Brown Bag It

When I was a kid, my parents would pop some popcorn in a big pan with a lid (think stockpot) on the stove and pour it into a heavy yellow bowl for nights that we would watch TV as a family. I remember many episodes of "Little House on the Prairie" and "The Waltons" viewed … Continue reading Brown Bag It

Root Beer, Llamas, and Wine: A Fair September Day

The first Saturday in September was a bit warm and humid, but still a pretty nice day at the Du Quoin State Fair. I spent quite a bit of time in the Exhibit Hall looking at the different entries from all over Southern Illinois--produce, quilts, artwork, photography, cakes, and pies. I spent even more time … Continue reading Root Beer, Llamas, and Wine: A Fair September Day

TOSI Challenge: Flat Iron Steak Sandwich & Fries

Individual flat iron steaks from Dierks Farms and fresh sourdough bread baked by Scratch Brewing Company, both of Ava, were among groceries I got this past Saturday at the Carbondale Community Farmer's Market. This pair of ingredients seemed like a great starting point for a TOSI (Taste Of Southern Illinois) Challenge creation. For the steaks, … Continue reading TOSI Challenge: Flat Iron Steak Sandwich & Fries