THE JOURNEY CONTINUES

Tortilla Soup = Satisfying!

2012-02-06T20:56:00.000-08:00

These crisp, chilly evenings have made it a perfect time for some Fresh Tortilla Soup. This recipe is so easy to make, and packed full of nutrition. It has become my "go to" recipe when I am chilled and craving a cup of coffee… but so much better for me than coffee, and very satisfying! I even eat it out of a coffee mug...

INGREDIENTS:

· 1 can of vegetable broth (or chicken / beef)

· 1 cup water

· 1 Roma Tomato

· 1 Carrot

· 1 Stalk of Celery

· 1 thin slice of Onion

· 1 Garlic Clove

· ½ of a Yellow Squash

· ½ of Red Bell Pepper

· ½ Fresh Jalapeno (optional)

· 2 Mushrooms

· Salt & Pepper to taste

· ½ tsp. Cumin

· 1 tsp. Taco Seasoning

Additional Ingredients:

· 1 bunch Cilantro (chopped)

· ¼ cup Black Olives

· ½ cup Corn – drained

· ½ cup Black Beans (drained)

· 2 oz Tortilla Chips

1 ½ Avocado, cut into larger chunks - added after soup dished into bowls

High Power Blender: This recipe is super easy with a high powered blender. Just add the top ingredients in the order they are listed, chopping larger vegies in half, and blend 5-7 minutes, until heavy steam comes out. Then turn to low variable speed and add remaining ingredients, blend for about 10 seconds.

Stove Top: Chop vegetables listed in top ingredients and add to pot of broth and water. Cover and bring to boil. Lower heat and simmer until carrot chunks are soft. Add seasonings. Using an immersion /hand blender, or batches in regular blender (let cool to avoid burns) – blend ingredients until desired consistency. Return to heat. Return to simmer and add remaining ingredients. No blender? Try using a potato masher once the vegies are soft.

This is one of those recipes that you can adjust to how you like it. Play with it and find what you like... and then kick back and enjoy the warmth it brings.

Coco Banana Nut Frosty

2012-02-03T14:19:00.000-08:00

Sweet Treat!

It finally happened... after a month on our new eating plan, I finally had a chocolate craving...
and I satisfied it!

Coco Banana Nut Frosty (no sugar, no dairy)

1 cup almond milk
1 tbsp almond butter
1/4 cup cocoa powder
2 bananas
Ice

Add the above ingredients to high powered blender.
Makes 2 delicious smoothies that you don't have to feel guilty about.

Basil-Pear-Almond-Pecan Salad Dressing

2012-01-30T11:31:00.000-08:00

This salad dressing was inspired by my favorite fresh salad available at Trader Joe's called “Field Fresh Salad”. It’s the Basil dressing they use that make it so enticing to me.

But now that big salads are a part of everyday life, TJ’s are no longer an option due to the cost, calories and lack of convenience. Making my own is so much more satisfying, healthy and money saving.

And now, I've come up with my own Super Fresh Basil Dressing!

Basil-Pear-Almond-Pecan Salad Dressing

Fresh Basil – about 2 sprigs

1 lg. bosc pear (any juicy pear would be fine)

½ c. raw almonds

¼ c. pecans

This makes a few servings of another light, nutty dressing and the fresh basil makes it like no other!

You won’t want to go back to the heavy, oily, artery clogging chemicals!

Cucumber - Nut Salad Dressing

2012-01-28T13:32:00.000-08:00

Salads can be a challenge when avoiding processed salad dressings. At first, I thought I would simply resort to Bsalmic Vinegar and EVOO, but have recently learned that vinegar is a known migraine trigger.
I am working at eliminating common triggers in my own diet to determine what are actual triggers for me. So for now, Hasta la vista vinegar!

But this created a dilemma. How do you eat healthy salads if you can’t have chemical filled processed dressings (even the natural ones have ingredients I have to avoid) or even vinegar? Personally, I can’t gag down a dry salad. No way.

Oh, and did I mention that cheese/dairy are common triggers as well?
Enough said.

So I’ve had to get creative. In the last couple of weeks I have discovered an alternative that I love and that is extremely simple. We buy natural almond butter at Costco. A spoonful of that diluted with some warm water, and presto! …. A healthy creamy salad dressing is born! This was inspired by the salads that I love at Thai restaurants that are topped with deliciously rich, creamy peanut sauces (that probably have a lot of oil in them).

But today I experimented and have come up with by far the most amazing salad dressing I have ever had! Okay, so maybe it wouldn’t be as amazing to you – but as my palette is changing from avoiding “convenience foods”, it doesn’t take that much to excite me these days.

In my Vitamix, I threw in:

½ of a cucumber
½ cup of raw almonds
¼ cup of pecans
few raisins (maybe 10)

It came out as a very light and creamy nutty topping with a hint of sweet. Because of the cucumber, it makes a good amount so you can POUR it on your salad instead of having to spritz or have it on the side for ‘dipping’ as most diets suggest.

What's your favorite healthy salad dressing?

Even in the Small Things

2012-01-27T09:54:00.000-08:00

This morning as I was walking, I passed by a tree that was totally covered with frost. It was so stunning that I had to stop and turn around for a second look. There were buds already, brilliantly covered with beautiful bright, crisp, minute icicles. I contemplated taking a picture right then, but kept walking since there were neighbors out and about. I decided that my camera wouldn’t have been able to capture the beauty, and really, I have so many pictures already…. Who would want to see one of frosty tree buds?

My heart is heavy this morning, as I have a few friends going through some really tough things – so tough that I found myself weeping as I prayed for them.

