MONDAYS WITH MELANIE October 18, 2021

Howdy from the Blackmores! Darrin and I went to an Urban Cowboy themed party over the weekend and had a blast. Darrin won 2nd place in the Chili Competition! I was completely hands off except to give advice on what type of chopped tomatoes and beans to buy (Hi, it's me, the control freak!) Seriously, I did not help, not even with the dishes! Haha! He is a great Chili Chef! I am so proud! He only uses Williams chili seasoning. Buy local XOXO

My drink of choice at the barn party was Ranch Water. Made from scratch or in cans, it’s refreshing and light.

Bethany and I tried a new tea cafe - Kung Fu Tea They have locations in Overland Park and Westport - we loved it!

Looking for a caterer? Kravin It KC

Family dinner last week consisted of Everyday Meatballs served with focaccia bread for dipping and scooping instead of serving over pasta. Believe me when I tell you.... I’ve made hundreds of meatballs in my life and these are stellar! Deb’s website is full of wonderful recipes and her cooking videos are great!

Shelby and I made Vegetarian Meatballs which were outstanding. We all loved them, but agreed they needed a hearty tomato sauce to bring all of the flavors together. The recipe calls for Cremini mushrooms which I could not find so I subbed baby portabellas. Delish!

Dessert was my all-time favorite… Tiramisu! Oh my, let me tell you, this recipe is to die for! I was unsuccessful in locating gluten-free ladyfingers, so I made gluten-free sponge cake that I sliced (next time I’ll cube) to sub for the ladyfinger cookies. Espresso, dark rum, mascarpone….need I say more? I layered the heavenly mixture in a trifle bowl that made a beautiful and delicious presentation.

As per usual… I’m craving homemade ice cream…. Today’s flavor will be enhanced by lavender extract and honey. Oh so lovely.

Had lunch with the girls at Caffetteria Modern Cafe and Marketplace in the Prairie Village shopping center. Outstanding!

According to the experts, these are the 49 coolest neighborhoods in the world.

I HAVE TO BRAG!!

My daughter Shelby is officially a teacher! She has worked incredibly hard to pursue her dreams and will be teaching middle school science in the SMSD! A dream come true! Her first day will be October 25! Our family is incredibly proud of her enthusiasm and passion for teaching young minds the wonders of science.