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# Future Expat

Food. Dogs. Travel. Life.

## Sitemaps

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## Posts

- [Stocking Up on eBay](https://www.futureexpat.com/stocking-up-on-ebay/) - Given the news lately, it's inevitable that people will start stocking up on things that they use up regularly. Since people recently lived through store shelves being empty due to COVID fears, I wouldn't be surprised it if will happen again. I just bought another toilet paper box for my vacation rental...I really can't run
- [Honey Roasted Vidalia Onions](https://www.futureexpat.com/honey-roasted-vidalia-onionis/) - Do you like Vidalia sweet onions? I do. Even so, I was surprised when this recipe received all 5 star reviews when I posted it awhile ago on another recipe website that I know longer use. I'm moving my most popular recipes from that website here. Which means I'm overdue for sharing this Vidalia Onion
- [Avocado and Egg Salad Open Faced Sandwich](https://www.futureexpat.com/avocado-egg-salad-sandwich/) - When I was a kid, my mom would make open faced tuna salad, tomato with a slice of American cheese broiled on an English muffin. Since I didn't like tuna salad or tomatoes, she always made me an egg salad & cheese. My adult taste buds have evolved, and I modified the recipe for dinner.
- [11 Easy Passover Recipes](https://www.futureexpat.com/11-easy-passover-recipes/) - I’m the first to admit that I don’t keep Passover dietary laws strictly, so feel free to edit these recipes if needed. I’m guessing that for a lot of Jews, this will be the first Passover that they are doing much cooking themselves. If that’s you, then just do your best. Most proteins can still
- [10 Easy Dinner Recipes: COVID-19 Stay at Home Cooking](https://www.futureexpat.com/10-easy-dinner-recipes-covid-19-stay-at-home-cooking/) - Are you finding yourself cooking at home during the COVID-19 Stay at Home quarantine? Maybe you never really did much cooking in the past and now are trying to figure out how to feed your family 3 times a day. If you are like me, you are worried about money too. I'm a real estate
- [Cooking Again](https://www.futureexpat.com/cooking-again/) - In this new era of COVID-19, restaurant dining rooms are closed and many people are out of work. Everyone around the world should be concerned about how long this will last and how long their savings will last. I predict that in a COVID-19 world, cooking will make a resurgence. Recent years have brought on
- [Oven Roasted Boneless Turkey](https://www.futureexpat.com/oven-roasted-bonelss-turkey/) - Oven Roasted Boneless Turkey Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless/skinless turkey (breasts or tenderloin)1 tablespoon oil (I used corn oil)3 cloves fresh garlic, minced1/2 teaspoon sea salt1/2 teaspoon pepper1/2 teaspoon oregano, dried 1/2 teaspoon whole thyme, dried 1/2 teaspoon minced onion Directions: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. In a glass baking dish that is just
- [Creamy Butternut Pasta](https://www.futureexpat.com/creamy-butternut-pasta/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″]Recently I posted a recipe on Recipezaar that I found in a fundraiser cookbook, Creamy Garlic Pasta. I play tag games on Recipezaar and Food, Friends & Fun Forum, in which players make each other’s recipes and review them. After 2 of the game players made the pasta and gave it 5 stars (and shared
- [50 Travel Goals by Age 50](https://www.futureexpat.com/50-travel-goals-by-age-50/) - Photo by Stephanie Berghauser Recently I've read a couple of bucket lists by some women I know and it got me thinking. I've got a lot of life goals, and it would be good to put them on paper. Most of them revolve around travel. Either places I want to go or things I would
- [Cheesy Herb Eggplant](https://www.futureexpat.com/cheesy-herb-eggplant/) - Every spring I get excited about cooking light dishes with herbs that I grow in my garden. So when I decided I needed to get the eggplant sitting in my refrigerator cooked before it went bad, I was thrilled to find a recipe that also used some of my favorite herbs. Like usual, I tweaked
- [Easy Roasted Turkey Parts: Thanksgiving Dinner All Year Long](https://www.futureexpat.com/roasted-turkey-parts/) - I love roasted turkey, and have always thought it was a shame that most of us eat it just for Thanksgiving. Earlier this year, I stumbled on a recipe using turkey parts instead of a whole bird. The turkey tasted like it was roasted all day, but without all of the work. Since this recipe uses turkey
- [Grilled Pork Tenderloin](https://www.futureexpat.com/grilled-pork-tenderloin/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″]I found this recipe on a blog, and have made it twice now. Both times it turned out perfectly. The original recipe says you can marinate the pork for up to a day in the refrigerator, but I do it just for an hour or so. That’s plenty long. If you want
- [Baked Chicken](https://www.futureexpat.com/baked-chicken/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″]This chicken is super easy, and can easily be cut down to 1 or 2 servings or doubled. It’s great for a last minute “what should I make for dinner” night. Feel free to use chicken breasts or thighs, with or without skin and bones. Just make sure it is fully cooked
- [Poppy Seed Cookies](https://www.futureexpat.com/poppy-seed-cookies/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″]These cookies make a shortbread type of cookie. As a child, my Great Aunt Lil would make these for our Channukah cookie tray. They were my brother’s favorite cookies. They aren’t as sweet as many other cookies, and may appeal more to adults than the kids. I originally pasted this recipe to
- [BBQ Hamburgers](https://www.futureexpat.com/bbq-hamburgers/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″]My mom did a great job of feeding a family of 6 on a budget. BBQ’d burgers was a regular dish during grilling season. She made the ground beef go farther by making it a bit more like meatloaf, then my dad would slather on the BBQ sauce on the grill. The
- [Grandma's Cheese Blintzes](https://www.futureexpat.com/grandmas-cheese-blintzes/) - While I've ordered cheese blintzes over the years while dining out at a Jewish deli and even tried the frozen ones you can buy at the grocery store, nothing compares to the cheese blintzes of my childhood. My Grandma made them once or twice a year, and served them as a side dish at special
- [Salmon Salad](https://www.futureexpat.com/salmon-salad/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″]A while ago, I bought some smoked salmon, not the lox style cured fish, but a section of the fish that had been smoked as one piece. After eating some of it plain, I decided to turn the rest of it into salmon salad and it was wonderful. You need to use
- [Cooking with Karen (January - April 2018)](https://www.futureexpat.com/cooking-with-karen-january-april-2018/) - Last fall I shared that I'm back into cooking and plan to share my favorite discoveries. I shared my favorite recipes I found online for 3 months, then got busy with real estate (I'm an agent). This list of recipes too good to not try goes back a few months. None of these recipes are
- [Mushroom Casserole](https://www.futureexpat.com/mushroom-casserole/) - Mushrooms rarely get to be the star of the dish. So I knew I had to try this recipe when I came across it years ago. Photo Credit - Brenda via Food.com You wouldn't think a simple dish like this would get so many reviews on a recipe site, but it did. With 17 reviews, this
- [Passover Rolls Recipe](https://www.futureexpat.com/passover-rolls-recipe/) - With Passover just a few weeks away, many of my Jewish friends are searching for new recipes. Bread is one of those things you learn to do without during Passover because you aren't allowed to eat anything with yeast or other leavening agents. While I no longer follow the Passover dietary laws anymore, I did
- [Healthy Recipe: Poppy Seed Almond Whole Wheat Muffins](https://www.futureexpat.com/poppy-seed-almond-whole-wheat-muffins-recipe/) - I absolutely love almond poppyseed muffins, but they are really hard to find out or in grocery stores. Most of the time, muffins with poppyseed will be lemon poppyseed muffins, which I don't like at all. Plus, muffins are so easy to make that there really isn't a reason to buy them out. At home
- [Healthy Muffins that Don't Taste Low Fat: Oatmeal Pumpkin Muffins](https://www.futureexpat.com/oatmeal-pumpkin-muffins/) - Every fall I get excited when restaurants start serving their pumpkin specials. Seeing all of these tasty dishes inspires me to do some pumpkin baking of my own. Pumpkin muffins are probably my favorite type of muffins...and that says a lot because I LOVE muffins and have tried tons of recipes. Unfortunately, store-bought and cafe
- [Whole Wheat Pumpkin Muffins (Dairy-Free)](https://www.futureexpat.com/no-dairy-whole-wheat-pumpkin-muffins/) - If you are like me and love pumpkin muffins, it's a good idea to stock up on canned pumpkin while it is on sale before Halloween and Thanksgiving. Use one of those cans of pumpkin to make your own whole wheat pumpkin muffins. These muffins taste great and perfect for people who avoid dairy. Whether
- [Passover Banana Muffins](https://www.futureexpat.com/passover-banana-muffins/) - For most of my life, I followed all of the Passover dietary laws. It probably seems odd that I kept Passover strictly for so long even though I'm not religious and don't follow any kosher dietary rules the rest of the year. But that's what I grew up doing so I kept a strict Passover
- [Easy Breakfast Recipe: French Toast Casserole](https://www.futureexpat.com/french-toast-casserole-recipe/) - I just love French toast and love bread pudding, so I knew when I stumbled on this French toast casserole recipe years ago that I would like it. I've made this a number of times, modifying the ingredients and preparation instructions. While the original recipe, and most French toast or bread pudding recipes, tell you
- [French Toast Casserole with Berries](https://www.futureexpat.com/berry-french-toast-casserole/) - My French Toast Casserole is one of the most popular recipes I've shared on Future Expat. Today, I want to show you how to take the same recipe and give it some zip with berries and a brown sugar oatmeal topping. Original French Toast Casserole recipe You can find the original recipe by clicking on
- [Stormy Day Breakfast Bread Pudding](https://www.futureexpat.com/breakfast-bread-pudding/) - If you like bread pudding, french toast and the topping on apple crisp, you'll love my Stormy Day Breakfast Bread Pudding. While the recipe uses canned pears, feel free to use your favorite canned fruit. I'm not a fan of canned peaches, fruit cocktail or pineapple, but I think all should work well with this
- [Family Vacations](https://www.futureexpat.com/family-vacations/) - We didn't take a lot of trips when I was a child, and most of them were when I was too young to remember much. My mom recently converted all of the old slides to digital pictures and gave me a bunch of childhood pictures, including a few from our family vacations. I guess the
- [10 Lifestyle Goals for 2012](https://www.futureexpat.com/10-lifestyle-goals-for-2012/) - Photo Credit: Bryan Wintersteen As much as I resist the idea of New Year's resolutions, I do think there is value in taking a hard look at what is going well and what could make your life better. Rather than vowing to stop bad habits, I prefer to focus on what I want more of in
- [Future Expat is Evolving](https://www.futureexpat.com/future-expat-is-evolving/) - Over the last week, I've been making some pretty major changes to this website and I thought it was time to take a minute to share with you where this is headed. I've wanted a travel related website ever since I blogged my England trip last year. I finally pulled the trigger last September and
- [Making Time for Friends](https://www.futureexpat.com/making-time-for-friends/) - One of the things I included in my Lifestyle Goals for 2012 was to make sure I made time for friends. I sometimes get really busy and go for months without talking to my friends...let alone scheduling time to see them. It's easier with my social media friends. I can check in with them daily
- [Downsizing and Craigslist](https://www.futureexpat.com/downsizing-and-craigslist/) - I'm moving. I've been thinking about it for a few years now, but was having a hard time justifying making the move since I really do love my house and it has everything I need. Actually, it has more than I need. I find myself spending all of my time in the open kitchen/dining/living room
- [365 Daily Photo Project 2013 (Jan 1 - Jan 6)](https://www.futureexpat.com/365-daily-photo-project-2013-jan-1-jan-6/) - UPDATE: After announcing that I was going to do the Project 365 and posting this one post here, and a number of pictures to Facebook, I realized that I'm not so good at doing anything every single day. Rather than forcing myself to be something I'm not, I've decided to abandon this project and instead focus
- [Life Goals](https://www.futureexpat.com/life-goals/) - Photo Credit: Bryan Wintersteen Yesterday morning I was thinking about the difference between a bucket list and life goals. I have a bucket list which includes tons of things I would like to do before I die. But life goals are different. To me, life goals are the handful of big things you really
- [Why Future Expat?](https://www.futureexpat.com/why-future-expat/) - I'm not sure exactly when I started thinking about becoming an expat. Maybe it was when a client told me about how he planned to take an international assignment in South America once his kids were out of high school. Maybe it was when someone gave me the book Tales of a Female Nomad: Living
- [St. Louis Real Estate FIVE STAR Award Winner](https://www.futureexpat.com/st-louis-real-estate-five-star-award-winner/) - For those of you have haven't popped over to my Meet Karen page, you might not realize that I'm a real estate agent. I started as a buyer's agent working with people moving to St. Louis due to a job. After 6 years, I changed companies and began working with more local buyers, and also
- [Take a Risk...Get a New Haircut](https://www.futureexpat.com/take-a-risk-get-a-new-haircut/) - Last month, I headed to my haircut appointment with no plans to make any changes. I've been getting the same cut for a while, though the color has changed a few times. For years I wore it blond. Then in 2005 I decided to go auburn, but it really came out dark brown the first
- [Summer Float Trips in Missouri](https://www.futureexpat.com/float-trips-in-mo/) - I love float trips. For those of you not from the midwest, float trips are not the same as white water river trips that you will find in other parts of the country. On float trips...you float. You relax. You drink adult beverages. You sing at the top of your lungs with your friends. You
- [Fostering Padme for Gateway Pet Guardians](https://www.futureexpat.com/fostering-padme-for-gateway-pet-guardians/) - Before I even had my foster puppies Jojo and Sylvie adopted, I knew that I would foster again. I had a few out of town trips scheduled after they left, so I decided to wait to foster another dog until all of the trips were over...which would mean not fostering again until the end of
- [Blogging as a Travel Diary](https://www.futureexpat.com/blogging-as-a-travel-diary/) - Me at my room at Ramon's Village Resort in San Pedro, Belize When I first started this blog, its sole purpose was to give me a place to blog about all of my vacations. I wanted to create a blog travel diary, but my vacations didn't really belong on any of my current blogs since
- [A Hate Group Linked to My Website](https://www.futureexpat.com/a-hate-group-linked-to-my-website/) - I was looking at my website analytics just a few minutes ago and saw that I had received some incoming traffic to my real estate website from a website I'd never heard of before. I'm always thrilled when this happens. I click the link to find out who has been nice enough to point some
- [My Dog Milo Went Kayaking and Rafting](https://www.futureexpat.com/dog-kayak-raft-trip/) - Every summer, I try to go on at least one float trip. I adopted my dog Milo last December, so this was his first time joining me on the river. The first float of the summer was rained out. We were planning on kayaking on Friday and rafting on Saturday, but the river was so
- [Video Inspiration ~ Rethink Why You Do What You Do](https://www.futureexpat.com/video-inspiration-rethink/) - Why do you do what you do? If we are talking about your business or career, you could have chosen so many things to do for a living. You could have worked for many different companies. You could have worked for someone else instead of starting your own business. I ask again, why did you
- [Thanksgiving is about Being Thankful and Giving](https://www.futureexpat.com/thanksgiving/) - When most of us think about Thanksgiving, we think of turkey and overeating and spending time with family. Others get excited about spending the day watching football or Black Friday shopping deals. But if we stop and take a moment to reflect, Thanksgiving is about being thankful for the blessings in our lives. And it
- [10 Fantasy Gifts I'll Never Receive](https://www.futureexpat.com/10-fantasy-gifts/) - A few days ago, my brother asked me what I want for Channukah. I like the idea of living a simple life without so much stuff, so I don't really have much I want or need. I'm in my 40s, so over the years I've managed to collect most everything I need. And I'm not one
- [13 Year Old Boy Shares 8 Things That Make Us Happy](https://www.futureexpat.com/8-things-make-us-happy/) - Logan LaPlante starts his 11 minute TEDx presentation sharing that when he grows up, he wants to be happy and healthy. He talks about how children focus on things they are passionate about...or stoked about...in Logan's words. At just 13, Logan is already a wonderful storyteller and knows how to engage an audience. He defies
- [Recipe Fail ~ Chicken with Jelly](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipe-fail-chicken-jelly/) - Nowadays, all it takes to come up with new recipe ideas for dinner is turning on your computer. You can find recipes all over the internet. They are on recipes sites, blogger sites (including this one) and Pinterest. Most of the time I am thrilled with the recipes I try. I'm pretty good at knowing
- [Authentic Belize Recipes](https://www.futureexpat.com/authentic-belize-recipes/) - Like most people, when I travel I'm on the lookout for a couple of souvenirs. On my trip to Belize, every store I went into had a paperback book Silly Bug and Bittle Recipes, published by the Crooked Tree Women's Group. The cookbook included the history of this isolated village and had traditional recipes that
- [Pinterest Food: Easter Weekend Desserts](https://www.futureexpat.com/pinterest-food-easter-weekend-desserts/) - If you haven't planned what to bring to your Easter weekend gatherings, here are 3 fun recipes that will surely be a hit with kids and adults alike. Pie Pops: Imagine using an Easter egg shaped cookie cutter instead of a heart on this one. Then sprinkle the pops with colored sugar. The article that
- [Pinterest Food: 3 Desserts You Will Love](https://www.futureexpat.com/pinterest-food-3-desserts-you-will-love/) - Ok, I have to admit that I haven't tried any of these Pinterest recipes yet. I don't eat a lot of desserts and since I live alone, I have to eat whatever I make. No one is helping me finish off the plate of brownies. As a result, I don't try a lot of dessert
