Home and Happenings March 2015 issue

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

MARCH 2015

2 H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com

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WEBSITE & FEEDBACK

EDITOR IN CHIEFWade Brewer

DESIGNJosh West

FEATURES EDITORAndrew Brewer

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

Believe it or not, spring is almost here. After the snow and ice we have recently had to deal with, I know I am ready for the warm months ahead. In this issue we help to prepare you for spring inand around your home.

Simply changing the lighting in your home can do wonders for updating the interior. This month we offer some suggestions for what style of lighting will work best in certain areas of your home. Another quick way to add some interest in the kitchen is to add or update backsplash. This issue offers some ideas for easily making the change. For those shade tree mechanics out there we give some great suggestions for spring car maintenance tips.

In the kitchen this month, we have some great recipes for some delicious cookies and have some ideas for pantry essentials for preparing healthy meals.

March is a big month in Cottleville. The annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade takes place on Saturday, March 14th with over 60,000 people attending this yearly event. In this issue we offer you a complete guide to the parade along with some other funactivities happening in and around our area.

Have a great spring season!

A note from the editor...

Wade BrewerEditor-in-chief

H& Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 3

4Saint Patrick’s Day!

CONTENTS6

8

10

12

14

16

18

Lighting Fundamentals

Designing a Stunning Backsplash

Posture Perfect

Gear Up for Spring

Cookie Dessert

Pantry Essentials

Happenings


Cottleville ParadeSt. Patrick’s Day


Approximately 65,000 people are expected to line the streets of Cottleville on Saturday, March 14th for the fifth annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade and festivities always draw a large crowd and this year will be no exception. As with last year, there will be shuttles available to assist with parking for the parade and is just one example of the event’s increasing popularity.

Approximately 100 floats will participate in the parade passing out candy and good cheer to the thousands lining the parade route. The parade will begin at 12:00 noon and starts at Cottleville Pkwy & Weiss Rd. and travels down Weiss Rd to Hwy “N” through historic downtown Cottleville turns left at hwy N ending at Francis Howell Central. Free shuttles will be running throughout the day. Shuttle parking locations are the old American Furniture location and St. Charles Community College. Shuttle drop-off andpick-up locations are Bemo’s, Cottleville Wine Seller & Cottleville Firehouse.

The Cottleville parade was never intended to compete with the other parades in the St. Louis area but to give residents of St. Charles county an option of staying closer to home. What started as an idea between friends, quickly grew into one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the area.

Prior to the parade, at 8:00 AM, over 2,000 participants will take part in the annual 7K charity run. The event is sponsored by the Cottleville firefighters’ community outreach organization. A two mile fun run will also follow the runners of the 7K.

The office of Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate is a great place to enjoy the parade.

To find more information regarding theCottleville St. Patrick’s Day Parade

visit www.StPatParade.org


Whether you have a petite powder room or a grand master bath, there are four main types of lighting you should consider: ambient, task, accent and natural. Ambient lightingAmbient lighting is the main source of illumination and is fundamental to a solid bathroom lighting plan. Also known as general lighting, ambient lights are typically installed overhead and provide lighting for safety and overall comfort.Task lighting Task lighting is absolutely necessary for daily grooming activities like putting on makeup and shaving. High-end mirrors like the Reception mirror from Robern feature built-in premium task lighting. With a sleek design

and open storage, the mirror features fluorescent vertical task lighting at an ideal light value that simplifies grooming tasks. Accent lighting These types of lights artistically highlight special objects, like paintings, plants, sculptures or architectural detailing. Accent lights are typically smaller and include a shield that allows you to direct the light on the desired object. Natural lightingSkylights allow sunlight in during daylight hours without jeopardizing any privacy, plus they can be installed with shades for optional closure if desired. Natural light from sources like skylights can be particularly inviting near the bathtub.

Lighting FundamentalsHow style and function blend for ideal bathroom visibility



The kitchen is the heart of the home and a top-selling feature with homebuyers. Does yours convey style and functionality? Whether you’ve just completed a remodel or you’re looking for ways to upgrade your existing kitchen, a tile backsplash will instantly transform the space into an eye-catching masterpiece.

