shortcuts that offer festive style and help you save time. If you’re hosting holiday gatherings, we hav some delicious recipes this month that your guests are sure to love.

In the Happenings section, we have our usual list of fun events in the area, but this month we also have some great activities to help to welcome the Holidays.

WEBSITE & FEEDBACK www.STLHandHMag.com

Editor@STLHandHMag.com

Susan and I also want to invite you to our Photos with Santa at our office. This annual event will take place December 1st from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. We always have an outstanding time hosting this event and having the opportunity to see some of you. It’s a fun way to start the Christmas season and we hope to see you there!

Wade Brewer Editor-in-chief

Self published by Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate. All material herein is copyrighted and all rights are reserved.

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CONTENTS

4 Ways to Bring Classic Character to Your Kitchen page 4

4

4 Ways to Bring Classic Character to Your Kitchen

6

5 Steps to Incorporate Universal Design

8

Simple Steps to a Clean Bathroom - No Elbow Grease Required

9

Is Your Heating System Ready for Cool Weather?

10

A Guide to Getting Your Home and Yard WinterReady

11

How to Create the Perfect, Four-Season Outdoor Living Space

12

A Healthy Way to Work

14

How Parents Can Achieve Work-Life Balance

15

parents: How to Build Empathy and Prevent Bullying

16

Avoid Chilling Accidents with These Tips to Winterize Your Home

17

Newborn to 13+: Car Safety Tips for Kids of All Ages

18

5 Hacks for Holiday Hosting

19

Fall with Our Four-Legged Friends

20

Bold Flavor Boosts

22

Freshen Up Holiday Entertaining

24

Simple Yet Stunning

26

St. Louis Happenings

H& Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 3

4 Ways to Bring Classic Character to Your Kitchen Family Features In today’s stainless steel world filled with clean lines, sharp angles and sleek kitchen accessories, it may seem daunting to achieve the perfect antique style for your kitchen.

While it’s true that blending looks from the past with modern-day functionality can be challenging, you don’t have to be a famous designer to create the kitchen of your dreams. These tips can

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help you turn back the clock and design a kitchen with timeless character.

Strike a balance When you set out to create your new look, it’s easy to go overboard, so remember that moderation is best.

Make sure you’re choosing items that showcase your individual style while keeping in mind there is a fine line between Victorian Chic and your

grandmother’s cookie jar collection.

In addition to knowing what elements to look for, it’s important to consider how the components can be integrated to create a harmonious look. Consider updating antique elements with more contemporary touches to create a fresh, unexpected aesthetic. For example, pair a set of ultra-chic dining chairs with an old wooden dining table passed

down through your family or upholster a simple dining bench or window seat with Victorian-patterned fabric.

Establish a focal point If you’re overwhelmed trying to envision how all the details will come together, many designers suggest the first step is defining the focal point for your kitchen.

In many cases, that will be the appliances.

Antique appliances lend themselves to a range of styles, from Victorian to farmhouse to cabin and cottage. While it’s possible to purchase refurbished antique models, if you want your appliances to include modern features and functionality, you might consider antique-inspired appliances. For example, Elmira Stove Works offers a line of 1890s-style appliances that deliver the warmth and charm of a bygone era to today’s kitchens.

Equipped with the latest in cooking technology, these appliances have been designed to meet the culinary standards of nearly any home chef, and include a selection of customizable ranges, refrigerators, microwaves, wall ovens and matching dishwasher panels. To explore how this line can give your kitchen the perfect vintage feel, visit elmirastoveworks.com/antique/ranges.

Add accents with purpose Once you’ve established the centerpiece (or centerpieces) for your kitchen, you can add smaller details as you go.

Visit antique stores and flea markets to look for finds such as vintage kitchen tools, antique serving platters and cast-iron cookware.

Antiques frequently show some wear and tear, so make sure any items you are planning to purchase are in good condition. Also remember that vintage items can be delicate. If you’re planning to put an item to use daily, ensure it’s in good working condition and will be up to the task.

Incorporate rustic elements Rustic home decor can turn something that was once rugged into something beautiful. An example of this is reclaimed wood accents, which can be functional, attractive and eco-friendly.

Use reclaimed wood to create butcherblock countertops, cabinetry or to design a one-of-a-kind kitchen table. Pine offers the most authentic rustic design, but it can be soft and susceptible to dents.

Hickory, alder and cherry can also deliver a cozy, rustic feel. “Live edge” tables and accents, which preserve the natural edge of the wood in the design, are another way to add a rustic but current aesthetic.

When you’re ready to retrofit your kitchen into perfect past-present harmony, remember these tips, give yourself permission to take chances and get creative to whip up the kitchen of your dreams.

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5 Steps to Incorporate Universal Design Family Features As more homeowners opt to remodel their current homes for accessibility and safety, those concerns are taken into consideration especially for kitchens or bathrooms.

Special considerations often should be made for those falling in the Baby Boomer age group, who especially should take into account the accessibility

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of their homes and improvements that can be made.

Incorporate universal design strategies into your next remodeling project with this five-step guide from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), which offers certification in universal design to provide contractors with the knowledge and training to ensure accessibility in kitchen and bathroom designs.

1. Understand Your Needs

Before starting any remodeling project, take the time to define your needs. Ask simple questions such as: • How do you live in your current home?

• What health issues – current and future – should be considered?

• How can a remodel help make your space safer and easier to use?

2. Identify Structural Mobility Changes

Mobility addresses the ability to move freely in a space. While mobility issues can impact older adults, it is not limited to only the elderly. While you might not need mobility assistance today, take a walk through your home and identify structural items that should be addressed, such as:

Doorways

• Widening doorways to 32-36 inches so walkers, wheelchairs or even large household items may easily move through • Removing thresholds that may create a tripping hazard • Hallways • Expanding hallway widths to 36-42 inches • Well-lit hallways can improve safety

Clear Space

• Incorporating clear space, especially in front of kitchen appliances • Best practices suggest clear space of 30-by-48 inches to allow for easy access

3. Safety First

Stairs pose a considerable hazard for those with decreased mobility. Ensure the first level of your home provides space for sleeping, eating and has at least one full bathroom. Other safety considerations include: • Incorporating non-slip flooring surfaces • Removing the need to go up or down stairs • Creating well-lit rooms 4. Kitchen Updates for Ease of Use Cabinets and counter heights, as well as the location of appliances, can improve the cooking experience. Other checklist items include: • Dishwashers in drawer units eliminate the need to bend over when loading or unloading

• Push button controls for dishwashers for easier use • Refrigerators with drawer unit options or side-by-side models • Ovens and microwaves placed in the wall at appropriate heights

5. Bathroom Best Practices Adjusting counter and toilet heights are two ways to make bathrooms more accessible. Wall-hung toilets should be approximately two inches higher. A first

floor or main floor bathroom should incorporate: • Structural bracing around the tub, shower and toilet for grab bars • Walk-in tub or curbless stand-up shower with no threshold • Levered handles for faucets • Adjustable showerhead For more information or ideas to incorporate universal design, visit NARI.org.

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Simple Steps to a Clean Bathroom - No Elbow Grease Required

(BPT) - With cold and flu season just around the corner you might think there isn’t much you can do to prepare for the inevitable aches and achoos. A few small changes in your routine and at home can go a long way toward keeping you and your family healthy all season long.

shared items like bed sheets and bath towels, be sure to wash in hot water or use the sanitize setting. Follow this by drying using the high-heat setting in order to kill any microorganisms.

