i heart cooking clubs ~ fully loaded potato skins

This weeks theme over @ I Heart Cooking Clubs was Happy Hour! Now I don't know about you but it has been awhile since I have attended a Happy Hour. However, what I do remember is that having something to eat was always a good idea. I also wanted to use what I had on hand. So with that in mind I pursued cookbook after cookbook as well as Nigella's website. I hit the jackpot with this recipe. Potatoes, cheese, bacon, onions...yep...Happy Hour jackpot! These would also be a fabulous addition to your Super Bowl table as well. Give it a whirl!

Celebrate the Feast!

Mary

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Nigella's Fully Loaded Potato Skins

adapted from Nigella Lawson's Christmas Cookbook

10 baking potatoes

8 oz sharp cheddar cheese

8 oz sour cream

1 onion, chopped

1 tablespoon butter

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

10 slices of bacon cooked and crumbled

Clean and bake potatoes at 350 degrees for 1 1/2 hours. As soon as you can bear to tackle the hot potatoes, cut them in half lengthwise and scoop the insides into a bowl.

Put the husk-like skins of the potatoes on a tray and, when cool, cover until you are ready to fill them. Let the potato cool in the bowl, and then cover until needed.

When you are ready to fill the potatoes, preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Chop onion and saute with 1 tablespoon butter until golden brown. Grate the cheese, and add 3/4 cup of it to the cold potato along with the sour cream. Add onions and crumbled bacon to the potato, with the salt, pepper and Worcestershire sauce.

Spoon the potato filling into the potato skins, and lay each half on a baking tray so they fit snugly together. Sprinkle over the remaining cheese, giving each potato skin a light covering, and cook for 20-30 minutes until golden.

finding new rhythms...

fear

~be afraid of (someone or something) as likely to be dangerous, painful, or threatening

~feel anxiety or apprehension on behalf of

~avoid or put off doing something because one is afraid

This past week has brought a new rhythm to my world. With my new work schedule I am faced with some wonderful opportunities as well as some significant challenges. Both make me very extremely apprehensive. With my tendency toward perfectionism I woke up this morning with a serious headache and my stomach rolling. I knew that I needed to get control of my fears and make a plan of action.

First I needed to clear my mind and center my soul. I called upon my Creator asking for a road map to this new rhythm. I had prayed for so long to be able to come back home and take care of my family as I had done for so many years before Courtney's medical needs required me to work outside the home so our family could remain financially sound. God granted me my hearts desire but in that gift He is also calling me to live in a more intentional manner with our families finances, my homemaking, my writing as well as taking care of my own creative spirit.

anx-i-et-y

~a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome

~desire to do something, typically accompanied by unease
So what's a girl to do. How am I supposed to get everything done that needs to be done, stay on budget, remain faithful to my God in spending time with Him every day, take care of my physical health and be a better wife and mother? I am exhausted just thinking about it. THIS is what I wanted, right?
You see I tend to be an eat the elephant all at once kind of girl. If I am going to do it...I do it BIG! There are no small measures in my head. I don't know how to do anything half-way. I don't want to FAIL - EVER! Yep, no pride here huh? What I needed was a completely new routine taking all these needs into account. Again, totally overwhelmed at the thought!
AAAAAHHHH! One moment I was feeling peace and excitement and in the next utter panic! So I looked at my husband the king of all things FOCUS and begged for help with making my master to-do list. He chuckled knowing my how my mind works after so many years together. I swatted him (nicely of course) and he sat down with me.
Now some of you might think that this is just too much. "Really Mary, you need your husband to do your job? I mean you have waited for this moment for two whole years. Now you can't handle it?" Yep. That's right. The devil on my shoulder sounds like Jack Nicholas in A Few Good Men. Yes, I am loosing my mind. It's OK. I'll find it later.
I have learned a few thing after 21 years of marriage. First and foremost, my husband is a man of action where as I am the Queen of procrastination. He is focused and easily avoids distraction when concentrating on the task at hand and I am like the dog in the movie Up. ANYTHING and EVERYTHING distracts me. "Squirrel!"
So for the next hour we went over what I NEED to do and what I WANT to do. We go over my New Years Resolutions so that I can stay on track and keep moving forward with the goals that I so painstakingly prayed over. Needless to say I have quite a list of things to accomplish in the next few days. There are menu's to create continuing to use our stocked pantry and deep freeze. I know that I can do that for at least another three weeks before a big shop is required. I also need to update my homemakers binder with a new master schedule to include my new money saving chores. The Flylady and I are going to get reacquainted. It truly is an affair of the heart with the purple feathered wonder woman. There are sewing projects to be completed and new ones to dream of. There is writing to do, a book to complete and blog posts to upload.
There is a daughter that needs LOTS of love and attention and a son who requires a cheerleader on site. There is a husband who needs to be loved and honored for all he does to take care of us all. How am I going to accomplish this and NOT COMPLETELY LOSE MY MIND???

