The big GRILL

It's Labor Day Weekend! I know there is plenty going on in Rapid City this weekend. You would be hard pressed to find something not to do. We've got camping, hiking, bicycling, spelunking, and good old-fashioned cook-outs. The last is something I love to do. I get to enjoy our wonderful Black Hills weather and try out some terrific new recipes at the same time. There is nothing better than kicking back on the patio, enjoy the garden flowers and cook up a delicious dish such as this:

Grilled Salmon Skewers:
courtesy allrecipes.com

INGREDIENTS
1 pound salmon filet without skin
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger root
1 clove fresh garlic, minced
pinch of freshly ground black pepper
12 fresh lemon wedges
12 skewers

DIRECTIONS
Slice salmon lengthwise into 12 long strips, and thread each onto a soaked wooden skewer. Place in a shallow dish.

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, vinegar, ginger, garlic, and pepper. Pour over skewers, turning to coat. Let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. When finished marinating, transfer marinade to a small saucepan, and simmer for several minutes.

Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat.

Lightly oil grill grate. Thread 1 lemon wedge onto the end of each skewer. Cook skewers on the preheated grill for 4 minutes per side, brushing often with marinade, or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

Looking for something fun for the whole family to grill? Want to get the kids in on the fun. I've tried these delicious grilled pizzas, and let me tell you -- they are to die for. That's right -- pizza on the grill. If you have a pizza stone, I would recommend putting it on your grill and heating it up before-hand. Follow the rest of the instructions from this website link above for the best pizza you have ever tried. (Tip -- you can find King Arthur Flour at our local Safeway Store) The whole family can decorate their own pizza and then watch as it is grilled to perfection!

Be careful on this baking blog! It can be addicting and a little damaging to the waistline!

When you've had your fill of the grill -- I invite you to stop by my open house on Sunday from 1-3pm. It's new construction -- a terrific home. 4633 Kiowa Lane.

Little StorybookTreasures

Rapid City and the Black Hills are full of little treasures. If you have young children, one of the best is our own Storybook Island located off Sheridan Lake Rd. on the west side of Rapid City. This park is a virtual wonderland!

Storybook Island had its inception in 1959, created by the Rapid City Rotary Club. Area clubs and individuals made gifts in the form of attractions for the park. Over the years, Rapid City clubs, groups and individuals have donated their time and funds to help the park grow and prosper. The result is this wonderful free attraction for families.

I don't think there is a child in Rapid City that doesn't have fond memories of going to Storybook Island with their family. Visit Snow White, Dorothy and the Scarecrow, Cinderella, the Cat in the Hat -- take a ride on the fun train. Everyone you can imagine is here.

For kids aged 6-13, this August there is a theater camp held in conjunction with the Black Hills Community Theater. Each camper will have an opportunity to work with the Director of the Storybook Island Children's Theater to learn about different aspects of theatrical performance and participate in a completed performance at the end of the week. There are three age groups:

Anges 6-8 will put on "The Great Machine", ages 9-11 will show us "Puppet Theatre" and ages 12 -13 will work on "Improvisation".

To register call the Storybook Island Offices at 342-6357


Coming up is the ever-popular Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Ask any Rapidcitian about "Rally Week" -- you are sure to hear lots of stories!

And of course, before I forget, I have a terrific open house for you!

607 Minnesota Drive will be open Sunday, August 3 from 1:00-3:30 pm. This beautiful home is located in Minnesota Ridge with panoramic views of the canyon and plains. This home was built by Premier Homes and has an abundance of special features throughout. Large entryway with vaulted ceilings on the main floor with an open floor plan featuring a large living room with gas fireplace, combination dining room and custom hickory kitchen cabinets with lots of storage. All kitchen appliances are included as well as the washer and dryer. The main floor has three large bedrooms including a large master suite area with whirlpool tub, double vanities, shower.

Follow this handy map, and I hope to see you there!






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