Tidy toilet bowls

Doorknobs, cabinet handles and light switches are frequently touched by everyone who lives in your home. That means any dirt, bacteria or germs on their hands will get transferred to those surfaces and onto the hands of the next person who touches them. To prevent this spreading and keep family members healthy, wipe down common surfaces with a disinfectant wipe. It takes just seconds to do but can make a big difference.

The toilet can be a breeding ground for bacteria, but instead of slipping on the rubber gloves and scrubbing with a grimy brush, consider ContinuousClean from Kohler. This factory-installed system housed in the toilet tank dispenses a consistent dose of cleaner during each flush. Simply place your preferred cleaning tablet in a compartment, choose a cleaning setting and let the system go to work. You don’t have to lift a finger.

Launder towels and linens Washing linens regularly helps eliminate germs and viruses while cleaning off dirt and grime. This is especially important when someone in the house is sick because it prevents the spread to others. For frequently used and potentially 8 H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com

Disinfect household hotspots

Clean hands Regularly washing hands is one of the best ways to eliminate germs and prevent illness. All family members should scrub up every time they use the bathroom to keep fingers fresh and surfaces clean. For easy hand-washing, use the Kohler Touchless Foaming

Soap Dispenser. Simply hold your hand under the spout to dispense soap automatically. A 20-second lighted timer lets you know how long to lather, which is not only the recommended hand-washing time from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but also a helpful guide for kids.

Self-care Getting proper rest and nutrition is essential to maintaining a healthy immune system that fights off the germs and viruses that increase during cold and flu season.

To prioritize these two essential steps, consider meal planning and creating a regular bedtime routine. By meal planning weekly you stock your fridge with healthy home-cooked foods. At night, create a routine with relaxing activities like bathing, reading or meditating. Set a daily alarm if necessary on your phone to remind you when it’s time to start your bedtime routine so you don’t put it off.

These four simple steps will help keep your home clean and your family healthy. That way you can enjoy the best of the season, without the runny noses and raspy voices.

Is Your Heating System Ready for Cool Weather?

Savvy homeowners know that with cool weather, comes a bit of preparation. A quick audit of your heating equipment can mean less wasted energy, a more comfortable home and lower energy bills.

Nearly half of all heating and cooling equipment in U.S. homes never performs to its advertised capacity and efficiency due to incorrect installation, according to U.S. government estimates. And if you have an older system that was built before current efficiency standards, you could be spending more than needed on heating your home.

If it’s time to replace your system, be sure to have it properly installed by an HVACR professional, certified by North American Technician Excellence (NATE), the nation’s largest nonprofit certification body for HVACR technicians.

NATE-certified technicians are skilled professionals who have proven their knowledge in the HVACR industry by passing specialized certification tests.

“The NATE-certified techs who perform maintenance and repairs do a consistently great job. We never have any concerns if the job is done right,” says Rob Kirkpatrick,

a longstanding customer of Thermal Services, a Nebraska-based contractor.

Beyond having an efficient heating system properly installed, you can prepare for the season in the following ways: • Clean heating filters. Check them every couple of weeks and change them at least twice in the season, or as directed by the manufacturer.

• Check and maintain insulation.

Improperly insulated walls, floors, attics, basements and crawlspaces drain away heat and can also lead to moisture imbalance. Adding weather stripping and caulk around windows and doors can also improve a home’s insulation.

• Turn down the thermostat or install a programmable thermostat to regulate temperature.

• Clean the furnace area. Don’t keep chemicals or cleaning products near a heater, and don’t store anything next to it that could impede ventilation.

• Free all vents and returns of obstructions. Don’t lay carpet over

vents, place furniture over or in front of them, or obstruct the flow of air.

• Dry air feels cooler than moist air, so install a humidifier. A simple humidifier may make the home feel five degrees warmer than a home with dry air.

• Look into geothermal heating systems which use earth’s natural heat and are among the most efficient and energyconserving heating and cooling technologies currently available.

• For optimal performance of your HVAC system, get an annual service contract which includes both heating and cooling maintenance. But take care to avoid poor service and scams. To find a qualified local contractor who employs certified HVACR professionals, look for the NATE logo or go to www.natex.org.

By incorporating a few energy-friendly habits into your routine and by making sure your heating system is operating optimally, this season, you can keep utility bills low while maintaining a cozy, comfortable home.

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A Guide to Getting Your Home and Yard Winter-Ready As the winter months approach, there’s much to anticipate: hot drinks, football games and getting cozy on those long, chilly nights. While homeowners can enjoy the comfort of the indoors, it’s still important to ensure their property is well prepared - inside and out - for chillier temperatures, ice or snow during the fall and winter seasons.

Use this checklist to ensure your house is ready for cold weather.

Fix the cracks Before temperatures really dip, check for

and seal off cracks and gaps in the home to help keep heating bills down. Walk the perimeter of the house, using caulk to fix any cracks in the foundation, steps and windows. This is also a good time to repair cracks in the driveway and walkway to keep ice from widening them in the winter months.

Feed the lawn now for thicker grass in the spring When it comes to lawn care, the mix of warm

soil and cooler air creates ideal conditions for thickening a thin lawn. If you live in a cooler climate and your lawn has grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, perennial ryegrass, or tall fescue, make the most of the opportunity and apply Scotts(R) Turf Builder(R) Thick’R(TM) Lawn. This 3-in-1 solution seeds to fill in gaps, feeds for thicker, greener turf, and improves soil for enhanced root development.

Watch for rodents The last thing people want while

relaxing indoors is to find unwanted guests like mice nesting in the basement or garage. These rodents are unsanitary 10 H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com

and can damage wiring, insulation and wood. To deter mice, store food - especially pet food and wild bird seed - in hard containers with fitted lids. If there are signs of mouse activity, set a trap and check and empty it regularly. If you don’t want to dispose of dead rodents, Tomcat(R) Mouse Killer Child & Dog Resistant, Refillable Station makes it easier by killing up to 12 mice per 1-ounce bait block, based on nochoice laboratory testing. Because this bait station is weather resistant, it’s great for indoor and outdoor use.

Tune up the furnace A furnace needs a check-up

in the fall to ensure it is free of mechanical issues that could cascade into a full breakdown. For a relatively low fee, an HVAC technician can perform a top-to-bottom inspection and tune-up to make sure it’s ready to keep everyone warm all season long. After inspection, maximize efficiency by changing the filters regularly and vacuuming the registers.

Clear debris from gutters and drain spouts In the fall, homeowners should clear leaves and

other debris from gutters and drain sprouts. Otherwise, blockages can form, leading to water backups that damage the roof and cause dangerous icicles to form. A ladder, work gloves, trowel and container to catch debris are all the tools needed to get the job done in an afternoon. It’s messy work, but it’s a sure way to prevent many colder weather headaches.

Getting your home in shape now will not only keep it running smoothly during the cold weather but will give you peace of mind while enjoying fall activities.

How to Create the Perfect, Four-Season Outdoor Living Space (BPT) - Creating an outdoor living space will give you an extra “room” to enjoy in all types of weather, even as the temperatures drop. You can start small with an inexpensive patio set and charcoal grill on a new deck, go all out with a fully installed kitchen, fireplace and living room, or something in between. It depends on your budget and how you plan to use the space.