As I opened up a new devotional to restore my soul, the message was meant for me… and meant for me to share.

From Daily Readings for Difficult Days by Jennifer Carter:

“ … as I innocently bustled my way…. I see the light catching the branches of a tree – nothing surprising you may say. What struck me is that, even now, before the harshest day of winter has come, the buds of next year's leaves are already furled up waiting for that first warm day of spring.

Even in our darkest times there is the promise of something better to come, if we can only believe and stand firm. As surely as the seasons come and go, so the dark times eventually pass and a brighter time arrives.

Yet just as in the winter it is so hard to remember the feel of the warm sun beating down on your skin, in the dark times we need to remember that God is faithful and He promises to be with us through the darkest of days.”

Of course, after reading such a beautiful analogy, I had to go back and take a picture of the tree branches before all of the frost melted to share with my friend…. And now you.

‘ And surely I am with you always,
to the very end of the age. ’
~ Matthew 28:20

Extreme Migraines call for Extreme Measures

2012-01-25T16:19:00.000-08:00

Up until this point, I haven’t been inspired to continue posting on my blog. The last few years have been filled with chronic pain and fatigue, and really, other than the day to day happenings of being ‘Mama’, there wasn’t a lot new and exciting going on. It took all I had just to get through each day.

Oh yeah, the chickens have been fun for us, but really, there’s only so much you can post on that before people start thinking you’re crazy.

But I’m so excited to report that things are improving rapidly in my life and I am so thankful! Jeff and I have started out the new year with a new lifestyle. And yes, maybe we are a bit crazy with this one. We have eliminated caffeine, sugar, dairy from our diets, as well as most meats. I know! CRAZY!!! But let me say that it has been the best month health wise for both of us. We feel so good! (recently, we both ate meat and cheese, and both times could definitely tell how much worse we felt after….). No worries, we are getting plenty of protein, calcium, etc from the foods we are eating. We take vitamin D supplements since we don't have much sunshine now, and the small amount of meats that we will eat will give us the B12 that we need.

It’s been over 3 weeks now, and it is so much easier than I thought it would be. Really, I wasn’t sure if we would last this long. But we aren’t hungry – we eat a LOT – and our tastebuds are changing. Food that we used to love doesn’t taste the same, it tastes salty and gross, and we are finding that we don’t even want it. We both have lost more weight than what we thought possible without an extreme exercise plan – and because of our new found energy we are finding that we are becoming more active and are looking forward to family hikes and such.

Get this… I ENJOY waking up with Jeff in the still dark hours of morning to make his breakfast and meals for the day. Mornings used to be the hardest part of the day for me as waking up in constant pain is exhausting and discouraging. Now I bounce out of bed ready to start the day!

Best of all, I feel inspired – to be a better wife, mom, and all that God created me to be. Kate’s giggles this morning as I ran up our hill ahead of her were priceless. She was in shock and delighted at the same time, and she couldn’t wait to share with the other people at the bus stop.

If I feel this good in just a few short weeks, what’s the rest of the year going to be like for me?? I am excited to find out!

What has inspired us?

Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead (a documentary found on Netflix)
Eat to Live – book by Joel Fuhrman (available at Amazon)
Vitamix – my new fun blender that we invested in when we knew that this was going to be a lifestyle for us.

Rejoicing This Christmas

2010-12-17T01:41:00.000-08:00

I am blessed. There are so many things in my life to be thankful for right now. I am loving the anticipation for Christmas.

Though I hadn't planned on doing much decorating this year, somehow we keep doing more and more. A light fixture here, the card tree there, tonight the Nativity. Though I love all the colors, ribbons and being creative - I think I would be just as content with simply the Nativity up. That's what my eye keeps going to, even in a room full of lights and twinkles and ribbons and...

The Nativity.

The Reason for the Season.

This has become one of my best Christmas Season's ever. Yes, I have known great loss, but maybe it's from that loss that I can realize the great love that I have in so many areas of my life. It has been a goal for Jeff and me this Christmas season to keep things simple... to keep the Main Thing the Main Thing. In a time when there is stress and chaos all around us, and technology that can easily consume us, it isn't always an easy feat.

Yet when I focus on Jesus - His birth, His teachings, His love, His sacrifice - then all those things that bombard me lose their draw. My focus changes.

I don't have the desire to fight traffic and crowds for those perfect gifts... but what I love more than anything is sweet time with my family and friends. This season, this is my priority - for my time to be well spent on the those whom I hold dear. Even with the miles that separate, I hope my family and friends know just how much they mean to me.

Relationships. Encouragement. Love.
Remembering our Savior, and celebrating His birth.
Humming my favorite carols...

"O come, O come, Emmanuel

And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel."

... and rejoicing this Christmas.

A couple of Chelsea's ornaments

He's a professional you know...

Last year's 'after Christmas' super cheap poinsettas.

They don't like to have their picture taken.

My cozy evening. I am thankful.

Joyful Surrender

2010-12-08T10:41:00.000-08:00

It’s one of those times again…. I have been sensing change on the horizon. The Lord has been doing a work in me. Thankfully, it’s been a gentle work, rather than my whole world crashing in around me as it did a few years ago during Chelsea’s battle with cancer.

This change is different. I am different. I am changed – because of what He showed us those last several years. The things we had to endure were horrible, devastating in many ways. Yet at the same time, we got to see the Lord move in a magnificent way.

So now, I trust Him.

I don’t know what the future holds, but I am at peace. There is a contentment even, in knowing that I don’t have to worry. God knows what I need better than I do. My focus simply needs to be on focussing on what is right and true, remembering the promises in His word. (Jer 29:11, Prov. 3:5,6 and so many more…) This time of year, when it’s so easy to get caught up in the chaos.... keeping the main thing the main thing is more important than ever.

