May Book Review
It is one of my favorite post! My book review! Man how I love to get lost in a good book and this month did not disappoint! I only read three, but they were all amazing! The last one I tear up still thinking about it! WOW!!!!! So I just want to jump in because they were all so amazing!!!!!
My first read this month was Blackout: Remembering The Things I Drank To Forget by Sarah Hepola. This book was fascinating to me! Why? Well, first because it is a true story. A scary story, but a very courageous story that ends with hope. I chose this book because I was asked to attend a fundraiser/banquet at which Sarah would be speaking. So in true Amy form, I googled her and found out she wrote a book and decided I wanted to read it to get to know her. Man am I glad I did. To see and hear Sarah speak after reading her story was truly a blessing and one that I will always be thankful for. Sarah’s story is literally a story of her coming undone at the seams from the horrible disease of alcohol and finding strength, peace, love, and life in a sober life…..a life she faught against and one she did not want, but she has now and she is alive and she is amazing! Everyone who has been effected by this disease, whether personally, or through a friend or family member should get this book if nothing else, but to understand the hold this disease can have on a loved one, the lies this disease feeds a loved one, and the hope that a loved one can beat it.
After reading such a heavy story I decided I needed a light chic lit, love story, adventure. I chose My Oxford Year by Julia Whelan. Great book! Easy read and fun read! Especially if you are like me and dream of adventures in Europe. This is the kind of book that you want to just curl up on the couch with a blanket and get lost in it. You do not want the story to end. It is fun, it is exciting, it is romantic, and at times it is sad. It is an adventure with all kinds of take away lessons if you look for them. My biggest lesson was that life does not always take you where you think you want to be or should be. Sometimes life has bigger and better plans for you. Plans you could never imagine. Great read! Especially for a summer vacation!
The last book I chose this month was INCREDIBLE! Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. EVERYONE should get this book! I am actually tearing up writing about it and remembering the main character Kya. Kya means Diamond in the Sky and let me tell you, this Kya in this story is a diamond in the rough, not in the sky. A true gem. One who is indestructible like a diamond. A powerful force and one not to be messed with. There were so many things about Kya that I did not indentified with, but Kya was a survivor and her will to survive really reasonated with me. I felt her on every page and I felt for her. This book was truly amazing and it is a story I will treasure always and one I am so grateful to have read. Everyone should pick this one up too. Not necessarily a light fluffy read for the beach, but a must read for sure!!!!!
So there you have it! Three great books to bring you into summer! Happy reading!
Until next time,
XO,
Amy
Freeze and Freak...an Internal Struggle!
Ever have one of those days that you just are in a funk? No real reason or maybe there is one, but you know there is nothing you can do about it and that you should just stay present, but your mind keeps going. Ya, I am having one of those days.
I find for me as a mom these kind of days happen more when change is coming. It is an anticipation to the, “what will it be like?” I have shared with you before that I suffer from depression. It is under control, but it is under control because I choose to take my meds daily and I go to counseling and seek help-a minumim of once a month. I am not afraid to ask for help or go more often if I need, and I do not shy away from calling a friend or mentor when I need talk. However, there are times when I feel it coming on strong…..like right now.
Friday, the boys will be getting out of school. This overwhelms me more than I can even begin to explain. My head starts spinning, I start breathing and I shut down. It is almost like I become frozen. Anyone else have this? It is crazy! I have friends sending me dates their kids will be in camps, other friends sending me flight itineraries to camps the boys will be attending with them, and still other friends literally asking me to their summer homes on specific dates and I can’t function. I have calendar. I have a pen. I have a computer. But for some reason I freeze and freak out internally!
It is really quite ridiculous and being aware of this is not enough. Then it gets compounded with a three day holiday weekend which always is hard for me and end of year school activities. This year has been worse for me and I think it is because I have an incoming Senior and we are already having deadlines and meetings about next school year. I want to shout at the top of my lungs, “I can’t even schedule a trip that the dates have been laid out for me perfectly and you want me to schedule next year!” This is real people and I know I am not alone.