- [Pinterest Food: Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Brownies](https://www.futureexpat.com/pinterest-food-chocolate-chip-peanut-butter-brownies/) - Ever since I saw the Reese's peanut butter cup commercials as a kid, I've been a fan of peanut butter and chocolate (see a classic 1970s commercial at the bottom of this article). Brownies were on the dessert rotation often. My fondness for them started with being handed the batter bowl to lick...something I was
- [Cooking with Avocados ~ 10 Easy Recipes](https://www.futureexpat.com/10-avocado-recipes/) - The avocado recipes are below...but first I wanted to share a change on Future Expat. After 4 months of publishing the Required Ingredient Recipe Link Party as a way to feature recipes by other bloggers, the link party has been retired. While the link party did work as a way to get more bloggers to
- [15 Passover Recipes to Make the Holiday Tastier](https://www.futureexpat.com/15-passover-recipes/) - For most of my life, I followed the Jewish dietary laws of Passover. I would join the throngs of people who drive across town to the Dierberg's in Creve Coeur which has the best Passover selection in the St. Louis area. I would stock up on matzah, matzah meal, potatoes and eggs. For those of
- [15 Apple Recipes that are NOT Dessert](https://www.futureexpat.com/15-apple-recipes-not-dessert/) - One of my favorite fall childhood memories was going apple picking with my family at nearby Eckert's Farm. I've thought about going back again, especially now that I know you can bring your dog with your into the apple orchards. But I've hesitated since I'm not much of a dessert eater and so many of
- [10 Unique Pie Crust Recipes](https://www.futureexpat.com/pie-crust-recipes/) - If you love pies but haven't had a lot of success with homemade pie crusts, you've still got time to try out some new recipes before your holiday guests arrive. I scoured the internet and found 10 recipes that should cover everyone's needs. Whether you prefer traditional pie crusts, or follow a gluten free or paleo
- [Moving Prep: Using Up the Pantry Food](https://www.futureexpat.com/moving-prep-using-pantry-food/) - I normally try to keep a well stocked pantry, but today my pantry is really bare. With only 2 weeks before I move to my new house, I'm in the process of using up as much of the food in the house as I can. I could box up the food and move it to the new house,
- [15 Crock Pot Recipes to Get You Through a Kitchen Remodel](https://www.futureexpat.com/crockpot-recipes-kitchen-remodel/) - If you missed the news, I bought a new house. I moved in the week before Christmas and am already in renovation mode. The first project for the new house is to remodel the kitchen, so the crock pot is going to get a lot of use over the next 6 weeks. During most kitchen remodels
- [10 Naturally Green Recipes for St. Patrick's Day](https://www.futureexpat.com/10-naturally-green-recipes-st-patricks-day/) - If you search for St. Patrick's Day recipes, you will find tons of fake green cookies and cakes that get their green color from food coloring dyes. While I'm not anti-dye, I do believe in cooking naturally when possible. There are so many options from nature which will make your food a bright green color,
- [Cooking with Karen (September 2017)](https://www.futureexpat.com/cooking-with-karen-september-2017/) - I know it's been a long time since I blogged on this site. I've gotten back into cooking after a busy spring and summer of real estate (my day job), and am newly motivated to share my discoveries. In addition to posting my own recipes, I'm going to start sharing some of the recipes I
- [Cooking with Karen (October 2017)](https://www.futureexpat.com/cooking-with-karen-october-2017/) - Last month I shard that I'm back into cooking and plan to share my favorite discoveries. None of these recipes are mine, though I tend to tweak every recipe I make. The pictures are mine and I'll link to the original recipe to give the blogger or chef credit. And so you can try the
- [Cooking with Karen (November 2017)](https://www.futureexpat.com/cooking-with-karen-november-2017/) - A couple of months ago I shared that I'm back into cooking and plan to share my favorite discoveries on the blog. So far, I'm doing that monthly at the beginning of each month. None of these recipes are mine, though I tend to tweak every recipe I make. The pictures are mine and I'll link
- [25 Best Recipes I Tried in 2017](https://www.futureexpat.com/25-best-recipes-2017/) - For the last few years, I've been pinning my favorite recipes I found across the web to my Top Reviewed Recipes Pinterest board. None of these recipes are mine. Many I found from playing cooking games with friends in our Food Friends & Fun forum. Others I found from searching Pinterest or looking at recipes
- [What IS that Food in the Buzzfeed Jewish Food Video?](https://www.futureexpat.com/jewish-food-video/) - For many non-religious Jews like me, our connection to our religion and ancestors is through food. Last week, one of my Jewish Facebook friends shared the new Buzzfeed Jewish Food Taste Test video with me. If you are Jewish, you will think this is really funny. If you aren't Jewish, you'll find it more informative
- [Healthy Recipes: Stuffed Ground Beef Eggplant](https://www.futureexpat.com/stuffed-ground-beef-eggplant-recipe/) - I know so many people who think that the only way to eat eggplant is Eggplant Parmesan. If you are one of those people like me who does not like fried eggplant topped in tomato sauce and cheese at all, you need to check out my Stuffed Ground Beef Eggplant recipe. I love eggplant and have
- [Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry](https://www.futureexpat.com/shrimp-and-broccoli-stir-fry/) - If you are looking for a simple Chinese style dinner without a complicated recipe or a mile long list of ingredients you don't have in your pantry, my Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry is the answer. It's a simple recipe that comes together fast. Or, if you are an experienced chef, feel free to use
- [Easy Dinner Recipe: Chicken (or Turkey) Divan](https://www.futureexpat.com/chicken-turkey-divan/) - My Mom's Chicken Divan recipe was my very favorite dinner as a child. I asked for it as my birthday dinner every year. When I moved out on my own, Chicken Divan was one of the recipes I asked my Mom to type up on a recipe card for me. Over the years, I've switched to
- [Eating Healthy Recipe ~ Garlic Lemon Brussels Sprouts](https://www.futureexpat.com/eating-healthy-recipe-garlic-lemon-brussels-sprouts/) - I grew up thinking I hated Brussels sprouts. About 15 years ago, I tried them for the first time since I was a kid when a woman I worked with brought some to the office and I wandered into the kitchen while she was heating up her lunch. I wasn't sure what to think. I
- [Easy Recipe ~ Herbed Corn for a Crowd](https://www.futureexpat.com/easy-recipe-herbed-corn-for-a-crowd/) - If your family is anything like my family, everyone shows up with an assigned dish for family dinners. I usually get asked to make a side dish. One of my favorite vegetables to make for dinner parties is my Herbed Corn for a Crowd. It's really easy to make and is perfect for pot lucks.
- [Family Favorite Recipe ~ Spinach Balls](https://www.futureexpat.com/family-favorite-recipe-spinach-balls/) - In my family, almost all of the kids eat spinach. When I was little, my Great Aunt Lil would bring spinach balls to just about every big family dinner. When I became an adult, I took over making them, and my nephews looked forward to them every Thanksgiving. This recipe is messy to make, but
- [Easy Vegetable Recipe: Cheesy Eggplant Casserole](https://www.futureexpat.com/cheesy-eggplant-casserole-recipe/) - I love eggplant, but really am not fond of the one way that everyone makes it...eggplant parmesan. I've eaten eggplant on pizza. Ordered eggplant from the Chinese restaurant that delivers to my house. And tried a handful of unusual eggplant recipes. I think this is one of my favorites, and it is a great way
- [Carrot Ring Recipe ~ Perfect for Dinner Parties](https://www.futureexpat.com/carrot-ring-recipe/) - I fell in love with Carrot Ring the first time my Mom made it when I was a teenager. When I went off to college, it was one of the recipes I requested for my brand new recipe box. I made it for my college roommates once, but I refused to let them in the
- [Hearty and Healthy: Curry Split Pea and Rice Soup Recipe](https://www.futureexpat.com/curry-split-pea-rice-soup/) - A few months ago, I shared how I was trying to use up all of the food in my pantry before I moved. One of the recipes I made was Curry Split Pea and Rice Soup. I knew as soon as I saw the recipe that it would work for me with some changes, and
- [Vegetarian Main Dish: Eggplant Patties](https://www.futureexpat.com/eggplant-patties-recipe/) - I'm a big fan of eggplant as long as it isn't the classic Eggplant Parmesan recipe. So when I stumbled on this eggplant patty recipe many years ago in the newspaper, I had to give it a try. They are perfect for lunch or as a vegetarian main dish or side dish. I first posted this recipe
- [Homemade Chinese Fried Rice](https://www.futureexpat.com/homemade-chinese-fried-rice/) - I really like cooking from scratch rather than eating unhealthy processed foods or restaurant take out too often, but I also don't usually feel like making a complicated meal. Homemade Chinese Fried Rice is a great one dish meal or side dish. Usually made from leftovers, you can have this on dish on the table in
- [Baked Spinach and Noodles](https://www.futureexpat.com/baked-spinach-noodles/) - I love cream based baked pasta dishes and I love spinach, so the idea of mixing them together has always intrigued me. I found a recipe online that was a good start, but by the time I made changes to make it healthier and to accommodate what was in my fridge, my Baked Spinach and Noodles really
- [Eating Healthy Recipe ~ Charoset All Year Long](https://www.futureexpat.com/eating-healthy-recipe-charoset-all-year-long/) - At my family Passover Sedar dinner, the big bowl of charoset (pronounced har-o-set) is the most popular dish on the table. Every year, I think to myself that it's silly that we only eat charoset at this one holiday meal and not all year long. Yesterday, I finally followed through and made some of this wonderful
- [Fun Fruit Recipe: Sweet Apple Fritters](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipe-sweet-apple-fritters/) - I grew up eating these apple fritters. They are shaped like a pancake and sprinkled in cinnamon-sugar. My mom always served sweet apple fritters for dinner as a side dish. They are also easy to make for a crowd since you can fry them up in advance and then pop them into the oven just
- [Healthy Side Dish: Balsamic Eggplant Pasta Salad](https://www.futureexpat.com/balsamic-eggplant-pasta-salad/) - Just in case you are still trying to figure out what to make for your Labor Day picnic or potluck, I'm sharing a very easy, healthy recipe that everyone will love. I've been trying to eat healthier and this recipe is great because the only fat in it is extra virgin olive oil, which is
- [Comfort Food: Jewish Noodle Kugel Recipe](https://www.futureexpat.com/jewish-noodle-kugel-recipe/) - Noodle kugel is one of my favorite childhood dishes. It's a classic side dish that is served in just about every Jewish family. It's also one of those dishes that every cook makes slightly different. Recipes get handed down from generation to generation. Just like every Italian grandmother has her own spaghetti sauce, every Jewish
- [Easy Recipe: Grilled Spicy New Potatoes](https://www.futureexpat.com/grilled-spicy-new-potatoes/) - I know that most people post their grill recipes in the spring or summer, but I'm one of those people who uses the grill all year long. If you are too, then you need to give this recipe a try. If not, feel free to try this potato recipe in the oven. These potatoes have
- [Tastes Great Recipe: Curry Rice with Peas](https://www.futureexpat.com/curry-rice-recipe/) - One of my favorite spices has always been curry. Not the hot spicy curry you get with Thai or Indian dishes, but the sweet yellow curry sold in American grocery stores. So when I discovered a recipe for curry rice, I knew it was something I would like. I don't make a lot of rice
- [Healthy Side Dish Recipe ~ Barley Mushroom Bake](https://www.futureexpat.com/barley-mushroom-bake-recipe/) - If you haven't tried barley, you are really missing out. Barley is one of those foods that is really good for you and tastes great. While most of the recipes you will find when you search for barley recipes are soup or stew, my Barley Mushroom Bake works as your starch side dish instead of potatoes,
- [Hanukkah Latkes: Jewish Potato Pancakes](https://www.futureexpat.com/hanukkah-latkes-potato-pancakes-recipe/) - The Hanukkah story centers around the miracle when a small group of people needed oil for the newly rededicated temple, but they only had enough oil for one night. Miraculously, it burned for eight days. Thus, Hanukkah lasts for eight days and it is traditional to eat food fried in oil during the holiday. While there are
- [Reinventing a Classic Jewish Dish: Curry Noodle Kugel with Mushrooms and Onions](https://www.futureexpat.com/curry-mushroom-onion-noodle-kugel/) - One of my favorite foods is Jewish noodle kugel. I love it so much that I could eat it every day and never get tired of it. This classic dish is served as a side dish at dinner or on a brunch buffet. Every family has its own recipe. Many kugel recipes include cream cheese,
- [Maple White Bean Bake](https://www.futureexpat.com/maple-white-bean-bake/) - Are you tired of the same old baked bean side dish at potlucks and summer BBQs? This version of baked beans is good enough to enjoy all year round. I originally posted this recipe on Food.com, and it has an average 4.5 stars from reviewers. Here are what some of the people
- [Settlement Cookbook Salmon Loaf](https://www.futureexpat.com/settlement-cookbook-salmon-loaf/) - When I got my first apartment, my Mom gave me her 1954 Settlement Cook Book. The book is well worn with tape holding it together. The Salmon Loaf is one of my favorite recipes from the book. When I was a kid, we would have it hot for dinner with a white sauce over the
- [Salmon Burgers](https://www.futureexpat.com/salmon-burgers/) - Have you ever looked at 2 foods that are almost the same and been surprised by how much you like one but not the other? That's how I feel about canned salmon and tuna fish. I barely tolerate tuna fish, but love canned salmon. A few years ago I started paying attention to foods that
- [Eating Healthy Recipe ~ South African Bobotie](https://www.futureexpat.com/eating-healthy-recipe-south-african-bobotie/) - I love it when I discover a new recipe that combines my favorite flavors. I found this recipe a few years ago but it took me forever to make it because I never seemed to have apples and ground beef in the house at the same time. When I did try it, I could have
- [Eating Healthy Recipe ~ Crock Pot Shredded Chicken](https://www.futureexpat.com/eating-healthy-recipe-crock-pot-shredded-chicken/) - Sometime around the time that I got out of college and got my first apartment, I received a crock pot as a gift. While it no longer looks stylish, it works perfectly fine and it would be silly to replace it. I go through spurts when I use it and other times when it sits
- [Easy Chicken Recipe ~ Balsamic Baked Chicken](https://www.futureexpat.com/balsamic-chicken-recipe/) - I like easy recipes that you can put together quickly from ingredients that are always in your pantry. When I stumbled upon a Balsamic Baked Chicken recipe on Food.com, I knew it was something I had to try. The first time I made it, I used skin-on chicken breasts and thighs. The chicken was very
- [Real Food Recipe: Homemade Lasagna with Meat Sauce](https://www.futureexpat.com/lasagna-meat-sauce/) - With cold weather season back, lasagna is the perfect meal that will make everyone happy. While lasagna initially may seem like a complicated dish to make, it really isn't very hard and comes together easily. Yes, it does take some time to prepare, but most of that time is waiting for the sauce to develop
- [Healthy Recipe: Oh So Good Whitefish Salad](https://www.futureexpat.com/whitefish-salad/) - Years ago I discovered whitefish salad at my local grocery store. Think tuna salad but with a much better smoky fish flavor. Unfortunately, the product was discontinued and I haven't been able to find a substitute. Years later, I stumbled on an amazing whitefish salad at The Sippery, a cafe located in one of the
- [Quick & Easy Recipe: Chicken and Rice Bake without Canned Soup](https://www.futureexpat.com/chicken-rice-bake-without-canned-soup/) - I love quick and easy recipes that give me leftovers all week long that taste as good as they did on day one. Especially recipes that don't use pre-package processed ingredients. This chicken and rice casserole fits that description completely. It is perfect for busy families or busy times of year like the week before
- [Crockpot Recipe: Beer Pulled Pork](https://www.futureexpat.com/crockpot-beer-pulled-pork/) - I love pulled pork and was excited when I discovered this recipe on Chow.com for crockpot pulled pork. I decided to change up the recipe a bit by using beer instead of chicken stock and ditching the barbecue sauce. The end result was wonderful. I hope you like it as much as I did. See my step
- [Grilled Pork Chops with Apple Brown Sugar Sauce](https://www.futureexpat.com/grilled-pork-chops-apple-brown-sugar-sauce/) - I've always liked pork chops, but I remember them from my childhood as dry tough slabs of meat that my dad cooked on the grill. My first few attempts at pork chops weren't much better. Then I found this recipe. The pork chops are come out moist if you simple don't overcook them and the
- [Crock Pot Recipe: Beer Shredded Chicken](https://www.futureexpat.com/crock-pot-beer-shredded-chicken-recipe/) - Today I am sharing with you my new favorite way to make shredded chicken that is perfect for sandwiches, chicken salad, tacos or casseroles. While I made this recipe with skinless chicken thighs, you could easily do this with chicken breasts or leg quarters, and even skin-on chicken parts too. I'm a big fan of cooking
- [Crawfish Balls Recipe](https://www.futureexpat.com/crawfish-balls-recipe/) - I discovered crawfish on a trip to New Orleans years ago, and came home wondering what I could make with it. I'm not into spicy dishes or gumbo, but thought that dishes that used crab might be able to be modified to work with crawfish. Then I I found this recipe for Crawfish Balls (similar to
- [Easy Beef Brisket](https://www.futureexpat.com/easy-beef-brisket/) - I grew up eating brisket year round at weekly family dinners. But it was a also a staple on holiday dinner tables like Channukah and Rosh Hashanah. So when I took over the Channukah gathering for my family, I needed to come up with a brisket recipe. This recipe is great for a large crowd
- [Just Chicken Livers](https://www.futureexpat.com/just-chicken-livers/) - I love chicken livers, and this is a simple and easy way to make them for a main dish for dinner. Chicken livers are also inexpensive. You can pick up a carton of them in the butcher section of your grocery store. It's also an easy recipe if you are cooking for 1 or 2.