Today is a new day.

I will face it surrendered, and with much JOY.

CHRISTMAS JOY.

Banana Crepes (Grain Free, Protein Rich)

2010-12-07T12:47:00.000-08:00

Banana Crepes (Grain Free, Protein Rich)

So I saw a great new recipe this morning, and decided to try it out right away. I love the idea of grain free simply because I know so many who are avoiding grains. I was surprised and delighted with the simplicity of this recipe. If it’s catching your eye, let me just say that you probably already have the ingredients on hand.

These Banana Crepes were impressive, and if you’re a foodie, than you’ll love the idea of getting your fruit and protein in such an easy, fast, delicious, REAL food way.

Here’s what you need:

1 Ripened Banana

2 eggs

butter, palm kernel oil, coconut oil or ghee for frying.

Simple Directions:
Heat 1 tablespoon oil or butter in a cast iron or stainless steel skillet over medium-low heat. Mash banana with a fork and then add the eggs and whip with a fork. Spoon the batter into the oil. Once they firm up, flip them once... just as you would a pancake.

At first, I was hesitant to mix the egg and banana flavors, but it really turned out well. It tasted more like crepes than it did egg. I didn’t top with anything this time, but it would be delicious with nutmeg and cinnamon or whatever else you normally would top pancakes with.

It's a great way to use those ripe bananas that you may have in the freezer - just thaw them first.

With a healthy easy breakfast out of the way, I can spend my time on more important things....

Soupas! Portuguese Feast Roast

2010-11-23T11:13:00.000-08:00

This is a recipe that I remember my dad and my uncles getting so excited about. I love how my Grandma Dutra could always bring the family together with a good meal. It has a very distinct aroma and taste, and it seems people either love it or hate it. After my father passed, I went without Soupas for several years, until just a couple of years ago when my cousin made it for the family at the annual Yosemite camping trip. The aroma was amazing, the anticipation as it cooked unbearable... and that first bite.... Delightful! I'm not sure which I like better, the taste, or the wonderful family memories that come flooding back when I smell it cooking.

Ingredients:

•4 lb chuck roast
•oil, salt, pepper, water
•4-6 cloves garlic
•2 med white onions
•4 sticks cinnamon
•3 small cans tomato sauce
•1 ounce or more ground cumin (to taste)
•1 1/2 cups red wine (optional)
• fresh spearmint (as much as you can fit in the pot)
•1 loaf Sourdough Bread

In a little oil, fry roast on each side, adding salt and pepper.

Put roast in a crock pot and cook for a couple of hours. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Add water to 1/2 - 3/4 way up the roast. Add tomato sauce, cumin, cinnamon and mint. Simmer several hours until meat falls apart and sauce thickens. The roast should be covered with liquid. Add the wine for the last hour of cooking. Adjust cumin, cinnamon to taste. If juice is too thick, and more water. If using a chuck roast, it will need at least 8 hours of cooking on high.

Strain and pour over thick slices of toasted sourdough bread. I love the flavor of the sourdough and the sauce together... even more than the beef. Enjoy!

There is a roast under the onions and garlic. Next time, I'm not going to use quite so much water.

Thick slices of sourdough french bread toasted work best...

and definitely make the flavors come together.

Incorporating KALE - Breakfast Scramble

2010-11-09T11:21:00.000-08:00

I love kale, though I have to admit, I’m pretty limited in the ways that I know to prepare it. Yes, I love it in my Calde Verde soup (ground turkey- italian style, potatoes, garlic, onion, kale, italian seasonings)…. but other than in soups, I don’t use it much. Since I don’t use it much, obviously I don’t buy it much. But this year is different, thanks to my garden, and I now have kale that I need to use.

Kale is one of those super foods that I want to incorporate into our diets more. I’ve recently read that it’s “amazingly nutritious”. Amazingly?? Who can pass that up? Kale is great for protecting your health, providing you with a rich source of vitamins and minerals, and preventing cancer.

Here are a few facts that impressed me about this green giant:
It has large amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, B6, manganese, calcium, copper and potassium.

Benefits of vitamin C alone include helping to reduce cell damage that results in inflammation (one of the primary causes of heart disease and autoimmune diseases). It helps to oxidize cholesterol, fight infections, and ladies, it renews collagen in our skin for a “healthy youthful appearance”.

There is so much more, but I realize that not all are interested in such facts. But for those interested, a few minutes googling kale can give you tons of information on how all this nutrition can affect cholesterol, osteoporosis, mental decline, eye damage/cataracts and more.

One of the most impressive facts to me is that the organosulphur compounds have been proven to be highly effective against many cancers, including stomach, colon, breast and ovarian cancers. It seems everyone has been impacted by cancer, and it seems to be happening more and more. I’m not saying kale is a cure for this, but I am willing to recognize it’s benefits and to incorporate it into our meals, hopefully helping our family stay as healthy as possible.

Breakfast Scramble:
1 egg (another superfood for another day)
1/2 tsp of butter (doesn't take much)
1 slice turkey bacon (cut into 1/2" pieces)
2 cloves garlic (that might be a bit much for some, but I love it... also a superfood)
2-3 kale leaves (stem removed, chopped)
2 tbsp Pepperjack cheese (shredded)

I crisp the bacon, add the butter, saute the kale for a few minutes before adding the garlic (more health benefits the less you cook it). I bring it all to the center of the pan. I scramble the egg and pour it over the mixture. I let it cook until mostly solid, and then flip it like a pancake. I sprinkle a small amount of PJcheese on top for that added kick.