Ok…if you are like me and you freak out…this journal will do you good! It is my Daily Deposit Journal and you can get one at www.macymcneely.com
So how am I going to tackle this? Well I could break it down to very simple: start with one day at a time…..maybe even one hour at a time. This is hard for me. ESPECIALLY if I forget one thing…. I have to wake up with God. No lie. If I miss this, then I might as well hang it up, UNTIL… I realize that was the step I missed and I start over right there in that moment and go to God. Then I breath. Then I write down 5 things I must do that day. ONLY that day. And sometimes I have to really prioritize this.
Example: Yesterday was Friday, May 24. I still did not have JP’s plane ticket for June 22. Well we all know if I did not jump on that the price was eventually going to go up so this definitely had to be on the list. Here is a list of other things that were possibilities….Will’s passport to the church. Get June calendar written down (JP summer school schedule, JP is gone, Will is gone, VBS), figure out when JP back in July. Decide when the family trip can happen because June is shot with both boys gone and summer school and JP starts Phantom rehearsal on August 5. Decide sleep away camp for Graeme. Decide day camps for Graeme. Teacher gifts. End of year Party. Baseball game schedule this weekend. Work schedule when I need subs. Will’s add for yearbook NEXT YEAR (NUTS). Will’s senior calendar activities prioritized (this has me so frozen). You get the point….I know I am only capable of 5 things and I have all that AND all the while I am thinking I suck because I don’t have Graeme signed up for ANYTHING but VBS and his other friends moms have spreadsheets of what their kid is doing this summer. JP’s friends are getting headshots and auditioning in things I have never heard of. Will’s friends parents are planning their Senior Trip for next March (I am talking 2020 people) and all their parties and I have yet to even get a gift for his friends that are graduating THIS Friday! You see what I am doing here….I am comparing myself and my family and do you see what it does! It freezes me! It freaks me out! And when you have depression it is not good because it shuts you down and it makes you want to run and hide!
It is real people and yes it affects someone as outgoing as me! Someone who is alive can die a slow death by choking on fear and suffocating on comaprison. Someone who is perfectly capable of prioritizing, making lists, and making things happen, can shut down. Happens to me all the time! Happening right now as I type. And if you are someone like me, know you are not alone. Also know there is hope! You can do this! I can do this! We can do this! And we will! One day at a time! One prayer at a time! One list at a time! One task at a time!
So this summer is coming in hot and it will happen. The kids will get to their camps. They will get a vacation and August will hit and I will freeze again just like I do every August. When that happens I will read this and I will remember to start my day with God. Breath. Make a list. One foot in front of the other. One step in the right direction is a step in the right direction. AND I AM NOT ALONE!
Until next time,
XO,
Amy
Simple Supper Suggestions #8
This week you will see alot of repeat recipes. Reason being it is the last week of school and I have let each kid in the family choose what they would like. I did this last year and it is just a way to provide comfort during exams and all the hustle and bustle. Truthfully speaking it is easier on me too because it is normally a meal that I make often so I know exactly what to do. Win, win if you ask me! They are happy and I am happy!
Monday-With it being Memorial Day I asked Trey what he would like. I figure he did serve in the Military for 20 years, it is the least I could do. He chose Steaks on the grill which is a huge win for me! The grill is his domain! Ha! So Monday I am off the clock, but we will have grilled steaks, simple green salad, and baked potatoes. Easy Peasy lemon squeezy.
My Handsome fly boy…..
Tuesday-Will’s pick of Steak Burrito Bowls. These are the perfect meal to double and eat on during the week for lunch or whatever.
I can’t believe this one will be a Senior next year!!!!!
Wedneday-JP’s pick of Chicken Feta. Again super easy and you can even make it super duper easy by going to the grocery and getting their whole chickens that are already roasted if you are crazy busy with end of year activities.
My sweet JP! No lie he requests this recipe EVERY week!
Thursday-Graeme’s pick. Spaghetti! And yes we will do it again! Everyone get’s a pick so it is only fair! And besides everyone loves spaghetti!
This one loves his daddy so much!
Friday-Saturday I am off!
Sunday-Spaghetti Sunday because hey we like to keep it consistent!
What will you be eating this week and do you have any traditions you do with your kids on the last week of school? I would love to know them!
Until next time!
Bon Appetit!