“Tile backsplashes are timeless, providing the ideal transition between the cabinetry and the countertop,” says Kirsty Froelich, design direc-tor for The Tile Shop. “It’s one of the number one ways homeowners can add value to their kitchen while adhering to their personal de-sign preferences. Best yet, the process can be simple and enjoyable.”

Froelich offers her top tips for designing a styl-ish backsplash for your kitchen without head-aches or stress:

1. Determine your style and take action

Start by looking at Houzz, Pinterest and home magazines to see what styles you’re drawn to. Are you more contemporary, vintage or transi-tional? It can help to see backsplashes in person to get a true idea of how different materials look, feel and reflect light. For up close and personal inspiration, attend your local Parade of Homes, or visit a showroom environment like The Tile Shop to view multiple styled vignettes.

2. Follow your vision

When exploring tile or stone, think about whether you want the backsplash to be a focal point or more subdued. Subway tiles in neu-tral tones are timeless for those who prefer a muted backsplash. If you’re looking to make a statement, clean and tumbled white marble is trending right now. Slate is comforting and earthy where metallic offers a more eye-catch-

Design a stunning backsplashWithout the whiplash


ing and contemporary look. For added person-ality, consider designs with color, patchwork or patterns. “Pop art” is also really hot right now (e.g., incorporating Andy Warhol visuals into the backsplash design).

3. Consider product type and maintenance requirements

A backsplash isn’t necessarily maintenance-free, so know how much time you’re willing to spend before making a final design decision. If you prefer low maintenance, the best route is ceramic tile. If you are drawn to the beauty of natural stone, keep in mind that there’s minimal annual maintenance, including resealing the surface to ensure the product’s integrity and beauty last.

“One of my current favorite backsplash looks is a new globally influenced Decor Mayflower pattern featured in The Tile Shop’s 2015 Spring Design catalog,” says Froelich. “It coordinates with the Treviso solid ceramic tiles that are available in three beautiful colors. Each piece has a handmade look and feel inspired by classic looks from long ago. This collection will definitely add a wow factor to your backsplash.”

“Another collection I love is the Devonshire Cararra marble. It’s crisp, clean and particularly el-egant when set in herringbone pattern by itself or when paired with a picture frame design incorporating polished mosaic and marble profiles.”

4. Know your budget

Before digging into any home improvement project, it’s impor-tant to know your budget. Convey your visions and cost parameters to any experts you work with, such as a contractor or interior designer. Bring a sample of your cabinetry and countertop, or a picture of your kitchen, to the designer or showroom you’re

working with. It will help them maximize your budget while achieving your vision.

5. Add personal touches

When finalizing your design, consider adding unique characteristics. Above the sink or cooktop are good places to do something more decorative. If appropriate, you might decide to add a niche with a cutout that has tile on the interior that matches the exterior tile or create a picture frame design using a completely different style of tile and stone that complements the backsplash to make a statement. Additionally, if you are doing a backsplash in a bar area, it’s a great place to have fun with materials and shapes.

“Adding a backsplash does so much to dress up a room and complete the space,” says Froelich. “The most common mistake I see homeowners make is letting indecisiveness cause the project to be delayed. Alas, the above tips will help create a clear path toward a backsplash design they can feel confident in and admire for years to come.”


Despite the many benefits of having information at your fingertips, smartphones and tablets can do damage to your body and overall health in unexpected ways.You may not realize it, but all that time spent with your head down checking email and texting may be creating more than a social gap — you may also be harming your spine. Research suggests that spinal pressure actually doubles with each inch you bend your head down.Smartphone users spend an average of two to four hours per day hunched over, says Kenneth Hansraj, chief of spine surgery at New York Spine Surgery & Rehabilitation Medicine, in his recent report for Surgical Technology International. As a result, back and neck pain have increased among users of electronic gadgets, and the effects may linger for years.“Poor posture is easy to spot in the hunched over forms of older adults who have carried bad habits

