top ten reasons i love jerry...

Today my dear sweet husband turns 45!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEETHEART!

So I wanted to honor him on his big day and this is what I came up with.

Mary's Top Ten Reason Why She Loves Jerry!

#10

You Looked REALLY Good In Uniform

When I met you on a blind date 24 years ago, you were wearing your midshipman dress blues and my heart went pitter patter. Tall, blond and so dogon handsome! My hands were sweaty and I kept giggling in a very weird high pitch that I have yet to duplicate to this day. Then after graduation you donned a flight suit and I was done for! As they say there is NOTHING like a man in uniform! So true...

#9

Your Sense of Honor and Duty

Inside that uniform beat the heart of a warrior. A man filled with love for his God and his country willing to lay down his life for either cause. To watch you sing Navy Blue and Gold or the National Anthem still brings tears to my eyes because I know you MEAN every single word your saying. As your rich baritone voice rises to the heavens, it just takes my breath away sometimes. I have waited for you on a tarmac to return to me and port side as well. Those days of service were not easy but they were never boring! I will never forget. I love you my fly boy...now and always.

#8

The Way To A Man's Heart Is Through His Stomach

I have never met ANYONE who this saying describes more than you my dear. I am just so grateful that I love to cook and bake or else we would be in BIG trouble. You are Ward Cleaver in the 21st century. As long as I don't serve liver and onions we are good to go...

#7

You Dance Like a White Boy

Yes, I know you are a Caucasian male but God skipped you when it came to the dance coordination gene. I mean, he skipped you by a country mile. What I love is that it doesn't stop you from getting out on that dance floor and having a great time. You don't care what you look like (think Snoopy on speed) or that people may or may not be laughing hysterically at your attempts to be the modern day Fred Astaire. You dance because I love to dance and you love me.

#6

You Put Up With ME!

Now that I have entered into menopause (yeah me!) you have been patient beyond measure. You can tell when the hot flash is coming and have on occasion cleared the room before I FLAME ON as you so delicately put it. No matter how short my temper or how tired I am you are there to be my helpmate. Thank you...now PLEASE turn on that fan!

#5

Your So Darn Smart!

I mean really did you ever see a C or a B for that matter...in your life? You amaze me with your intellectual abilities. Your logic and reasoning skills sometimes thrill me but most times frustrate me. I am so NOT that way as you well know. Thank you for giving our children a fighting chance in the academic world. I can't wait to be able to call you "Professor". You are almost there my love. I promise to support you to the end.

PhD program here we come!

#4

Your Love Language is Service.

You don't buy me jewelry or fancy duds but your more than willing to clean a bathroom or the kitchen if necessary. You show me your love by serving and I am blessed for it. Thank you for every scrubbed floor or shampooed carpet in the past 22 years. They beat a diamond any day!

#3

Your Faith

You converted to the Catholic faith eleven years after we married. I watched you study and seek the truth for yourself NOT to please your wife or children. It was an absolute joy to watch you be confirmed and receive our Lord for the first time. Now to stand beside you each Sunday, to see you pray in earnest in for me and our family or in praise to God or to hold your hand during our family rosary, all of these things allude to a deep and abiding faith that you hold in your heart. Thank you for loving us enough to pray for us everyday.

#2

Your Sense of Humor

Whether we are in the ICU or the check out line at the grocery store, you ALWAYS make me laugh. ALWAYS! On more than one occasion when things were dire you had a way of seeing the humor in that situation. Your remind me of my Dad that way. If we're not laughing we're crying and it's much more fun to laugh!

#1

Your Strength

You LOVE your children and me with a veracity and strength that is rare today. You have NEVER wavered in that love and devotion. You are our strong tower, shelter over us with God by your side I have never felt alone or unprotected in my life. You sacrifice daily for us. You are my protector and my love. You really do complete me! Trite but true.

Jerry,

as we celebrate your birthday today with LOTS of pork products and truly dear friends, I just wanted to tell the world that I definitely got the better end of the deal in this marriage. Thank you for loving me and our family with all you have.

We feel the same way about you!

Happy Birthday!!

Love,

Your wife

small successes (vol.20)...

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

#1.

I survived Christmas. With a house full of guests and much to do, I made it through. When your extended family relationships are touchy sometimes just getting through is a HUGE success. We got through.

#2.

Today is hubby's birthday and I made him these:

You have to understand my husbands love for bacon and all things pork. It's an illness really. I know he will be happy. I am the BEST wife in the world!

Humility was never my strong suit.

#3.

In honor of his birthday I made him a Top Ten list...on time! Not a day late even! Another Christmas miracle!

Bonus:

I actually prayed and thought about my New Year's resolutions and WROTE THEM DOWN! This way, I can hold myself accountable and so can you! Check back tomorrow to see!