Here are some ideas for must-have elements in your perfect outdoor living space that will allow you to enjoy your back yard in style with family and friends all year long.

* Deck It’s the foundation of your

outdoor space. Using real wood for your deck is the key to creating a natural, beautiful outdoor living space. One great option is Western Red Cedar. It’s resistant to rot, decay and insects so it lasts a long time with minimum maintenance. It’s also durable, yet surprisingly lightweight, which is one of the reasons DIYers and building professionals find it so easy to work with. It’s also a green choice. Woods such as cedar leave the smallest carbon footprint compared to any other building material.

* Fire There’s nothing cozier on a

crisp night than curling up in front of the fire. Adding a fire element to your outdoor room creates the same sort of ambiance. Imagine gazing up at the sky on a dark, starry night while sitting in front of the fire and you’ve got the idea. You’ll find a wide variety to choose from, including decorative metal fire pits

or bowls; chimeneas, which are earthenware or stone outdoor fireplaces; or full-blown, permanent fireplaces like you might find inside the house.

Whatever you choose, the crackling fire will draw people and create a focal point for conversation and reflection.

Added bonus: It will provide a heat source for chilly nights.

* Outdoor kitchen You can

go big, creating a second full kitchen alfresco with a high-end gas grill, a wood-burning pizza oven, a fridge, a sink, storage for dishes and utensils, and a countertop for prep, or you can go small, with a simple grill. Either way, it’s essential to be able to cook outside so you won’t be stuck in your home’s kitchen preparing dinner while your family and friends chat on the deck.

* Furniture A patio table and comfortable chairs are a must, as are some Adirondack or other sturdy, comfy chairs positioned around your fire source. But beyond that, think about how you’ll use the space. Does a chaise or two for lounging with a book and a cold beverage make sense? What about an outdoor sofa and chairs to create more of a living room-type feel?

Whatever you choose, comfort, durability in all types of weather, and the size (not too big or too small) are prime considerations.

* Shelter In addition to the standard umbrella for your patio table, creating shelter for your outdoor space lets you enjoy it in all types of weather. The sky is the limit on your choices: a simple wood and fabric canopy to shade your seating area, a more structured gazebo complete with mosquito netting, a decorative wooden pergola, or an outdoor sunroom or solarium that attaches to your home’s exterior wall. Get some ideas for great DIY projects, be it a pergola, a Tiki bar, a cover to protect your grill (and the grillmaster) from the elements, or for less experienced DIYers, a dining table, benches and chairs, by downloading free DIY project plans at http://www.realcedar.com. * Landscaping The final touch is the yard beyond your deck. Extend your outdoor space with a patio, create a walking path with stone pavers, or add shrubs, plants and flowers that will cycle and change with the seasons, giving your space a fresh look as the months go by.

For more information about creating your perfect outdoor living space or to download DIY plans, visit http://www. realcedar.com.

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Photo courtesy of Getty Images

A HEALTHY WAY TO WORK B

FAMILY FEATURES

etween the hours staring at a computer screen and the nearly constant temptation of treats in the breakroom, most offices are not known for fitness and health. However, work is where most Americans spend at least one-third of their days, and it’s a place where simple changes can make a big difference.

Hunger is an important factor in managing workday wellness, from maintaining focus to making smart snacking 12 H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com

choices. A survey on workplace snacking, conducted by Focus Vision and supported by the American Pistachio Growers, found that 92 percent of workers report becoming distracted from their tasks at work due to hunger before lunch. Eighty percent said they get hungry in the mornings before lunch and think about food often or every day.

Watching your eating habits and being more aware of your body’s physical needs can help promote a better office lifestyle. Take steps to improve your workday

wellbeing with these tips from Dr. Mike Roussell, nutrition expert and adviser to “Men’s Health” and “SELF” magazines:

Next time you have a brainstorming or check-in meeting, take it to the streets and hold your meeting while walking around.

Keep healthy snacks Feed your brain. on-hand. Sugary A healthy body snacks can send you on doesn’t just mean a roller coaster ride of strong muscles energy and focus. The and maintaining a right kind of healthy healthy heart, but also snacks can satiate your nurturing a healthy appetite as well as brain. It is important improve your health to fuel your brain with Dr. Mike Roussell and performance at the nutrients it needs work. For example, the to function at its best. survey on workplace snacking showed a Research from Loma Linda University midmorning snack of pistachios can help shows that eating pistachios stimulates improve concentration, and the right kind brain waves associated with cognition, of snack at the right time can help give memory and learning. Lutein, an you a competitive edge at work. antioxidant found in pistachios, is also associated with improvements in Find time for activity. Being executive brain function. physically active can help control stress, recharge your brain and promote Stay hydrated. Staying hydrated is not overall wellness. Being at work doesn’t only important for athletic performance, mean that you must be sedentary. but is also important for peak mental Break up lunchtime with a short walk performance at work. Several research or jump on board with a growing studies show that small levels of trend and conduct walking meetings. dehydration can decrease mental

performance and negatively impact mood. To avoid becoming dehydrated, have a large glass of water with each meal or snack and at least one more glass between meals.

Take breaks to recharge. Engineers of one productivity app analyzed time logs from more than 5 million days of tracking to determine the behaviors of the most productive people. They found that when people worked for 52 minutes then took a 17-minute break they had the highest productivity levels. Setting periods of intense focus and then time off during your workday can help you be more productive and reduce stress.

Skip mindless eating. The office can be a nutritional landmine. Bowls full of candy and breakrooms with boxes of donuts make it all too easy to nibble without fully realizing all the calories you are accumulating. Taking a more proactive and conscious approach to snacking can help cut out unwanted extra calories while also curbing your appetite.

Explore more ideas for smart snacking at the office and at home at americanpistachios.org.

A Handful of Health Benefits Increasingly, people with desk jobs are looking for healthier snack alternatives to typical choices like donuts and vending machine fare. A solution may be a simple handful away.

In a survey commissioned by the American Pistachio Growers, 1,000 American office workers who skipped breakfast consumed a snack of pistachios (about 1 1/2 servings) between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. The midmorning snack proved to be just what they needed to power through the morning. Ninety-two percent of the participants reported the pistachio snack helped eliminate hunger and improved their concentration.

Reinforcing their role in mental acuity, in a separate study, pistachios produced strong gamma waves, which are critical for enhancing cognitive processing, information retention, learning, perception and rapid eye movement during sleep.

“Pistachios are an ideal midmorning or midafternoon snack because of their unique nutrient package that not only promotes feelings of fullness and satiation, but newer studies show that it can promote an optimal mental state and more focus at work,” Roussell said.

“Pistachios are a healthy snack that you can look forward to eating day in and day out.”

Indeed, an option like pistachios is a healthier choice than many go-to snacks. They do not contribute to weight gain or body fat changes and can significantly improve dietary nutrient intake. Survey participants increased their consumption of nutrients such as thiamin, vitamin B6, copper and potassium after snacking on pistachios for four weeks.

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How Parents Can Achieve Work-Life Balance

In the pursuit of having more time to spend with their families, an increasing number of working parents are requesting flexible working options from their employers, suggests new research.