for a lifetime,” said Stephen Gubernick, Doctor of Chiropractic at The Joint Chiropractic. “However, few people realize that there are health implications that make good posture essential for healthy living at any age.”Dr. Gubernick explained that a misalignment of your spine can affect your overall health and well-being. Your spine protects your nervous system, which controls and coordinates all the different functions of your body. Any disruption in nerve communication to your organs and tissues may result in abnormal function. “There are countless benefits from simply improving the alignment of the spine,” he added.Poor posture negatively impacts your muscles and ligaments, as well as your spine, which can lead to a host of health problems ranging from neck and back pain to gastrointestinal problems and even hyperkyphosis — a


condition in which the spine curvature is significantly exaggerated, with increased risk of pulmonary and arterial health problems.When posture or other factors cause a misalignment, a spinal adjustment is one way to help restore normal nerve function and communication, thereby allowing your body to work normally and naturally.In addition to recommending exercises that strengthen your core postural muscles in an effort to sustain and improve posture, a chiropractor can also assist you with identifying proper posture techniques to use during daily activities that help reduce the risk of injury.

To learn more about how your spine affects your body’s overall health, visit

http://www.thejoint.com/spine.

What to Expect When You Visit the ChiropractorIf you’ve never visited a chiropractor before, you may find yourself intimidated by the unknown. Take heart, you’re not alone. According to The Joint ... the chiropractic place, the following are answers to some patients’ most common questions:

Do I need an appointment? You will most likely need an appointment at traditional chiropractic clinics but not at The Joint where chiropractors are available on a walk-in basis, including during evening and weekend hours.

What will happen during the visit? After a full exam and consultation, you will be adjusted on a comfortably cushioned adjustment table. You will remain fully clothed for the duration of your visit, so wear non-restrictive clothing to make it easier to rest comfortably while lying down on the table.

How long will my visit take? You should plan around 20 minutes for your first visit, though follow-up visits can take as few as five minutes or so. At the end of your visit, your doctor will determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.

Will I experience side effects? Although chiropractic is a proven safe and effective treatment, you might experience side effects after your first visit, such as headaches, fatigue and soreness. Side effects from chiropractic care typically are mild and disappear within 24 hours.

What will it cost? Many insurance plans cover a limited number of chiropractic visits. Average appointment costs may range anywhere from $40 to $125 per session, and no-insurance clinics, such as The Joint, offer affordable plans and packages that eliminate the need for insurance.

Maintaining Good PostureDitching your smartphone probably isn’t a practical solution for improving your posture, so instead work to keep your posture in check with these tips:

To protect your posture while using your phone and other electronic devices, avoid angling your head down for prolonged periods. Raise the device closer to eye level, or use a stand to prop the screen.

Treat back and neck pain, which may signal

a posture problem or worsen poor posture habits, with regular chiropractic adjustments to keep your body balanced and flexible.

When sitting, avoid crossing your legs and

keep your knees at or below hip level. Use a back pillow to support your lower and middle back. Relax your shoulders and avoid sitting in the same position for extended periods of time.

While standing, keep your feet shoulder

width apart and your knees slightly bent. Stand straight with your shoulders pulled back and your stomach tucked in.

Why Posture MattersThere are many benefits to practicing good posture. According to the American Chiropractic Association, keeping your spine aligned properly:

Ensures bones and joints are correctly aligned. This helps the muscles to be used properly, diminishing the abnormal wear which can cause degenerative arthritis and joint pain.

Places less stress on the ligaments which link the spinal joints, decreasing the chance of injury.

Creates efficiency within the muscle groups, helping the body use less energy and avoid fatigue.

Reduces the likelihood of back and muscular pain, overuse disorders and muscle strain.


If you’re like thousands of other car owners who neglected maintenance during the brutal winter months, your vehicle could use a little extra care by now. Setting aside some time will help get your vehicle ready for the spring and summer driving season.Particularly now that lower gas prices are leaving more money in consumers’ pockets, it’s an ideal time to invest that savings into your vehicle so it is safe, more dependable and lasts longer. After all, keeping your car well maintained lets you avoid the cost of higher payments, insurance increases and all the costs associated with purchasing a new car.