- [Matzah Brei Recipe](https://www.futureexpat.com/matzah-brie-recipe/) - Matzah Brei Recipe: I've been eating Matzah Brei all of my life. In my family, it's actually called Matzah and Eggs, but everyone else calls it Matzah Brei so that's what I'm naming it here so people searching for the recipe can find it. While matzah is a staple for the Passover holiday, you can
- [Discovering a New Ice Cream Favorite](https://www.futureexpat.com/discovering-a-new-ice-cream-favorite/) - I love ice cream. I grew up on eating ice cream for dessert most nights. There were always a couple of cartons of ice cream in the freezer. A few times each summer, my parents would pile us all into a car and drive us to Swenson's where we could each pick out a single
- [Recipe ~ Apple Blondie Cake (Dessert)](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipe-apple-blondie-cake-dessert/) - I found a great new recipe I just needed to share. I was looking for something a little different but still easy for our family Mother's Day dinner. This recipe was a big hit. If you like apple pie, you should give it a try. Serve it room temperature or warm, plain or topped with
- [Easy Dessert Recipe ~ Pan Style Cinnamon Roll Cake](https://www.futureexpat.com/easy-recipe-pan-style-cinnamon-roll-cake/) - Everyone seems to love cinnamon rolls. I certainly do. But I don't eat them very often because they are way too complicated for me to want to make them. When I'm invited somewhere and need to bring a dessert, I look through my pan style cake list and pick out a cake or brownie dessert
- [How to Make Your Cupcakes Look Store Bought](https://www.futureexpat.com/cupcake-design/) - Anyone who has watched any food reality TV shows knows that presentation is just as important as how the food tastes since we first taste with our eyes before our mouth. This couldn't be more true with cupcakes. Great vs Plain Cupcake Presentation: A quick search on Pinterest pulled up hundreds of cupcake pins. Most
- [Quick & Easy Oatmeal Cookies Recipe](https://www.futureexpat.com/oatmeal-cookies/) - With Christmas cookie season upon us, I thought I would share today the oatmeal cookie recipe I made a couple of weeks ago for the Sherwood Forest Camp leadership graduates in college. The cookies were SO easy to make, and tasted great. I started with the recipe I found at Dreaming in Color, but like
- [Easy Dessert Recipe: Apple Pie Coffee Cake](https://www.futureexpat.com/apple-pie-coffee-cake/) - I was looking for a quick dessert to bring to a family dinner one day and my pantry was really bare. I decided to see if I could come up with something to make with the apple in my fridge and stumbled on this recipe on Sunday Baker. A quick shout out on Facebook mentioning that
- [Strawberry Jello Pretzel Dessert](https://www.futureexpat.com/strawberry-jello-pretzel-dessert/) - There is something amazing about sweet and salty in the same mouthful. While Jello no longer something you find at every summer BBQ like it was when I was a child in the 70s, it really pulls together this easy dessert. The sweetness of the strawberry jello and the Cool Whip cream cheese layer, combined
- [5 Star Rated: Snickerdoodle Cookies](https://www.futureexpat.com/5-star-rated-snickerdoodle-cookies/) - I think snickerdoodle cookies are my very favorite cookies. I fell in love with these cookies as a kid when I tasted them for the first time at my best friend's house. When I was ready to head off to college, I asked Cathy's mom for the recipe. And I'm so glad I did. If
- [Chocolate Chip Banana Bars](https://www.futureexpat.com/chocolate-chip-banana-bars/) - If you like chocolate chip cookies and you like bananas, you have to try these bar cookies. I found this recipe about 25 years ago on the back of a Tollhouse mini chocolate chip package. It's become a go-to recipe in my family and is always a big hit. Chocolate Chip Banana Bars: They cook
- [Potato Chip Shortbread Cookies](https://www.futureexpat.com/potato-chip-shortbread-cookies/) - The first time I ate these cookies, I was blown away that cookies with potato chips in them could taste this good. The cookies remind me of the powdered sugar ball cookies my Grandma used to make for Channukah. The recipe is one I clipped from a local newspaper about 25 years ago. It's fabulous
- [Pumpkin Cake (Bar Style)](https://www.futureexpat.com/pumpkin-cake-bar-style/) - I just love pumpkin. I love pumpkin pie and I love pumpkin muffins. So I knew I would also love a simple pumpkin bar style cake. But I guess it's not just me. I recently made this recipe for a party and they were gobbled up. I modified the recipe from one I discovered on
- [Easy Apple Crisp](https://www.futureexpat.com/easy-apple-crisp/) - Apple Crisp is one of the first things I learned to make when I moved out on my own. I got this recipe from my mom and in just a few minutes, I had a bit of home for dessert. Photo Credit (both pictures) - Baby Kato I hope you like it as much as
- [Eating Healthy Recipe ~ Amish Baked Oatmeal](https://www.futureexpat.com/eating-healthy-recipe-amish-baked-oatmeal/) - I love oatmeal. I've been eating it ever since I was a kid. When I learned that oatmeal is really good for you, I started eating it more often and looking for new ways to prepare it. A few years ago I found a recipe for baked oatmeal. I experimented with the instructions, and discovered
- [Easy Healthy Recipe: Baked Whole Wheat Pancake Squares](https://www.futureexpat.com/baked-whole-wheat-pancake-squares/) - I love breakfast. In my quest to eat less processed foods with ingredients I can't pronounce, I've discovered that pancakes are one of the easiest things to make from scratch, eliminating processed pancake mix. I have found a dozen recipes that I think are all great. Some use oatmeal, some add bananas and blueberries, and
- [Must-Try Breakfast Recipe: Banana Blueberry Pancakes](https://www.futureexpat.com/banana-blueberry-pancakes-recipe/) - Once I discovered how easy it is to make pancakes from scratch, I stopped buying processed pancake mix. I have a half dozen pancake recipes that I love, but this is one of my favorites. After you try it, I bet you'll join me in tossing out the pancake mix and focusing on real food
- [Recipe: Cottage Cheese Oatmeal Pancakes](https://www.futureexpat.com/gluten-free-recipe-cottage-cheese-oatmeal-pancakes/) - I love pancakes, but I haven't bought processed pancake mix in years. I have a number of recipes I use to make pancakes from scratch. My most unusual recipe is probably the healthiest, but still tastes great. The pancakes are a bit thinner than standard pancakes, but if you don't tell your family that cottage
- [Convert Your Recipe Failures into Something New](https://www.futureexpat.com/reuse-recipe-failures/) - Everyone who likes trying new recipes will occasionally makes something that turns out just ok or even terrible. The chef competition cooking TV shows make you believe that these cooking failures should go straight into the trash can. Sometimes, there really is no choice. But most of the time, there are ways to salvage a recipe flop by
- [Baked Whole Wheat Pancake Squares with Berries](https://www.futureexpat.com/baked-whole-wheat-pancake-squares-berries/) - A while ago I shared my recipe for my Baked Whole Wheat Pancake Squares. After a lifetime of eating traditional pancakes, it's hard to believe that I've never seen anything like this before last year. These pan style pancakes are amazing. And SO easy! Most of the time I stick with the original recipe, but
- [Special Breakfast Made Easy: Pumpkin Cornmeal Pancake Recipe](https://www.futureexpat.com/pumpkin-cornmeal-pancake-recipe/) - I love pancakes. I always have. As a kid, it was my favorite breakfast. As an adult, I've branched out and continue to try new pancake recipes. So when I decided I needed to use up my pantry food in preparation for moving, the obvious choice for the canister of cornmeal was pancakes. I found
- [Blueberry Banana Bread](https://www.futureexpat.com/blueberry-banana-bread/) - I really love bananas and can't resist buying a few every time I'm in the grocery store. But for some reason, I end up letting a lot of them go bad because I really only like them when they are just a tad under-ripe with no spots at all. Once they have a few spots,
- [Oatmeal Blueberry Banana Bread](https://www.futureexpat.com/oatmeal-blueberry-banana-bread/) - Yesterday I shared one of my favorite banana bread recipes and told you it is my go-to recipe. While that IS true, I actually have 2 favorite banana bread recipes. This version includes oatmeal, making it as healthy as a recipe like this with flour and sugar can be. While I am calling this recipe Oatmeal
- [Easy Recipe ~ Poppy Seed Beer Bread](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipe-easy-poppy-seed-beer-bread/) - I absolutely love good bread, and my beer bread is one of my favorites. This bread is a dense flavorful loaf. Warm from the oven, the bread has a moistness that reminds you a bit of a wonderful muffin. Cool, it is solid and hearty. I love this bread plain, covered in melted butter or
- [Fast & Easy Recipe: Pie Plate Cornbread](https://www.futureexpat.com/pie-plate-cornbread-recipe/) - I love cornbread, but it always came out too dry and crumbly. Until I tried this recipe. This cornbread was moist and easy to make. Even better, all of the ingredients are probably already in your pantry. Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups flour 3/4 cup cornmeal 1/4 cup sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt
- [Healthy Recipe: Moist Pumpkin Cornbread](https://www.futureexpat.com/pumpkin-cornbread/) - The recipe I posted yesterday for my pumpkin muffins only used part of a can of pumpkin, so I've been thinking about what to make to use it up. I toyed with the idea of making cookies, but when I decided to have some soup for dinner, I got to thinking that I needed to
- [Easy Appetizer: Bacon Cream Cheese Roll-Ups Recipe](https://www.futureexpat.com/bacon-cream-cheese-roll-ups/) - One of my favorite appetizers is one my Mom made when I was a little child. These Bacon Cream Cheese Roll-Ups are always a big hit with everyone...there's something about bacon and warm melty cream cheese that just can't be beat. It can't be easier. All you need is 3 ingredients - sandwich bread, cream
- [Easy Appetizer: White Bean Dip with Pita Chips](https://www.futureexpat.com/white-bean-dip-pita-chips/) - If you are looking for a quick and easy appetizer that will be a big hit with everyone, you need to try this White Bean Dip with Pita Chips. If you like hummus and garlic, you'll like this recipe. It doesn't taste like hummus, most people compare it to hummus when asking what is in
- [Spinach Artichoke Dip](https://www.futureexpat.com/spinach-artichoke-dip/) - If you like spinach and artichokes and cheese, you will love this easy dip. I originally posted this recipe on Food.com, and it has all 5 star reviews. And it is always a huge hit when you it is served at any event. Spinach Artichoke Dip Ingredients: 1 small onion, chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 1
- [Make Your Own Stock with Veggie Scraps](https://www.futureexpat.com/homemade-pantry-recipe-vegetable-stock/) - If you do a lot of cooking, you have recipes that call for chicken stock. As most cooks know, taking a basic recipe and making substitutions is half the fun of cooking. When I learned how to make homemade vegetable stock, I started using it in all of my recipes that called for chicken stock.