To be inspired check out FaithandFamilyLIVE!

Happy New Year!

Mary

steak chili w/fajita seasoning...

I have spoken of my love for Cuisine at Home magazine before. When my hubby came across this issue at the end of the Wegman's checkout line this past fall, his mouth started to water and his football watching menu was decided in that instant.

I made this with hamburger the first time. It's what I had on hand. The fajita seasoning really brings some heat to the party but it doesn't overwhelm. I would add more beans the next time to give it a little more balance for me. With all the bowl games coming up changing up your old chili recipe with this spicier version might be just the ticket to liven things up on game day.

Bon Appetite!

Mary

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Steak Chili with Fajita Seasoning
Issue #77
For the Fajita Seasoning:
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Chili:
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 lbs flat iron steaks, trimmed, cubed, and seasoned with salt and pepper

I used two pounds of hamburger since I had it on hand)

1/4 cup tequila or 1 water
6 cups diced tomatoes, or 2 cans diced tomatoes (28 oz. each)
1 white onion, diced (2 cups)
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 1/2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons flour
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (I will use 2-3 cans next time)
2 tablespoons lime juice


Stir together the ingredients for the fajita seasoning and set aside.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a soup pot or dutch oven over medium high heat. Brown half of the meat in the oil and transfer to a 4 to 6 quart slow cooker. Brown the remaining meat in the remaining oil and transfer to the slow cooker. Deglaze pot with tequila or water, scraping up the flavor bits stuck to the pan and add to the slow cooker.

Add tomatoes, bell peppers, diced onion, minced garlic, and the fajita seasoning to the slow cooker. Stir in beef stock and flour. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.

Stir in beans and lime juice just before serving. Garnish with sour cream, cilantro, avocado, and jalapenos.

family christmas letter...

So I thought I would share our families Christmas letter with you my dear readers. This year my husband was in quite a place when he wrote it. If you want to know where the "funny" comes from in our family, look no further than my hubby. Not to worry no twenty year old was harmed in the writing of this letter although Jerry's blood pressure did go up just a BIT! As for the picture above, all I can say is Courtney hates flash photography and refused to open her eyes in any of our photos. Yes, she is a stubborn as her big brother!

Happy New Year!

Mary

************************************

Hello from snowy Virginia, scene of two feet of global warming, cleverly designed as snow! Yes for first time since we’ve lived here, we are going to have a white Christmas to end our year, and what a year it’s been. We’ve decided that if you’re not laughing, you’re crying, and we much prefer laughing!

To start off with, Jonathan, our 20 year old college student, had his first encounter with the justice system in Fairfax County, courtesy of a shortened tryout for NASCAR. The flashing blue lights, which were not an indicator that he won the pole position, were followed by the usual encounter with a southern law officer:

“Son, do you know how fast you was goin’”….nervous silence…”No, sir”….more silence, followed by lyric banjo music…”Well, looks like you got yerself a date with the traffic judge.” This of course is followed by the typical southern courtroom, with Deputy Sherriff Coaltrain and Hangin’ Judge Parker: Stern look from Deputy Sheriff to NASCAR wannabees “Listen up…you will not talk, chew gum, read anything or use your cell-u-ler devices in this courtroom or you will be dismissed and have your trial rescheduled.”……no doubt followed by a fair trial and a fine hanging. But since my son, at the clever guidance of his father, decided that a shirt and tie accessorized nicely with a little groveling and a plea for mercy from the judge, since his daddy had none, got off with court costs and a “Don’t you go a-speedin’ in my county again, son” from the judge, followed by a “Thank you ma’am for ensuring your son was properly dressed” to Mary, who was only hearing “What we have here, boy, is a failure to communicate.”

Courtney had an equal amount of drama this year, courtesy of the swine flu. Now, I know what you’re thinking and it was not caused by my unusual relationship with bacon, sausage, ham, pork chops and other fine members of the pork products family. NO, this was caused by an emergency visit to….wait for it….an emergency room full of sick people with swine flu. Anyway, now I know why I love science so much…the incubation period for swine flu is 7 days and Shazaam, one week later we are BACK in the emergency room, full of sick swine flu patients with a 103° fever. So up we go for a fun-loving two day stay at the hospital, complete with masks, gowns and a plea from the ER nurses-”Please, Mrs. Lenaburg, can you give your husband a task, please, the nursing staff would REALLY like it if you could give him a task…that needs to be done outside the hospital.” Have I mentioned how much I hate hospitals? So, off I went to clean the house and bring back Starbucks and Boston Market. “Hey what is that stuff on the hospital food cart, something there growled at me, and I think that was the pudding cup.”