“Whether you visit a professional service technician or do it yourself, a thorough vehicle inspec tion this spring can help keep your car safe and dependable, and help you avoid much higher costs down the road in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value,” White said“Your car has been through a long winter, working overtime in harsh conditions, but factors such as extreme cold, potholes and road salt have taken a toll,” said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. “Most Americans rely on their vehicles nearly every day to get to work, school and everywhere in between, so taking the time for car care now can save headaches and money in the long run.”

A vehicle inspection should assess the following:

BrakesBatteryLevels and condition of all fluidsTires tread depth and air pressureBelts and hosesWheel alignmentCheck engine light and other

illuminatedDash board indicator lights

Interior and exterior lights and wiper blades

In addition, a repair shop canperform a com puterized analysis to identifyproblems with the engine’s performance. Once your seasonal “check-up” is complete, you can


ensure your vehicle’s ongoing billof health with three simple steps:

1. Keep your vehicle clean. Regular car washes and waxes protect the paint and body of your car from corrosive debris. In parts of the country where salt is used on the roads, regular washing is especially important.

2. Keep an eye on the little things. Your windshield wipers aren’t cleaning as well as they should? Your gas tank is missing its cap? There’s a warning light on your dashboard? When you see your car needs attention, don’t delay. Repairing small things now can help avoid more costly problems down the road, and add years of useful vehicle life.

3. Keep your car on schedule. Every vehicle has a manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule. Whether you choose to do your own main tenance or patronize a local repair shop, following a routine service schedule is essential to keeping your car in safe and dependable working order.

Find additional information to help you drive smart, save money and be car care aware, including a custom service schedule and email reminder service, at www.carcare.org, or follow the Car Care Council on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Pinterest.

Free Car Care GuideWant to learn more about your car? The free Car Care Guide reviews vehicle systems and basic services in an easy to read, non-technical format. Order a free copy for your glove box at www.carcare.org/car-care-guide

10 basIC maIntEnanCE tIps to keep your car operating at its bestSpring into action with these 10 basic maintenance procedures to make sure your vehicle is running at peak performance for the summer driving season. 1.Checkallfluids including engine oil, power steering, brake and

transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and coolant. 2. Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle,

frayed, loose or show ing signs of excessive wear. 3. Check the battery and replace if necessary. Make sure the

connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free. 4. Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors

and drums inspected at each oil change. 5. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage and broken supports

or hangers if there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.

6. Schedule an engine check to help it deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy, and produce the lowest level of emissions.

7. Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning system, as proper cooling performance is critical for the comfort and safety of you and your passengers.

8. Inspect the steering and suspension system annually including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.

9. Check the tires including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.

10. Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior light ing is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.


A hot new dessert trend is here — cookies are getting a makeover. As identified in the McCormick Flavor Forecast 2015, favorite cookie flavors — like snickerdoodles and gingersnaps — are being reimagined in new decadent desserts. From peanut butter mousse tarts to chocolate chip biscotti with a creamy dipping sauce, these desserts redefine “milk and cookies.”

“Here in the kitchens, we looked at the distinctive flavors of popular cookies for inspiration,” said Mary Beth Harrington of the McCormick Kitchens. “Cinnamon sugar is the signature flavor in snickerdoodles, so we reimagined that cinnamon sweetness into a peanut butter mousse and peanut crust, resulting in a delicious tart.”

For more twists on classic cookie flavors, check out www.McCormick.com.

COOKIE FLAVORS

INSPIRE NEW DESSERTSPeanut Butter Snickerdoodle Tart with Cinnamon Peanut CrustPrep time: 30 minutesCook time: 8 minutesRefrigerate: 1 hourServings: 8 (1/2 tart) servings

1 1/2 cups lightly salted roasted peanuts, lightly crushed 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar 3 tablespoons butter, melted 1 teaspoon mcCormick Ground Cinnamon, divided 3 tablespoons chocolate milk 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk 1 teaspoon mcCormick pure Vanilla Extract 1/2 cup heavy cream

