• The Art of Home Dining Experiences with Guest Karen Emanulsen
    Apr 9 2025

    In this episode of Two Porches and a Pour, hosts Lynn Vogeler and Wendy McMonigle welcome Karen Emanuelson, who shares her journey of hosting dinner experiences in her home with her husband, Ken. The conversation explores the creative process behind planning themed dinners, the logistics of hosting, and the dynamics of working with a partner in the kitchen. Karen discusses the importance of guest interaction, the challenges faced during events, and how travel influences her culinary creations. The episode concludes with insights on pricing, guest engagement, and the personal growth that comes from hosting.

    You can find Karen and Ken @

    @1310DinnerExperience on Instagram

    1310 Dinner Experience on Facebook

    Contact Karen: karenman@gmail.com

    • Chapters

      00:00 Introduction to Themed Dinner Parties
      01:06 The Journey of Hosting Dinner Experiences
      06:16 Planning and Execution of Dinner Events
      12:14 The Role of Themes and Menu Selection
      19:47 Overcoming Challenges in Dinner Hosting
      22:41 The Importance of Flavor in Culinary Experiences
      23:49 Exploring the Five-Course Dinner Structure
      25:12 Facilitating Connections Among Guests
      27:11 The Dynamics of Cooking Together
      30:48 Building a Successful Dinner Experience
      35:06 Adapting Menus for Dietary Needs

    dinner parties, hosting, culinary experiences, event planning, food themes, creative cooking, guest interaction, relationship building, challenges in hosting, culinary inspiration






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    39 mins
  • More Buying at Estate Sales, Thrift Shops and Yard Sales: The Joy of Finding Treasures
    Apr 2 2025

    In this engaging conversation, Lynn and Wendy share their love of shopping for a treasures at bargain prices. Today they walk us through estate sales, thrift store and yard sale shopping. They talk about some of their favorite purchases along with their love of knowing the story behind their finds. The conversation also touches on their weekend plans, and the excitement of finding treasures in unexpected places.

    bargain hunting, estate sales, thrift stores, vintage finds, home decor, shopping tips, weekend plans, wine, gardening




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    14 mins
  • Buying and Selling on Facebook Marketplace: Bargain Hunting Adventures
    Mar 26 2025

    In this fun conversation, Lynn and Wendy share their experiences and insights on bargain hunting on Facebook Marketplace. They discuss their favorite finds, the thrill of discovering unique items, and the joy of shopping for a good deal. The conversation also touches on personal stories, weekend plans, and the excitement of finding treasures in unexpected places.

    Austin Hope - Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon

    Gerard Bertrand Cote des Roses Rose



    bargain hunting, Facebook Marketplace, vintage finds, home decor, shopping tips, wine, gardening




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    26 mins
  • Soil, Seasons, and Stories: Gardening Across Climate Zones
    Mar 19 2025

    In this episode of 'Two Porches and a Pour', hosts Wendy McMonigle and Lynn Vogeler discuss their gardening experiences, focusing on seasonal preparations, soil health, pest control, and creative gardening techniques. They share personal stories of gardening disasters, insights into vegetable gardening, and methods for dealing with wildlife. The conversation highlights the differences in gardening practices between California and Illinois, emphasizing the unique challenges and joys of gardening in different climates.

    Takeaways

    • Wendy and Lynn live in different gardening zones, affecting their gardening practices.
    • Soil health is crucial for successful gardening; both hosts use different methods to amend their soil.
    • Gardening disasters are common; both hosts share their experiences with plant diseases and pests.
    • Creative techniques, like using tomato cages for zucchini, can optimize space and reduce mildew.
    • Pest control is a significant concern; both hosts use various methods to protect their gardens from wildlife and insects.
    • Starting seeds indoors can extend the growing season, especially in colder climates.
    • Organic gardening practices are important to both hosts, considering environmental impacts.
    • Vegetable gardening can be rewarding, with different crops thriving in different climates.
    • Personal experiences and gardening journals help track successes and failures in gardening.
    • Community and sharing gardening tips can enhance the gardening experience.