Friday Favorites 10/30-11/5

2010-11-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

All in all, it was a good week. Tuesday was rough - but the other days more than made up for it. Here are some of my favorite moments...

Road trip...

Clouds and ponies...

I love entering Warm Springs....

Blue skies and crazy rock formations....

Waterfalls....

And snowball fights....

I'm not alone with my passion for rocks...

The twins hounding...

Bumpy roads...

And hidden mountain tops....

Beautiful ride home...

A new favorite place...

Chicken Phyllo Pie

Moroccan chicken, dried cherry, cinnamon

Beautiful decor that doesn't even compare to my friend....

Stained glass...

Walks with my monkey...

Changing seasons...

And the best company.

Trust in the LORD, and do good;

Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.

Delight yourself also in the LORD,

And He shall give you the desires of your heart.

Psalm 37:3,4

SEVENTEEN

2010-11-02T09:34:00.000-07:00

Continuing with my theme of titling my posts with the first letter of the day of the week, I almost titled today's post, "Teary Tuesday". It's early, but already I can tell it's going to be one of those days (insert big sigh here).

For most, today is simply Election Day - and this is my cue to remind you to get out there and vote. I love how my friend Dave says it, "If you don't exercise your right to vote, you don't have a right to complain!". If only you all could know Dave....

So today would be Chelsea Rae's 17th Birthday. I watch her friends, and wonder what kind of things my baby would be doing. What would her interests be? There's a few given. We probably would be going to the DMV today to test for her driver's license. School would be causing grief and late nights working on projects. There would be lots of giggles, texting and phone conversations - and yet at the same time there would be a maturity as she transformed into a young women. Talk of college and dreams.... and Kate would want you all to know that she was the bestest big sister ever.

Where has the time gone? You should be here with me. I should be teasing you that I’m not going to let you get your drivers license until you’re 30.

New hairstyles, new music, new clothes…

Giggles.

Groans regarding homework and chores.

Drama over the little things.

Prayer over the big things.

Oh how I miss those times.

Today would be your day. Who knows how you would have wanted to celebrate?

I wonder about the little things… what would your favorite color be now. What kind of hair style would you chose. Would you have a rebellious streak, or would you be easy going as you go through these teen years – almost an adult...

Would you still have a heart for worship, or would you be so busy being busy?

I smile as I realize that your heart for worship now far exceeds anything we can grasp here on earth.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My heart aches as I miss my babe. No, this isn’t the way I planned for things to be at this time in my life.
Yet those who have been through trials and hardships – who haven’t given up – those are ones who truly know joy.

I have joy – in the midst of the trials. I have peace, even though I miss my baby. I have faith in God who loves me so much, and supernaturally carries me through. You may argue that He doesn’t care, or maybe even doesn’t exist. But that would be like trying to tell me that my best friend doesn’t exist. His presence has proven itself over and over in my life, so really, it doesn’t matter what others say or think.

I have hope in tomorrow. I have excitement, in the things that God is going to do in my life… and even more so, in the lives of others.

I have eternity.... with my baby.

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying,

'"Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.'

He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then He said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." ~ Revelation 21:1-5

Mellow Monday

2010-11-01T20:32:00.000-07:00

There's nothing quite like a relaxing day after a busy week or two. Time seems to be flying by faster than I can keep up. My Monkey is loving first grade, and I am loving her being in first grade. I had forgotten what quiet time was like, or lunch dates without kiddie menus. About the time I start missing her, it's time for her to come home. School is really working out rather nicely.

Today was one of those sweet days with a sweet friend. We had set up our 'date' a few weeks ago, and the anticipation was fun as I was being taken to a new place. We both loved the historic establishments in the area, and watched a man almost get blown away by a tornado of leaves. The colors were stunning! We laughed, and we laughed some more, not at the man of course. Okay, maybe a little bit at the man. It was mellow, it was easy, and it was nice.

Monday migraines are not so much fun, so when Monkey got home we cuddled and snuggled and made beaded necklaces. More mellow, as it should be.

I've had some blogging ideas that I may incorporate later this week that may be fun...and could help me be a bit more consistant with my random posts. But for now I must go, as Monkey is ready to read "This Little Pumpkin". Time for this Mellow Monday to wind down....

Mellow Monday keywords: Morris, Meriwether, Monkey

Parade of Recipes!

2010-10-29T10:28:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys!

So I'm heading out the door in a few minutes, but couldn't resist posting this link to some great recipes. It's from a blog I follow regularly - Heavenly Homemakers (you can always find the link down on the right of this page).

Several people have all linked together to share some of their favorite recipes, so if you have a blog with recipes, feel free to do the same ( A-hem - Bev - cough cough). It's a fabulous resource for some great real food foods!

http://heavenlyhomemakers.com/heavenly-homemakers-recipe-and-cooking-tips-parade-share-your-recipes/comment-page-1#comment-57414

And the Winner Is....

2010-10-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

Can you guess who the star was in tonight's dinner? Nope, not the pork that cooked all day in the crockpot, then baked in the oven to 'goo-ify' the bbq sauce. No... not the applesauce (yes Kristin, Granny's recipe ;o). That's right, it was the brown rice!

That just doesn't sound right, now does it? But it's true. When preparing the meal, I didn't know what to make to go along with the pork and apples. Plain brown rice just didn't have much appeal. I love brown rice, but normally I make it with curry, or jalapeno mango sausage, or with stir fried vegies. But tonight, I just wasn't prepared. I grew up eating similar meals to this, but with processed applesauce, and even worse, processed rice mixes. Farmhouse Herb & Butter was the family favorite for many years. It wasn't until I was married and cooking that they stopped making it (or at least I couldn't find it in the stores) so we switched to a cheddar broccoli mix. Jeff loved it, and I loved the convenience of simply throwing it in the microwave.