Mix peanuts, sugar, butter and 1/2 teaspoon of the cinnamon in medium bowl. Remove 1/4 cup and spread on small baking sheet. Divide remain ing peanut mixture among 4 (4-inch) tart pans with removable bottoms. Press firmly onto bottom and up sides of each tart pan.Bake tart crusts and peanut crumble mixture together in preheated 350°F oven 8 minutes. Cool on wire racks.Meanwhile, microwave chocolate milk in medium microwavable bowl on high 45 seconds. Add chocolate; stir until chocolate is completely melted and mixture is smooth. Set aside.Beat peanut butter, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla and remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Add heavy cream; beat until soft peaks form. Spread in prepared tart crusts. Spread chocolate mixture over top.Refrigerate at least 1 hour or until ready to serve. Cut each tart in half. Sprinkle with toasted peanut crumble. Serve immediately.


Chocolate Chip Cookie Biscotti with White Chocolate Dipping SaucePrep time: 20 minutesCook time: 45 minutesServings: 16 servings (2 cookies and 2 1/2 tablespoons sauce each)biscotti:21/2cupsflour 1cupfirmlypackedbrownsugar 1/4 cup instant nonfat dry milk 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 3 eggs 1 teaspoon mcCormick Extra Rich pure Vanilla Extract 1 cup miniature chocolate chipsWhite Chocolate Dipping sauce: 2 cups half-and-half 8 ounces white chocolate chips 1/4 cup Irish cream liqueur 2 teaspoons mcCormick Extra Rich pure Vanilla Extract

For the biscotti, mix flour, sugar, dry milk, baking powder and salt in large bowl with electric mixer on low speed until well blended. Mix eggs and vanilla in medium bowl until well blended. Gradually add to flour mixture, beating on low speed until well mixed. Stir in chocolate chips.Divide dough in half. Shape each half into a 12-inch long log. Transfer logs to parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Flatten logs to 1-inch thickness. Bake in preheated 350°F oven 20 to 25 minutes or until slightly risen and firm to touch. Cool logs on wire rack 10 minutes or until cool enough to handle. Transfer to cutting board. Using a sharp serrated knife, cut logs diagonally into 3/4-inch thick slices. Place slices, cut sides down, in single layer on parchment paper-lined baking sheets.Bake 10 to 15 minutes or until crisp and golden, turning biscotti over halfway through cook time. Transfer biscotti to wire racks; cool completely. For the dipping sauce, place all ingredients in medium saucepan on medium heat. Simmer 5 minutes or until heated through, stir ring constantly. Serve with biscotti.


Mediterranean Chicken PitasPrep time: 10 minutesServings: 2 1 (10-ounce) can chicken breast, drainedandflaked 1/2 cupfinelychopped cucumber 1/2 cupfinelychopped red bell pepper 1 (4.5-ounce) can chopped green chilies, drained 1/4 cup Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill 2 whole wheat pitas 4 lettuce leaves In large bowl combine chicken, cucumber, red bell pepper, green chilies, yogurt and dill; toss to mix well.Cut each pita in half horizontally; carefully open each pita half. Fill each with 2 lettuce leaves and half of chicken mixture.

PANTRY ESSENTIALSFor Nutritious Homemade Meals

Every parent has been there. It’s Thursday afternoon and the kids are asking, “What’s for dinner?” Searching for inspiration, you head to the refrigerator, only to realize that the groceries you bought on Sunday have run out or spoiled. But before the panic sets in and you reach for the takeout menus, remember that the solution for a wholesome, homemade meal is right in your pantry — or “Cantry.”“With a well-stocked pantry full of canned ingredients, I know I always have the makings of a nutritious and flavorful meal,” said Kelsey Nixon, host of “Kelsey’s Essentials” on Cooking Channel and Food Network. “Fruits and vegetables are harvested at their peak of ripeness and canned in just hours, making the can one of the best ways to get food from its source to my family’s table. I just open up a can, unlock that flavor and goodness and make it a ‘Cantry’ Thursday night!”With canned food staples like canned beans, chicken, green beans and broth on hand, you’ll be well on your way to savory meals like Quinoa Chicken Vegetable Salad and Nixon’s Pasta e Fagioli Soup. For more information about the canning process, delicious recipes and to learn how you can get cooking with canned foods, visit CansGetYouCooking.com.

