Thankful.....

As this Thanksgiving Day 2011 comes to a close, I'd like to reflect on the things that I am most grateful for in my life. With a year of ups and downs that we experienced as a family, our list is long, so I'll just write the condensed version......

I am thankful for:
* My son, our daughter-in-law, and precious grandchildren. We were separated for a spell when they moved to a job in New Mexico and it was THE hardest time I've ever experienced. I am so very thankful that they decided that no matter what it cost, they were going to move back home. From that experience we all learned that nothing is more important than family.

* My daughter for being there and doing her best to help occupy my lonely heart while the kids were away. I love her so much and so proud of her! I know just how lucky I am and would never take her for granted.

* My husband, Butch. It hasn't been easy these past 11 months for us financially and having to admit that this time around we wouldn't be able to make it with the semi, was very hard on him. He has always been a hard worker and to admit defeat was tough. Although we had to take this path, he is much more relaxed and doesn't stress over repair bills that were taking over his life, and that makes for a much happier home life!

All in all, I am very satisfied with my life as it stands now. Although we live paycheck to paycheck, may lose our house at any time, we have our family, health, our hearts are full of love and life, and nothing can replace that in our eyes!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Godspeed

Sharing!

Been a CRAZY couple weeks here and although I haven't done much scrapping, I do have a few layouts I'd like to share.

First up is this one of us with Ruby. She is now getting into helping out in the kitchen, so after I baked cupcakes, Butch & Ruby decorated. She was so cute in my apron!

Next up are some layouts of our pumpkin carvings. I love that we make an annual tradition of getting together not only for the Pumpkin Patch outing, but for the actual carving. Its so much FUN and we make such great memories in the meantime. :-)

And once daylight decides to Bless Us with its presence, I'll have a few more to share. ;-)

Godspeed

Another Goal Achieved!!

Yes, another milestone in my battle to shed the pounds and get to a healthier me was achieved! Its been YEARS since I weighed under 200 lbs. and well, I DID IT!! My weigh-in this morning was 198.4 lbs. and I celebrated with making some protein bars! Funny how things go from sugary cupcakes to healthy protein bars in a few short months!! ;-)

And since I'm tired of the constant cold salads on these cold, damp nights, I've discovered some healthy soup recipes and here's the first one I will try.

TORTILLA SOUP
1 lb of cut up skinless chicken breast
14.5 oz. can of reduced sodium fat free chicken broth
16 oz. can of petite chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon salt - optional
1 teaspoon chili powder

In a large pot, bring chicken, broth, tomatoes, and water to a boil. Reduce heat and cook till chicken is thoroughly cooked, about 6 to 8 minutes. Add salt and chili powder to taste, adding more chili powder if desired.

Divide soup into four bowls and garnish with:
1 jalapeno pepper, cut into rings
12 baked tortilla chips
1/2 cup shredded low-fat Monteray Jack cheese
2 green onions thinly sliced
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
3 tablespoon. low-fat sour cream
1 lime, cut into 4 wedges

Serves 4

soup = 165 calories per serving

garnishes = 95 calories per serving

YUMMY!!

Godspeed