trust

~firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something

~acceptance of the truth of a statement without evidence or investigation
I need to trust ONCE again. Why is it that I constantly need to relearn this lesson? I am so thankful that God is so very patient with me. I mean seriously people, TRUST is something you would think I had mastered at this point with everything I have been through in my life. And yet...here we are again. Each time He brings me a step closer to the edge of the cliff saying "Just Jump Mary. I'll catch you. Really I will."
You see I am learning that fear and anxiety precede some major growth in my life. If I feel overwhelmed, it means it's time to prune my schedule and take a hard look at my commitments outside the home. I am reminded that my vocation is as wife and mother. That is my ONLY vocation. Faith, Family and Friends. That is the proper order, the triune balance of my life.
So I begin again, my heart filled with gratitude over how God chose to answer my prayer. Filled with hope over the possibilities of my families future. Filled with perseverance, rising to the challenge to be frugal and intentional with time and resources. I know that if I trust in my Lord and Savior, He will be ever faithful and not leave my side. Mary, His Mother will help me daily to be the best wife and mother I can be.
Now it's time for the real fun to begin!
Blessings and Grace, Mary

7 quick takes friday (vol. 19)...

1.

I would really like to know what Pandora's box I cracked open recently. This past week, I have spent an inordinate amount of time on my knees both for myself and others. So many people in my world are suffering with death, serious illness, lost jobs, parenting challenges, children with issues, etc...etc...etc...

As members of the body of Christ, we are called to pray for each other. I am reminded that we are "sheltering trees" of prayer. We must willingly hit our knees in support of each other. I praise God for His mercy and grace to send the healing hand of the Holy Spirit into the lives of those we pray for.

So what are your favorite prayers in times of crisis? Please leave a comment and let me know. I would appreciate all the help I can get to fight this spiritual battle.

2.

It's date night tonight. My hubby and I are actually going to give Hollywood a shot and check out this romantic comedy, When In Rome. I'll let you know how it is.

3.

This post by Kelly@This Restless Heart really spoke to me this week. It is difficult sometimes to remain authentic in this blogging world. Kelly has peeled back the curtain and revealed her soul. My heart broke for her and all those who suffer in this manner. God has a plan for all of us, it's just very hard to trust in that sometimes.

4.

My friend Kathy V. is an amazing woman. She is a wife and mother of six souls one of whom has significant special needs. She also just completed her MA in Theology so she is my go to woman for all those questions I have that hurt my brain. This week has been a challenging one for her as well. However, God sent her and angel names Eddie. Get the Kleenex box. Your gonna need it for this one.

Thanks Dad, So Very Much

5.

I Had spiritual direction this week and received my Lenten exercise. I am to read one chapter from the Gospel of Luke a day, followed by 15 minutes of silent contemplation. Gee, which do you think I will struggle with more...hmmmm...

6.

I have begun to gather my Lenten recipes in one place so I can be more efficient in the planning this year. We are about one month away from Ash Wednesday. I will be posting a few recipes as we go along. I would LOVE to know what your favorite Lenten recipes are. Feel free to leave a comment. I could use some inspiration.

7.

I thought this was the best round up on the State of the Union Address.

The Anchoress always hits her mark.

To be inspired by more 7 Quick Takes, stop by Jennifer's blog.

You don't want to miss out!

Blessings and Grace,

Mary

barefoot bloggers ~ shrimp bisque

Now I know that this soup does not look all that colorful in the picture but don't let that stop from giving this one a try. It is spectacular! The leeks are a perfect compliment to the delicate flavor of the shrimp. Then there is the blend of cognac, sherry and cream with a little pepper. So sublime.