- [Make Your Own Ground Cinnamon](https://www.futureexpat.com/make-your-own-ground-cinnamon/) - Cinnamon is one of those spices that I use often. Cinnamon sticks, not so much. I'm not sure how I ended up with 2 packets of cinnamon sticks, but I did. I can't remember the last time I needed them, so when I was pulling out the ingredients I needed for a recipe recently and
- [Pantry Recipe: Make Your Own Vanilla Extract](https://www.futureexpat.com/pantry-recipe-make-your-own-vanilla-extract/) - Vanilla simply makes everything taste better. Most of us use the imitation vanilla extract sold in grocery stores, because buying pure vanilla extract gets really expensive. A few years ago I was on a cooking spurt and decided I wanted to start making as many pantry products for myself. I wasn't really trying to save
- [Another Blogging Adventure](https://www.futureexpat.com/another-blogging-adventure/) - Costa Rico Vacation Welcome to my newest blogging adventure. Here's a quick introduction about who I am and what I currently intend this blog to become (no promises it won't evolve over time!). Who is Karen? My blogging adventures started when I left the security of the real estate brokerage in St. Louis, MO where
- [Lessons from My 4000 Mile Road Trip: Meal Tips for Traveling with Dogs](https://www.futureexpat.com/meal-tips-travel-dogs/) - Traveling with your dog can be a lot of fun, but it's important to be prepared for the challenges you will face. While locating dog friendly hotels was the first thing I focused on when I planned my 4,000 mile road trip across 9 states earlier this year, I discovered that finding places to eat was the
- [6 Green Moving Tips](https://www.futureexpat.com/6-green-moving-tips/) - I've moved a lot of times in the last 25 years but my move last month was the first time I've done a green move. Now that I'm unpacked, I'm wanted to share my 6 moving tips to make your move more environmentally friendly. 1. Plastic Crates Instead of Boxes Most people are aware of
- [Exploring St. Louis: Historic Kimmswick](https://www.futureexpat.com/exploring-st-louis-historic-kimmswick/) - A few months ago, I realized that an errand was going to land me about 10 minutes away from Kimmswick, MO, so I decided to turn it into an opportunity to visit this historic town for the first time. Kimmswick is only 1/4 square mile just south of the St. Louis suburbs. As of 2010, there were just
- [Fostering Rescue Dogs: Karen's Foster Dogs](https://www.futureexpat.com/foster-dogs/) - A while ago I shared the story of adopting Milo and how that got me involved in fostering other dogs, so I'm not going to repeat myself explaining all of that again. If you are interested, click through on these links to read all how I got started and some of my foster dogs. Or
- [Why I've Decided NOT to Use Periscope to Build My Business](https://www.futureexpat.com/why-ive-decided-not-to-use-periscope-to-build-my-business/) - For months now, I've been hearing how Periscope is the best thing that ever came along for people like me to build their businesses. In case you didn't know, I'm a real estate agent, selling homes in the St. Louis area. I continually need to find new clients who will hire me to list their
- [Dog Pool Party at the Kirkwood Pool](https://www.futureexpat.com/dog-pool-party-kirkwood/) - St. Louis really loves their dogs, so it's not surprising that so many of our municipal pools have end of summer doggie pool parties. All of the parties are pretty much the same. You pay a small fee for each dog and their person, with proceeds usually going to a animal charity. The dogs get to
- [Kitchen Remodel: Before and After (Part 3)](https://www.futureexpat.com/kitchen-remodel-before-and-after-part-3/) - I'm really thrilled with the way this kitchen remodel turned out. This is the 4th home I've owned, and I've done progressively more work to the kitchen with each move. This is the first time I totally gutted a kitchen, and the first time I had to buy cabinets. First major kitchen remodel (my 2nd
- [Help Find Stella the Toy Poodle a Forever Home](https://www.futureexpat.com/help-find-stella-the-toy-poodle-a-forever-home/) - In the last few months, I've fostered a bunch of dogs...all who have found wonderful forever homes. Except for Stella. She's been with me for about 6 weeks now and I'm still looking for a home for her. I know that isn't a terribly long time. Many rescue dogs are in foster care for months
- [Kitchen Remodel: Before and After (Part 2)](https://www.futureexpat.com/kitchen-remodel-before-and-after-part-2/) - Yesterday I shared pictures of my kitchen before I started any remodeling work. While plenty of people may have left the kitchen alone or made only minor updates, I saw the potential in my kitchen for a modern kitchen with an open design. My original plan was to take pictures daily of the transformation. I missed a
- [Kitchen Remodel: Before and After (Part 1)](https://www.futureexpat.com/kitchen-remodel-before-and-after-part-1/) - When I bought my new house in December, I knew the first big project would be to remodel the kitchen. For you to really understand this transformation, you need to see pictures of before, during and after, and that's too much for one post. So I've decided to make this a 3 part post. Kitchen
- [9 Small Dogs Looking for Forever Homes](https://www.futureexpat.com/small-dogs-looking-for-forever-homes/) - For the last few months, I've been fostering dogs with Senior Dogs 4 Seniors. My first 2 dogs, Odus (now Mesa) and Maizy were adopted. I currently am fostering Morty, an 8 year old chihuahua. After fostering with Gateway Pet Guardians in the past, I knew how much professional pictures can make a difference on
- [Odus the Foster Dog Needs a Home](https://www.futureexpat.com/odus-foster-dog-needs-home/) - After almost a year without fostering dogs, I jumped back into dog rescue with a new group, Senior Dogs 4 Seniors. I chose this group because they focus on small dogs and they don't shy away from older dogs. It breaks my heart to hear of an 8 or 12 year old dog that has been
- [Planning Your Herb Garden {INFOGRAPHICS}](https://www.futureexpat.com/planning-your-herb-garden-infographics/) - This spring, I plan to grow a herb garden. When I lived in my first 2 houses, I grew herbs most summers. Then I moved to a condo and had no place to grow anything. I did have a deck with sunlight, but I know my limits and there was no way that I would
- [Getting Back to Cooking and Dog Rescue (plus my New Kitchen Preview)](https://www.futureexpat.com/cooking-dog-rescue-kitchen-preview/) - You probably noticed (or maybe you didn't) that I haven't been writing much here at Future Expat over the last few months. The reason is pretty simple. I sold my condo and bought a new house in December. Between the move and work, I just haven't had the energy to put together blog posts over
- [Why You Should Try Freeze Dried Liver Treats for Your Dog](https://www.futureexpat.com/freeze-dried-dog-treats/) - I'm a big believer in eating real food. When I cook for myself, I cook from scratch. I use as little processed foods as possible in my ingredients. I even make some of my own pantry ingredients. You'll never find a recipe here that includes a cake mix as an ingredient! But that doesn't mean that
- [The Perfect Dog Owner's Towel: Shandali UltraSport Travel Towel](https://www.futureexpat.com/review-shandali-ultrasport-microfiber-towel/) - When I recently discovered an opportunity with Tomoson to receive a free Shandali towel in exchange for writing a blog post about it, I jumped at the chance. I'm going to be doing more sponsored posts here on Future Expat, but I plan to be very selective on what I sponsored products I accept. I'm
- [Product Review: Cuisinart DBM-8 Supreme Grind Automatic Burr Mill](https://www.futureexpat.com/product-review-cuisinart-dbm-8-supreme-grind-automatic-burr-mill/) - A few months ago, I purchased the Cuisinart DBM-8 Supreme Grind Automatic Burr Mill. This coffee grinder is the 3rd one I've owned since I started grinding coffee beans at home about 15 years ago. The first grinder was a simple blade grinder. When I was ready to upgrade to a burr grinder, I kept
- [4 Food Lists for Losing Weight](https://www.futureexpat.com/4-food-lists-for-losing-weight/) - Chef Alton Brown's diet for weight loss and good health is based on 4 food lists including foods to eat every day, 3 times a week or more, only once a week and never eat foods.
- [7 Healthy Foods You Should be Eating](https://www.futureexpat.com/7-healthy-foods-you-should-be-eating/) - One of the advantages of blogging about getting healthier is that it isn't as easy to cheat when you've told the world what you are going to do. I think that's a good thing. It also means that friends send me articles like this one from the Huffington Post talking about the 7 healthy foods
- [4 Grocery Products I Can't Live Without](https://www.futureexpat.com/favorite-grocery-foods/) - Ok, maybe stating that I can't live without these 4 grocery products is a bit strong. But I make sure I never run out of any of these items. Each tops the list of things in the grocery store that I would really miss if they were ever discontinued, but I bet most people have
- [Rogers Coffee ~ Socially Responsible Coffee that Tastes Great (GIVEAWAY)](https://www.futureexpat.com/rogers-coffee-giveaway/) - Like a lot of you, I need a cup of coffee in the morning to get started. My mornings almost always start out with me crawling out of bed and putting on the clothes from yesterday so I can take Milo for a quick walk. As soon as we come back, he gets a meal
- [Chef Survey: What Do They Buy Generic vs Brand Name](https://www.futureexpat.com/chef-survey-buy-generic-vs-brand-name/) - Everyone likes to save money, but I've always avoided generic foods at the grocery store. I know that the store brand and generic label food is made by the same manufacturers as the name brand ones, but the difference in cost is normally not enough to get me to buy generic. So when I saw an article earlier
- [Rescuing Frankie from Animal Control](https://www.futureexpat.com/rescuing-frankie/) - I recently got involved with a brand new dog rescue group in the St. Louis area, Needy Paws Rescue. While I enjoyed fostering and volunteering with Gateway Pet Guardians, Needy Paws Rescue made me an offer that allows me to do so much more. I am one of the Needy Paws rescuers and foster coordinators,
- [Insightly Review: The Best FREE Way for Real Estate Agents, Bloggers & Small Businesses to Manage Contacts](https://www.futureexpat.com/insightly-review/) - A few months ago, I sent out an email to all of the real estate agents in my office to ask what they are using as a contact relationship manager (CRM). I've been spending way too much money on Top Producer, the biggest real estate CRM on the market, and decided it was time to
- [Tips for 1st Time Train Travelers](https://www.futureexpat.com/amtrak-train-travel-tips/) - I've only ridden trains twice. The first time was about 15 years ago when I was on a trip with my friend Cathy and staying with another friend Barb in San Diego. Cathy's aunt lived in Los Angeles, and we took a train to LA for the weekend to hang out with her. I couldn't
- [Milo Settles into Our New Home with #AlpoDogBiscuit](https://www.futureexpat.com/alpo-dog-biscuit-review/) - I was afforded this opportunity because I am part of the BlogPaws Professional Blogger Network. The Alpo dog biscuits were provided by Nestlé Purina. Future Expat only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. The opinions in this post are my own. Last week, Milo and I moved into our new home and Alpo
- [Rescue Dog Gilbert Trained with Zuke's Treats (GIVEAWAY)](https://www.futureexpat.com/zukes-treats-giveaway/) - Every dog needs training. Just like children, dogs are happiest when they know what is expected of them. While most people think of dog training as something you do with puppies, dogs can learn new commands at any age. It's especially important for dogs like Gilbert to learn some basic commands in order to help them get
- [What is the Best Flavor for Dog Training Treats?](https://www.futureexpat.com/best-flavor-dog-training-treats/) - When you go to the pet store to pick up some training treats, you are confronted with dozens of options. Picking a brand and a flavor can be overwhelming. The first thing you need to decide is which brand of dog treats you want to buy. If you are looking for training treats, you want to
- [10 Ways to Use Tiny Dog Treats Besides Training](https://www.futureexpat.com/tiny-dog-treats/) - When most people think of dog training treats, they think of using the tiny treats to teach dogs commands and tricks. Initially, I used training treats to teach Milo to sit and stay. I also rewarded him with a treat every time he went potty outside. I hadn't bought training treats in a while, so when Zuke's
- [Easy DIY Ideas for Your Home](https://www.futureexpat.com/easy-diy-ideas-for-your-home/) - As a real estate agent, I spent a lot of time looking at homes. There are so many things you can do to add some pizzazz to your home without spending a lot of money. Pinterest offers some great inspiration for DIYers. Here are 3 ways to make things for your home that will
- [Shopping Thrift Stores for Holiday Decor](https://www.futureexpat.com/shopping-thrift-stores-holiday-decor/) - If you like decorating for holidays, I've got a tip that will save you a ton of money and let you pick up new items every year. Shop for your holiday decorations at thrift stores. I know, many of you think of thrift stores as just for poor people. I challenge you to instead think of
- [Road Trip with Dogs - Choosing Pet Friendly Hotels](https://www.futureexpat.com/travel-dogs-pet-friendly-hotels/) - When I decided to take a road trip with dogs a few months ago, the first thing I focused on was finding dog friendly hotels. This vacation was my first trip with dogs and we stayed in 6 hotels over the 2 week trip. I learned a lot about what worked and what didn't on
- [Travel Souvenirs: Collecting Coffee Mugs](https://www.futureexpat.com/travel-souvenirs-collecting-coffee-mugs/) - Village of Thornbury, England The first thing I ever started collected on my vacations is coffee mugs. I originally planned to get a mug on every trip, but quickly discovered that at most resort locations all of the mugs were generic with the city name stamped after production, or they were much too gaudy for
- [Product Review: Mr. Coffee Optimal Brew Thermal Coffeemaker (Model BVMC-PSTX91)](https://www.futureexpat.com/review-mr-coffee-bvmc-pstx91/) - I love coffee. I make a pot every day and have a cup at my side all morning. Occasionally I run out of coffee and head to a coffee shop, but my preference is to make it at home. It's a lot less expensive even if I head out before I finish the pot and
- [Free Moo Cards for BlogHer 2013 Conference](https://www.futureexpat.com/free-moo-cards-for-blogher-2013-conference/) - I finally did it. After years of hearing other people talk about blogging conferences, I signed up for BlogHer 2013. I'm really excited about the new things I will learn to improve my 3 blogs (this one, Arch City Homes, and my neighborhood association blog West Pine Laclede). I'm also looking forward to spending time
- [Impressions of a First Time BlogHer Conference Attendee](https://www.futureexpat.com/blogher-conference-attendee/) - I've been blogging for 6 years and have been hearing about blogging conferences almost as long. I've attended real estate conventions, but was always so busy focusing on my real estate business that I never got around to signing up for a blogging conference. I have attended a few single day events in St. Louis
- [Conference Swag ~ The Stuff I Brought Home from BlogHer '13](https://www.futureexpat.com/conference-swag-the-stuff-i-brought-home-from-blogher-13/) - I'm not one of those people who is all about swag, wandering from booth to booth collecting as much free giveaway stuff as I can. I'm selective in my swag collecting at conferences. I don't take stuff I know I won't use. No coupons, no pens, no little branded things that will just get thrown
- [Save 50% off Fall Bulbs for Sharing Your Recipe Ideas](https://www.futureexpat.com/fall-bulb-giveaway-recipes/) - I have a game I play with myself to see how long I can go between grocery shopping trips. I started my Clean Out the Pantry Game a few years ago when I realized that I kept going to the grocery store and buying more of the stuff I eat all the time, while I
- [Lower Your Website Bounce Rate with a Responsive Theme](https://www.futureexpat.com/lower-bounce-rate-responsive-theme/) - On August 5, I decided it was time to implement what I learned at BlogHer '13 about responsive websites. Over the next 72 hours, I changed the theme of this website several times. Half of the time over these few days, the website looked terrible. The colors were wrong. The header was missing or the
- [11 Steps to Creating the Perfect Blog Post](https://www.futureexpat.com/11-steps-perfect-blog-post/) - I've been blogging since 2007, but I'm still working on creating perfect blog posts. Writing a great blog post isn't easy. You can't simply let your thoughts flow and expect to engage your readers. Blogging takes time. I usually spend 2-4 hours for every post. You won't find me signing up for any of the
- [INFOGRAPHIC: How to Improve Your Website and Regain Your Google Traffic](https://www.futureexpat.com/infographic-regain-website-google-traffic/) - I've been blogging since 2007. My first website was Arch City Homes, and it was designed to get me hired by St. Louis real estate buyers and sellers. When I started getting good traffic to my site, I began using the website to market my real estate listings too. It worked. I got hired by
- [Lower Your Website Bounce Rate](https://www.futureexpat.com/lower-website-bounce-rate/) - If you have a website, you don't just want to people to find the site. You want them to stick around. Maybe you want to make a sale or have them sign up for your newsletter. Or maybe you just want them to read more of your articles. If you are paying for traffic through
- [Spreading a Little Sunshine ~ Sunshine Blogger Award](https://www.futureexpat.com/sunshine-blogger-award/) - One of the things I love about blogging is getting to know other bloggers. Bloggers are a great community of people from all over the world who go out of their way to help each other. So I was really excited to discover that Bonnie of Lady Blogger nominated me for the Sunshine Blogger Award.