Pasta e Fagioli SoupRecipe created by Kelsey Nixon Prep time: 5 minutesCook time: 25 minutesServings: 4 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 4 ounces chopped pancetta (about 1/2 cup) 1mediumyellowonion,finelychopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced


Pea and Corn Risotto Servings: 4 4 cups canned low sodium chicken broth 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 small onion, diced 1 cup Arborio rice 1 (11-ounce) can no salt added whole-kernel corn, drained 1 (8.5-ounce) can low sodium peas, drained 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 tablespoon butter Salt and ground black pepper, to tasteIn 2-quart saucepan over high heat, heat chicken broth to simmering; keep warm.Meanwhile, in 3-quart saucepan over medium heat, in hot olive oil, cook onion until tender-crisp, stirring occasionally. Add rice and cook for 2 minutes until coated with oil. Gradually add chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, until absorbed, stirring frequently. Continue adding remaining broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring occasionally, cooking rice until al dente, about 25 minutes.Stir in corn, peas, Parmesan cheese and butter to heat through. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Almond Cherry Tres Leches Cake Recipe created by Kelsey NixonServings: 12 Cake:11/2 cupsall-purposeflour 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 cup granulated sugar 5 large eggs 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1 (14.5-ounce) can pitted cherries, thoroughly drainedTres leches mixture: 1/4 cup heavy cream 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk Icing: 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, chilled 4 tablespoons powdered sugar 1/4 teaspoon almond extract 1/4 cup chopped almonds, toastedFor cake, preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour 9-by-13-inch cake pan. Whisk together flour, baking powder and salt into large mixing bowl.Cream butter, sugar and eggs with electric mixer on high until yolks turn pale yellow. Mix in almond extract. Slowly incorporate dry ingredients into wet ingredients until fully combined — avoid over-mixing. Pour into prepared pan, evenly spreading batter out.Bake until cake has cooked through, 30 minutes. Cool slightly, then pierce surface of cake with fork several times.Combine heavy cream, evaporated milk and condensed milk in small bowl or pitcher. Drizzle milk mixture over top and allow cake to sit and absorb milk mixture.

Quinoa Chicken Vegetable SaladPrep time: 5 minutesCook time: 10 minutesServings: 6 1 (14.5-ounce) can chicken broth 1 cup quinoa 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained 1 (10-ounce) can chicken breast, drainedandflaked 1 (8-ounce) can cut green beans, drained 1 (8.75-ounce) can corn, drained 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepperIn medium saucepan over high heat, heat chicken broth and quinoa to boiling. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.In large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, diced tomatoes, chicken breast, green beans, corn, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley and pepper; toss to mix well.

fire-roastedtomatoes 3 (14.5-ounce) cans chicken broth 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta (short tubular pasta) 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for garnishIn large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown pancetta bits just until they start to crisp before adding onion, garlic and thyme. Season with salt and pepper, and saute until fragrant and golden brown.Add canned beans, tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring soup to rapid boil before adding pasta. Reduce to simmer and cook soup cov ered, stirring occasionally for 8–10 minutes or until pasta is cooked al dente.Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and serve with crusty bread.Note: You can substitute bacon for pancetta, if desired.

For icing, whip together heavy cream, sugar and almond extract. Spread evenly over top of soaked cake. Top with toasted almonds.Refrigerate at least 2 hours or until ready to serve.


HAPPENINGSSAINT LOUIS

March 2015

Easter Egg-stravaganzaMarch 14The Magic Housewww.magichouse.org

Get a head start on the Easter fun with special holiday egg-tivities including decorating egg shapes. Prairie Farms will also be hosting a milk tasting at the event to give visitors a sneak peek of their newest milk flavors. Children will even have the opportunity to meet and shake paws with the Easter Bunny!

St. Patrick’s Day ParadesMarch 14 & 17Cottleville, Downtown and DogtownEnjoy being Irish for the day at St. Patrick’s Day Parades throughout the Metropolitan area. The Down-town parade is held on Saturday and begins at 12pm. For more information, visit www.irishparade.org. The Cottleville parade begins at 12pm on Saturday. For more information on the Cottleville parade, visit www.stpatparade.org. The Dogtown neighborhood holds their annual parade on St. Patrick’s Day(Tues). For more information on the Dogtown Parade, visit stlhibernians.com.