With this bisque you have an elegant first course or a warm filling main course. I served it with a hearty bread for dipping. Absolutely fantastic! Thanks to Barefoot Bloggers Jennifer @ Our Blessed Home for picking this scrumptous recipe.

Celebrate the Feast!

Mary

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Shrimp Bisque

Recipe from Barefoot Contessa at Home

Ingredients:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, shells reserved

4 cups seafood stock

3 tablespoons good olive oil

2 cups chopped leeks, white and light green parts (3 leeks)

1 tablespoon chopped garlic (3 cloves)

Pinch cayenne pepper

1/4 cup Cognac or brandy

1/4 cup dry sherry

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups half-and-half

1/3 cup tomato paste

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

Place the shrimp shells and seafood stock in a saucepan and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain and reserve the stock. Add enough water to make 3 3/4 cups.

Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the leeks and cook them for 10 minutes over medium-low heat, or until the leeks are tender but not browned. Add the garlic and cook 1 more minute. Add the cayenne pepper and shrimp and cook over medium to low heat for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the Cognac and cook for 1 minute, then the sherry and cook for 3 minutes longer. Transfer the shrimp and leeks to a food processor fitted with a steel blade and process until coarsely pureed.

In the same pot, melt the butter. Add the flour and cook over medium-low heat for 1 minute, stirring with a wooden spoon. Add the half-and-half and cook, stirring with a whisk, until thickened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the pureed shrimp, the stock, tomato paste, salt, and pepper and heat gently until hot but not boiling. Season, to taste, and serve hot.

small successes (vol.24)...

"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."

Danielle Bean ~ Faith and Family LIVE!

1.

This one is not a small success at all but a HUGE answer to prayer thereby being a HUGE success. After working part-time four days a week as a substitute teacher at my daughters school for the past two years, this week my husband agreed to my working only one day a week instead. This is so unbelievable. I have felt more and more overwhelmed lately with Court's care, Jerry's increased work hours, my writing commitments as well as being in charge of all things home/budget related. I have been praying for guidance for so long and God chose to answer it in His time. So my challenge will be to stay on budget and on task with a cheerful content heart. I am looking forward to it.

2.

I have been patient and encouraging to J as he has adjusted to being home and all it entails. My job is to quietly pray, be supportive, and stay out of the way. So far, so good. I am proud of him and I know God has a hand on him.

3.

I made a special dinner for my husband last night as a surprise. J had a late class and we had the house to ourselves so I took full advantage. It was so lovely, it reminded me of our time as young marrieds. We talked for hours and reconnected after a difficult few weeks. God is good.

What were your Small Successes this week? Come on over to Faith and family LIVE! to see what all the fuss is about.

Blessings and Grace,

Mary

mary's pot roast...

This is the best Pot Roast recipe. I came up with it many years ago in an act of desperation. My family just loves it and it is easy peasy using items from the pantry. It makes it's own onion mushroom gravy. You just can't beat that! I usually serve it with potato/carrot mash and a fresh green salad. It is full of flavor and hits the spot on a cold winters day. Trust me, your going to want to make this for your family.

Celebrate the Feast!

Mary

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Mary's Pot Roast

1 (2 1/2 - 3 pound) chuck roast

2 cans cream of mushroom soup

1 onion, sliced

2 envelopes of dry onion mushroom soup

1 large can (8 oz) can of sliced mushrooms

(you can use fresh if you like)

Line a 9 x 13 pan with heavy duty foil. Take 2 other sheets of foil and crisscross them (+) in the middle of the pan. Make sure they are long enough to make a pouch with the meat in it. Place sliced onions in the middle. Lay meat on top of it. Cover meat with dry soup mix. Layer both cans of cream soup on top of that and then cover with mushrooms.

Bring both side of foil up and fold them making a pouch for the meat. Place in a 350 degree oven and place on the center rack. Cook for 3 hours. Open the pouch and flip the meat over. Close and let it sit for about 15 minutes in the self made gravy.

Serve hot on top of potato/carrot mash.

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Potato/Carrot Mash

4 large carrots peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces

4-5 russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces

1/2 stick of butter

1/4 cup of heavy cream

Place in pot, cover with water. Boil until tender. Drain the water.

