Whitaker Music Festival

This Wednesday had the pleasure of the most stunning day and by good fortune had a fun activity planned to take full advantage.  If you live in the St. Louis area, you have no doubt heard about the Whitaker Music Festival at the Missouri Botanical Gardens.  This free event allows for beautiful scenery and fun music all for free.  Here a few pictures to give you a taste.

Of course no picnic is complete without yummy nibbles!

I made this addictive dip after a friend brought it to our end of the year party.  She had found it from our favorite place: PINTEREST!  Here is the original recipe. I did substitute the sour cream for low-fat Greek yogurt to make it a bit more healthy as well as changed up the corn ratio: 1 can of mixed sweet corn, 1 can of corn with peppers, and 1 can with poblano peppers.  Finally I sprinkled in some paprika and cilantro for added flavor.  Delish!  I love these recipes because it mostly dump, stir, and chill...doesn't get easier than that!

Of course no picnic is complete without a little something sweet.  This came in the form of chocolate chip banana cookies!!!!  Again here is the original recipe found from pinterest. I did all the suggested healthy substitutions: whole wheat flour, applesauce, and honey.  Next time I might do a mix of brown and white sugar or perhaps just add a bit more banana.  It was great munching on a healthy treat which I may have even snuck in a few for breakfast the next morning!

I hope you are taking advantage of the lovely summer warmth with friends and family.  

Happy Friday!