Summer break is finally here! It’s that special time when schools close their doors, and families start dreaming about summer vacations and relaxing days ahead. But summer isn’t just for kicking back—it’s also a great chance to prepare for the fall and think about goals for the year to come.
For many teens, summer is the perfect time to find a part-time job. Not only does it help pass the time, but it also teaches responsibility, independence, and the value of earning money.
When my kids were younger and wanted to buy something special, I would always ask them to figure out how many hours they’d need to work to pay for it. It was a great way to encourage budgeting and saving for a “rainy day.”
If continuing education is in the plan, summer is also a good time to take extra classes. West Virginia University at Parkersburg offers courses both in person and online, allowing students to get a head start on college credits before high school graduation.
Setting goals is one of the most important things you can do. Think of goals as your personal roadmap—they give direction and help you stay focused. Remember, a goal is just a dream with a deadline.
Aim high and keep a positive attitude as you work toward your dreams. Some goals might feel big, others smaller, but always challenge yourself. When you accomplish something, there’s no better feeling than saying, “I did it, and I’m proud!”
Here’s to a fun, productive summer and a fresh start in the fall. Until next week!
Kiki’s Favorite Recipes
Zucchini Pie
- 2 unbaked pie shells
- 2 pounds zucchini
- 1/4 pound mushrooms
- 1 large onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons sherry
- 1/2 teaspoon each: basil, thyme, oregano, ginger
- 4 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 1/2 cups grated cheese
Chop the vegetables and sauté in butter until just tender. Add sherry and seasonings. Beat the eggs and mix with cheese, then combine with the veggies. Pour into pie shells and bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes.
Vegetable Pie Option
- 10 oz frozen chopped broccoli
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped pepper
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup Bisquick
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Ground pepper
Mix broccoli, onions, pepper, and meat in a greased pie plate or casserole dish. Blend Bisquick, milk, eggs, salt, and pepper, then pour over the mixture. Sprinkle cheese on top and bake at 400°F for 35-40 minutes until set.
Stromboli
- 1 loaf frozen bread dough
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 oz American cheese
- 4 oz Genoa salami
- 4 oz thinly sliced pepperoni
- 4 oz grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon oregano
Let the dough thaw and rise for 4 hours with the lid on. Flour your counter and stretch the dough into a 15×10 inch rectangle. Beat egg with Parmesan and garlic powder and brush over the dough.
Layer cheeses and meats on one side, sprinkle with oregano, then roll the dough tightly to seal. Brush the top with the egg mixture. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes on a greased, floured baking sheet. Cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This freezes well!