Add 1/2 stick of slated butter and mash with potatoes. Add cream and whip with hand mixer. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

mary's book basket ~ "one simple act"

Every once in awhile you come across a book that just speaks to your heart and soul. It reaches into your very core and changes you. One Simple Act: Discovering the Power of Generosity by the fabulous Debbie Macomber is one of those books. I was just blow away by Debbie's honesty storytelling and gentle direction on how we can all discover and be changed by the power of generosity.

This past weekend the readings at Mass talked about how we are one body in Christ. When one arm hurts, the entire body is in pain. With the recent devastation in Haiti this could not be more true. I cannot tell you what those pictures do to my heart. The body is hurting right now. We are called to be generous with first and foremost, our prayers, then our time, talent and treasure. Ms. Macomber talks about how we can take care of one another through simple acts of generosity. It is a message that is so needed in today's world.

I highly recommend this book. It will change your heart and help you to realize what your purpose is...to love!

Happy Reading!

Mary

tuna w/white bean pasta...

I made this last week and was really excited about it. I had seen Ms Rachel make it on her show and it looked really yummy. I had a ton of tuna in the pantry so I thought, why not? Unfortunately it did not live up to the hype. The actual tuna dish was just so bland, even with salt and pepper. My guys were not fans of the texture either. The Gremolata Bread Crumbs were the star of the show. As long a you had some of those on your fork with the pasta, it was delightful.

So If I make it again, I think I might add the bread crumbs to the dish instead of letting them sit on top. Then it might work better. Give it a try and see what you think. It's rare for Rachel to disappoint. I would love to know what you think.

Celebrate the Feast!

Mary

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Tuna and White Bean Pasta with Gremolata Bread Crumbs

Recipe by Rachael Ray

Ingredients:

6 tablespoons EVOO

6 flat filet anchovies, optional

6 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1 cup breadcrumbs, toast and grind stale bread or store bought (have frozen ends in fridge to give tip - save ends until you have a bunch, toast and grind)

2 lemons

1/2 cup flat leaf parsley, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional

1 pound penne or ziti rigate

4 ribs celery, finely chopped

1 red onion, finely chopped

1 (15-ounce) can white beans, rinsed and drained

2 sprigs fresh rosemary, finely chopped

1/2 cup white wine, white vermouth or chicken broth

2 cans 6 ounces each Italian tuna in oil or water, drained

1 large tomato, seeded and chopped or 1 can 15 ounces can diced tomatoes, drained, optional

Directions:

Heat 4 tablespoons EVOO in small pan over medium-low heat with anchovies, if using. Melt anchovies into oil until they dissolve then add garlic and stir 2 minutes then add breadcrumbs and stir and cook until deeply golden in color. Stir in zest of 2 lemons and parsley and crushed red pepper flakes. Turn off heat and transfer to a bowl.

Heat a large pot of water to a boil for pasta.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons EVOO, couple of turns of the pan. Add celery, onions and 2 cloves garlic to the pan and cook until just tender, 5 minutes. Add white beans and rosemary and heat through 2 to 3 minutes more. Add wine, vermouth or broth, flakes tuna and tomato, if using. Stir 2 minutes then turn off heat.

Just before draining the pasta, add a ladle of starchy cooking water to pan along with the drained pasta, toss to combine. Serve in shallow bowls with lots of breadcrumbs and a drizzle of oil on top.

pantry challenge menu #3...

This week is filled with work (M,TU,W), one dinner guest (W), date night eating out w/hubby (F), and one family night w/friends (SAT). So this weeks menu plan is simple. However, I had a great week last week, staying on course and I have to tell you how good those little victories feel. I did not spend a dime on groceries last week which is awesome. Using that pantry and freezer. Yeah Me!

What has fascinated me about this process is how little it takes to feed my family of four. I am stunned. I know that I can seriously cut my grocery budget by simplifying our meals, planning better which leads to less waste and a more organized kitchen. Great lessons learned. Thanks Life as a Mom and Money Saving Mom for spurring me on to this discovery. My family is better for it.

