Category Archives: Kitchen

Iowa State Fair: A family tradition

  By Megan Pothoven Wow, summer flew by so fast. One of the highlights of the summer is always going to the Iowa State Fair. Last year, I was that crazy mom who went to the fair when Blair was one week old because I simply just couldn’t miss out.  This seven-month pregnant body was feeling it...
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‘Farm to table’ by Julie Van Manen

When you read this article, Fair 2023 will be in the history books and the new school year will have begun! (Can’t believe our oldest grandchild will start kindergarten!) I have always loved the Iowa State Fair!  I was only able to make it to the fair once this year, but enjoyed watching the fair...
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‘Have a seat at my table’ By Cathryn Dunsbergen

Blake got a fishing pole for Father's Day and spent one night fishing with Penelope. I don't believe they caught any fish, but she was itching with excitement at the idea something would be caught.  It’s August. Everyone’s tans are established. Peaches are sweet. School supplies are making their way off the shelves and into backpacks....
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The menu in Mexico

By Megan Pothoven While our family has been busy keeping up with the garden and taking swimming lessons, Adam and I were able to get away for a few days for our five-year anniversary trip - an unplanned babymoon - all while celebrating our birthdays while we were away in Mexico (my birthday is July 14...
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‘A Slice of Home’ by Simone Bates

Pavlova Pride In anticipation of having my arms full around the time this article is due, I am writing this early. I trust we have safely welcomed a new member of our family into the world by the time you read this! Though born in America, this little girl Liesl Annemarie will also have Aussie and...
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‘Farm to table’ by Julie Van Manen

  As we approach the last few days of July, the month known as National Grilling Month, it has been the perfect weather to fire up the grill! This week, I am sharing one of our favorite recipes to enjoy Iowa’s iconic pork chop.  As the great bike ride across Iowa will be passing through our...
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‘Have a seat at my table’ by Cathryn Dunsbergen

  I love the way all things grow throughout the summer. From the sweet corn, to the kale in my garden, to the grass-covered kiddos outside – summer represents growth. We have especially seen this growth in our garden. This year, we planted quite a few things: Mini cucumbers, red and green peppers, jalapeños, broccoli, cherry...
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