Often referred to as “co-working,” a flexible workspace offers individuals and employees a productive and collaborative environment to work.

Co-working has risen in popularity over the past decade and new research from flexible workspace provider, Regus, found that 85 percent of working parents would forfeit other benefits to take up flexible working, with 81 percent surveyed believing the top benefit is a better work-life balance.

The growth of flexible workspace means that people increasingly have access to these locations no matter where they are, offering users the potential to skip a long commute and work closer to home. So, what would parents do with that extra time? According to the Regus survey, the number one activity parents would spend their time on, instead of commuting, is being with family (71 percent), followed by having “me-time,” like taking a long bath or meeting friends (38 percent).

Employers should take note, as flexible working options are a top priority for employed parents. Ninety-six percent of working parents say that they would work for an employer that provides flexible working as part of a benefits package and 74 percent say they are willing to take on a different job if it offered a range of working locations Looking to make the switch? Regus is sharing top tips to incorporate flexible working into your current employment situation: 14 H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com

• Negotiate: If this option is not yet offered by your employer, negotiate. See if you can swap one benefit you may not use. For example, 85 percent of working parents reported that they are willing to work through their lunchbreak, and 85 percent would forfeit other benefits, like a company gym membership, to take up flexible working.

• Think creatively about location: Commuting isn’t only about the time spent traveling from your front door to the office. It may be better for you to be near your child’s school or daycare, or near a client, rather than your main office. Flexible working can make this shift possible.

• Banish the 9 to 5: For many parents, a 9 to 5 schedule doesn’t match that of their child. To get the most of flexible working, see if you can adapt your schedule with a late start and late finish, or early start and early finish. Or, throw the schedule out the window and focus on delivering results.

• Flex your flexible working: If you can’t make the switch to full-time flexible working, see if you can have this option available in emergencies, such as a gap in childcare or a tight schedule.

“Parents especially struggle to ensure their careers and personal lives exist in harmony,” says Michael Berretta, vice president of Network Development for IWG, the parent company of Regus.

“Using flexible workspace can allow for a schedule that better fits around personal commitments, and employers can expect more working parents to ask for this option.”

To learn more visit, www.regus.com.

Working parents have a lot to juggle and finding the right balance can be a challenge, but there are more opportunities than ever to add flexibility to their schedules.

parents: How to Build Empathy and Prevent Bullying Sixty-two percent of 9 to 11-year-olds say they have been bullied at least “once or twice,” according to a recent national survey.

The survey, commissioned by the Cartoon Network and designed by VJR Consulting in consultation with the Making Caring Common project (MCC) at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education, found that the vast majority of young children in this country have experienced bullying and that they look to adults to set an example about how to treat others.

October is National Bullying Prevention Month, and an excellent time to focus on creating more inclusion in your school and community by re-enforcing kindness and empathy.

• values matter: The values kids are taught really do matter. Those who consider “caring about others” to be “very” important (74 percent) are far more likely to do kind things for other kids, and far less likely to be bullies.

• help kids speak up: Over half of kids who have seen someone getting picked on or being left out say one of the reasons they don’t help is they don’t know what to do or say. But there are resources which can help kids learn how to handle these tough situations. For example, Cartoon Network animated children’s stories from their survey into new PSAs, including one featuring Beastboy from “Teen Titans GO!” in a similar situation speaking up, saying “That’s Not Ok.” Additional PSAs from Cartoon Network and Committee for Children showcasing more stories told by children about their personal experiences being bullied can be found at cartoonnetwork.com/stop-bullying/ video.html.

• resources on kindness and empathy: Cartoon Network and 826 National partnered on the Inclusion Storytelling Project to provide tools and encouragement for kids to share their own stories. Easy-to-use

digital resources for educators and parents offer tips to help kids speak up against bullying and develop greater caring and empathy skills.

More information can be found at 826digital.com.

• be engaged: Communication is key to learning what is really going on in your child’s life. The vast majority of 9-to-11-year-olds (83 percent) said it would help kids their age be kinder to one another if every kid had someone who really cared about and listened to them. Check in with kids often to make sure they’re safe and happy at school, on the playground and online.

Everyone can set a good example, and help prevent bullying in the process, by leading with compassion and encouraging kindness.

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Avoid Chilling Accidents with These Tips to Winterize Your Home (BPT) - Winter will be here before you know it. The season has a way of sneaking up on you and before you realize you’re not ready, the first chilling breezes have already arrived.

Begin with winterizing your home now to ensure you’re prepared for the season. Apply the following tips and your home will be winter ready in no time.

Prime your plumbing. If you live in an area where

freezing pipes are a threat, this is one area you’ll want to correct immediately. A frozen pipe that bursts can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on damage. Shut off any water lines tied to outdoor spigots and your sprinkler system if you have one. Indoor pipes running along the exterior walls of your home are also potential freezing risks, so cover them with a towel or wrap to insulate them through the season.

Be sure your heating system is ready for the season. The importance of your home’s heating

system during the winter cannot be understated. If it isn’t up to the test, replace it now before winter arrives. The York(R) Affinity(TM) Series YZT two-stage heat pump offers a twostage compressor to deliver higher energy efficiency and quieter operation. A smart home integration is easy with the YORK(R) Affinity(TM) Hx3(TM) 4.3-inch Touch-Screen Thermostat. Control your home’s temperature by voice command or by using your smartphone when you’re away from home. Program auto-alerts to stay aware of necessary maintenance and replace the filter each month to ensure your home heating system performs at its best all season long.

Have your home audited. A home energy audit can help you make sure your home will be energy efficient 16 H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com

and comfortable throughout the winter. Your energy audit will show you where energy is being wasted and provide suggestions on how to correct them. You may discover opportunities to add insulation in drafty areas or replace appliances that are no longer operating efficiently.

Seal the leaks. Even the smallest draft could end up

costing you big time over the course of a winter and repairing this problem is easy. Inspect each of your home’s windows replace the broken ones - and use caulk to seal any cracks you find around the window frames. You can also apply weather stripping where appropriate and when winter begins, don’t be afraid to keep the curtains closed to block cold air from coming into your home through the glass.

Protect yourself from CO concerns.

Colder temperatures cause many of us to seek alternative heating sources, but this can often be dangerous. Never use a generator, camp stove, or other gasoline- or charcoal-burning device inside your home or garage. These devices, combined with closed windows, can result in carbon monoxide poisoning. If your home does not have a carbon monoxide detector, buy one immediately and if you do have a detector, make sure to test and replace the batteries regularly. A C02 detector is a vital component in keeping those in your home safe throughout the winter and beyond.

Don’t let winter freeze you out Winter’s frigid temperatures haven’t struck yet, but the season will be here before you know it. Apply the tips above in your home today and you’ll stay nice and warm inside no matter what the outside weather conditions may bring.

Newborn to 13+: Car Safety Tips for Kids of All Ages (BPT) - For many parents, you buckle up your kids and off you go to day care, school or the park. You trust their car seat or booster seat will keep your child safe should something happen, but are you sure the seat you installed months or years ago is truly secure?

“I am deeply concerned that nearly half of all car seats are not used correctly,” says Heidi King, deputy administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). “You don’t have to be a parent to play a part in protecting children. I urge everyone to follow these simple tips to ensure kids stay safe in the car at every age.”