Here is what we are eating this week:

Sunday:

Breakfast w/ friends

Beef Stroganoff w/ broccoli

Monday:

yogurt w/ boiled egg, hot tea

ham and cheese sandwich, chips and apple

Spaghetti and Meatballs

Tuesday:

yogurt w/boiled egg, hot tea

ham sandwich, chips and apple

Leftovers (gotta clear that fridge)

Wednesday:

oatmeal w/hot tea

tuna sandwich, apple & chips

Veggie Lasagna, Garlic Bread and Salad (company for dinner)

Thursday:

oatmeal w/hot tea

Egg Salad Sandwich w/ chips & apple

Fully Loaded Potato Skins (Nigella Recipe) & salad

Friday:

Date night w/ hubby

Kids are eating leftovers

Saturday:

Egg & Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Family night w/ friends

(menu to be determined later this week)

Have a great week & Celebrate the Feast!

Mary

roasted pork loin w/cider & chunky applesauce

One of my favorite shows on the Food Network is Secrets of A Restaurant Chef w/ Anne Burrell. She has really hammered home the idea that preparation is the key to success. She's right. Chef Burrell also challenges her viewers to try new things, to create awesome food. When I saw this recipe I knew immediately what I was going to make with the remainder of the pork roast I had purchased for Jerry's birthday.

After tasting this dish I truly believe that God made pork roast to be married to applesauce. It was phenomenal! Creamy, herby yumminess. The recipe was fairly easy to put together and worth the effort. I served it with mashed potatoes and asparagus. This is a perfect Sunday supper, so give it a whirl. You will be cooking like a restaurant chef before you know it.

Celebrate the Feast!

Mary

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Roasted Pork Loin with Cider and Chunky Applesauce

Recipe courtesy Anne Burrell

Ingredients

2 sprigs rosemary leaves, roughly chopped

2 sprigs sage, roughly chopped

2 cloves garlic, smashed

Pinch crushed red pepper

Salt

Extra-virgin olive oil

1 (6-chop) pork rib roast

2 large onions, sliced

1 bundle thyme, tied with string

3 bay leaves

2 quarts apple cider

Chunky Applesauce, recipe follows

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

In a food processor, combine the chopped herbs with the garlic, crushed red pepper, a generous pinch of salt and enough olive oil to make a paste. Brush the paste on the outside of the pork rib roast.

Toss the onions with olive oil, and salt, and place in the bottom of a roasting pan. Add the thyme, bay leaves and 2/3 of the cider. Place the pork on top of the onions and place in the preheated oven. Roast the pork at 425 degrees F for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pork has developed a lovely brown crust. Check the pork, stir the onions and cider if they are starting to burn. Add more cider when the level starts to go down.

Lower the oven to 375 degrees F and roast for another 30 to 35 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer reads 150 degrees F. If the crust on the pork starts to get too dark, cover it with foil. Remove 1 1/2 cups of the cider from the bottom of the roasting pan and reserve for the applesauce.

Let the pork rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. When ready to carve remove the pork from the bone and cut the loin into thin slices. Serve with the onions braised in cider and Chunky Applesauce.

Chunky Applesauce:

3 tablespoons butter

4 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1/2-inch chunks (toss the apples in lemon juice if not using right away)

1 1/2 cups of the reserved cider from the Roasted Pork Loin with Cider

1/4 cup apple cider

1 pinch ground cinnamon

1/4 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped

Melt the butter in a saucepan large enough to accommodate the apples. Add the apples and saute over medium-low heat until the apples start to soften. Add the reserved cider, apple cider and cinnamon and cook over low-medium heat until most of the cider has evaporated and the apples are cooked and very soft.

Add the heavy cream and walnuts and cook until the cream has reduced by half. The end result should be a very chunky, sweet/savory applesauce.

a public witness...

Today is the March for Life. Normally, I would be participating as a public witness for life. I would be pushing my daughters wheelchair down Pennsylvania Ave, praying, chanting and singing with the tens of thousands of others who believe in the sanctity of life.

This year is not a normal year. It is icy, raining and very cold. Courtney's health is frail and after spending part of the fall in isolation, I have made a different plan for this day. Our parish has Adoration all day long to support the marchers. So today I will be a prayer warrior, marching in support one rosary, one holy hour at a time. I am so grateful to our pastor for this opportunity to enter into the battle spiritually with prayer and fasting.

I hope you will take a moment today and say a prayer for the unborn. Say a prayer for that lost, lonely woman who is pregnant right now and must make a choice for her child, life or death. PRAY that she chooses LIFE!

Here is the piece I wrote last year explaining why I chose to be a public witness for LIFE:

WHY I MARCH

Blessings and Grace,

Mary

7 quick takes friday (vol. 18)

1.