In the midst of all the insanity, I reached my 10 year mark with NG this year, which was kind of amazing to me, I have now been out of the Navy as long as I was in, so I figure I almost qualify for the gnarly old veteran with the “Lemme tell ya how it was back when…” stories. Anyway, life has also been busy for Mary as she builds her following on her blog, (HI!) sharpens her writing skills and tries to keep everyone happy, fed and sane (not necessarily in that order).

One sad note, our faithful dog of 15 years, Roxie, had to be put down this year. It was tough for everyone in the family, especially Courtney, who had a special relationship with Roxie over the years, particularly at dinner time. We hope this letter finds your family well and enjoying the Holiday Season.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and a Joyous and Blessed 2010!

The Lenaburg Family

mary's book basket ~ "the great christmas bowl"

I was in need of some comedy after a stressful week with a house full of company. Author Susan May Warren's The Great Christmas Bowl was just the ticket. Here is the synopsis.

Publisher's Description:

"Marianne Wallace is focused on two things this holiday season: planning the greatest family Christmas ever and cheering on her youngest son’s team in their bid for the state championship. Disaster strikes when the team loses their mascot—the Trout. Is it going too far to ask her to don the costume? So what if her husband has also volunteered her to organize the church Christmas tea. When football playoffs start ramping up, the Christmas tea starts falling apart. Then, one by one her children tell her they can’t come home for Christmas. As life starts to unravel, will Marianne remember the true meaning of the holidays?"

I really identified with Marianne. Her whole world is built around being a mother and now that her youngest is a senior in high school, her future is unclear to her. The seasons of her life are changing and she's not quite sure which way to turn with the wind. Her inner conflict is real and Warren does a good job of peeling back the layers of her fear slowly bringing Marianne to the realization that she has a choice on how she responds each time she's faced with a challenge.

"What is the meaning of love anyway?"

Warren's portrayal of small town life filled with quirky personalities is wonderful. The feisty Gretchen, beleaguered Jenni and pious Rachel could fill any pew in any church no matter the denomination. Physical comedy is very hard to write. Warren blends her descriptions and dialogue beautifully to make it all come alive, the humor jumping off the page. The scene's with the trout suit are just too much. Absolutely fabulous!

Her exploration of family relationships is multi-layered and rich. You cheer for Kevin as he leads his team. You worry about Mike with his EMT duties. You want only the best for Marianne and Mike's marriage as it undergoes the growing pains of life. With an It's a Wonderful Life ending The Great Christmas Bowl is a quick delightful read that will make you laugh and bring a tear to your eye.

Happy Reading!

Mary

cuisine @ home ~ chicken piccata

I am a HUGE fan of the cooking magazine Cuisine at Home. It is so visual with clear directions. With the house filled with company for Christmas I needed something simple yet elegant for Christmas dinner. Chicken Piccata to the rescue. I used regular chicken breasts cut in half and pounded to an 1/8 inch thickness. This really helped with the cooking time as well as the budget.

I served it with a big green salad filled with veggies and couscous. It was delightful and very filling. No fuss, no muss. It's even tastier than the version I cooked from Barefoot Contessa. A little lighter as well. Sorry Ina!

One of the best choices for our holiday feast in years. Give it a whirl. You won't be disappointed.

Bon Appetite!

Mary

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

Chicken Piccata

Cuisine at Home: Issue 32 Page 8

Season:

4 chicken cutlets

Saute in:

2 T. vegetable oil

Deglaze with:

1/4 cup dry white wine

1 t. garlic, minced

Add:

1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth

2 T. fresh lemon juice

1 T. capers, drained

Sauteed cutlets

Finish with:

2 T. unsalted butter

Fresh lemon juice

Garnish with:

Chopped fresh parsley

Season cutlets with salt and pepper then dust with flour. Spray a saute pan with nonstick spray, add vegetable oil, and heat over medium-high.

Saute cutlets 2-3 minutes on one side. Flip the cutlets over and saute the other side for 1-2 minutes with the pan covered. Transfer cutlets to a warm plate; pour off fat from pan.

Deglaze pan with wine and add minced garlic. Cook until garlic is slightly brown and liquid is nearly gone, about 2 minutes.

Add broth, lemon juice and capers. Return cutlets to pan and cook on each side for 1 minute. Transfer cutlets to a warm plate.

Finish with butter and lemon slices. Once butter melts, pour sauce over cutlets.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve.

always HOPE...

photo courtesy of Test of Will Blog

This is a beautiful blog post from Boy Crazy (finding clarity in chaos) called HOPE. The writer really touched me with her self awareness and profound honesty. The analogy of the tree bending hit way too close to home for me. I AM that tree. It is how I have felt more than once this past year. How far will life bend me before I break? How much will God allow before I cave?

I have spent many long hours in the past few days thinking about HOPE and wondering what I would ever do without it. Jesus is the reason for the season and he came to earth carrying HOPE in the form of a cross.