LEGO KidsFestMarch 20-22America’s Centerwww.legokidsfest.com/stlouisLEGO KidsFest brings all of the creative hands-on, minds-on fun of LEGO building and experiences to-gether in one activity and entertainment-packed fami-ly event for children of all ages and builders of all skills and interests.

Breakfast with BunnyMarch 21-22, March 28-29Saint Louis Zoowww.stlzoo.orgEnjoy a full breakfast plus a photo opportunity with the Bunny, treats, costumed characters and free park-ing. Pre-paid reservations are required and seating is limited. Seating times are 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Adult Easter Egg HuntMarch 27-28Jefferson Barracks County Parkwww.friendsofjeffersonbarracks.comThousands of numbered eggs will be scattered throughout the 250 acres of Jefferson Barracks Coun-ty Park, and each egg will be redeemable for prizes. Bring a basket for your eggs and a flashlight. Food-trucks and Music. Held rain or shine. Participants must be 18 years of age or older. Advance registration is required. 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.


Washington University’s Lunar New Year FestivalMarch 28The Magic Housewww.magichouse.orgTake a front seat at two spectacular performances from Washington University’s Lunar New Year Festi-val. From a magical diabolo performance, a fantastic feat of Chinese yoyo, to a powerful martial arts perfor-mance, visitors will enjoy traditional dances still popu-lar in China today.. 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

37th Annual Spring Art Fair at Queeny ParkApril 10-12Greensfelder Recreation Complex in Queeny Parkwww.artfairatqueenypark.comA juried, national exhibit and sale of fine arts and crafts. The lineup is composed of 140 juried art-ists from around the St. Louis region and the United States, representing the following media: ceramics, drawing, painting, photography, jewelry, printmaking, digital art, glass, mixed media, fiber, sculpture, wood and more.

Six Flags St. Louis 2015 Opening WeekendApril 3-5Six Flags St. Louiswww.sixflags.com/stlouisBe the first to experience the Coaster Capital of Mis-souri as Six Flags St. Louis kick off another exciting season on April 3, 2015! Grab a seat on The Boss if you dare, spin the weekend away on Pandemonium, and soar to new heights on SUPERMAN Tower of Pow-er. There is even something for the little ones in Bugs BunnyNational Park.

Gateway Arch Riverboat Sunday Brunch CruiseApril 5Gateway Arch Riverboatswww.gatewayarch.com/experience/gateway-arch-riverboat-cruises/sunday-brunch-cruisesEnjoy a festive Sunday brunch aboard a Gateway Arch Riverboat while enjoying magnificent views of the Gateway Arch and the St. Louis skyline. The cruise in-cludes reserved seating, our extensive brunch buffet and live Dixieland music. Reservations Required.

St. Louis Cardinals Opening Day 2015April 13Busch Stadiumstlouis.cardinals.mlb.comBeer, hotdogs and the Redbirds-Baseball is back! Come down to Busch Stadium and enjoy the unoffi-cial “holiday” of the St. Louis Cardinals’ Opening Day! Single tickets go on sale Friday March 6th at 10am.

Susan Brewer314.540.0734

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Diane Huesgen636.936.8600

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Wade Brewer636.936.8600

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Lori Pisani636.578.7781

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Ashley Bahr636.373.0194

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Andrew Brewer636.288.4604

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Lisa Samuels636.484.0633

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Andi Stopke636.284.1019

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Wendy Halamicek636.634.1152

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Mike Lampe636.751.4442

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Julie Alsup314.378.5146

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Tom Budde636.734.4414

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Steve Savory314.604.3999

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Brittany Hale636.399.6419

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Russ Schmidt636.634.6558

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Fred Figura314.277.1925

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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 dol-lar and in a shorter amount of time than our competitors - no matter what their size. Give us a call today

and let us show you the

Service First Difference!

MEET OUR TEAM OF DEDICATED AGENTS

Documents

Home and Happenings March 2015 issue