Lifestyle
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Thanks, Dad: This Black Forest cake is all about him
Jun 11, 2025 5:00 am - This Black Forest cake includes all the elements you’d expect in the retro dessert, including rich chocolate cake, whipped cream frosting, juicy cherries and a generous pour of kirsch. It might seem complicated, but at Father’s Day the effort is kind of the point, isn’t it?
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Want to grow your own rice? A step-by-step guide for adventurous gardeners
Jun 11, 2025 12:43 am - Duborskian rice, a Russian short-grained rice, is a highly ornamental plant that can be grown in containers, where its 2-foot-tall green and gold panicles will lend height and beauty to the center or rear of mixed planters. But if grown as a crop, cultivating rice from your plants can be a fun activity for adventurous gardeners.
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New agent seeks disclosure adviceJun 10, 2025 11:14 pm - In real estate, disclosure is wrapped in liability protection and fully serving the client, typically a home buyer. Here, a seasoned home inspector advises a rookie on serving both needs.
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Downers Grove Garden Walk benefits Bridge CommunitiesJun 10, 2025 10:33 pm - Downers Grove First UMC hosts its 19th annual garden walk fundraiser on July 12, supporting work with Bridge Communities to provide housing and mentoring to previously homeless families.
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Home & garden calendar, June 15-21Jun 10, 2025 10:24 pm - Monarch butterflies, garden walks and more.
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Knox Church Garden Walk on July 12 to benefit Northern Illinois Food BankJun 10, 2025 9:47 pm - The Presbyterian Women of Knox Church in Naperville will host a garden walk featuring six local gardens on July 12.
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Some tricks for creating beauty in your gardenJun 10, 2025 9:45 pm - The gardener is in control when it comes to creating beauty in their space. Try espaliered plants to soften walls in a tight space. And for containers, take advantage of differing plant heights.
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Strawberry shortcake is an ode to peak-season fruit and tender biscuits
Jun 10, 2025 6:13 am - Strawberry shortcake is widely viewed as a quintessentially American dessert, so much so that June 14 is National Strawberry Shortcake Day. This recipe is adapted from James Beard, who got it from his mother. The biscuits’ signature ingredient is hard-boiled egg yolks, which help achieve a tender, crumbly pastry.
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Bring saucy, tender bourbon chicken home with this timeless technique
Jun 10, 2025 5:48 am - This bourbon chicken inspired by the mall food court staple features pieces of meat in a sticky, sweet and savory sauce. The Chinese technique of velveting helps keep the chunks of boneless, skinless chicken thighs tender and juicy.
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Miso pea pastina is a welcome way to eat your greens
Jun 10, 2025 5:24 am - In Italy, pastina (“little pasta”) is a brothy dish that’s also known as “penicillin soup,” thanks to its comforting, nourishing qualities. Traditionally made with soffritto (carrot, celery and onion), broth, tiny pasta and parmesan, this verdant version is a twist on the beloved classic.