Thursday, September 29, 2011

Morning

Thankful for a quiet early morning to reflect.

In about an hour, I will be busy sweeping through the halls of school with people to meet, forms to file, presentations to give, and organization to flow.

But for now, I sit with a glass of milk, a sweet dog at my feet, in the early hours where the sun is just starting to rise. It is just me and my thoughts.

Excited about possibilities, new adventures, and following dreams.
Soaking up the amount of love and support shown to me the last few weeks.
A stirring in my heart whose roots form deeper with each passing day.
Preparing my mind before the busyness gets to overshadow these thoughts.

Thankful for a new day.



Monday, September 26, 2011

Teachers Night Out

I am constantly amazed by the people that surround me!

Tonight, a group of us from school headed to 3rd & Lindsley to support one of our own. Our music teacher, Mrs. Miller held her CD release party. The woman can sing! Old school country twang, but with lots of soul.

Great way for us to unwind for the day.:)



Sunday, September 25, 2011

Meal Swap: The Perfect Fall Black Bean Soup

Last week, my brilliant friend Melanie hosted a meal swap. Six of us gathered on Sunday night to switch meals. It was really nice not having to come up with what to have to cook for dinner each night this week.

Here is the recipe I used, thanks to Pinterest! It really was quick and easy to make. Perfect for a fall evening!

The Pretty Bee's Speedy Black Bean Soup

Ingredients

1 teaspoon olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans
1 teaspoon chopped garlic, fresh or jarred
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) vegetable or chicken broth
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) chopped tomatoes with green chilies
1 teaspoon dried thyme
3 bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
2 cups frozen corn kernels 
Optional garnish ideas: Grated cheddar cheese, sour cream, minced cilantro, crumbled tortilla chips

Directions

1. Heat oil in 4-quart or larger soup pot on medium. Peel and chop onions, add to pot. Cook until slightly brown, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Meanwhile, pour 1 can beans and juice in a 2-cup bowl. Use the back of a serving-size spoon to mash beans against sides and bottom of bowl broken up and pasty. Set aside.

3. Add garlic to soup and cook 1 minute. Raise heat to high, add chicken broth, mashed beans, and remaining can of beans with juice. Stir well. Add all remaining ingredients except garnish. Cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, and simmer to blend flavors, about 5 to 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.

(photo credit: The Pretty Bee)

Saturday, September 17, 2011

You Never Know...

You never know what you are going to do when you come to our house, just ask Amy.

Amy came over this week. While J was grilling away, Amy and I sat on the couch, catching up. I have always been blessed by her friendship. She has always encouraged my dreams and this was no exception. After telling her about my newest find, we found ourselves looking up tickets, and planning a trip to Maine. J interrupted us to say that dinner was ready. Amy walked into the kitchen to find that we would be feasting on squirrel and dove. Barbecue squirrel, teriyaki squirrel, squirrel with olive oil and basil, squirrel with onions and red wine, and bacon wrapped dove breasts.


A trip to Maine and a feast of squirrel... do we know how to have a good time??!?! :)


Monday, September 12, 2011

Prayers for Bobby

Praying tonight for Bobby, Cheryl, Patty, Bob, and Kelly. Bobby, my cousin, was deployed for a year. He is having to leave his wife whom he just married in August. May God grant him safety and all of them strength.

Monday, September 5, 2011

Summer Evening in the Backyard

One of the wonderful things about our Stockell house is the backyard. A few weeks ago, we were able to put it to good use for a couples shower for our friends soon to be R.C. Pankake.

There was food made by the fabulous Mel, flowers, bug deterrents candles, gifts, prayer, and white lights.




Summer was made for evenings such as this!

And looked who popped in all the way from Washington state!!! ;)

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Happy Heart

It has been a magnificent evening!

After a long day at school, I got to meet up with my beautiful friend Amanda. She has been gone for 2 months, but has returned to where she belongs. Of course, we had to met up at our favorite spot, Fido's. She was exactly what I needed tonight and I am glad that I could soak up her goodness. We also celebrated 3 years of friendship since we met the first week in September after she first moved South. Fido's + Amanda = Pure Delight.

J had dinner ready when I got home. It's the little things that are so huge for the heart.

And finally some big news...

I can pull my hair back into a half ponytail with no pins or clips!!!!!!!!!!! While that might seem little, it is very big deal. I have not been able to pull my hair up in 2 years. Just another sign that I have overcome. Even now I am crying with happy tears! :)

My heart is very happy. :)