- [Road Trip ~ Grand Canyon Visit with Dogs](https://www.futureexpat.com/dogs-visit-grand-canyon/) - As soon as I decided to drive from St. Louis to Las Vegas for the Blog Paws Blogging Conference, I knew I had to stop at the Grand Canyon. I did my research and found out that dogs are welcome on the Rim Trail, but can't hike down into the canyon at all. That's fine
- [Pet Rescue Foster Parents ~ Save $$$ on Taxes & Track Deductible Miles with MileIQ App](https://www.futureexpat.com/pet-foster-parents-save-taxes-mileiq/) - With tax day deadline looming next week, you've hopefully already finished your tax return for this year. I'm one of those people who hits the deadline every year. My taxes are complicated and I always procrastinate pulling together all of my tax documents for my CPA. I'm a real estate agent...meaning I'm an independent contractor rather
- [Small Bathroom Remodel on a Budget](https://www.futureexpat.com/budget-remodel-small-bathroom/) - Last fall, I bought a condo that needed some remodeling. While the bathrooms were usable, they weren't pretty. I started with the small main floor bathroom remodel since it was a smaller project than the master bathroom and could be finished more quickly. Since I was also doing a major kitchen renovation and a master
- [Pet Gift Spending INFOGRAPHIC plus Unique Gifts for Dogs and Cats ](https://www.futureexpat.com/pet-spending-infographic-unique-gifts/) - Pet bloggers were surveyed last month by Blog Paws about their spending habits related to their pets and plans for pet holiday spending. The results clearly show that pets are at the center of holiday plans for many people. With so many of us looking for gifts for our pets, I found some unique
- [Upcycle Ideas for your Dog](https://www.futureexpat.com/upcycle-ideas-for-your-dog/) - As a new pet owner, I've suddenly become aware of all of the great ways to reuse old items to create things for your pet. Pinterest offers some great inspiration. Here are 3 ways to make your pet happy without spending much money. Pick up an old thrift store sweater and turn it into a
- [QUIZ: Find the Perfect Place to Live Overseas](https://www.futureexpat.com/quiz-where-live-overseas/) - I've been thinking more about the idea of moving overseas again. I don't really want to wait 20 years until I'm ready to retire. I want to do it soon. But one of the biggest challenges is that I don't know where I would want to live. I simply haven't traveled enough to find the
- [Furniture Nightmare from La-Z-Boy Store](https://www.futureexpat.com/furniture-nightmare-from-la-z-boy-store/) - I bought my first new couch when I got out of college in 1990. Since then, I have bought furniture from a dozen different stores . I have NEVER had such a bad experience with purchasing furniture as I have with my recent purchase from the La-Z-Boy store in Brentwood, MO. The loveseat and ottoman
- [Milo's Closet: Keeping Your Dog Warm in Cold Weather](https://www.futureexpat.com/dog-coats-sweaters/) - I'm not one of those dog owners who dresses up my dog in clothes just to make him cute, but I do think it's important he is warm enough outside in cold weather. Milo owns 3 pieces of cold weather clothing. He has a raincoat (that doubles as a lightweight coat), a heavy winter coat
- [How I Got a Credit Score Over 800 and You Can Too!](https://www.futureexpat.com/get-credit-score-over-800-credit-karma/) - I'm a real estate agent, so I deal with credit issues all of the time. Since I know how important credit is for everyone, I was excited when a PR company asked me to put together a sponsored post for Credit Karma™. While I was compensated for sharing this information, I only agree to work with
- [England Vacation 2010: London, Thornbury, Bath & Winchester (Days 4-8)](https://www.futureexpat.com/london-trip-day-4-8/) - Originally published in July 2010. Now that I have a blog dedicated to travel, the trip is being republished where it belongs. Don’t miss the beginning of the trip…read about the trip in order. Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Recognizing that my plan to blog & post every day was an utter failure. And
- [England Vacation 2010: London (Day 3)](https://www.futureexpat.com/london-trip-day-3/) - Originally published in July 2010. Now that I have a blog dedicated to travel, the trip is being republished where it belongs. Don’t miss the beginning of the trip…read about the trip in order. Day 1 Day 2 Having never tried to document my vacation via blog DURING the vacation before, I was completely unrealistic
- [England Vacation 2010: London (Day 2)](https://www.futureexpat.com/london-trip-day-2/) - Originally published in July 2010. Now that I have a blog dedicated to travel, the trip is being republished where it belongs. Don’t miss the beginning of the trip…read about the trip in order. Day 1 Even though we ended up going to bed at 3:15 AM last night, we wanted to get an early
- [England Vacation 2010: London (Day 1)](https://www.futureexpat.com/london-trip-day-1/) - Originally published in July 2010. Now that I have a blog dedicated to travel, the trip is being republished where it belongs. Today I flew to London. For years, taking a vacation to Europe has been at the top of my To Do list. But for one reason or another, the trip just never happened.
- [Mexico Vacation 2010: Playa del Carmen (Part 3)](https://www.futureexpat.com/mexico-vacation-2010-playa-del-carmen/) - This trip was originally posted in December 2010 on another blog that really wasn’t about travel, but was the only place I had to post it. Now that I finally have a place where it belongs, I’m happy to share the experience again. Don’t miss the beginning of the trip…read about the trip in order.
- [Mexico Vacation 2010: Mahahual (Part 2)](https://www.futureexpat.com/mexico-vacation-2010-mahahual/) - This trip was originally posted in November 2010 on another blog that really wasn’t about travel, but was the only place I had to post it. Now that I finally have a place where it belongs, I’m happy to share the experience again. Check back for Part 3 tomorrow. Don’t miss the beginning of the
- [Mexico Vacation 2010: Merida (Part 1)](https://www.futureexpat.com/mexico-vacation-2010-merida/) - This trip was originally posted in November 2010 on another blog that really wasn't about travel, but was the only place I had to post it. Now that I finally have a place where it belongs, I'm happy to share the experience again. Check back for Part 2 & 3 in the next couple of
- [Researching Life as an Expat - Top 5 Blogs](https://www.futureexpat.com/researching-life-as-an-expat-top-5-blogs/) - Photo Credit On my trip this weekend to Indianapolis, I was explaining to my traveling companion my dreams of becoming an expat. While we were talking, I starting thinking about how reading blogs from other expats turned a passing wish into a true goal for me. If you think living outside of your country sounds
- [My Road to Becoming a Rescue Dog Foster Parent](https://www.futureexpat.com/get-involved-become-a-dog-foster-parent/) - Yesterday I found out that I was approved to become a rescue dog foster parent. I'm really excited and can't wait to bring home my first foster rescue dog. So why am I doing this? Humor me a moment and let me start from the beginning. Adopting a Rescue Dog Changed My Life: I've never
- [Lessons from My 4000 Mile Road Trip: Hotel Tips for Traveling with Dogs](https://www.futureexpat.com/road-trip-dogs-hotel-tips/) - Before you pack up your car for an overnight road trip with your dog, you need to carefully consider the hotel where you will stay. Will the hotel allow my dog to stay with me? Where will my dog go to the bathroom? What will I do if my dog barks at night? These are just
- [Length Matters in Social Media {INFOGRAPHIC}](https://www.futureexpat.com/length-matters-social-media-infographic/) - I pay a lot of attention to what works in social media. I have to. I'm a real estate agent who uses social media to get hired by clients and a blogger who uses social media to get more traffic to this website. The key is understanding that what works in one social media
- [5 Things To Do RIGHT AWAY to Find a Lost Dog](https://www.futureexpat.com/find-lost-dog/) - I hope you never need to search for a lost dog. If your dog does get lost, there are things you need to do right away which will increase your chances of finding your dog. I'm speaking from personal experience here. The steps I outline below helped us find my lost foster dog earlier this
- [Add a Separate Shower and Tub to a Skinny Bathroom](https://www.futureexpat.com/add-separate-shower-tub-small-bathroom/) - Ever since I became a homeowner, I've wanted a home with a bathroom with a separate tub and shower. Sadly, none of the homes I've owned had bathrooms big enough to rearrange and add a separate tub and shower. Until now. A year ago I bought a condo with a a big master bathroom. When
- [Dog Rescue Outreach - Knocking on Doors in East St. Louis](https://www.futureexpat.com/pet-outreach-east-st-louis/) - Since I started volunteering for Gateway Pet Guardians last April, I've fostered 7 dogs, transported dogs to adoption events, helped a puppy sell raffle tickets at a fundraiser and got up before dawn to feed the strays of East St. Louis. Yesterday, I added community outreach to the list. Loaded up with dog houses, straw,
- [5 Tips to Get More Pinterest Traffic](https://www.futureexpat.com/5-tips-increase-pinterest-traffic/) - Why is Pinterest Important for Bloggers? While most people use Pinterest to collect things they have found on the web, bloggers use Pinterest as a way to gain more traffic to their websites. Every blogger needs a Pinterest strategy. Even though it is easier to generate traffic from Pinterest if you write about food, home decor, travel, fashion or pets,
- [VIDEO: Milo Really Loves The VetIQ Treats](https://www.futureexpat.com/dogs-treats/) - Like most dogs, Milo loves treats. When I took Milo to the Blog Paws conference a few months ago, he got to sample a lot of treats from the Expo Center. The VetIQ team was there, and it became clear that their treats are more than just a tasty snack. So when I was given an
- [10 Adorable Dog Halloween Costumes](https://www.futureexpat.com/dog-halloween-costumes/) - There is a video that has gone viral on Facebook of a dog wearing a spider costume. It got me thinking that maybe I should buy Milo his first Halloween costume this year. When I started looking at the options of Halloween costumes for dogs, it really is hard to choose. There are so many
- [Adopt a Pet: Darcy and Lola Need a New Home](https://www.futureexpat.com/adopt-a-pet-darcy-and-lola-need-a-new-home/) - I've decided to adopt a dog. I've spent a lot of time thinking about it and am finally settled into my new home and ready to pull the trigger. I need a small dog since I live in a townhouse and don't have yard. I don't want a yapper or one that sheds, so I'm
- [Adopt a Rescue Dog: Salem Needs a Home](https://www.futureexpat.com/adopt-a-rescue-dog-salem-needs-a-home/) - This beautiful girl with the adorable face is Salem. She's a sweet, goofy love bug who has a gorgeous smile and eyes that just make you melt. Salem is a Terrier mix who is about 1 year 9 months old. She's spayed, current on her shots and microchipped. This sweetie is house trained and crate
- [Adopt a Rescue Dog: Astrid Needs a Home](https://www.futureexpat.com/adopt-rescue-dog-astrid/) - This pretty girl is Astrid. She is very sweet, enjoys cuddling and has beautiful eyes that can make you melt. Astrid is a 3 year old Shepherd/Terrier mix who is spayed, housetrained, current on her shots and microchipped. She really likes kids and is good with them, and hasn't been around cats yet. She'd be
- [Adopt a Rescue Dog: Bill Needs a Home](https://www.futureexpat.com/adopt-a-rescue-dog-bill-needs-a-home/) - On Saturday, I had the chance to spend some time with Bill, one of Gateway Pet Guardians rescue dogs who is looking for a forever home. While most of the dogs that Gateway Pet Guardians rescues come directly from the streets of East St. Louis, we also work with St. Clair County Animal Control
- [Karen's First Foster Pups - Jojo and Sylvie](https://www.futureexpat.com/karens-first-foster-pups-jojo-and-sylvie/) - As soon as I adopted my dog Milo, I knew I wanted to get involved with a rescue group so I could foster dogs in my home. After checking around, I signed up with Gateway Pet Guardians and was approved as a foster parent. A few weeks later, I brought home 2 baby puppies, not
- [Stray Dogs Do Have Parents](https://www.futureexpat.com/stray-dogs-do-have-parents/) - Most people who adopt rescued stray dogs have no idea why they look the way they do. The people adopting my foster puppies are lucky. They get to see several generations (at least on the female side). PJ with Gateway Pet Guardians has been feeding the strays of East St. Louis every day since 2001.
- [Feeding Stray Dogs in East St. Louis](https://www.futureexpat.com/feeding-stray-dogs-in-east-st-louis/) - Last month, I woke up in the wee hours of the morning to go with PJ of Gateway Pet Guardians on her daily trek to feed the strays and neglected dogs of East St. Louis. We left PJ's Lafayette Square home at 5:30 AM and headed to Washington Park, a neighboring town to East St.
