Catch Up

A few weekends ago it was my sister's birthday, so we the girls (my Mom, sister and I) went on an all day shopping excursion. We told Susan that she could do or go wherever she wanted within reason. We had the best time going from store to store and getting our holiday shopping completed. We were gone from 1:00 until after midnight!! One of Susan's requests was to get a pedicure. I even ventured in and got one with her. I have a huge phobia about people touching my feet, but decided to give it a try. I just may do it again! (here is proof for all of the naysayers)

Another adventure that weekend was to visit Santa. Justin wanted nothing to do with him and leaped out of Lauren's lap a second after this photo was taken. Ahhh the memories!

Bill and I went to Jacksonville for Christmas with Mom and Dad. It was a short fun trip. Sadly no pictures to report from those festivities. We are headed back there this weekend as my sister and her brood will be there for a late holiday celebration. Perhaps we will corrupt the Powers with the fun of Wii!

Heavy heart this morning........

Today I wake with a heavy heart as I learn of a young teenager who has lost his battle with a terrible disease. He as well has his family have been inspirational in their never ending faith and purpose in this life even through the midst of terrible tragedy. This teen was able to reach out to so many and share his faith and probally had no idea how many people he touched all over the world.

I took this from their blog:
I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on her tombstone from the beginning … to the end.
He noted that first came the date of her birth and spoke of the following date with tears,
But he said what mattered most of all was the dash between those years.
For that dash represents all the time that she spent alive on earth.
And now only those who loved her know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not, how much we own, the cars … the house … the cash.
What matters is how we live and love … and how we spend our dash.
So think about this long and hard; are there things you’d like to change?
For you never know how much time is left that can still be rearranged.
If we could just slow down enough to consider what’s true and real
And always try to understand the way other people feel.
And be less quick to anger and show appreciation more.
And love the people in our lives … like we’ve never loved before.
If we treat each other with respect and more often wear a smile …
Remembering that this special dash might only last a little while.

Comfort Food

Life has been crazy wonderful here. I have just recieved a promotion at work and am taking a more active role with the business aspects of the house. It is fun, challenging and rewarding. I am really excited about the opportunities that lie before me but very nervous about living up to the expectations. It is a big deal for me to make it right when we are dealing with taking care of people who are in dire need of help all in a struggling economy. No pressure right?
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So on much different note, it was a cold and busy weekend, and I came across a recipe for a great soup on a friend's blog. It was yummy and made for some very comforted tummies AND not a drop of leftovers for me to take to lunch tomorrow :-(

Corn and Bacon Soup - from Southern Living

Makes about 8 cups
Ingredients:4 bacon slices (or as much as you like)
1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 med.-size baking potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3 cups) - (3 cups frozen country-style hash browns may be substituted)
4 cups chicken broth
1 (16oz) package frozen whole kernel corn
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 (10-oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies
1 cup (4 oz.) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

1. Cook bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat 5 minutes or until crisp. Remove bacon, and drain on paper towels, reserving drippings in Dutch oven. Crumble bacon.
2. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic in hot drippings over medium heat 5 minutes or until tender. add flour, and cook, stirring constantly. 1 minute.
3. Stir in potatoes and next 4 ingredients, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring often. 30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in tomatoes and green chilies and cheese, simmer 1 minute or until cheese is melted. Season with salt to taste. Serve with crumbled bacon.

Enjoy!

Thanks Stephanie!!