HOPE now, HOPE always!

Mary

"10 for 10" challenge from apple cider mill

OK friends, now that your recovering from your Christmas sugar high, it's time to turn our thoughts to the New Year. Bethany@Apple Cider Mill has challenged her blog readers to think of 10 for 10; Ten New Years resolutions for 2010.

I love Bethany. She is a fellow blogger over at Phases of Womanhood and her posts are always thought provoking and insightful. Her personal blog is a visual wonder as well as being filled with fabulously encouraging posts.

So will you join me in this challenge? I will be in prayerful discernment over the next few days relying of the grace and goodness of my Saviour to guide my choices. On January 1st go to Apple Cider Mill and post your link with a Linky so that we can encourage each other throughout the year.

Blessings and Grace,

Mary

merry christmas!!

On this Christmas Day may you and your family know only love. The love of our Saviour who came to save us all. Truly a Labor of Love.

Blessings and Grace,

Mary

a message from God...

This beautiful piece appeared on the Catholic Mom blog site this week:

A Christmas Letter from God to the Mother of a Special Needs Child

I was so touched and I knew that I had to share it with you.

May God bless you Leticia and the beautiful words you write. They have touched my heart and I know they will touch others.

Blessings and Grace,

Mary

small successes (vol.19)...

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

1.

I have cleaned the house from top to bottom, including windows and closets in joyful anticipation of family arriving to spend Christmas with us. This way I can sit and visit instead of worrying about what the house looks like. Now if i could just muster Mexican Dominoes my world domination would be complete!

2.

I have stuck to the menu plan for the past week without ANY deviations. This has been mush harder than I thought it would be but the practice of self denial is good for me. I just don''t like it too much. Just keepin it real!

3.

I have stuck to my new morning plan for three days so far. I get up first, prepare breakfast, get everyone out the door, pray and do some spiritual reading then I write until lunch and school pick up. It has produced some good work. There is something to be said for discipline!

Check out all these great successes! Be inspired to celebrate the small things.

Merry Christmas!

Mary

barefoot bloggers ~ sausage-stuffed mushrooms...

I look a little psycho but these were SO GOOD!!

I have had my fair share of stuffed mushrooms in my life. Some filled with breading,clams, shrimp and even some filled with tofu. However Ina's Stuffed Sausage Mushroom are the best I have ever had. They were freakin good. I made them for a neighborhood cocktail party and they were gone in the first 45 minutes. I mean gone!

Thank you Emily@Welcome to the Club for choosing this fabulous dish for this weeks Barefoot Bloggers recipe. It will reappear in time for the NCAA National Championship football game and maybe even the Superbowl. They are THAT good!

Bon Appetite!

Mary

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

Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms

2009, Ina Garten, All Rights Reserved

Ingredients

16 extra-large white mushrooms

5 tablespoons good olive oil, divided

2 1/2 tablespoons Marsala wine or medium sherry

3/4 pound sweet Italian sausage, removed from the casings

6 scallions, white and green parts, minced

2 garlic cloves minced

2/3 cup panko crumbs

5 ounces mascarpone cheese, preferably from Italy

1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan

2 1/2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley leaves

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

Remove the stems from the mushrooms and chop them finely. Set aside. Place the mushroom caps in a shallow bowl and toss with 3 tablespoons of the olive oil and Marsala. Set aside.

Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, crumbling it with the back of a wooden spoon. Cook the sausage for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until it's completely browned. Add the chopped mushroom stems and cook for 3 more minutes. Stir in the scallions and garlic and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the panko crumbs, stirring to combine evenly with all the other ingredients. Finally, swirl in the mascarpone and continue cooking until the mascarpone has melted and made the sausage mixture creamy. Off the heat, stir in the Parmesan, parsley, and season with salt and pepper, to taste, Cool slightly.

Fill each mushroom generously with the sausage mixture. Arrange the mushrooms in a baking dish large enough to hold all the mushrooms in a snug single layer. Bake until the stuffing for 50 minutes, until the stuffing is browned and crusty.

buttermilk griddlecakes...

When Daddy's home the griddle comes out. Today we began our "official" Christmas vacation. We slept a little later and moved slowly through the day as we waited for my in-laws to arrive. Jerry got out the griddle and made our favorite griddlecakes. They are light and fluffy and oh so good. You can add anything you want to them or have them plain. These are a staple in our home for those slow mornings when you have to have that second cup of coffee.

Bon Appetite!

Mary

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

Buttermilk Griddlecakes

recipe passed down from my mother, feeds 4

1/2 to 1/3 cup buttermilk (or however much is needed for desired thickness)

2 Tablespoon butter, melted

1 egg

1 cup white flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

2 tablespoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

mix ingredients together. butter the griddle and ladle the cakes. serve warm with yummy syrup.

singing angels...