But those mixes are history for us now as many of you know I don't tolerate all the chemicals so well these days. We've moved on to the much healthier option of brown rice. But sometimes brown rice just seems bland.

That's why I was so excited tonight at how well this meal turned out. Earlier in the day I had cut into a mango that just wasn't juicy enough for my smoothie, so I had saved it thinking I'd just eat it later as a snack. (Yes, I realize I have a mango addiction....)

It ended up being the perfect addition to the rice! I also added some fresh garlic, chives and a mini pepper, both fresh from the garden. My bland brown rice that I had cooked was suddenly bursting with delicious, non packaged, flavors!

I am loving how much easier it is becoming to eat REAL foods. I hadn't ever realized just how many processed foods we had eaten, and the adjustment has definitely taken time. But I have learned that it really doesn't have to be that much more work, and we might even be saving some cash in the process. Keeping fresh food in the house is the key, and it really is rewarding when something turns out so much better than expected.... like the star tonight.... Mango Brown Rice. Yum!

What are some of your favorite brown rice recipes?

Pork Loin – Cinnamon Style

2010-10-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

Trader Joe’s had a great price on Pork Loin yesterday, so I decided to surprise Jeff with one of my dinner experiments. I’m sure there are recipes out there somewhere similar to this – I just never seem to take the time to look for them. Anyway, dinner turned out fabulous so I thought I would share a very casual recipe with you. I’m not one to use measurements, but with these ingredients I don’t think it matters much.

I didn’t think to take a picture, but I have to admit, it sure turned out pretty!

In a gallon ziploc bag I added the following ingredients:

Fresh garlic – chopped
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Allspice
Brown Rice Flour (about ¼ cup)

I played with the bag to mix it thoroughly, and then added the pork loin to the bag, played with it some more until the loin was completely coated with the mixture.

Then I seared the loin on all sides in my hot cast iron skillet with a little bit of butter. This only took a few minutes, then I removed the loin and set it into a 9x13.

Next I added a sweet onion (sliced) and a couple gala apples (chunked, skin removed) to the hot pan. I LOVE how cast iron sears for nice crisp edges. I didn’t cook them completely, but just long enough to give them some brown edges. Cast iron is also fun for the sizzle sound factor... my family is always impressed!

I then spooned the onion/apple mix over the pork (mmm… golden raisins would be good tossed in here, and maybe a few pine nuts). I then poured the remaining seasonings from the bag over the top. I covered the pan with aluminum foil and baked at 400 for about 40 minutes. I then removed the foil and baked for another 10 minutes or so, just to dry out the edges a bit.

What resulted was a wonderful, juicy, flavorful festive fall meal that we will have to do again soon. I had some homemade applesauce going while it was baking, along with a vegie mix ( cooked in the same cast iron, as it was just sitting there…) of fresh green beans, zuchinni (yes, both from the garden), onion and turkey bacon seasoned with pepper and garlic.

It didn’t take long, it was easy, and even the cleanup was simple.
Let me know if you decide to try it, or have a similar recipe that you enjoy ;o)

New Every Morning

2010-10-04T12:59:00.000-07:00

So there I am this morning, sitting on this perfect bench. Enjoying the serenity of the crisp fall morning. The geese had spent some time diving for breakfast, and now had moved over to more shallow ground. The fish have begun their breakfast as well, and I watch as several leap out of the air, only to fall back making a most delightful splash. Some are close enough that it seems I can hear the slap as their bodies hit the water. It makes me wish Jeff were sitting here with me, since he is the mighty fisherman and all.

I hadn’t been out of the house much last week due to ‘the crud’, but this morning I had to be up early, not only to get my Monkey to school and prepped for school pictures, but to be at the school to have my picture taken. You see, I get a fancy volunteer badge to wear on the days I go in to help in her class. Monkey is especially excited about this ‘offiical identity’ I will have, and she hopes that I get the gray background like she chose to have for her pictures this year. She makes me giggle. (Side note: So how come we didn’t ever get to chose colors and backgrounds for our pictures?)

So having had cabin fever the last several days made this morning especially nice. I had expected rain, so to have sunshine was a sweet treat, and it was my intention to soak up as much of it as I could.

The park was quiet except for the wildlife. It was perfect. I sat there praising and thanking the Lord for my family. As I’m thinking about Jeff, I get a sweet text from him. Have I mentioned that the Lord’s timing is perfect?

After having sat there for a while, I reluctantly got up to head home, mentally motivating myself with my to do list. Yes, I have simplified things, but I still have lists with much to do, lol.

I start walking down the path, and am approached by this sweet old looking dog named Ernie. I notice that Ernie only has 3 legs. Poor old fella. Ernie’s person isn’t far behind with 4 more rescue dogs circling around her, one even being pulled in a wagon because he was abused and can’t walk much. As I’m petting Ernie’s head, it’s then that I learn that Ernie had lost his back left leg to bone cancer 6 months ago and it has now spread to his lungs. Ernie is 12.

The similarities (yes, I realize Ernie is a dog…) hit me like a brick, and I am flooded with memories and emotions of my Chelsea Rae. Left leg (she was going to have her femur removed), spread to lungs, 13 years old.

And he looks up with me with those sweet, big brown eyes.

“Really?” (insert sarcastic tone here)

No, I didn’t say it out loud, that’s the only word that describes my mindset. Did I mention that I was hit by a brick? Yeah… make that a ton of bricks.