- [Adopt a Rescue Dog: Bryce Needs a Home](https://www.futureexpat.com/adopt-a-rescue-dog-bryce-needs-a-home/) - Bryce, a lab mix puppy looking for a forever home Last weekend, I attended an adoption event at Purina Farms and met a wonderful puppy named Bryce. Keep in mind that this event was massive. There were tons of people walking by constantly, and hundreds of dogs of all breeds and sizes. Bryce was absolutely
- [Saving Charlotte ~ Gateway Pet Guardians to the Rescue](https://www.futureexpat.com/saving-charlotte-gateway-pet-guardians/) - Charlotte's Story: There are so many dogs worth saving that would be put down immediately if they ended up at animal control. At Gateway Pet Guardians, we just rescued one of those dogs. As I've shared before, PJ Hightower has been driving the streets of poverty stricken East St. Louis every morning since 2001 to feed
- [4 Rescued Dogs Desperately Need Foster Parents](https://www.futureexpat.com/4-rescued-dogs-desparately-need-foster-parents/) - Becoming a foster parent for a rescued pet is one of the most rewarding volunteer experiences you can have. Living in a home helps former strays learn how to be pets. They get a chance to lay on soft surfaces (whether it be your couch or a dog bed on the floor). They discover that
- [Strut Your Mutt - Dog Festival Helps Save Strays](https://www.futureexpat.com/strut-mutt-dog-st-louis/) - Strut Your Mutt - St. Louis Event: Photo Credit: Jesse Michael Nix WHAT: A leisurely fundraising dog walk followed by a doggie-themed festival that includes pet contests, photos, treats for your dogs, fun activities, refreshments and more. WHERE: Tilles Park, 9551 Litzsinger Road, Saint Louis, MO 63124. WHEN: Saturday, September 28, 2013 - 8:30am - 1:00pm
- [32 Puppies Looking for St. Louis Homes!](https://www.futureexpat.com/puppies-looking-st-louis-homes/) - Update 10/25/13: All of the baby puppies listed here have now been adopted, but there are still 4 older pups at the end of the list that need homes. Adopting a puppy that is 5-8 months old, as these puppies are, has some real advantages. You can get a feel for the dog's personality, see
- [Letting Benji Go](https://www.futureexpat.com/letting-benji-go/) - A week ago, after one month of living with me, my foster dog Benji was adopted. Benji is an adorable loving dog. As always, it's a guess as to his breed. But I think he is a Jack Russell Terrier and Rat Terrier combo with a little wire hair terrier mixed in. Benji was rescued
- [Help Me Find a Forever Home for My Foster Dog Romper](https://www.futureexpat.com/romper/) - My regular readers will know that I volunteer as a foster parent for homeless dogs rescued from East St. Louis by Gateway Pet Guardians. A couple of weeks ago, I took over fostering adorable Romper from another volunteer. Romper has been with Gateway for awhile. He was rescued at the end of January from a
- [Saving a Cat's Life Just Took an Hour of My Time](https://www.futureexpat.com/saving-a-cat/) - My regular readers will know that I'm a foster parent for Gateway Pet Guardian's rescued dogs. Since I signed up in April, I've had 6 foster dogs in my home. I can only foster one dog at a time, so I'm always on the lookout for other ways I can help. I have attended adoption
- [Community Outreach & Puppy Rescues in Impoverished East St. Louis](https://www.futureexpat.com/community-outreach-puppy-rescues/) - Last week, I shared about my first experience with the Gateway Pet Guardians community outreach team. I thought nothing could be as rewarding as fostering dogs with Gateway, but I was wrong. Driving down streets lined with burnt-out and abandoned homes, scanning the yards looking for dogs who needed our help, was one of the
- [Wordless Wednesday - Saving Dogs Living on the Streets](https://www.futureexpat.com/wordless-wednesday-saving-dogs/) - Everyone who reads this blog regularly or is connected to me on Facebook, Google+, Twitter or Pinterest knows that I volunteer with Gateway Pet Guardians. I recently started helping with community outreach. Teams of us gather on Saturdays and Sundays and make the 15 minute drive from St. Louis to one of the poorest cities
- [Wordless Wednesday - Foster Dogs Have Changed My Life](https://www.futureexpat.com/wordless-wednesday-foster-dogs-changed-life/) - I started fostering rescued dogs with Gateway Pet Guardians last April. They have changed my life as much as I've changed their lives. In order of when they came into my life... Jojo and Sylvie Named after my wonderful grandparents Joe & Sylvia Jojo was adopted by a young couple living in their first apartment
- [Wordless Wednesday - Teddy Finally Jumps on the Bed](https://www.futureexpat.com/wordless-wednesday-foster-dog-teddy/) - My current foster dog, Teddy, finally decided it was ok to jump on the bed this week. Now when the end of the day rolls around, I turn off all of the lights and Teddy races up the stairs to the bedroom behind Milo. When I catch up with them, this is what I find.
- [Wordless Wednesday - Fostering Jodi the Chihuahua](https://www.futureexpat.com/fostering-jodi-chihuahua/) - Somehow the winter got away from me and I never posted any pictures of Jodi. Jodi was one of the foster dogs I've taken care of this past year. I adored her and if I was in the market to adopt a 2nd dog, I would have kept her. Milo even liked this one. He
- [Wordless Wednesday ~ Jodi in Her Forever Home](https://www.futureexpat.com/jodi-forever-home/) - A few weeks ago I shared the story of Jodi, one of my favorite foster dogs. Jodi’s adoptive mom saw my post and sent me some pictures and this video. I really adore this little girl and am so happy that she is so loved. People ask pet foster parents all the time how we can
- [Shopping Cart Solution for NO PAWS ON GROUND Puppies](https://www.futureexpat.com/shopping-cart-for-puppies/) - Everyone in the rescue world is familiar with the concept no paws on ground. Puppies need 3 rounds of shots before they are fully protected from diseases that they can pick up from other dogs. Until the puppies have had at least the first 2 rounds of shots, they could get very sick and even die
- [The Joys of Adopting a Rescue Dog](https://www.futureexpat.com/the-joys-of-adopting-a-rescue-dog/) - Milo staring at me, totally confused with why I had walked him up to the tree and then stood there, waiting. I recently told you that I was looking for a rescue dog to adopt. Meet Milo: After meeting a half dozen dogs who were sweet, it was love at first sight when I met
- [Milo Takes a Bath](https://www.futureexpat.com/milo-takes-a-bath/) - Milo had a bath the day before I adopted him (December 28) and again about a week later when I took him to a groomer. After about 6 weeks, he definitely had that doggy smell and I knew it was time for a bath. Today was a snow day and we were hanging at home,
- [Wordless Wednesdays - Life with Dogs](https://www.futureexpat.com/wordless-wednesdays-life-dogs/) - I know this is called Wordless Wednesdays, but since this is my first one, I wanted to share why I'm starting this new weekly series (gulp...I'm really bad at doing anything over and over and over). When I first adopted Milo, I posted tons of pictures on Facebook. So many people told me they loved
- [Wordless Wednesdays - Milo Goes to the Vet](https://www.futureexpat.com/wordless-wednesdays-milo-vet/) - Milo patiently waiting for our vet to come give him a lepto shot. Clearly also overdue for a haircut. Milo communicates by looking at the thing he wants, holding his gaze there for a few seconds, then he makes eye contact with me and gives me a prolonged look. If I don't respond, then he
- [Wordless Wednesday ~ Milo Walks the Line](https://www.futureexpat.com/milo-walks-line/) - Milo is a city dog. He's used to walking along sidewalks for his potty breaks. Even when he is off leash, he is a creature of habit. Last week, we went over to Forest Park to enjoy the spring weather. Milo found the soccer line in the middle of a huge field and walked it
- [Road Trip Planning for Blog Paws Conference](https://www.futureexpat.com/road-trip-planning-blog-paws-conference/) - In 2 weeks, I'll be jumping in the car and starting a 3,500 mile road trip. As soon as I saw this video, I decided that I had to attend the Blog Paws pet-blogger conference. And I had to bring my dog Milo. The first dilemma was how to get there. Milo weighs 22 lbs and is
- [On the Road to Vegas...with Dogs!](https://www.futureexpat.com/road-vegas-dogs/) - After a crazy week of real estate work in preparation of leaving town for 2 weeks, we finally hit the road yesterday morning. My dog Milo and I are going to the Blog Paws Conference in Las Vegas next week, and my Mom and her dog Lexi decided to join us for the road trip.
- [Road Trip ~ Sante Fe Stop Worth the Detour](https://www.futureexpat.com/road-trip-sante-fe-stop-worth-the-detour/) - My original plans were to try to share a blog post every night during this cross country road trip. Sometimes things just don't go as planned. Here we are, in the car again as I type this...on day 4 of the road trip from St. Louis to Las Vegas and back...and I'm only on blog
- [Create a Dog Potty Garden on Your Deck](https://www.futureexpat.com/deck-dog-potty-garden/) - When I decided to adopt a dog, my plan was to teach my new dog to use washable pee pads in my condo's laundry room. It didn't work. I quickly learned that Milo needed a tree or plant to stand against when it was time to do his business. We would sometimes walk for a block before
- [Top 5 Ways to Use Your Tablet](https://www.futureexpat.com/top-5-ways-use-tablet/) - With the trend moving away from desktops to laptops and now tablets, the way we use technology has really changed. I have a laptop, tablet and smartphone. I have a go-to device that varies depending on what I am doing. My tablet gets the least use of the 3, but that is changing as I find
- [How to Find Out the Breed of Your Dog](https://www.futureexpat.com/how-to-find-out-the-breed-of-your-dog/) - For many people who adopt a shelter or rescue dog, knowing the breed of the dog just isn't important. We love our dogs regardless of what breed they are. But that doesn't mean we don't wonder, spending hours looking at pictures of dogs online trying to figure it out. From the day I brought home
- [Create Multiple Picture Image Pins for Pinterest](https://www.futureexpat.com/create-multiple-picture-images-pinterest/) - I recently discovered a new way to create multiple picture images that are perfect for Pinterest. Fotor.com offers free photo editing tools which allow you to both improve your photos and to create fun collages with pictures off of your computer. SEE ALSO: HOW TO CREATE MULTIPLE PICTURE PINTEREST PINS FROM A WEBSITE Create a Vertical Pin:
- [Pinterest Tool: Combining Multiple Photos into a Single Pin](https://www.futureexpat.com/pinterest-tool-combining-multiple-photos/) - Lately I've been pinning more images to Pinterest. Usually, I just use the Pin It bookmarklet that I've added to my browser toolbar. Today I was looking for a Pinterest tool that would allow me to add text on top of the images without actually having to edit the photos. I stumbled on an article
- [Wordpress Calendar Plugin: Add Events to Your Website](https://www.futureexpat.com/wordpress-calendar-plugin/) - One of the things I love about Wordpress websites is how easy it is to add features to a website without hiring a designer. I'm working on a new website for my neighborhood association, and decided that a calendar was needed so everyone could easily see upcoming meetings and events. A quick search of the
- [Vacations and Lighthouses](https://www.futureexpat.com/vacations-lighthouses/) - When I travel, I like to go beyond the basic tourist destinations. One of the best ways to do this is to set some goals for things to see or do on a trip. On my last road trip, I was traveling with 2 dogs. Finding restaurants with patios and dog parks definitely took me
- [Pinterest Tip: How To Create a Popular Posts Widget for Your Sidebar](https://www.futureexpat.com/pinterest-popular-pins-widget/) - One way to increase the traffic to your website is to get more people to share the content on Pinterest. Since people naturally like to see what is popular with other people and to share that content with their own followers, you can get more people to share your articles on Pinterest by simply showing
- [Recycle Your Holiday Lights](https://www.futureexpat.com/recycle-holiday-lights/) - Recycling options go beyond paper and plastic nowadays, so it's no surprise that St. Louis Green has implemented a holiday light drive. As you are taking down your old or broken lights, don't throw them in the trash and have them end up in a landfill. Instead, drop them off at one of the many
- [Which Social Sites Bring Traffic to Your Blog?](https://www.futureexpat.com/blog-social-traffic/) - If you are a blogger, you get excited when you get see traffic coming to your website. Where traffic comes from is different for every blog. Some blogs get a lot of traffic from Google search results. Others get most of their traffic from social sharing. I have 2 very different blogs. This blog, Future
- [GIVEAWAY ~ $100 in Gift Certificates to St. Louis Restaurants](https://www.futureexpat.com/st-louis-restaurant-certificate-giveaway/) - If you live in the St. Louis area and love to eat out as much as I do, then this is the giveaway for you! I am giving away 20 gift certificates worth $10 each. Each winner will get ten FoodieSTL $10 gift certificates that are valid through March 2014. You do have to spend
- [GIVEAWAY Winners Announced ~ 2 Winners Get $100 to Dine Out in St. Louis](https://www.futureexpat.com/giveaway-winners/) - A couple of weeks ago I announced my first big giveaway and it's time to announce the winners! Two lucky winners will receive 10 gift certificates worth $10 each to St. Louis area restaurants. And the lucky winners are....drumroll... Julie Willbrand wins the St. Louis City & County pack: Lucas Park Grille (Downtown) Lola (Downtown)
- [Upcoming Trip: Mexico and Belize](https://www.futureexpat.com/upcoming-trip-mexico-and-belize/) - A few years ago my brother moved to a remote town in Mexico to work at Maya Palms, a scuba diving resort. Last year, my mom and I decided it was time to see where he is living. We wanted to go for about a week, and he was only able to get off for
- [Travel Planning: Balancing Pre-Planned and Flexibility](https://www.futureexpat.com/travel-planning-balancing-pre-planned-and-flexibility/) - With less than a week before we leave for our Mexico and Belize trip, our itinerary just changed. I described the original plan in my last post about the trip, but the gist of it is that we are spending the 1st night in Playa del Carmen before heading south to where my brother lives
- [Mexico - Belize Vacation: Getting There](https://www.futureexpat.com/mexico-belize-vacation-getting-there/) - Cozumel water ferry dock view After 2 itinerary changes within a week before we left (one due to my brother’s schedule and one due to my screw up), we finally made it to Mexico. While most people going to Mexico are heading to a beach resort. this trip is about my mom and I visiting
- [Mexico-Belize Vacation: Beautiful Belize](https://www.futureexpat.com/mexico-belize-vacation-beautiful-belize/) - Don’t miss the beginning of the trip…read about the trip in order. Trip planning 1 Trip Planning 2 Don’t Forget Your Passport Getting There Chetumal Attractions Laguna Bacular & Dzibanche Ruins San Pedro, Belize: After spending a few days with my brother in Chetumal and exploring the nearby area, Mark headed back to work at
- [St. Louis Road Trip ~ Johnson's Shut-Ins (VIDEO)](https://www.futureexpat.com/johnsons-shut-ins-video/) - I first discovered Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park about 30 years ago. In the 1980s and 1990s, I spent many afternoons climbing on the rocks, letting water crash down on my head and sunning on the rocks. Then I made a career change in 2001, becoming a real estate agent, and my weekends became filled with
- [What is It Really Like to Go Parasailing?](https://www.futureexpat.com/what-is-it-like-parasailing/) - I have always been afraid of heights. Actually, I should clarify. It isn't really heights I'm afraid of. It's falling. If there is a strong railing, you can get me to look over the edge of a tall building. You can get me to walk on a suspended bridge like the ones I found in
- [Weekend Getaway - Kansas City, MO](https://www.futureexpat.com/weekend-getaway-kansas-city-mo/) - Travel doesn't have to require months of planning and lots of time off of work. Last weekend I hopped in the car and headed to Kansas City. The drive from St. Louis takes about 4 hours so it's easy enough to do for a weekend or even just a day. I've been to KC a
- [Weekend Getaway ~ Fulton, MO](https://www.futureexpat.com/weekend-getaway-fulton-mo/) - Last week I told you about my visit to Kansas City. On the way back, we made an overnight stop in Fulton, MO. Yes, KC is only a 4 hour drive from St. Louis and we could have easily done the trip in one stretch. And I know that Fulton, MO doesn't set your mouth
- [Indianapolis Road Trip: Mass Ave and Nestle Inn](https://www.futureexpat.com/indianapolis-road-trip-mass-ave-and-nestle-inn/) - Me in front of the Nestle Inn When I'm traveling, I like to seek out charming hotels. When I can, I like to stay someplace that adds to the vacation rather than just being a place to sleep. On my Indianapolis trip this weekend, I stumbled on the nicest Bed & Breakfast I've ever stayed.
- [Indy Road Trip Meals](https://www.futureexpat.com/indy-road-trip-meals/) - Food is usually a big part of any trip that I take, so it's no surprise that I'm blogging about the meals I had on my quick Indianapolis road trip. The truth is...the meals were a bit disappointing this time.