They sing like angels...make a comment on Phases of Womanhood and you could win the Sacred Hymns CD.
Blessings and Grace,
Mary

l'angelus @ phases of womanhood...

Here is my new review for Phases of Womanhood. Leave a comment on the site and you could win a copy of this wonderful CD.

Merry Christmas!

Mary

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

"High energy Cajun trio L’Angelus, with siblings Katie playing guitar, Paige on bass and Steve Rees on fiddle, are a unique band playing music combining their Louisiana Cajun roots with bluegrass and Irish Catholic sensibilities.

I had an opportunity to chat with Katie Rees and asked her which of the different styles of music L’Angelus plays does she enjoy the most, “I believe it was Duke Ellington who said, ‘There are only two kinds of music...good music and the other kind. I like good music.’ I agree with Mr. Ellington, and I like good music. Very early on in the development of our band, we saw the importance of playing songs that uplift and bring joy. Music that can rejuvenate you, make you smile and make you want to dance like you’re five years old again. Music can calm you and bring you serenity. Another strength of good music is to speak the truth in a way that is appealing to many people. Honest lyrics put to a beautiful melody often express for us either what we want to hear or what we wish we could say to someone. Songs that make you cry tears of sorrow and tears of joy, songs that get you ready to stand up for what you love, songs that remind you of the goodness of the human heart and the greatness of the human soul, songs that bring you hope when you most need it. That's why our performances include styles of music that span across many different genres. And because we're from Louisiana, we like to give it all a Cajun roots flavor. To pick one genre would really be too hard. There are just two kinds of music, and I like the good kind.”

Their newest CD Sacred Hymns Collection, distributed by Ignatius Press, explores the tradition of sacred music. My favorite song on the disk is Salve Regina. The harmonies are exquisite. The blending of voices and the sacred prayer brought tears to my eyes the first time I heard it. Katie and her siblings wanted to make sure they represented the cultural diversity of the Catholic Church in America, “Most of the songs on our Sacred Hymns Collection are songs we sing regularly at Holy Mass. These songs were written by people from all walks of life, which came to love our Lord and wanted to contribute their gifts to His glory. Princes and paupers, saints and scholars, learned composers and mere peasants have all written songs that lift our hearts to heaven. We wanted these songs to represent a few different aspects of our Faith.”

READ MORE HERE>>>

still small voice...

Today has been a nightmare. I am usually a pretty cheerful person filled with joy and always ready for a good laugh. Today...not so much. I have been running around for weeks like a crazy woman trying to get everything done on the perpetual to-do list that runs in my head. Then came a blizzard leaving me home bound and three more days behind on that perfectionist to-do list. The in-laws arrive in two days and I am feeling ill prepared and downright ill tempered with everything that must be done. Really...it's just too much.

After burning a batch of cookies (a sure sign that the world is coming to an end!) and dealing with 20 year old drama and attitude I set off on my last two errands. As I began circling the fourth rung of hell while waiting in the endless check out line, disaster struck. I realized that I had locked my keys and cell phone in the car. SERIOUSLY PEOPLE! I have never done that. EVER!

I called my hubby from the courtesy phone and told him what happened. I closed my eyes and prayed he would not be upset. I knew what and inconvenience I would be causing him. Two of us didn't need to be in a fowl mood or nothing would get done! God was so good in that moment because Jerry laughed. He said it was a sign that we needed to make some changes or we would both have a miserable Christmas. My husband rode in on his white horse and rescued his damsel in distress. I was this close to losing it when my guy arrived with a smile on his face and a hug for his girl.

Why oh why do I do this to myself every year. My expectations get out of hand and I end up making myself and everyone around me miserable. You would think that I would learn my lesson. I got into my van and began the trek home following my hubby. I turned on the radio and I heard this angelic voice. I took a deep breath and listened, really listened. Once again in the still small voice of my heart, God spoke to me. HE is the REASON for the SEASON! He LOVED me so much He gave His LIFE for me. What is more important than that? NOTHING!

"Through HIM who gives me strength ALL things are possible"

Phil 4:13

I thank God for the reminder of WHY I am here and WHO I serve. His mercy and grace are never ending gifts no matter what the season.

Blessings and Grace,
Mary

come in from the cold...

When these two awesome men came in from the cold I knew I had to greet them with something special. I had just the thing! Rachel Rays Mexican Coffee. This is a family favorite with cinnamon and chocolate. We made the morning version without the liqueur. It hit the spot!

Happy Snow Shoveling!