The candy making nuns are praying for the formally naked (yikes!), currently truck driving future Senator Brown of Massachusetts. I am so glad. He is going to be needing every single one of them. Good luck Senator Brown!

2.

I am hoping to see this movie this weekend. It looks powerful.

3.

If your looking for pantry stretching, hearty, tasty recipes...look no further. Life as a Mom has what you need. Check it out and be inspired.

4.

This is just wonderful @ the purl bee. I really enjoy the oliver + s children's patterns . I have made quite a few for my nieces and nephews. They have a terrific vintage quality to them. The fabric used in this post is whimsical and happy. So cute!

5.

I have really enjoyed A Sewn Wardrobe and The Sew Weekly. Both woman want to fill their closets with apparel sewn by them. One inspired by the vintage look and one inspired by current fashion. I am inspired by BOTH of these terrifically talented individuals! Oh the ideas I have in my head. Now to the sewing room...

6.

Speaking of sewing...LOVE these shortbread button cookies@forty-sixth at grace. They look fab-u-lous! I know what I'll be baking this weekend.

7.

Today is the March for Life. I pray for the marchers safety and well being. I pray that our lawmakers will LISTEN to the people and DEFEND LIFE!

Go say hello to Jennifer and have a fabulous day!

Mary

paula's chicken spaghetti...

My husband calls me the Casserole Queen. He is too kind and very hungry at the moment, so sucking up to the cook is good.

Paula Deen's magazine arrived in September tempting me to spend weeks and weeks in the kitchen cooking. I finally had some time, 4 months later, and added this recipe to the weekly menu. This casserole was dynamite! Everyone left the table full and satisfied. I loved the crunch on top. Any casserole is made better with a little crunch. It's a cardinal rule of casserole making - add crunch!

It reminds me of a King Ranch Chicken casserole with a few twists. It adapts very well to add ins. So get creative. I think the next time I will add some sauted zucchini to it as well as the roasted red peppers. Give it your best shot and have some fun.

Celebrate the Feast!

Mary

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Chicken Spaghetti

adapted from Sept/Oct 09 issue of Cooking with Paula Deen Magazine

Makes 10 to 12 servings

2 tablespoons butter

1 cup chopped onion

1 cup chopped celery

1 (14-ounce) can chicken broth

1 (10.75-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup

1 (10.75-ounce) can cream of chicken soup

1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained

1 (4.25-ounce) can chopped black olives, drained

1 (4-ounce) jar sliced mushrooms, drained

1 (12-ounce) jar of marinated roasted red peppers

1⁄2 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon salt

31⁄2 cups chopped cooked chicken

2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

1 (16-ounce) package angel hair pasta, cooked according to package directions

3⁄4 cup panko (Japanese bread crumbs)

1 tablespoon butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350˚. Spray a 13x9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and celery; cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.

In a large bowl, combine onion mixture, broth, soups, tomatoes, olives, mushrooms, sour cream, and salt. Stir in chicken and cheese. Add pasta, tossing gently to coat. Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish.

In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over casserole. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Serve immediately.

small successes (vol.23)...

"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 stuck to the menu all week long without one substitution. At this point it's an exercise of will. I need to prove to myself that it is possible to stay on point for an entire week without getting bored.

2.

I have been praying each day with St. Therese. It has helped so much to calm my mind and spirit.

3.

I shined my sink last night. It sparkles. I am happy!

How did you succeed this week in the little things? Come share over at FaithandFamilyLIVE!

Blessings and Grace,

Mary

almost wordless wednesday...

C

O

U

R

T

N

E

Y

I

LOVE

HER

SMILE!

IT REMINDS ME THAT GOD IS FAITHFUL!

ALWAYS!

Happy Wednesday!

Mary

mary's book basket ~ "the fixer upper"

I have been a HUGE fan of Mary Kay Andrews for a long time. Her books are funny and light. The southern humor produces belly laughter with every page turned. Listening to them on CD is such a treat. She knows how to turn a phrase...a southern phrase that is. In The Fixer Upper there are memorable characters, fabulous dialogue as the plot twists and turns in the southern wind. Yes, there is romance, filled with humor of course and in the end the bad guy gets what's coming to him.

**Great Read!

Mary

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Amazon.com Book Description:

The delightful New York Times bestselling author returns with a hilarious novel about one woman's quest to redo an old house . . . and her life.