- [2 Gals Spend 6 Hours in Springfield, IL](https://www.futureexpat.com/springfield-il/) - Last weekend I helped with a pet rescue freedom ride and turned it into a day trip to Springfield, IL. A group of 45 dogs from kill shelters in Oklahoma were being sent to rescues in other states. I signed up to keep 2 of the dogs overnight and then drive them from St. Louis
- [10 Fun Free Fonts](https://www.futureexpat.com/10-fun-free-fonts/) - I'm in the process of redoing the logo for this blog and my graphic designer suggested I take a look at the fonts available at DaFont. Oh my...I have spent hours exploring the fonts on this website. There are so many to choose from and all are free for personal use. Some are also free
- [8 Fire Safety Tips You Need to Know](https://www.futureexpat.com/fire-safety-tips/) - All of us remember being taught fire safety as children. We were taught to stop, drop and roll if our clothing ever caught on fire. We were taught to get down on our hands and knees and crawl below the smoke if we were trapped in a fire. But few of us know how to
- [Take Your Dog on a Missouri Raft Float Trip](https://www.futureexpat.com/take-your-dog-on-a-missouri-raft-float-trip/) - Life jackets for dogs One of my favorite things to do in the summer is to go floating with friends. Now that I have a dog, I want to take him with me when I go floating. You can float with a dog in a canoe anywhere. But, it is hard to find a river
- [Netflix Movies - 20 Favorite Hidden Gems](https://www.futureexpat.com/netflix-movies-20-favorite-hidden-gems/) - After years of hearing people talk about Netflix, I finally decided to sign up earlier this year. I love movies, and in the 1990s I spent a lot of time browsing the shelves at the video stores renting movies. In the last 10 years, I haven't done that very often. Though I never intended to
- [Netflix Hidden Gems - 20 More Great Movies](https://www.futureexpat.com/20-netflix-movies/) - A while ago I put together a list of 20 Netflix hidden gems. I've been surprised how popular that post has been. Actually, it's my most popular non-recipe post on the website. I figured it was time to put together a follow up list. Here are 20 more Netflix movies that I liked which might
- [13 Amazon Instant Video Movies to Watch](https://www.futureexpat.com/13-movies-amazon-instant-video/) - If you are like me, you see the same movies pop up over and over as you search for something to watch. I used to subscribe to Netflix, but took a break a few months ago after not finding much new to watch. I am an Amazon Prime member which gets me free shipping on
- [8 Kitchen Features to Add to Your Kitchen](https://www.futureexpat.com/kitchen-features/) - When it is time to redo your kitchen, there are so many choices to make. I completed my kitchen renovation a year ago and wouldn't change a single thing. If I ever move, I'll definitely use what I learned in this kitchen renovation and incorporate these features in any future kitchen remodeling plans. SEE ALSO:
- [Shopping List Basics That Should Be in Every Pantry](https://www.futureexpat.com/pantry-shopping-list/) - It's easy to walk through the grocery store and fill your shopping cart with things that make mealtime quick and easy. Shelf after shelf is filled with boxed, frozen and prepared items that you can just pop in a microwave or oven and have dinner ready in a few minutes. This is especially true if
- [Pinterest Inspiration: Things to Make with Your Kids](https://www.futureexpat.com/pinterest-kids/) - I don't have kids, but I still get inspired by fun things I see on Pinterest that I know kids would love. Here are 3 ways to put a smile on the faces of the kids in your life while keeping them busy at the same time. This caught my eye last summer. I just
- [Pinterest Inspiration: Upcycle Ideas for your Garden](https://www.futureexpat.com/pinterest-inspiration-upcycle-ideas-for-your-garden/) - Garden season is just around the corner. Pinterest offers many ideas for reusing discarded items in your garden. Here are 3 Pinterest inspirations that I found recently. I love this idea. Pick up an old teapot at a thrift store, then hang it from the handle from a tree branch or a peg on your
- [Tammy's Family ~ Returning to Guatemala](https://www.futureexpat.com/tammys-family-returning-to-guatemala/) - Guest Author: Tammy Orahood Last week, I shared the story of how Andy and I came to adopt Henry, now 10, and Franklin, now 7, from Guatemala when they were infants. Learning about Guatemalan culture and helping my boys develop a strong cultural identity is very important to me. From the start, I had visions of raising
- [Mexico-Belize Vacation: Chetumal Hotel & Food](https://www.futureexpat.com/mexico-belize-vacation-chetumal-hotel-food/) - Don’t miss the beginning of the trip…read about the trip in order. Trip planning 1 Trip Planning 2 Don’t Forget Your Passport Getting There Chetumal Attractions Chetumal Hotels: My brother has stayed in a few Chetumal hotels since he moved to Mexico a few years ago. Between his experiences and my TripAdvisor research, we agreed
- [Mexico-Belize Vacation: Laguna Bacular & Dzibanche Ruins](https://www.futureexpat.com/mexico-belize-vacation-laguna-bacular-dzibanche-ruins/) - Don’t miss the beginning of the trip…read about the trip in order. Trip planning 1 Trip Planning 2 Don’t Forget Your Passport Getting There Chetumal Attractions I'm not sure what happened, but over a month has gone by since we came back from this trip, and I never finished telling you about it. So here
- [Mexico-Belize Vacation: Belize City Prison Tour](https://www.futureexpat.com/mexico-belize-vacation-belize-city-prison-tour/) - Don’t miss the beginning of the trip…read about the trip in order. Trip planning 1 Trip Planning 2 Don’t Forget Your Passport Getting There Chetumal Attractions Laguna Bacular & Dzibanche Ruins Beautiful Belize Belize City Day Trip: Mom, Father Jack & me When we decided to go to Belize, we were presented with a rare
- [Starting Today](https://www.futureexpat.com/starting-today/) - I don't know about you, but I have to be completely committed to something or there is really no point in even taking the first steps. I've tried bribing myself into exercising regularly, eating right and even blogging on a schedule. It just doesn't work for me. Only when I'm truly ready will I do
- [Is Your Home Giving You Lung Cancer?](https://www.futureexpat.com/is-your-home-giving-you-lung-cancer/) - See U.S. interactive map Did you know that high levels of radon, a naturally occurring gas that we breathe every day, is the 2nd leading cause of lung cancer? Did you know that it is easy to find out if the radon rate in your home is dangerous? Did you know that it is easy
- [What is Your Home's Walk Score?](https://www.futureexpat.com/what-is-your-homes-walk-score/) - Like most people, the location of my home has been one of the most important factors for me each time I've decided to move. For some people, nearby schools might be the key issue. For others, easy access to highways or a good fitness center might be the most important factor in picking a location.
- [Help Local Teachers: Donate to the St. Louis Teachers' Recycle Center ](https://www.futureexpat.com/help-local-teachers-donate-to-the-st-louis-teachers-recycle-center/) - Many of us now routinely separate our trash so as much as possible goes to a recycling center instead of a landfill. A number of St. Louis municipalities even include free single stream recycle bins and pickup for residents to make it as easy as possible. But plenty of things that end up in the
- [Kitchen Renovation Round 2](https://www.futureexpat.com/kitchen-renovation-round-2/) - About a year before I sold my last house, I updated the kitchen. At the time, I wasn't planning on moving. I'm glad I wasn't, because I wasn't tempted to go with safe resale picks. Instead, I went bold with the backsplash and wall paint. It turned out great, and as it turns out...it really
- [Home Remodeling: Eliminate Ugly Tubs & Tile](https://www.futureexpat.com/home-remodeling-eliminate-ugly-tubs-tile/) - In my day job as a real estate agent, I've seen lots of ugly home features. Some are easier to fix than others. One of my favorite fixes is to reglaze an old bathtub or tile. I've reglazed tubs in 2 of my prior homes. And I've helped several of my clients eliminate resale problems
- [Buying Chairs Turns into a Trip to Indy](https://www.futureexpat.com/buying-chairs-turns-into-a-trip-to-indy/) - When I moved into my last house, I bought a travertine mosaic table with wrought iron legs to use as my kitchen table. I had an open floor plan and I wanted a table that didn't look like a kitchen table, and this table was perfect. It was pushed up against a wall so I
- [Update Your Bathrooms with a Granite Vanity Top](https://www.futureexpat.com/update-your-bathrooms-granite-vanity-top/) - One of the easiest way to update an outdated bathroom is to add granite vanity tops. You have a few options for purchasing granite tops for your bathroom on a budget: Buy a new cabinet and granite top combo from a store like Home Depot or Lowes. Buy a new granite top in a stock
- [Gel Fireplace Logs can Transform an Unused Fireplace](https://www.futureexpat.com/gel-fireplace-logs/) - I've been looking into converting my wood burning fireplace to something that doesn't require me to carry firewood up 2 flights of stairs from the garage. I also find that while I LOVE real fires, I'm not going to start one unless I'll be sitting by the fireplace all evening or having company over. Which
- [Kwikset Kevo Lock Turns Your Smartphone into Your House Key](https://www.futureexpat.com/kwikset-kevo-lock/) - Over the last 10 years, we've seen more and more technology integrated into homes. Kwikset has a new lock that offers a lot of promise to make our lives easier and more secure. The Kwikset Kevo lock works with the iPhone 4s and 5 so all you have to do is touch the lock to
- [Galley Kitchen Remodel - Before & After Pictures](https://www.futureexpat.com/galley-kitchen-remodel/) - I can't believe that I finished my kitchen remodel almost a year ago and never got around to posting pictures of the finished project. The kitchen was torn up for about a month, but I'm so glad I did it. I didn't replace the cabinets, but everything else is new: granite counters sink faucet garbage
- [Wordless Wednesday - Don't Blame the Dogs](https://www.futureexpat.com/wordless-wednesday-blame/) - I should know better than to leave the house with mail sitting on a chair. Milo loves tearing up paper. It was junk mail, so I didn't really mind. Paint, on the other hand, is not as easy to clean up. Again, this was my fault. I knew my foster dog Teddy had a habit of
- [Converting Your Wordpress Website to a Responsive Theme](https://www.futureexpat.com/wordpress-website-responsive-theme/) - Now that you understand how important it is to have a responsive theme so mobile visitors have a good experience on your website, you need to know how to make your website responsive. If you have a Wordpress website, you can do this without spending a lot of money. SEE ALSO: Lower Your Website Bounce Rate
- [Monitor your Pinterest Pins with PinAlerts](https://www.futureexpat.com/monitor-your-pinterest-pins-with-pinalerts/) - If you have a website, you probably track your analytics (or you should!). In addition to using your Google Analytics account to see how many people visited your site and what content is the most popular, there is an easy way to see which of your content is popular on Pinterest. PinAlerts is still in
- [Protect Your Photos on the Web with Watermarking](https://www.futureexpat.com/protect-your-photos-on-the-web-with-watermarking/) - I take a lot of pictures that I post to the internet. I also create a lot of graphs for my real estate website. While I'm happy when others share my images on social media sites, I'm concerned about copyright infringement that happens all over the internet. Simply put, if you didn't create it, you
- [Resizing Photos for Beginners](https://www.futureexpat.com/resizing-photos-for-beginners/) - Free software and website for resizing photos. Set picture size by pixels. Crop photos to a specific pixel size.
- [Join the St. Louis Link Up Party](https://www.futureexpat.com/join-st-louis-linky-party/) - I've recently started participating in linky parties as a way to get more exposure for the blog posts I publish on Future Expat. It's pretty new so I'm not sure how much time I will devote to this yet, but I've already had several people read and comment on my post about how to add
- [5 Reasons to Buy a Travel Guide Book Before You Go on Vacation](https://www.futureexpat.com/travel-guide-books/) - My travel guide book collection While the internet has just about everything you could need to know when you are planning a trip, I've found that picking up a travel guide is helpful too. For the last half-dozen years, I've traveled with a netbook or iPad on every trip. Even though I can't imagine taking
- [Travel Planning with Evernote](https://www.futureexpat.com/travel-planning-with-evernote/) - In years past, most of us travelled with a guide book to help us navigate through our vacations. Fast forward to today, and technology let's you leave the guide books at home...or skip them entirely. Researching things to do on your vacation can easily be handled on the internet. I like Trip Advisor and use
- [Create a Mobile Friendly Email Signature](https://www.futureexpat.com/create-a-mobile-friendly-email-signature/) - Over the weekend, I watched a real estate webinar that reminded me the importance of having a mobile friendly email signature. According to Chris Smith and Jimmy Mackin, research shows revealed that U.S. consumers spend an average of 2 hours and 38 minutes a day on a smartphone or tablet. They also open 41% of
- [Does Your Dog Need to be Vaccinated for Lepto?](https://www.futureexpat.com/vaccinated-your-dog-for-lepto/) - When I adopted Milo from a rescue group a couple of months ago, I was told that he was up to date on all vaccinations. Little did I know that he hadn't been vaccinated for a Lepto, potentially serious disease. The rescue group provided me with a record of all of Milo's shots. As recommended,
- [Daily Deals for Your Dog and Cat](https://www.futureexpat.com/pet-daily-deals/) - Owning a dog or cat can get expensive. If you love your pets the way I love my dog Milo, I'm constantly buying new toys and treats. Now that I also foster dogs for Gateway Pet Guardians, I go through food and stain remover faster than ever too. I just discovered a website that offers
- [Product Review: Stream Movies on a Roku 2 XD](https://www.futureexpat.com/product-review-roku-2-xd/) - Last year I decided to sign up for Netflix so I could watch more movies. I quickly discovered a problem. Since I don't own any gaming systems, the only way I could watch Netflix on my TV was to actually steam it through my laptop and have my laptop plugged into my TV via USB.