Mary

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

Mexican Coffee

Recipe courtesy Rachael Ray

Ingredients

4 scoops of ground coffee beans, Columbian or other variety - a coffee scoop is equivalent to a rounded tablespoon

1 scoop (rounded tablespoon) cocoa powder (we like the dark chocolate version)

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - eyeball it, plus a sprinkle for garnish

4 jiggers (1 ounce shots) coffee liqueur (recommended: Kahlua)

1 canister whipped cream with spray top

Directions

Place coffee, cocoa and cinnamon in a filter for coffee brewing. Make 4 cups of brewed mocha-cinnamon coffee. Pour a shot of coffee liquor in the bottom of a coffee mug. Pour in a serving of brewed mocha-cinnamon Mexican coffee. Top off the mug with a generous swirl of whipped cream and garnish with another sprinkle of cinnamon. Repeat for desired number of mugfuls!

chicken noodles soup...good for the soul too!

This is the VERY BEST Chicken Noodle Soup recipe I have tried. It is simple and filled with flavor. It fills the tummy and feeds the soul. I highly recommend it during these cold blustery winter days. I use the make ahead recipe to cut my prep time. I also add extra carrots and celery for more veggieness.

Bon Appetite!

Mary

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

Chicken Noodle Soup
Cooks Country 4/2006

The thighs are used to flavor the broth; once the broth is strained, shred the thigh meat and reserve it for a salad or pot pie. If you prefer dark meat in your soup, you can omit the chicken breasts and add the shredded thigh meat to the soup instead.

Serves 8 to 10

Broth
12 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4 pounds)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 medium onion , chopped
3 quarts water
2 bay leaves
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)

Soup
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 medium onion , chopped fine
1 carrot , sliced thin
1 rib celery , halved lengthwise, then sliced thin
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves
6 ounces wide egg noodles
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley leaves


1. For the broth: Pat thighs dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until smoking. Cook half of thighs skin side down until deep golden brown, about 6 minutes. Turn thighs and lightly brown second side, about 2 minutes. Transfer to strainer-lined large bowl. Repeat with remaining thighs and transfer to strainer; discard fat in bowl. Pour off fat from pot, add onion, and cook over medium heat until just softened, about 3 minutes. Meanwhile, remove and discard skin from thighs. Add thighs, water, bay leaves, and 1 tablespoon salt to pot. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Add chicken breasts and continue simmering until broth is rich and flavorful, about 15 minutes.

2. Strain broth into large container, let stand at least 10 minutes, then remove fat from surface. Meanwhile, transfer chicken to cutting board to cool. Once cooled, remove thigh meat from bones, shred, and reserve for another use (can refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month). Shred breast meat and reserve for soup.

3. For the soup: Heat oil in now-empty Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add onion, carrot, and celery and cook until onion has softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in thyme and broth and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. Add noodles and shredded breast meat and simmer until noodles are just tender, about 5 minutes. Off heat, stir in parsley and season with salt and pepper. Serve.

Make Ahead

The broth (and shredded breast meat) for this soup can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 1 month before being used to make soup. To avoid soggy noodles and vegetables, finish the soup (step 3 in the recipe) just before you plan on serving it.

while the snow falls...

We are in the midst of the largest snowfall Northern VA has scene since 1933. It is absolutely beautiful. I have hunkered down in Santa's workshop to create the last of the Christmas gifts. There is Chicken Noodle Soup on the stove and Cranberry Coffee Cake in the oven.
My guys are downstairs cleaning and getting ready for our holiday company and Courtney is giggling to Bing Crosby crooning. I saw this over at American Papist and just died laughing. I LOVE it.
So while I continue to create enjoy this Christmas and Easter favorite...
Blessings and Grace,
Mary

7 quick takes friday (vol.16)...

1.

OK this is a little different for me. I saw this the other day (HT: Aggie Catholics) and I was intrigued. This is not something I think about very often. However death and dying is something we should think about and be prepared for. Msgr Charles Pope is very direct and clear about how we should be living our life. He does not mince words in this excerpt of a funeral sermon he gave some time ago. Listen and take it to heart. I know I did.

Msgr Pope, thank for your strong witness to the truth of eternity and what we need to do to achieve heaven.

2.

Parenting is tough. There are highs and lows with each season of this journey. This week I have experienced both. As more time passes I realize how dedicated my own parents were to making sure they always spoke the truth with love. Sometimes there was tough love. I think the hardest thing for me as a parent of a young adult is realizing that my son needs to experience failure, pain and loss to learn and grow into the man God is calling him to be. This is never an easy thing to witness but I finally got it through my thick Mama skull to step away prayerfully and not interfere. There is a natural rhythm in this dance of maturity. God is in control. He has a plan. I just need to step out of the way and encourage J to seek God's direction, make his own decisions and live with whatever the outcome is.

3.

These M&M treats are the best! They are quick and easy and solve my salt/sweet craving every time. You can check out the recipe here.

4.