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Introduction to Gardening Conversations
      02:29 Gardening Zones and Seasonal Preparations
      05:06 Soil Preparation and Planting Techniques
      08:58 Gardening Challenges and Pest Management
      13:50 Vegetable Gardening and Crop Success
      18:38 Creative Solutions for Deer and Pests
      23:22 Final Thoughts and Future Gardening Plans

    gardening, seasonal preparation, soil health, vegetable gardening, pest control, gardening disasters, creative gardening, organic gardening, gardening tips, gardening techniques




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    30 mins
  • Wine, Woes, and Wisdom: A Chat on Frustrations
    Mar 12 2025

    Summary:

    In this episode of 'Two Porches in a Pour', Lynn and Wendy discuss various frustrations that come with everyday life, from customer service woes to household chaos. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with technology, pet peeves in relationships, and the generational shift in household responsibilities. The conversation flows into coping mechanisms for everyday annoyances and ends with a look ahead to gardening and future topics.

    Important Links:

    • Cooper & Thief
    • Wilhelm Walch "Prendo" Pinot Grigio

    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction and Wine Talk
    04:16 Frustrations of the Week
    07:54 Household Chaos and Organization
    15:19 Pet Peeves and Annoyances
    22:21 Cultural Differences and Personal Space
    24:05 Reflections on Relationships and Responsibilities







    frustrations, customer service, household chaos, technology, pet peeves, generational changes, gardening, relationship dynamics




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    28 mins
  • The Champagne Chronicles: History and Culture
    Mar 5 2025

    In this engaging conversation, Wendy and Lynn explore the world of champagne and sparkling wines with their guest Mark Harris. They discuss the differences between champagne, Prosecco, and sparkling wines, Mark delves into the history and laws surrounding champagne production, and share personal anecdotes about their favorite sparkling wines. The discussion highlights the cultural significance of bubbles in celebrations and the joy they bring to everyday life. Mark's extensive knowledge and passion for the subject shine through as he shares insights and recommendations, making this a delightful and informative episode for wine enthusiasts.

    Resources/Links Mentioned:

    · Binny's Liquor Store
    · Bev Mo
    · Total Wine's and More

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Introduction to Bubbles and Guests
      03:05 The Art of Champagne and Sparkling Wines
      05:53 Understanding the Champagne Region and Its Laws
      09:05 Popular Sparkling Wines and Their Stories
      11:57 Celebrating Life with Bubbles
      15:06 The Cultural Significance of Champagne
      17:59 Personal Stories and Recommendations
      21:00 Conclusion and Reflections on Bubbles

    #champagne #sparkling wine #Prosecco #Cava #Gruet #Schramsberg #Pol Roger #wine laws #bubbles #celebration









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    28 mins
  • Post-Holiday Refresh: Decluttering and Decorating
    Feb 26 2025

    In this engaging conversation, Wendy and Lynn discuss their favorite wines, the joy of refreshing home decor after the holidays, and the importance of intentional decorating. They share tips on seasonal changes, creative storage solutions, and affordable art ideas. The duo also explores spring preparations, elegant Easter decorations, innovative lighting solutions, and laundry hacks for fresh sheets, all while emphasizing the beauty of bringing nature indoors with floral inspirations.

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Sipping and Sharing: Wine Conversations
      02:49 Post-Holiday Refresh: Decluttering and Decorating
      05:53 Intentional Decor: Seasonal Changes and Color Palettes
      08:58 Creative Storage Solutions: Pillows and Vintage Finds
      12:11 Art and Ambiance: Affordable Decor Ideas
      14:55 Spring Preparations: Porches and Outdoor Spaces
      17:58 Easter Elegance: Classy Decorations and Timeless Style
      20:59 Innovative Lighting: USB Shelf Lamps and Candle Tips
      23:49 Fresh Sheets and Spring Vibes: Laundry Hacks
      26:47 Floral Inspirations: Bringing Nature Indoors

    wine, home decor, seasonal changes, decluttering, decorating tips, spring cleaning, Easter decorations, affordable art, lighting solutions, laundry hacks





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    33 mins