After her boss in a high-powered Washington public relations firm is caught in a political scandal, fledgling lobbyist Dempsey Jo Killebrew is left almost broke, unemployed, and homeless. Out of options, she reluctantly accepts her father's offer to help refurbish Birdsong, the old family place he recently inherited in Guthrie, Georgia. All it will take, he tells her, is a little paint and some TLC to turn the fading Victorian mansion into a real-estate cash cow.

But, oh, is Dempsey in for a surprise when she arrives in Guthrie. "Bird Droppings" would more aptly describe the moldering Pepto Bismol-pink dump with duct-taped windows and a driveway full of junk. There's also a murderously grumpy old lady, one of Dempsey's distant relations, who has claimed squatter's rights and isn't moving out. Ever.

Furthermore, everyone in Guthrie seems to know Dempsey's business, from a smooth-talking real-estate agent to a cute lawyer who owns the local newspaper. It wouldn't be so bad if it weren't for the pesky FBI agents who show up on Dempsey's doorstep, hoping to pry information about her ex-boss from her.

All Dempsey can do is roll up her sleeves and get to work. And before long, what started as a job of necessity somehow becomes a labor of love and, ultimately, a journey that takes her to a place she never expected--back home again.

*I got this book from the library and have not been compensated for this review.

* *There is some foul language and a scene of pre-marital sex. I follow the 3 page rule. When one of "those" scenes arrive skip ahead 3 pages. It works every time.

ina's fillet of beef...

One of the lovely surprises I recently found deeeeppp in my freezer was a foil wrapped mystery. It wasn't labeled and neither Jerry nor myself had any idea what it was. So, we decided to thaw it out and use it for that evenings dinner, no matter what is was. Well surrprise, surrrprise, surrrprise...a 2 lb beef tenderloin! I knew I needed Ina who's simple preparation is best. Jerry was one happy boy.

The next challenge was to use what I had on hand to serve as sides. I went waaaay back to my childhood and made buttered noodles. This is just a package of egg noddles, one stick of butter, and 1 cup of Italian dried bread crumbs. Boil the noodles, drain, melt butter in pan, toss noodles with butter and bread crumbs. That's it. Add salt and pepper and you've got a cheap flavorful side dish. Add some frozen asparagus and we have ourselves a five star meal!

Your gonna LOVE this one!

Celebrate the Feast,

Mary

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Fillet of Beef

recipe from Barefoot Contessa Parties

1 1/2 pounds whole fillet of beef trimmed and tied

2 tablespoons melted butter

1 tablespoon salt

1 tablespoon coarsely ground black pepper

Preheat oven 500 degrees F.

Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.

Place beef on a baking sheet and pat the outside dry with a paper towel. Using a pastry brush coat the beef with the melted butter. Sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper. Roast for 25 minutes at 500 degrees F for medium rare.

Remove the beef from the oven, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and allow to rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before slicing.

my hearts call...

Yesterday was one of those days that started out with great promise but by dinnertime had disintegrated into a pool of frustration and anger. What amazes me though is that God was present through it all and He answered my hearts call at the speed of light. It all began with words spoken by my hubby in frustration and anger that wounded my heart deeply. What spilled forth from my mouth though was a volcanic eruption of all of my disappointment, frustration and fear regarding the state of my home and all who live within these walls, especially my son.

J is at a crossroads. He is searching for his place in this world. He is wrestling with what he wants to do with his life. He is experiencing serious growing pains. Adulthood is not easy to achieve, especially in a world that celebrates the man-boy. Combine that intensity with a husband who feels he must instruct constantly and a mother who worries incessantly and you have quite the boiling pot of emotions. Eventually it's going to spill over and someone is going to be hurt.

Well let me tell you, it burns like the dickens. The wound was deep and quite painful. My reaction was like that of a wounded animal. I lashed out and wounded right back. I had had enough. So I gathered my keys and purse and headed out the door. In my anger fog I had no idea where I was going until I pulled into the parking lot of a local church. I sought sanctuary once more in the peace and silence there.

I knew that I was wrong. I knew that I needed to apologize to my husband. At that moment though I was just so pi*#$# off I couldn't stand it. My Irish was up and my pride was cloaking all of my sin. My self-righteousness was a huge barrier to my heart. I sat in that Adoration chapel and I screamed and yelled at God in my head. I just kept giving it to Him, wave after wave of hurt and anger. Finally I closed my eyes and breathed deeply taking in the peace and silence.