This is an absolutely wonderful Christmas Song with a message that we all need to hear and really take into our hearts this season...Enjoy I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day sung by Casting Crowns...

5.

So last weekend I went to see Disney's new animated picture The Princess and the Frog. The animation was brilliant, the music made you tap your feet. The overall theme of family is more important than money is a solid one. However the story had a few weak points and I have to say I was very disappointed with the movie.

I thought the voodoo was creepy and scary for little kids (I had a few moments of ick myself). The evilness of the Voodoo King was so real and very dark.

*Spoiler Alert* They actually KILL a character on screen. Well actually you see everything leading up to the shocking moment and then BAM it's over. I was stunned. There were a few little ones who actually gasped and were crying. I haven't been this disturbed by a Disney film since The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Needless to say, I don't recommend it.

6.

I have made my writing goals for the New Year. I will keep them to myself for now. Not to worry...I will share eventually. I always do!

7.

In-laws arrive in five days. I am not ready BUT I have made my to-do list and will be reporting to battle stations in the morning. Mrs. Meyers Verbena/Lemon household products...here I come! This will be followed by a small but festive wrapping party with me, myself and all the presents.

Check out these 7 Quick Takes and be inspired!

Happy Friday Everyone!

Blessings and Grace,

Mary

small successes (vol.18)...

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

1.

T-minus 6 days and counting until the in-laws arrive. The plan is to clean, bake and clean some more. What is my success? I have made my list of things that MUST be done and checked it twice! Me and the Big Guy in Red were separated at birth!

2.

I am learning to step back and allow the college sophomore his space as well as not interfering in his decision making. He has made a big one this week and his Dad and I are very proud of him for recognizing what needed to be done.

3.

I returned ALL my library books without delay this time. NO fines! Woohoo! I can get distracted and forget when things are due. I wrote it on the calendar so I didn't forget. Worked like a charm.

Check out all these great successes! Be inspired to celebrate the small things.

Happy Thursday!

Mary

new book for bloom!

Any long time reader of this blog knows I LOVE to read. I'll read anything from a cookbook to a science book. I am privilege to be a member of a very large online book club called BLOOM. One of the founding members is Angie Smith whose blog I have followed from the beginning and have mentioned here many times. It is made up of people of all socioeconomic and religious backgrounds. Most members are practicing Christians from many different denominations. I really enjoyed the first book selected Crazy Love all about how our God really loves us with a crazy kind of love. It was uplifting while being very direct about the type of Christian we are all called to be.

The next title was announced yesterday. It's called Same Kind of Different As Me written by Ron Hall and Denver More. For more information on the book just click the title. I am looking forward to the discussion on this one.

Happy Reading!

Mary

Introducing Bloom Selection #2 from angie smith on Vimeo.

warm and cozy...

Here is Miss Courtney all wrapped up warm and cozy while the cold rain comes down outside. Don't ya just want to hug her? I think I shall then it's snuggles time with her and Anne of Green Gables for a little read-a-loud.

Ah, I hear the tea kettle whistling...toodle loo...

barefoot bloggers ~ croissant bread pudding

This weeks Barefoot Bloggers recipe was a new experience for me. I have never been a fan of bread pudding so when Peggy@Pantry Revisited chose this recipe I was a little nervous. I should have had more faith in Ina and her recipes. Once again I was happy with the outcome. This desert was rich and creamy, with a lovely vanilla custard base combined with the tartness of the Craisins I had used instead of raisins.

I served it with a small dollop of real whipped cream and a strong cup of coffee. It was the perfect ending to a cold and rainy afternoon.

Bon Appetite!

Mary

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

Croissant Bread Pudding

recipe from Ina Garten

Ingredients

3 extra-large whole eggs

8 extra-large egg yolks

5 cups half-and-half

1 1/2 cups sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

6 croissants, preferably stale, sliced horizontally

1 cup raisins (I used Craisins)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole eggs, egg yolks, half-and-half, sugar, and vanilla. Set the custard mixture aside. Slice the croissants in half horizontally. In a 10 by 15 by 2 1/2-inch oval baking dish, distribute the bottoms of the sliced croissants, then add the raisins, then the tops of the croissants (brown side up), being sure the raisins are between the layers of croissants or they will burn while baking. Pour the custard over the croissants and allow to soak for 10 minutes, pressing down gently.

Place the pan in a larger one filled with 1-inch of hot water. Cover the larger pan with aluminum foil, tenting the foil so it doesn't touch the pudding. Cut a few holes in the foil to allow steam to escape. Bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for 40 to 45 more minutes or until the pudding puffs up and the custard is set. Remove from the oven and cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Frohe Weihnachten! (Happy Christmas!)...