Did I mention that God’s timing is perfect?? Yeah, so maybe not sometimes.

Okay, maybe I don’t always ‘feel’ like His timing is perfect…. But His timing really is perfect. Trusting in that truth, I surrender. I decide not to step back up on my pity pot, but instead, I brace myself for what’s to come.

My agenda for the day has come to a screeching halt. Oh, I will still get some things done, but my mental state will be focussed on so much more. It has slowed me down, but that’s a good thing. As I dig into His word I will be refreshed. Already, from a simple facebook update, I have been encouraged and loved, and the simple compassion that others have towards me brings me to tears. There is nothing quite as rewarding as being genuinely, unconditionally loved.

And if they ’love me that much – then how much more does my heavenly Father love me?

Enough to send His one and only Son on my behalf. He knows and understands my pain even more than I do. I am thankful that I have the peace that only He can bring.

And I will continue to praise Him.

"Great is Thy faithfulness," O God my Father,

There is no shadow of turning with Thee;

Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not

As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.

"Great is Thy faithfulness!" "Great is Thy faithfulness!"

Morning by morning new mercies I see;

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided—

"Great is Thy faithfulness," Lord, unto me!

Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest,

Sun, moon and stars in their courses above,

Join with all nature in manifold witness

To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,

Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide;

Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,

Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

~Thomas O. Chisholm (1866-1960)

Salsa!

2010-10-03T17:24:00.000-07:00

When I'm fighting any kind of bug, like I have been this week.... I don't crave the typical chicken noodle soup. No, when food is hard to taste and my sinuses hate me, it is then that I crave SALSA!

I haven't always been this way. For many years, Pace was the only salsa I knew of, and I didn't like it much. Those were the days when my cooking skills were limitted to casseroles made with cream soups. Yeah, I know. No more cream soups for me - not unless I want to be down for a few days with a migraine.

So imagine my delight when I walked into my friend Janet's kitchen and she was making salsa... from scratch! I hadn't yet been exposed to much of "scratch" anything, so I was quite impressed. And when I tasted it, I fell in love. Since that day, salsa has become a staple in our home, especially when the cold season approaches. It's perfect for entertaining, camping... and especially great for football. My hubby is quite content at the moment. It's the perfect addition as he watches the games.

People occasionally ask for the recipe, so I thought this would be a great opportunity to share. With pictures, you can see how easy it is step by step.

Salsa!

Ingredients:
Sweet Onion, Garlic, Lime, Cilantro, Diced tomatoes and Rotel (original).
I prefer to use fresh tomatoes and hot peppers, but didn't have any today. If using canned
tomatoes, I normally use just one large can of diced.
If you like it spicy, throw in some jalepenos as well. Yum! Sometimes we use frozen corn as well.

Simply add the ingredients to your food processor. I prefer the Ninja.

I got mine at Walmart for under $30, but now have seen a new improved silver and black

model at Costco.

Enlist the help of a little person.

And let them do the physical labor. As you can see, mine is pretty excited to do so.

And there you go... easy, pretty and healthy all in one!

There are so many variations of salsa... what are some of your favorites?

A Fresh Start

2010-10-01T14:45:00.000-07:00

When I first started this blog, really it was grief therapy. Writing was the outlet to face and deal with all that came with losing my beautiful Chelsea Rae to bone cancer. It's hard to believe that was over 3 years ago.

So much as changed since those terribly difficult days. I'm enjoying life again. Our 6 year old (almost 7 as she would tell you) brings us so much joy... incredible joy. Her journey into the 1st grade has been a delight to watch, and each day I can't wait to hear about all of her "adventures". Her perspective on life is so much more simple, and she delights in the little things.

I find that I am delighting in the little things as well. Several years of daily migraines has caused me to evaluate my health in a whole new way. Though it's a lot more work and planning, I am loving our new lifestyle with real foods, and I feel so much better. Gardening has become something that Jeff and I enjoy together, and I love the satisfaction of eating foods that we grew! Even more, I love sharing those foods that we grew, seriously. I'm so glad that others love lemon cucumbers, because we had an abundance!

I have come to a place where I desire to simplify my life. To prioritize and focus my time and energy on those things that are really important to me. I know I have tried to do this over the years, yet I always seem to have too many interests, and never enough hours in the day. With the changes over the last few years, it's been relatively easy to let go of those things that really don't matter, and instead, focus on those that do. My family matters to me. My loved ones matter to me. My faith matters to me. My health matters to me. No longer do I want to be so busy being busy, that I don't have time for the simple joys.

Lately I have gotten much encouragement and inspiration from other blogs that I have followed and have decided that it's time to continue with mine...

So "welcome!" as I continue on this journey...

He Has My Attention

2008-09-24T05:21:00.000-07:00

I guess it’s come to the point where I have to wonder what to write about. Sure, I could fill these pages with the fluff of all the activities we have going on…. Details of our camping trips, how I learned how to can tuna, upcoming plans, how Kate loves preschool, how she was a flower girl again –

But really, other than the common update, what purpose would it serve? Yes, there are family members who would love such updates – and I hope I get better and more consistent at getting those to them. Yet there are also those who read this that such things are just more details in an already overwhelmingly busy life where time is short.

So if I’m going to write, shouldn’t I write about something of importance?

It’s the middle of the night here and sleep is fleeting. Curled up next to me is the cutest red headed toddler you could ever meet. As she tosses and turns, and whimpers for her mom every once in a while – it makes me ponder. You see, mom is spending the night in a Cardiac Critical Care Unit at a local hospital. Plain and simple, it’s just wrong that mom is there. I don’t get it.