The right car seat is the best protection in a crash Every 33 seconds, a child under 13 years old is involved in a car crash, according to NHTSA data. Even more startling: Car crashes are a leading cause of death for children ages 1-13.

necks and spines are still developing. In fact, car seats have been shown to reduce fatal injury by 71 percent for infants (under one year old) in passenger cars.

Keep in mind, even if your child’s feet touch the back of the vehicle seat, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ready for a forward-facing seat. Parents shouldn’t move their toddlers into a forward-facing car seat until they’ve hit the maximum height or weight limit of their current car seat.

4-7 years old (forwardfacing car seat)

Newborn to 3 years (infant and rear-facing car seat)

At this age your child will likely use a forward-facing car seat with a harness.

One critical step for installing this car seat correctly is making sure to secure it with its tether, not just a seat belt. The tether is an adjustable strap with a hook that can be found at the top of most forward-facing car seats. When you secure the tether to the tether anchor in your vehicle, it keeps the car seat from moving forward in a crash, helping protect your child from head and neck injuries.

The youngest passengers should remain in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the maximum weight or height of their seat. This positioning better absorbs the force of an impact, making it a better option for small passengers whose

Additionally, always make sure the chest clip is secured across the chest rather than on the belly. These clips have a tendency to move down, so it’s up to caregivers to align it properly. Make it a habit to always slide the clip up to the

One of the most common mistakes parents and caregivers make is moving children to the next car seat too soon.

No matter their age, you need to make sure that the car seat you use is the right one for your child’s age, as well as their size (based on their weight and height).

appropriate place after buckling your child in to their seat.

8-12 years old (booster seat) After a child exceeds the age and size limits of their forward-facing seat, they can transition to a booster seat.

A booster seat lifts a child up and helps their body properly align with the vehicle’s existing seat belt.

Kids should stay in a booster seat until they are big enough to sit properly with the lap and shoulder belt securely buckled. That means the lap belt is snug across their upper thighs, not their stomach, and the shoulder belt is snug across their shoulder and chest, not their neck or face.

“Tweens” and preteens (seat belt) Once your child is big enough to ride safely without needing a car seat or booster seat, keep in mind the back seat is still the safest place. All kids 13 and under should ride in the back, even if they try to convince you the front is the “cool” place to be.

For more advice and to find a car seat check location near you, visit NHTSA. gov/TheRightSeat.

Child Passenger Safety Week is Sept. 23-29 and Seat Check Saturday is Sept. 29.

H& Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 17

5 Hacks for Holiday Hosting

Family Features It may feel impossible to fit even more into already jam-packed days, but when the holidays roll around, entertaining and celebrating always find a way. Fortunately, you can find some shortcuts when hosting that offer plenty of festive style while also helping you avoid stressing over every detail.

This year, rely on some time-saving hacks so you’re not just throwing the holiday party, but enjoying some seasonal fun of your own.

Repurpose with purpose.

There’s no need to make time for a trip to the store or to spend a bundle on party supplies. A pretty, oversized flowerpot or planter that has been cast aside for winter makes a perfect tub for icing down beverages. When it comes to decor, you can cover any old box with some of last year’s leftover holiday paper to add some colorful touches around the home. A similar idea: wrap canvas art or other frames in pretty paper to extend the theme up the walls.

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Make easy attractive. Most holiday celebrations center on the food, but it’s still an area where you can shave some time. For example, a simple but attractive option like the wide selection of Chinet Classic White products is designed for practical use. They do not bend, fold or leak, and are strong enough for extra helpings no matter the occasion.

For a more elegant affair, the Chinet Cut Crystal collection is the only fully coordinated line of disposable plates, cups, cutlery and wineglasses. Guests will barely realize they’re not using the good china, but you’ll definitely notice when you’re able to skip time at the sink to spend more precious moments with your loved ones.

Fill the freezer. Whether your

holiday entertaining is more impromptu in nature or you host a single sizable shindig, keeping a well-stocked freezer can help make hosting a cinch. Dedicate an afternoon to preparing items you can easily defrost and serve later, like casseroles, appetizers, side dishes and desserts.

Forgo fussy food. An elegant sit-down meal isn’t the only way to enjoy a holiday gathering. Guests may even appreciate a break from traditional heavier fare. Simple food stations, finger foods and even store-bought meals are all time-saving alternatives.

Another time-saving option: dressing up store-bought food as part of a larger spread. For example, you can top side dishes like mashed potatoes with olive oil or butter and sprinkle with cheese or embellish a main course such as ham with rosemary sprigs and fresh fruit.

Keep cleanup simple. For a

festive, yet deceptively easy table, consider using kraft paper as tablecloths and let some of that leftover wrapping paper do double-duty as table runners.

Simply cut the wrapping paper to your desired length and fold the edges under to create clean seams. Match the DIY table coverings with a coordinated line of disposable tableware to make cleaning up a cinch.

Explore more hacks to simplify your holiday entertaining at MyChinet.com.

tips to give your pet a happy, healthy fall

Fall with Our Four-Legged Friends The dog days of summer are over and your furry family member is up and ready to play! It’s the time of year when even pets can get excited about the season and all the autumn outdoor activities families may enjoy. It’s also a time of year that can come with some hazards and vulnerabilities for our four-legged friends. Here are a few reminders to keep your pet happy and healthy, as the crisp apple-spiced air makes its fall appearance.

Fall is a great time to take advantage of healthy, active play with your pet to encourage and strengthen the human-animal bond. In addition, active play develops healthy movement and cardiovascular endurance for you and your dog, especially when exercise can tend to decline during the colder months and holiday party season. A simple game of fetch offers both! It’s a great way to make fetch happen with your dog’s favorite Chuckit! launcher and ball. The essence of fetch play satisfies their natural instincts to chase, while encouraging healthy and happy movement.

Speaking of cooler weather and active play, this time of year can certainly put a little more stress on your pet’s joints.

It’s important to make sure your pets stay well hydrated, and are provided with the right nutrition and supplements to ensure their active bodies are performing at their very best. In addition to a healthy diet, a good bed can go a long way to prevent any painful issues down the road. After an active day of play with your pet, a good place to relax and recuperate will help ease stress on their joints. The orthopedic foam beds

by SnooZZy provide excellent support, as opposed to a harder floor surface, enabling your pet to bounce back up much quicker and happier, no matter how old they are.

As the sun sets lower on the windowsill, many cats will try to bask in as much warmth and light as the day will allow.

Don’t be fooled by the declining strength of the sun’s rays. No matter what time of year it is, lighter pigmented cats can be more prone to sunburn and darker coated cats can run the increased risk of heat stress. Prevent sun damage issues by applying a small amount of pet-safe sunscreen on areas like the nose, ears and underbelly that are susceptible to sunburn, and monitor all sunbathing, particularly when the sun is at its strongest - early afternoon until evening. Providing your cat with another comfortable place to lounge, like the Jackson Galaxy Convertible Scratcher, is an excellent way to coax them out of the hot sun. Your cat will enjoy lounging on the scratcher and its various configurations, while enabling them to tap into their natural instincts to scratch when they want to be more engaged and active.