This morning the mail brought a wonderful treat. My ornament arrived from my lovely Holiday Traditions Exchange partner Joanna. I could not wait to tear open the package. Oh the joy at what I found!

I discovered that Joanna and I share a German heritage and many of the same traditions. She sent her Grandmother's Apple Strudel recipe. I can't wait to try it. I hope it turns out better than the last time I tried strudel. The pictures will help I am sure. It looks wonderful and reminds me so much of my Grandmother Steucken's kitchen. My mothers mother was a extremely talented baker and strudel was her specialty. Wish me luck!

It was accompanied by some yummy chocolates and a beautifully crafted woven heart shaped ornament that is actually a little bag that can be filled with those yummy chocolates or some gold coins for St. Nicholas. It is made of red and green plaid wool. The workmanship is top notch. I wish I could sew stitches as small and precise as Joanna has. I absolutely LOVE it!

Thank You my new friend, Joanna!

Frohe Weihnachten!

(Happy Christmas in German)

Can't wait...

I cannot wait for this new book from one of my favorite authors and fabric designers, Anna Maria Horner. Her fabric is bright and bold, her writing inspiring and her blog makes me sing with joy! It makes me not want to ever leave my sewing room.
Be inspired by her work and Happy Sewing!
Mary

just give it away...

I heard this song today and it brought tears to my eyes. What a wonderful message...don't let the love stay in your heart...but give it away as Jesus did. As we enter this third week of Advent with great joy may we all give that love away every single day!

Blessings and Grace,

Mary

giada's ziti with asparagus, mozzarella and prosciutto

Giada does not disappoint with this creamy filling pasta dish. My friend Christine made this for us last month and my guys just dived in. It contains two of their favorite ingredients...pork and cheese. I loved the combination of the basil, creamy mozzarella and salty pancetta. Just lovely. The recipe can be doubled or tripled easily.

Bon Appetite!

Mary

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

Ziti with Asparagus, Mozzarella and Prosciutto

adapted from Giada De Laurentiis

Ingredients

2 pounds asparagus, trimmed

3/4 pound ziti (I used Omega Three Pasta)

4 tablespoons olive oil

4 garlic cloves, minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

6 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto, cut crosswise into strips

6 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, diced (about 1 cup)

6 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh basil leaves

Directions

Cook the asparagus in a large pot of boiling salted water until crisp tender, about 2 to 3 minutes. With a spider or slotted spoon, remove asparagus from boiling water to a bowl of ice water to cool and stop the cooking. When cool, strain, cut asparagus into 1-inch pieces, and set aside.

Return the water in the pot to a boil, adding additional water, if necessary. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, tender but still firm to the bite, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the cooking liquid.

Heat the oil in a heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and saute until fragrant, about 20 seconds. Add asparagus to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Add the pasta, and if needed, some of the reserved cooking liquid. Toss to coat. Add the prosciutto, mozzarella, and basil, and toss to combine. Turn off the heat. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and serve.

7 quick takes friday (vol.15)...

1.

It's ARMY - NAVY this weekend! Woot! Woot! I can't wait to see my midshipmen crush Army. There will be chili and lots of cheering and chanting. It's going to be awesome!

GO NAVY! BEAT ARMY!

2.

I am absolutely in LOVE with designer Heather Bailey's new fabric line "Nicey Jane" It makes me happy just looking at it. I see spring dresses and skirts for summer. Happy, so happy. Can't wait to get started!

3.

I LOVED this post written by Bethany Hudson for the Phases of Womanhood website. AWESOME insight. It really helped me this week. I hope it inspires you as well.

4.

Your quote for the day:

“Kindness is our imitation of Divine Providence. Kindness, to be perfect and lasting, must be a conscious imitation of God. If you are earnestly conforming yourself to the image of Jesus Christ, sharpness, bitterness, and sarcasm disappear. The very attempt to be like Jesus is already a source of sweetness within you, flowing with an easy grace over all who come within your reach.”

Lawrence G. Lovasik

The Hidden Power of Kindness, Sofia Institute Press

5.

For your viewing pleasure...the best version of The Twelve Days of Christmas. Just fabulous! Enjoy...

6.

Thoroughly enjoyed brunch with my family this past weekend. I got to spend several hours with my nieces and nephews. It was fabulous! They are all growing up so quickly. Where does the time go? We will gather once again on New Year's Day. It's going to be here before you know it. 2010...WOW! It's official...I am old!

7.

Tomorrow is the Feast of Our Lady of Guadeloupe. She is the patroness of the America's and one of my favorite intercessors. May she continue to watch over this great nation (and help Navy beat Army) of ours especially now during such trying times for so many. We will be saying a family rosary in her honor. What are your plans for the day? Anything special?

Check out these 7 Quick Takes and be inspired!

Happy Friday Everyone!

Blessings and Grace,

Mary