- [32 States I Need to Visit](https://www.futureexpat.com/32-states/) - I've shared before that my big dreams revolve around travel. I've even put together a travel bucket list. Most of the time, when I think about where I want to go, foreign destinations pop into my head. Ecuador. Greece. India. Italy. Africa. You get the idea. In the last few years, I've also gotten a
- [How Long Do Couples Wait to Say "I Love You"?](https://www.futureexpat.com/survey-engaged-couples/) - I'm single, but I found this infographic created by Wedding Paper Divas fascinating. They did a survey and asked questions like: How long were you dating before you said "I Love You"? How long was it before you met your fiancé's parents? How long was your engagement? Did you ever say "let's just elope"? What
- [Learning to Speak English...British English](https://www.futureexpat.com/learning-to-speak-english-british-english/) - For those of us who haven’t mastered numerous languages, traveling to English speaking countries definitely makes travel easier. That said, some English words have completely different meanings to Americans and Brits. At the end of my England trip last year, I jotted down the words that I could remember which had become part of my
- [Sign Up for Emails from Future Expat](https://www.futureexpat.com/sign-up-future-expat/) - For those of you who don't want to miss out on any of the great stuff I'm writing, I've created a fancy new email through Mailchimp which will email you daily or weekly with the latest articles. Anyone who has been receiving the daily email updates will see a change in design. You'll also start
- [Sherwood Forest Camp Needs Volunteers](https://www.futureexpat.com/sherwood-forest-camp-needs-volunteers/) - Sherwood Forest Camp transforms lives. But they can't do it alone. They need your help. By volunteering for a week or more at camp this summer, you can have an impact on a child's life that will last forever. Sherwood Forest Camp serves kids from the St. Louis area, mostly from low income homes. The
- [Tammy's Adoption Story ~ From Guatemala to St. Louis](https://www.futureexpat.com/tammys-adoption-story/) - Every now and then you meet someone who inspires you. I met Tammy and Andy Orahood when they moved to St. Louis and I was lucky enough to be their real estate agent. Tammy Orahood with Henry (L) and Franklin (R) at their new house In our first conversation, Tammy and Andy let me know immediately that
- [4 Favorite Hotels - B&B, Resorts & Historic Hotels](https://www.futureexpat.com/favorite-hotels/) - When I plan a vacation, I always try to find a hotel that offers more than a place to sleep. I want my hotel to add to the experience. I've been fortunate to stay in some wonderful hotels. Yesterday I shared my very favorite hotel experience, Thornbury Castle Hotel in England. Here are the other
- [Volunteer Weekend at Sherwood Forest Camp - Help Us Help the Kids](https://www.futureexpat.com/volunteer-weekend-at-sherwood-forest-camp-help-us-help-the-kids/) - Volunteers at Sherwood Forest Camp's 1st Trades Weekend If you can use a paintbrush or a hammer, Sherwood Forest Camp can use your help. I first stepped into Sherwood Forest Camp 25 years ago. I stopped at a table in the middle of Brady Commons at Mizzou and met Mary Rogers, the camp director
- [Karen's Favorite Hotel - Thornbury Castle Hotel](https://www.futureexpat.com/thornbury-castle-hotel/) - I've always wanted to spend the night in a castle. When I visited England in 2010, I decided to make it happen. Castle hotels are expensive, so the plan was to find a castle not too far from London where we were spending the majority of the vacation, and book just one night. We ended
- [In Search of Zair Pottery](https://www.futureexpat.com/in-search-of-zair-pottery/) - I don't know about you, but I always try to bring home a memento or 2 from each city I visit. When I visited England in 2010, I spent a couple of days in the wonderful village of Thornbury. Before heading out of town, we went exploring and wandered into a small boutique with gifts
- [What Dogs Can Teach Us about Living](https://www.futureexpat.com/what-dogs-can-teach-us-about-living/) - Photo Credit: Oscar Rincon A lot of junk floats around on Facebook. But there are some gems too. This story was posted by Divine Essence of Life. Thank you Jennifer Bernstein for sharing it so I could see it. WHY DOGS LIVE LESS THAN HUMAN ? ANSWER OF A 6 YEAR OLD This story Melt My
- [International Travel - Don't Forget Your Passport](https://www.futureexpat.com/international-travel-dont-forget-your-passport/) - If you travel often enough, there are things that are bound to happen to you eventually. While most of my trips have gone smoothly, some of the travel mishaps I’ve had over the years include: Having my luggage sent to the wrong city Having my luggage take several days to make it back home after
- [Mexico-Belize Vacation: Chetumal Attractions](https://www.futureexpat.com/mexico-belize-vacation-chetumal-attractions/) - Don’t miss the beginning of the trip…read about the trip in order. Trip planning 1 Trip Planning 2 Don't Forget Your Passport Getting There If you read the earlier posts listed above, you know the whole reason for this trip was to visit my brother who is living in Mahahual, Mexico. While Chetumal is not
- [Mexico-Belize Vacation: Getting Around](https://www.futureexpat.com/mexico-belize-vacation-getting-around/) - Water taxi ride between San Pedro and Belize City Planning international trips is almost as much fun as going on them. But some of the logistics are harder to sort out than others. Figuring out how to get from one place to another is the one area that I find the most challenging. Here's a

## Pages

- [Homepage](https://www.futureexpat.com/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ custom_padding=”2px|0px|50.4688px|0px|false|false”][et_pb_row custom_padding=”0|0px|21px|0px|false|false” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.futureexpat.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Header-1000-wide.png” _builder_version=”3.5.1″] [/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding=”0|0px|24px|0px|false|false” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.futureexpat.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/recipes.png” show_bottom_space=”off” _builder_version=”3.5.1″] [/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_testimonial author=”Gerry” job_title=”Grilled Pork Chops with Apple Brown Sugar Sauce” _builder_version=”3.5.1″]Wow, I loved the pork chops prepared this way. They were so good,
- [eBay Store](https://www.futureexpat.com/ebay-store/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.5.1″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.5.1″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.5.1″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″] Browse the items below, then click the pictures to get more information or purchase. Everything isn’t posted here, and I’ve got things that aren’t even listed on eBay yet, so contact me if you are looking for something specific. Or browse my full eBay store. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog fullwidth=”off” _builder_version=”3.5.1″ include_categories=”277″][/et_pb_blog][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Main Dish](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipes/main-dish/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″] Karen’s Main Dish Recipes: Vegetarian main dishes are listed separately. This page lists beef, pork, poultry, fish and seafood recipes. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”20″ include_categories=”268″ show_author=”off” show_date=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” fullwidth=”off” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_sidebar _builder_version=”3.5.1″ area=”et_pb_widget_area_1″ /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Jewish](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipes/jewish/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″] Jewish Recipes: I don’t keep kosher, so some of these recipes may need to be modified to make them meet kosher dietary laws. Many of these recipes will also work for Passover even if they don’t have Passover in the title. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”20″ include_categories=”266″ show_author=”off” show_date=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” fullwidth=”off” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column
- [Pantry](https://www.futureexpat.com/pantry/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″] Pantry Recipes: [/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”20″ include_categories=”258″ show_author=”off” show_date=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” fullwidth=”off” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_sidebar _builder_version=”3.5.1″ area=”et_pb_widget_area_10″ /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Vegetables](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipes/vegetables/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″ background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”] Vegetable Recipes: [/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”20″ include_categories=”271″ show_author=”off” show_date=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” fullwidth=”off” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_sidebar _builder_version=”3.5.1″ area=”et_pb_widget_area_7″ /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Side Dishes](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipes/side-dishes/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″] Side Dish Recipes: Vegetable recipes are listed in the Vegetable category, not here. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”20″ include_categories=”270″ show_author=”off” show_date=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” fullwidth=”off” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_sidebar _builder_version=”3.5.1″ area=”et_pb_widget_area_3″ /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Breakfast](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipes/breakfast/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″] Breakfast Recipes: [/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”20″ include_categories=”264″ show_author=”off” show_date=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” fullwidth=”off” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_sidebar _builder_version=”3.5.1″ area=”et_pb_widget_area_5″ /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Appetizers](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipes/appetizers/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″] Appetizer Recipes: [/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”20″ include_categories=”259″ show_author=”off” show_date=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” fullwidth=”off” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_sidebar _builder_version=”3.5.1″ area=”et_pb_widget_area_2″ /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Main Dishes (Vegetarian)](https://www.futureexpat.com/main-dish-vegetarian/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″] Vegetarian Main Dish Recipes: I am not a vegetarian. It’s possible these recipes may include ingredients like chicken stock. These recipes are basically my meatless main dishes or hearty side dishes that could serve as a main dish. They may need to be adjusted for someone who is a strict vegetarian.
- [Desserts](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipes/desserts/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″] DESSERTS: [/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”20″ include_categories=”265″ show_author=”off” show_date=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” fullwidth=”off” /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_sidebar _builder_version=”3.5.1″ area=”et_pb_widget_area_8″ /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Bread and Muffins](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipes/bread-muffins/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″] Bread ~ Muffins ~ Bread Casseroles: All of my bread recipes are quick breads and don’t require yeast! [/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ include_categories=”263″ show_author=”off” show_date=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” fullwidth=”off” posts_number=”20″ /][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_sidebar _builder_version=”3.5.1″ area=”et_pb_widget_area_4″ /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Recipes](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipes/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.5.1″] Karen’s Recipes: [/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”100″ include_categories=”259,263,264,265,266,268,269,60,258,270,271″ show_author=”off” show_date=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” fullwidth=”off” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Recipe Roundups](https://www.futureexpat.com/recipe-roundups/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”100″ fullwidth=”off” include_categories=”273″ show_author=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Pets](https://www.futureexpat.com/pets/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ include_categories=”81,196,63″ fullwidth=”off” posts_number=”100″ show_author=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Pet Rescue](https://www.futureexpat.com/pet-rescue/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”100″ include_categories=”196″ fullwidth=”off” show_author=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Milo](https://www.futureexpat.com/milo/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”100″ include_categories=”81″ fullwidth=”off” show_author=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Life](https://www.futureexpat.com/life/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”100″ include_categories=”50″ fullwidth=”off” show_author=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Karen's Diary](https://www.futureexpat.com/karens-diary/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”100″ include_categories=”274″ fullwidth=”off” show_author=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Food Talk](https://www.futureexpat.com/food-talk/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”100″ include_categories=”246″ fullwidth=”off” show_author=”off” show_date=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Blogging Tips](https://www.futureexpat.com/blogging-tips/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_blog _builder_version=”3.5.1″ posts_number=”100″ include_categories=”198″ fullwidth=”off” show_author=”off” show_categories=”off” show_comments=”on” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Contact](https://www.futureexpat.com/contact/) - Got a question? Have a recipe question? Maybe you just want to tell me how much you like my blog or about your latest trip. Drop me a line in the form blow, or find me on Facebook.
- [Trips and Travel Archive](https://www.futureexpat.com/travel/) - Considering that this blog started out as a travel diary, I haven't done a very good job of sharing my trip experiences. I have loads of pictures from prior trips, and plan to get around to sharing them one of these days. I've put together a travel archive for this website so you can find
- [Meet Karen](https://www.futureexpat.com/meet-karen/) - Me with my Mercedes rental car on my trip to England before I went out on a limb and cut my hair short. Hi. I'm Karen Goodman. I started my first website in November 2007. At the time, I didn't even know what a blog was and had no clue why there was a little orange
- [Disclaimer & Legal Stuff](https://www.futureexpat.com/disclaimer-legal-stuff/) - Everything published on this site is original content and is purely the opinion of the author. Efforts are made to provide factual information to help readers, but no information is guaranteed. I might not remember or understand all of the details important to you, or products or services may have changed. Before using the information
- [Hire Karen](https://www.futureexpat.com/hire-karen/) - I have been marketing my real estate business through websites, blogs and social media since 2007. I built a successful business through online marketing during the worst housing market in history. Maybe I can help your business too. Some of the things that I can do for business clients is: Brand ambassador Website strategy consulting

## Safe Redirect Manager

- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/%year%/%monthnum%/%postname%/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2012/01/let-your-dog-run-in-a-st-louis-dog-park/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2012/01/breakfast-all-day/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2012/01/52-things-to-do-in-st-louis/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2012/02/restaurant-delivery-to-university-city-mo/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2012/05/farmer-market-season-arrives-in-st-louis/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2012/05/international-food-shopping-in-st-louis-global-foods/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/02/st-louis-catering-company-ces-and-judys/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/02/snow-days-in-st-louis-sledding-on-art-hill/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/02/coming-soon-new-central-west-end-restaurant-the-block/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/02/shopping-resale/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/02/coffee-in-the-central-west-end-northwest-coffee/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/03/mo-energy-star-tax-holiday-april-19-25-where-can-you-avoid-city-taxes-in-st-louis/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/03/cost-of-living-comparison-st-louis/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/03/video-interview-pi-pizzeria/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/03/dim-sum-choices-in-st-louis/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/03/university-city-mo-tradition-frank-helens-pizzeria/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/03/st-louis-program-to-recycle-your-plastic-garden-pots-and-trays/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/03/st-louis-central-west-end-new-restaurants-opening-soon/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/07/10-st-louis-unique-favorite-restaurant-meals/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/08/amys-corner-bakeshop-st-louis/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/08/the-block-in-central-west-end/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/08/st-louis-free-summer-concerts/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/09/st-louis-restaurant-review-vino-nadoz-wine-bar/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/09/st-louis-restaurant-review-twin-oak-wood-fired-fare/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2013/10/top-12-wifi-cafes-coffee-shops-st-louis/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2014/01/st-louis-city-snow-plowing/)
- [Auto Draft](https://www.futureexpat.com/2014/01/local-harvest-closing/)

## Categories

- [Trip Planning](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/travel/trip-planning/)
- [Trips](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/travel/trips/)
- [Road Trips](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/travel/road-trips/)
- [Travel](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/travel/)
- [Life](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/life/)
- [My Recipes](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/recipes/)
- [Pets](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/pets/)
- [Milo](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/pets/milo/)
- [England (2010)](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/travel/trips/england-2010-trips/)
- [Mexico (2010)](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/travel/trips/mexico-2010-trips/)
- [Mexico-Belize (2011)](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/travel/trips/mexico-belize-2011-trips/)
- [Product Reviews](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/product-reviews/)
- [Destin Florida (2013)](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/travel/trips/destin-fl/)
- [Reader Favorites](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/featured/)
- [Pet Rescue](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/pets/pet-rescue/)
- [Blogger Tips](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/bloggers/)
- [Las Vegas Road Trip (2014)](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/travel/trips/las-vegas-road-trip-2014/)
- [Food Talk](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/food-talk/)
- [Pantry](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/recipes/pantry/)
- [Appetizers](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/recipes/appetizers/)
- [Bread-Muffins](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/recipes/bread-muffins/)
- [Breakfast](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/recipes/breakfast/)
- [Desserts](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/recipes/desserts/)
- [Jewish](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/recipes/jewish/)
- [Main Dish](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/recipes/main-dish/)
- [Main Dish (Vegetarian)](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/recipes/main-dish-veg/)
- [Side Dish](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/recipes/side-dish/)
- [Vegetables](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/recipes/vegetables/)
- [Recipe Finds](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/recipe-finds/)
- [Recipe Roundups](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/roundups/)
- [Karen's Diary](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/diary/)
- [eBay](https://www.futureexpat.com/category/ebay/)

## Tags

- [Mexico](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/mexico/)
- [Video](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/video/)
- [London](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/london/)
- [Merida](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/merida/)
- [Mahahual](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/mahahual/)
- [Playa del Carmen](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/playa-del-carmen/)
- [Puerto Morelos](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/puerto-morelos/)
- [Bucket List](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/bucket-list/)
- [My Childhood](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/childhood/)
- [Thornbury](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/thornbury/)
- [Chetumal](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/chetumal/)
- [Ruins & Historic Sites](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/ruins-historic-sites/)
- [Laguna Bacular](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/laguna-bacular/)
- [Language](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/language/)
- [Belize](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/belize/)
- [San Pedro](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/san-pedro/)
- [Goal Setting](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/goal-setting/)
- [Events](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/events/)
- [Healthy Food](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/healthy-food/)
- [Kansas City](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/kansas-city/)
- [Pantry](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/pantry/)
- [Fulton MO](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/fulton-mo/)
- [Souvenirs](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/souvenirs/)
- [Movies](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/movies/)
- [Moving](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/moving/)
- [Adopt a Pet](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/adopt-a-pet/)
- [Kitchen](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/kitchen/)
- [Home Improvement](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/home-improvement/)
- [Healthy Living](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/healthy-living/)
- [Fruit](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/fruit/)
- [Green Living](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/green-living/)
- [Photos](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/photos/)
- [Passport](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/passport/)
- [Resale Shopping](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/resale-shopping/)
- [Pinterest](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/pinterest/)
- [Reuse & Recycle](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/reuse-recycle/)
- [Indianapolis](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/indianapolis/)
- [Home Decor](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/home-decor/)
- [Coffee](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/coffee/)
- [Sherwood Forest Camp](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/sherwood-forest-camp/)
- [Volunteer](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/volunteer/)
- [Tech](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/tech/)
- [Guest Post](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/guest-post/)
- [Hotels](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/hotels/)
- [England](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/england/)
- [Guatemala](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/guatemala/)
- [Charities](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/charities/)
- [Real Estate](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/real-estate/)
- [Style](https://www.futureexpat.com/tag/style/)
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