As I was walking through the waiting room this evening, I overheard a lady speaking on the phone. Today she had to give CPR on a loved one, and in those moments she still didn’t know the outcome. Her face was puffy, and her body screamed of exhaustion.

Another lady sits in the back of her dark house, sick from chemo, waiting for dinner to arrive because she doesn’t have the strength to care for herself. Having to ask for help is humbling and hard for her.

Down the street, a dear friend mourns the loss of her only son – he was my age – who was murdered by the man who had been his step dad for the last 30 years. In the same day, she lost her son… and her husband. If that weren’t hard enough, husband was her full time caregiver as she is wheelchair bound, fighting for her life as she battles Leukemia and Diabetes.

Down the street a little farther is a woman we love, who also is fighting cancer, now for the second time this year. She’s not fighting the fight for herself – she’s tired and it’s hard. She’s fighting the fight for her son who needs his mommy.

A couple that we love gave birth to their first daughter last week. On that same day, the father’s close friend of many years was fatally hit on the highway while helping a teenager who had just hit an elk. He was the father to a young child, with another on the way.

And these are just a few of the most recent stories in my life alone. You have stories that you know of right now. It can be overwhelming to say the least. Times are hard.

For me personally, Chelsea’s birthday is right around the corner. She’d be turning 15. If she were here, life would be all about studying for her driver’s permit and boys. I miss my baby terribly.

All of these things make my heart heavy, yet I’m okay. I’m good even. I’ve learned early on that life isn’t easy, that there is going to be heartaches and struggles. Yet it is these things that mold me, that make me who I am, and cause me to wonder about what life is all about.

What is our purpose here? What are our goals? Are we so busy trying to establish ourselves and achieving our titles that the world just passes by around us? Or are we impacting those around us – encouraging and loving them? If you were to look at things from an eternal perspective, what would you see? In the end, is everything that you worked so hard for worth it?

Maybe it is. I’m not saying it’s not. I do know that value of hard work, and by no means am I promoting laziness. But do you ever wonder just what you will be remembered for?

For me, tonight, I see that life here on earth is short – yet somehow long at the same time.
I realize that I can’t do anything in my own strength and more than ever I need God in my life to carry me through.

And He does, and because He does, I have peace - even in the midst of all this.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. ~ Romans 8:28

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? ~ Romans 8:35

… who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. ~ 2 Corinthians 1:4

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Easter Blessings

2008-03-26T13:55:00.000-07:00

Gosh, I didn’t realize how long it’s been since I’ve been on here and posted. I figured I’d better report that things are good, and the only thing gloomy lately is the weather.

We had a wonderful Easter. Kati is the perfect age to really get into it. The last couple of weeks at preschool have been filled with fun projects of eggs and baskets - as well as learning the history and story of the Resurrection. Her, Bahama and I had a great time coloring eggs and she was delighted with her Easter Basket that held her new pink Strawberry Shortcake basketball. Since Daddy’s been watching March Madness, she’s been interested in basketball. It’s been fun with a couple of hoops out back, though she is only interested in trying to figure out how to dribble.

We spent the day surrounded by friends and family and it really was very sweet. We were presented with Memory books of Chelsea that several worked at putting together for us. Kati has her own special book that I am so thankful for so she will always be able to see how much she was loved by her sissy. Haiden also put together a wonderful story book for Kati about Princess Chelsea, Princess Kati, the Dragon (cancer) and the Prince (Jesus). It is beautiful and will be treasured for years to come. I will try and get pics and the story posted on here soon for you all to see.

The migraine continues to keep me from the phone, but I’m hoping in the next few months to be feeling better than ever. We are looking forward to spring and summer…. BBQ’s, camping, vacations and simple weekend getaways. Jeff and I celebrate our 14 yr anniversary tomorrow - and I am so thankful for what God has done in us through this last year. He definitely gives us reason to be thankful and to celebrate.

So that’s about it for now. I hope to post again in the next few days.

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Springtime Blues???

2008-03-04T13:06:00.000-08:00

Springtime Blues?
Is that even possible?? Something happened when we turned the calendar to March. I don’t know how to explain exactly. I have been so anticipating spring … days at the park with Kati, walks with our dogs, cleaning up the much neglected yard. And I’ve loved the sunshine on the days we’ve had it.

But something’s changed. I didn’t really recognize it until I shared with a friend this morning. I'm finding this time of year is really weird for me... as last year we were just in the midst/beginning of chemo treatments. I remember feeling like we were constantly at the hospital so much that we missed spring and a big chunk of summer. Now that I get to enjoy the seasons again, I almost feel guilty doing so.... like I'd rather be at the hospital with my baby.

...

Not to worry though. This weirdness only comes in waves, and overall, we are doing really well. Kati is growing and maturing like crazy, and loves her preschool. It really will be nice to be outside more with her since she is so busy. She has friends that she constantly talks of and wants to spend time with.

Jeff is great. He takes such good care of us. We’re so thankful for the job that he has and for the friendships he has there. Though he has been there long enough (since before we met) that I tease him about being old. His salt and pepper hair proves it.

And I am good. I’m excited for summer and lots of time with friends and family. Physically, I am feeling better than I have in years. After Kati was born, the migraines had been intense daily. A new program that I’m on seems to be having some sweet results after just being on it a month. Since it’s a more holistic approach, I’m not having the negative side effects of so many other treatments that I’ve tried. I pray this continues, for I really do enjoy feeling better - and appreciate the good days like never before!