Another hazard to consider is an increase in pet anxiety due to the new noises that may come with the fall season. For pets prone to anxiety caused by noise (leaf blowers, school bus engines, doorbells and trickor-treaters), consider keeping them occupied with a solo play toy, like the JW Robobone, for engagement and fun. Interactive puzzle toys from JW can help keep dogs occupied and focused, preventing any new seasonal stress they may experience.

Lastly, despite the declining temperatures, fleas and ticks are still present and a threat. Whether you’re partaking in a camping trip or just a quick walk to enjoy the fall foliage, make sure your pets are properly guarded from these pesky insects to avoid serious problems like Lyme disease, or any other issues that accompany these unwanted pests.

All in all, the fall season can be an exciting time for you and your pet.

Keep your veterinarian’s phone number handy, but be sure to enjoy every moment with your furry family member.

After all, they are the sweetest part of the holiday season.

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Bold Flavor Boosts for Tradition-Worthy Holiday Meals

H

FAMILY FEATURES

oliday gatherings provide perfect opportunities to get creative in the kitchen. Spending quality time with family and friends over an unforgettably delicious meal is what the holiday season is all about, after all. Make sure to be the one everyone is raving about because you’ve brought something new and delicious to your event by transforming ordinary seasonal recipes with a clever, bold twist.

At first, changing a classic family recipe or whipping up a new, taste-tempting holiday dish may seem daunting. However, balancing taste and complexity doesn’t need to be stressful. Simplify recipe planning with one versatile ingredient that provides a bold boost and creates real crowd pleasers: cooking wines.

Now is the time to make cooking wine a must-have in your kitchen essentials. Using a wine specially made for cooking provides consistent, momentous flavor, as it withstands high cooking

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temperatures and has a long shelf life. One option to try this season is Holland House Cooking Wines, with a long and delicious history of adding rich, robust flavor to a wide variety of culinary applications.

These cooking wines are perfect for plenty of recipes and come in savory and flavor-boosting varieties including: Marsala, imparting a sweet-wine flavor with hints of hazelnut; Red, offering a smooth, medium-bodied finish; White, featuring a slightly dry but distinct profile; and Sherry, offering a mild flavor with hints of nut and caramel.

If you’re looking for recipe inspiration for your holiday feast, you can experience the bold flavors of Holland House with these soonto-be holiday favorites. Serve Garlic and Herb Lamb Chops with Marsala Mushroom Sauce as your entree alongside Asiago and Bacon Orzo Medley. For a dessert no one can say no to, try scrumptious Buttered Pound Cake with Sherry Mascarpone and Soaked Berries.

Visit hollandhouseflavors.com for more taste-tempting holiday recipes.

Garlic and Herb Lamb Chops with Marsala Mushroom Sauce

Prep time: 30 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes plus marinating Servings: 7 (about 2 lamb chops per serving) 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped 4 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced, divided 1 tablespoon lemon zest, grated 3/4 cup Holland House Marsala Cooking Wine, divided 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 racks of lamb (approximately 3-4 pounds), trimmed and cleaned Marsala Mushroom Sauce: 1 tablespoon butter 1 pound fresh baby bella or cremini mushrooms, cleaned 2 tablespoons fresh shallots, thinly sliced 1/2 cup beef stock 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard salt, to taste pepper, to taste 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped In large bowl, combine rosemary, 3 teaspoons garlic, lemon zest, 1/4 cup cooking wine and olive oil. Add racks of lamb, meat-side up, and cover bowl. Marinate 6-24 hours. After marinating, heat oven to 400 F. Transfer racks of lamb to heated, ovenproof saute pan on stovetop and sear each side 2 minutes until golden brown.

Transfer oven-proof saute pan with lamb to heated oven and cook approximately 10 minutes, or until lamb reaches 135 F in center. Remove pan from oven and take lamb out of pan to rest.

To make Marsala Mushroom Sauce: In same pan, melt butter over medium heat; add mushrooms and saute. Add shallots and remaining garlic, cooking until fragrant. Deglaze with remaining cooking wine.

Add beef stock and whisk in Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and cook 2 minutes to reduce and thicken.

Carve racks of lamb by cutting between ribs. Serve drizzled with Marsala Mushroom Sauce.

Garnish with parsley.

Buttered Pound Cake with Sherry Mascarpone and Soaked Berries

Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes plus marinating Servings: 10 (2 pieces per serving) 3/4 cup fresh raspberries 3/4 cup fresh blueberries 3/4 cup fresh blackberries 1/2 cup Holland House Sherry Cooking Wine, divided 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest, grated 2 tablespoons honey 1 cup mascarpone cheese 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons butter 1 pound cake, cut into 20 pieces In medium bowl, combine rasp-berries, blueberries, blackberries, 1/3 cup cooking wine, lemon juice, lemon zest and honey. Cover bowl and marinate at room temperature 30 minutes.

In mixer, whip mascarpone by slowly adding heavy whipping cream, sugar and remaining cooking wine. Once thoroughly mixed, whip to stiff peaks.

Asiago and Bacon Orzo Medley

Butter both sides of each piece of pound cake and add to saute pan. Over medium heat, brown both sides of cake until golden. Place two pieces of toasted pound cake in individual serving dishes and let cool.

Place dollop of whipped mascarpone on pound cake pieces. Garnish with marinated berries.

Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 11 (about 1/2 cup per serving) 4 ounces bacon, chopped 4 ounces white onion, diced 1 teaspoon garlic, minced 2 cups fresh asparagus tips 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved 1/4 cup Holland House White Cooking Wine 1/4 cup chicken stock 3 cups orzo, cooked according to package directions 1/2 cup shaved Asiago cheese salt, to taste pepper, to taste

In large saucepan, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp.

Add onions and garlic to pan with bacon and saute until fragrant and soft. Cook onions until translucent.

Add asparagus tips, cherry tomatoes, chicken stock and cooking wine to saucepan and deglaze.

Add cooked orzo and Asiago cheese, stirring to combine. Cook 2 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

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Freshen Up Holiday Entertaining

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Grapes and Balsamic Glaze

Add tasty, crunchy grapes to seasonal dishes FAMILY FEATURES

T

he holiday season is typically marked by gatherings of friends and family. Whether you’re hosting overnight guests, drop-in visitors or an important seasonal meal, taking a fresh approach to the menu can make the get-together more special.

As you prepare for the festivities, consider recipes that feature healthy ingredients such as versatile California grapes, which come in three vibrant colors – red, green and black – and can add a palate-pleasing crunch and plenty of taste to everything from main dishes to sides and even desserts. Heart-healthy grapes are also perfect on their own as a snack and their natural beauty can help enhance any table as an edible garnish or fresh centerpiece.

Using grapes as a featured ingredient in your holiday dishes can provide a fresh twist on seasonal dishes, such as this Grape Dutch Baby or these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Grapes and Balsamic Glaze. For dessert, use the natural sweetness of grapes to create a smooth Grape Caramel Sauce that can be served as a topping for ice cream or other seasonal desserts.

Find more holiday recipes at GrapesfromCalifornia.com.

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Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Grapes and Balsamic Glaze Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Servings: 4 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil pinch of salt freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 cup red California grapes 2 tablespoons ready-to-use balsamic glaze Heat oven to 450 F. On baking sheet, toss sprouts with olive oil, salt and pepper, to taste, until sprouts are well-coated. Roast until deep golden brown, about 17-20 minutes, turning sprouts halfway through roasting. Stir in grapes and roast 3-5 minutes. Transfer to bowl and drizzle with glaze or drizzle platter with glaze and pile sprouts on top.