At that moment my heart was pierced. How could I have said those things? Look at the mess my impatience and lack of humility had made. I gazed upon my Beloved and begged for Him to heal my home IMMEDIATELY. I begged for God to send His Holy Spirit down upon my home at that moment and shower peace and healing upon all of us. We all needed to take shelter in the storm. I needed those waters to calm down so we could get our bearings once again.

I began to read from The St. Therese of Lisieux Prayer Book my friend Sharon had given to me last week. It was time to call in my heavenly prayer support. Oh how generous is Our God. Right then He spoke through His Little Flower:

"For me prayer is an upward rising of the heart, it's a simple glance toward heaven, it's a cry of gratitude and love in the midst of trial as much as in the midst of joys. In short, it's something big, something great, something supernatural that expands my heart and unites me to Jesus."

St. Therese of Lisieux

Amen! Amen! Amen! Something BIG! Something GREAT! My heart was expanding in that moment. He was with me right there in my pride and anger. He was with me in my sadness and humiliation. His spirit was really moving because things happened faster than the speed of light. He rose to my challenge and not only answered prayer but HEALED hearts in a matter of hours. It was AMAZING!

When I left that chapel, I ran into a friend in the parking lot who was struggling with some of the same issues. She talked, I listened. I talked, she listened. I needed her in that moment and she needed me. I began to see that God brings good from ALL things. Even a fight with my husband. We hugged and promised to pray for each other and for peace in our homes during this time of growth and transition. She was the face of Christ to me in that moment and I pray I was the same to her.

"All praise to God, the Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all our comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us."

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

I got in my car. My cell phone was buzzing letting me know there was a message for me. It was my husband apologizing for wounding my heart. He asked forgiveness. I listened to that message three times. I couldn't believe it. Not only was I NOT the only mother in the world going through man-boyitis BUT my very stubborn hubby had recognized his sin and was asking forgiveness on the phone. No words...really.

I called immediately and asked for the same. It was the best five minutes of my day...because he shared with me something our son had said to him while I was gone. J apologized for all the turmoil he had put his Dad and I through. He asked his Dad's forgiveness and for our prayers. He asked for help, recognizing that his way might not always be the best way.

WHAT!!! What alternate universe did I step into when I left that chapel. Who were these people and how was all this possible? I was seriously questioning my sanity at that point. I just could not believe how fast God was changing and healing hearts.

I proceeded in silence to my prayer group and shared with them all that had transpired. Being able to hold each other in prayer throughout life's ups and downs with this group of woman over the years has been such a HUGE blessing to me. Tonight was no different. It was like a huge hug from above. All the way home I prayed in thanksgiving for the miracles of the night. God had shown up in a HUGE way just when I needed Him most.

I woke up this morning with a peaceful heart and a happy home. As I was writing this, I stopped to pray. This was part of my morning meditation in the Word Among Us:

"God knows what is in everyone’s heart. He is not one to be fooled by appearances or first impressions. We, on the other hand, are prone to underestimate what God is able to do, especially with those closest to us. Will your son or daughter do great things for the kingdom of God? You never know! What about that neighbor down the street who never seems to smile? Or even more to the point, you may look at yourself and see nothing but shortcomings. But that’s not how God sees you—or anyone else. Ever the optimist, he sees the limitless possibilities in every soul. Why? Because he’s the One who created us. And he created us in his own image and likeness!

Let God surprise you. Don’t prejudge yourself or anyone else. Don’t let low expectations keep you from all that God has in store! He wants great things for you and from you, so take the first step in faith!"

Prayer:

“Lord, you have great plans for each of us. Open my eyes to see all that you can do in this world through the least likely of people.”

How cool is that? Convicting as well, but in an awesome way. God is STILL working on this issue in my heart right now. He is plowing those fields with meekness and humility. He asking me to trust Him with EVERYTHING! He is filling up my LOVE tank so I can go forth once again and serve without hesitation or resentment.

WOW! WOW! WOW! Can you feel the spirit moving? I can and I am thankful for it! How is the spirit moving in your life today?

Blessings and Grace,

Mary

**image from http://dgoffeney.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/humility1.jpg