Doernbecher Children’s Hospital has invited us to their annual Memorial Service that honors and celebrates the lives of patients who have died this last year. That will be the first week in April. It will be good to connect with the other families that we knew, as well as the Doernbecher staff that we learned to love over those months. I’m sure it will be bittersweet. I’m so proud of my Chelsea Rae and the impact she has made. People have shared so much over the months about how Chelsea’s journey impacted them, that I truly do consider it an honor to be her mom.

God is good.

I recently heard a phrase that is so true (thanks Dionne!):

“ Sometimes God calms the storm.
Sometimes God lets the storm rage, and He calms His child. ”

- Author Unknown

With that I will close.

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Signs of Spring

2008-02-17T17:28:00.000-08:00

Okay, so as my baby sleeps right here next to me and all is calm and quiet, I thought it would be the perfect time to post an update. I’m amazed at how quickly time is flying by. With the sunshine comes a new sense of keeping busy…. there always seems so much to be done.

I am loving the bright days, the sense that spring is on it’s way. Daffodils are starting to sprout, the days are getting longer. There’s something very refreshing about this time of year.

We are doing good, not a whole lot new and exciting. Let’s see, at the beginning of the month, we took part in a fundraiser for Doernbecker sponsored by a local country radio station. Who would have ever guessed that their “bowling tournament” would start at 6:15 in the morning? It did, but it was fun! The live broadcast kept it entertaining, as well as the "build your own bloody mary bar" that kept many around us lively to say the least.

CHELSEA RAE'S CALVARY CRUNCH

Our team was called “Chelsea Rae’s Calvary Crunch” with Jeff, Tim Ralls, Dave Curtis and Pete Broughal. We were kind of an underdog team, as there were many big name corporations represented... even a military team showing their support.

We hadn’t ever been to “Big Al’s” bowling alley up in Vancouver, and the place was amazing in itself. Like a mini city. Entering it felt like walking into a mountain lodge with large beams and tall ceilings. “Slider Alley” was a second area of lanes with contemporary couches and just a cool place to hang out. The restaurant had a huge 36 FEET by 8 ft screen that looks very inviting for next year’s NFL season… with cool stadium seating and great billiards tables. We’ll definitely go back - a great place to hang with friends. They even do “grown up” birthday packages…. Party packages aren’t just for kids anymore! Themed buffet options and several other treats make it a cool event even more the “biggest” of kids. How cool is that?!

Kati is doing great in preschool. I got to spend the day with her class for their valentine’s party and what a kick that was. Though I’m not sure I liked it much when she ran off on the playground with one of her little friends… a boy… and they were holding hands! Then, to top it off, they got in a little play car and were “cruising”. She’s something else, that’s for sure, and somehow always manages to make me smile.

One of the highlights so far for me this month was when several of our friends got together to make memory books for us. One for Kati, and one for Jeff and me. A huge thanks to Haiden for coordinating such a special project. Linda drove down all the way from Northern Washington, and Dionne made it from central Oregon, and I’m so thankful to them, to all the other ladies who gave their time for this, and to everyone who sent in their story of how Chelsea impacted them. I was able to make it to the “party” on Friday night - we laughed, we cried. It was good. I couldn’t make it back in on Saturday, though many ladies spent their day there working on this heartwarming project. I can’t wait to see the finished result. We are continually amazed and the love and support we receive. Again, thank you.

With that, I will close. I’m feeling good these days and hope to be posting a bit more regularly. We’ll see…

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6 Month Milestone

2008-01-25T10:52:00.000-08:00

So today marks the 6 month anniversary since Chelsea Rae went home to be with Jesus and close to the one year point of the initial diagnosis. In the book of Joshua, he demonstrates the importance of building/leaving monuments and remembering God‘s faithfulness. So that’s what I’m going to do today. I’ve been doing some reflecting, and I smile as I remember my girl. I’m including some of my favorite “Chelsea Quotes” as well as some more phone clips…. and a poem that is everything I’d love to say and didn’t know how. Enjoy!

From Chelsea Rae’s journey:

"Don't worry about a thing, the Lord WILL get us through this, we just need to trust in HIM. LOVE YA LOTS!!!"

“I love you guys, and may the LORD bless your socks off 24/7!!! And remember, ALWAYS trust in HIM. Thanks again. Chat with ya later!!!

~Chelsea Rae (who loves bright green even more than pink.....)”

“ooxxooXoXXx (for those Nacho Libre fans!)”

“Please pray that I can put all my trust in God and in Him alone.”

“Thank you sooo much 4 all of the encouraging scriptures. Here is one of my favorites... Matthew 13:44 "The kingdom of is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field."
In this parable the man is like Jesus Christ, who went and gave EVERYTHING He had by dying on the cross to save US from OUR sins. He did it because He loves EACH AND EVERY ONE OF US!!! Even if there was only one person in the whole world, He still would have done it because HE CARES.”

“Thank u all sooo much 4 the prayers and encouragement. The Lord is comforting us and it is great 2 know that I get 2 go b with him 4 eternity.”

“Don’t be sad, God doesn’t want you to fix this or you would.” She knew how as parents we felt so hopeless that we couldn‘t make her better, and yet she was the one who’s faith encouraged me.

Remembering
Go ahead and mention my child
The one that died you know.
Don't worry about hurting me further.
the depth of my pain doesn't show.
Don't worry about making me cry.
I'm already crying inside.
Help me to heal by releasing
the tears I try to hide.
I'm hurt when you just keep silent,
Pretending she didn't exist.
I'd rather you mention my child,
Knowing that she is missed.
You asked me how I was doing.
I say "pretty good" or "fine."
But healing is something ongoing.
I feel it will take a lifetime.
(by Elizabeth Dent)

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