Nutritional information per serving: 150 calories; 3 g protein; 20 g carbohydrates; 7 g fat (42% calories from fat); 1 g saturated fat (6% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 30 mg sodium; 4 g fiber.

Grape Caramel Sauce

Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Servings: 6 1 pound green or red California grapes, divided 1 tablespoon lemon juice 3/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup water 1/3 cup heavy cream (optional) large pinch of salt ice cream In blender or food processor, combine 12 ounces grapes with lemon juice and puree. Set aside. Coarsely chop remaining grapes.

In medium saucepan, combine sugar and water then bring to boil, stirring a few times. Simmer without stirring, brushing down sides of pot with brush dipped in water if crystals start forming.

When mixture has turned deep, golden brown, remove from heat and whisk in pureed grapes until smooth sauce has formed. Turn on heat and simmer until mixture has reduced by one-third and forms smooth caramel sauce. Whisk in cream and salt; stir in chopped grapes and serve over ice cream.

Nutritional information per serving of sauce: 200 calories; 40 g carbohydrates; 5 g fat (22% calories from fat); 3 g saturated fat (14% calories from saturated fat); 15 mg cholesterol; 60 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.

Grape Dutch Baby

Grape Dutch Baby

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Servings: 4 3 large eggs 2/3 cup all-purpose flour 2/3 cup low-fat milk 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon salt 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided 2 cups red California grapes, halved 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) confectioners’ sugar Heat oven to 450 F. Put large (10inch) cast-iron or ovenproof skillet in oven.

With electric mixer on high speed, beat eggs until frothy then beat in

flour, milk, vanilla and salt, and beat until smooth, about 1 minute (batter will be thin). Remove skillet from oven and add 2 tablespoons butter, swirling to cover pan. Pour in batter and return to oven. Bake until puffed and golden brown, 14-19 minutes.

While pancake is baking, in another skillet over high heat, melt remaining butter and add grapes, brown sugar and cinnamon, if desired. Cook until grapes are heated through and sugar has melted. Spoon grapes over pancake, sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar and serve.

Nutritional information per serving: 280 calories; 6 g protein; 22 g carbohydrates; 18 g fat (58% calories from fat); 10 g saturated fat (32% calories from saturated fat); 180 mg cholesterol; 380 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.

Grape Caramel Sauce

Seasonal Entertaining with Grapes While the beautiful, vibrant colors of grapes can add visual interest to recipes, they can also serve a variety of purposes when hosting:  Grapes can make for easy decorations when placed in bowls, on platters or draped from a cake plate.  Grapes can be “frosted” with sugar, spices and chopped nuts then served as a finger food or used as a garnish to



decorate cakes, cookies, puddings, mousses and other seasonal desserts. Simply dip grape clusters in liquid gelatin then roll in your desired mixture.

Grapes make for a quick and easy hostess gift. Wrap multi-colored grape clusters in tissue paper then place them in a basket or tin tied with ribbon.

H& Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 23

Tomato Soup with Homemade Olive Oil Croutons Prep time: 10 minutes 4 tomatoes 3 grilled red bell peppers in oil 1 shallot 1/2 cup Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil, plus additional for brushing on bread 3 tablespoons sherry vinegar 1 clove garlic 10 basil leaves salt, to taste pepper, to taste 4 slices crusty bread Cut small cross in bottom of tomatoes and submerge in boiling water 30 seconds. Let tomatoes cool in ice water 30 seconds then remove skins.

In blender, blend tomatoes, red bell peppers, shallot, extra-virgin olive oil, vinegar, garlic, basil, salt and pepper, to taste, until mixture is smooth.

Add mixture to large pot and heat, stirring frequently.

Cut bread slices, brush with olive oil and grill 2 minutes per side over medium-high heat until visible grill marks have formed.

Tomato Soup with Homemade Olive Oil Croutons

Simple Yet Stunning Set the menu for easy entertaining

O

FAMILY FEATURES

ne of the best-kept chef secrets to hosting the most memorable at-home parties is keeping the food simple and adding small details to make it special. After all, a host who isn’t hard at work in the kitchen is a host who can spend more time with guests.

One way to make every minute in the kitchen count and provide crowd-pleasing food is by using wholesome, quality core ingredients like olive oil, fresh bread, cheese and artisan chocolate to create flavorful

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dishes that are easy to prepare, and leave you with more time to enjoy what matters most: moments with the ones you love.

When it comes to cooking, focus on the essentials and the highlights of each dish.

Building recipes around quality ingredients, such as Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil, makes it easy to create show-stopping dishes time and time again. Planning ahead is key to entertaining, but when it comes to cooking, make things quick and easy with a little help from powerhouse ingredients that lend themselves well to a variety of flavors and preparations.

In keeping things simple, use olive oil to add a little extra zest and create dishes that pop off the plate, like this recipe for Beet Hummus.

Or if you’re looking for something comforting and wholesome, indulge in this creamy Tomato Soup with Olive Oil Croutons. For a larger event, try Mushroom Carpaccio and Creamed Spinach Au Gratin, which can leave a lasting impression on your guests. To top it all off, go for this Bitter Chocolate and Pistachio Cream Dessert for a perfect way to end a meal.

Make every moment count and find more simple recipes at Bertolli.com.

Mushroom Carpaccio and Creamed Spinach Au Gratin Prep time: 15 minutes Mushroom Carpaccio: 2 1/4 cups cremini mushrooms Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil salt, to taste Creamed Spinach: 2 1/4 cups spinach 1/2 cup heavy cream salt pepper Parmesan cheese To make Mushroom Carpaccio: Heat oven to 400 F. Clean mushrooms and cut into thin slivers.

Season with olive oil and salt. Set aside.

To make Creamed Spinach: Boil spinach 2 minutes, strain and place it into saucepan, over cream. Cook 5 minutes.

In blender, puree mixture and pour over Mushroom Carpaccio.

Grate Parmesan cheese over entire dish; bake 5 minutes.

Mushroom Carpaccio and Creamed Spinach Au Gratin

Bitter Chocolate and Pistachio Cream Dessert

Prep time: 15 minutes 1/2 cup, plus 1 tablespoon, sweetened condensed milk 1/2 cup brown sugar 1 1/2 tablespoons Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil, plus additional for pistachio cream 4 ounces dark chocolate 1 1/4 cups shelled pistachios In saucepan, combine condensed milk and sugar; cook over low heat, stirring until mixture takes on toasted color.

Add olive oil and dark chocolate; continue to stir until fully combined.

Line 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and spread mixture into pan. Refrigerate until fully set.

To make pistachio cream: Blend pistachios and olive oil until smooth paste forms.

Remove dessert from pan and cut into slices. Serve with pistachio cream on top.

Healthy Beet Hummus

Healthy Beet Hummus Prep time: 15 minutes 3 beets salt, to taste Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil 2 cups canned chickpeas 2 tablespoons sesame seed paste or tahini

Heat oven to 375 F. Peel beets and boil until soft; season with salt and olive oil.

Puree beets with chickpeas and sesame seed paste until a uniform paste forms. Transfer to oven-safe serving dish. Bake 10 minutes and serve.

Bitter Chocolate and Pistachio Cream Dessert

H& Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 25

SAINT

LOUIS

HAPPENINGS 2018 NOV

The St. Louis International Film Festival

Historic cottleville

NOVEMBER 1-11 | TIVOLI THEATRE 6350 Delmar Blvd. | St. Louis, MO 63130 314.727.667

Garden Glow at the Missouri Botanical Garden

NOVEMBER 17 - JANUARY 1

MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDEN $3 – $16 4344 Shaw Blvd. | St. Louis, MO 63110 314.577.5100

Ameren Thanksgiving Day Parade NOVEMBER 22, 8:30 AM DOWNTOWN ST. LOUIS | FREE 570 Market St. | St. Louis, MO 63101

santa photos

december 1, 10:00am - 12:00pm Susan brewer service first real estate | free 5237 HWY N | Cottleville, MO 63304 | 636.936.8600 26 H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com

Celebrating its 34th year, the 2018 Ameren Thanksgiving Day Parade will step off at 8:45 a.m. on Thursday, November 22 from 20th Street and Market Street and proceed east towards Broadway in Downtown St. Louis. The parade will be broadcast live on KMOV-TV Channel 4, awarded an Emmy for their production of the 2015 parade.

Over 130 parade units are expected, including musical floats and displays, giant helium balloon figures, animal units, restored antique cars and firetrucks, and marching bands from around the St. Louis region. As always, Santa Claus will be present to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas at the end of the parade.

NOvember 16 - DECember 30

november 10 | 9:30am - 5:30pm

st. louis union station | $39 – $69

st. louis science center | FREE

Here is a very special chance for you and the entire family to experience the magic of The Polar Express, the classic children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ comes to life on a journey to the enchanted beauty of “the North Pole”—where Santa Claus and his reindeer are waiting with a keepsake present for every good boy and girl.

As the leaves change, meet local professionals who work outdoors, from agricultural and environmental scientists to park rangers and recreationalists. Learn how you could work in the great outdoors yourself!

1820 Market St. | St. Louis, MO 63103 | 314.621.5262

5050 Oakland Avenue | St. Louis, Missouri 63110 314.289.4400

Aladdin

forever forest

NOvember 10, 9:30am - 5:30pm the magic house | $11

516 South Kirkwood Road | St. Louis, MO 63122 314.822.8900 Adventure awaits at Forever Forest, a nationally traveling exhibit that explores how we use the forest to live, work and play in harmony. Kids can help construct a mini home by adding wood siding, flooring and more; explore a tree-top climber and climb aboard a realistic kid-sized replica of a Union Pacific train engine.

By exploring the realities of forests through play, families will learn about sustainability, selective harvesting, transportation needs and the everyday products we use made from trees.

november 7-27 THE FABULOUS FOX THEATRE | $40 – $150

527 N Grand Blvd | St. Louis, MO 63103 | 314.534.1678 From the producer of The Lion King comes the timeless story of ALADDIN, a thrilling new production filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle. It’s an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite.

Hailed by USA Today as “Pure Genie-Us,” ALADDIN features all your favorite songs from the film as well as new music written by Tony® and Academy Award® winner Alan Menken (Newsies) with lyrics penned by the legendary Howard Ashman (Beauty and the Beast), Tony Award winner Tim Rice (The Lion King, Aida), and book writer Chad Beguelin (The Wedding Singer).

H& Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 27

Join Us In Cottleville

• • • •

Large patio Local craft beer Fresh made dough Herbs fresh from our garden

PlankRoadPizza.com

Voted BEST PIZZA and PATIO In St.Charles

Historic Cottleville’s Newest Destination BLOOMING

• • • •

VOTED BEST HOME DÉCOR & GIFT SHOP

Local Artisans Home Decór Items Fashion & Jewelry Visit our farm animals

BloomingDaisyMarketplace.com

Come for the shopping, stay for the fun!

COTTLEVILLE COOKIES & CREAM • House made waffle cones • Fresh baked cookies • Locally sourced ice cream

CottlevilleCookiesandCream.com Looking for a place to

see some great ideas on

home improvement, decorating tips, and real estate information?

Want to be the first to know when our Easter egg hunt, pumpkin patch and

Search Service1stHomes on your favorite social media site or bookmark Service1stHomes.com

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Santa photos are?

H& Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 29

MEET OUR TEAM OF DEDICATED AGENTS Susan Brewer 314.540.0734

Susan@SusanBrewer.com

Wade Brewer 314.605.5205

Wade@Service1stHomes.com

Andrew Brewer 636.936.8600

Andrew@Service1stHomes.com

Mike Lampe 636.751.4442

Mike@Service1stHomes.com

Tammie Meyer 636.578.4399

Tammie@Service1stHomes.com

Our team of Independent Realtors is ready to help you achieve your Real Estate dreams!

At Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate, our goal is to help you realize your real estate goals while giving you the highest level of service possible.

Our office utilizes the very latest in technology and by using our proven marketing strategies and unique concepts, we can sell our listings for higher dollar and in a shorter amount of time than our competitors - no matter what their size. Give us a Susan Brewer Service First call today and let us show you the Real Estate

Service First Difference!

Lori Pisani 636.578.7781

Tom@Service1stHomes.com

Fred Figura 314.277.1925

Brittany Hale 636.399.6419

Fred@Service1stHomes.com

Brittany@Service1stHomes.com

Julie Steinbruegge 314.378.5146

Steve Savory 314.604.3999

Julie@Service1stHomes.com

Wendy Halamicek 636.634.1152

Wendy@Service1stHomes.com

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Tom Budde 636.734.4414

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Ryan Sebacher 636.233.4327

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1200 Cashmere Lane 4 BEDROOM | 4.5 BATHROOM | 3 CAR GARAGE

GREAT ROOM

KITCHEN

INGROUND POOL

Brick & stone elevation. Outdoor oasis 40’ x 18’ saltwater pool, 20’ x 7’ tanning ledge, fountains & waterfall. 29’ x 20’ patio & composite deck. Elegant wood floors. Sophisticated kitchen recently remodeled - subway tile, pot filler, stainless range hood, gas stove, drawer microwave, quiet dishwasher.

Great room with soaring 12’ ceiling, view of the resort like yard, a wall of windows, plantation shutters, stacked stone gas fireplace plus custom wood beam shelving. Dining room ~ lighted coffered ceiling. Den with built in desk system.

Gorgeous master retreat. Two additional well sized bedrooms on the main level PLUS the 4th bedroom with private bath in the lower level. Amazing walkout LL featuring a Media room, bar/kitchenette, craft/hobby area, 1/2 bath, rec & family room, 4th bed & bath. Recent updates include: upgraded carpet, paint, light fixtures, faucets, Nest thermostat smoke detectors, plantation shutters, custom wood shelving, rain machine irrigation update, landscaping, 4 exterior speakers, ring system.

Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate FINISHED LOWER LEVEL

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Susan Brewer #1

AGENT IN ST. CHARLES

Visit www.SusanBrewer.Tv for weekly episodes that give advice on all things real estate. Everything from “How to get your house ready to sell� to a visit with the Mayor of St. Peters to discuss all of the things the city has to offer. Subscribe to be notified when a new episode is available.

SusanBrewer.tv where binge watching is allowed and be careful - you just might learn something.

Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate

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