Amy
Chicken with Blackberry Salsa
It is summer time and I am always looking for quick, easy, healthy, and able to grill kind of things. Today’s recipe is just that. I cannot take the credit for it as I found it on Mix and Match Mama and it is so good. I did add a few things from Shay’s but I definitely used 90% of her reciepe and my entire family was very pleased. It is fresh and it is light and it is oh so good! I honestly think you could top any meat from the grill with this amazing salsa! All summer long!!!!!
Chicken with Blackberry Salsa
Chicken (Or honestly whatever meat you choose from beef, to fish, pork, whatever you are in the mood for) I used thighs this time.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper
Lemon Pepper seasoning
1 red onion chopped
2-3 tablespoon chopped jar garlic
2 pints of blackberries
1 jalapeno, chopped and seeded….unless of course you like the heat
1 large tomato, chopped
a handful of cilantro, chopped
I got a gallon bag and put my chicken in it. I then threw in some olive oil, lemon pepper, pinch or two of salt, black pepper, and chopped garlic. Shook it up real good and let it sit in the refrigerator all day.
The salsa I made earlier in the day as well so it had some time to marinate and get good and juicy. For the salsa you will need a mixing bowl. In your mixing bowl combine your red onion, blackberries, chopped jalapeno, chopped tomato and cilantro. Add some salt and pepper and lightly stir with a fork. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
When you are ready preheat your grill and cook your meat to your desired temperature. For chicken we usually do about 8 minutes or so on each side.
Once chicken is grilled to your liking, plate and top with your salsa and serve with a side of my lemon rice and broccoli. This dish is so good and so easy.
Bon Appetit!
Amy
Simple Supper Suggestions #7
It’s a weird week here in the Berry Casa. We have banquets, end of year awards ceremonies, exams to study for, and life is just plain crazy! So I have to keep it simple this week with lots of grilling and a few basic recipes that will get my family fed and happy! Does anyone else have a crazy schedule this week?
Monday-With it being a busy week I will start Monday off with soup and sandwiches just so we have something to nibble on all week should the schedule go haywire! My kids love My Spicy Tomato Basil Soup! And they especially love it with grilled cheese sandwiches!
This boy loves tomato soup and grilled cheese
Tuesday-We have a banquet and I will have a sitter for Graeme as both boys will be busy so I will make my mother in law’s pizza bread! So easy and ALWAYS a crowd pleaser! The babysitter always thanks me! Pro Tip: make sure you have Ranch for dipping!
This stuff is silly good!!!!!! Not so good for ya, but silly good!
Wednesday: Perfect night to grill! Flank steak and wasabi mashed potatoes! Oh my, my mouth is watering just thinking about them!!!!! I will marinate the flank steak all day and Trey will grill the flank steak while I cook the mashed potatoes and everyone in the Berry House will be happy, happy, happy! Try it at your house!
Thursday: I know I will be tired by Thursday so I need a recipe that is healthy and simple, yet mouthwatering and I have it! Blueberry Salmon! This recipe is super easy, super good, and super healthy!!!!!
Friday and Saturday this girl will be off the clock!
Sunday-You know the drill by now! Spaghetti Sunday!
Everyone can relax on Sunday because we all know what to expect! Delish food, lots of kids, lots of laughter, and lots of love!
What will you be cooking this week? And summer is right around the corner! Have any recipes I can try? Would love to see them and give them a go!
Until next time!
Bon Appetit!
Amy
Simple Supper Suggestions #6
I just love all the feedback I am getting on my weekly supper suggestions that I think I will officially make it a “thing”! How does that sound to you guys?
My promise is this….MOST of the recipes will be simple. I will TRY to post it weekly, but if something comes up with my family, my health, or I just need a moment, then I will listen to that and know that it is ok. So look for it weekly for the most part! Hey….I am just being real like I always am!
This week I haveincluded my new dish I posted last week that is so good I have been dreaming about it, plus a repeat due to my kids constantly requesting it and some other good stuff! So take a look and see if you like what the Berrys will be eating this week and if you have any recipes you would love to share, I am all ears! I love trying new stuff and I would love to share your reciepes with the people! So send them on!
Monday-Amy’s Tortillia Soup This delicious recipe I got from my amazing neighbor Amy, I like to call her Pei Wei, and it is so good! I love making it on a Monday night for the family and eating on the left overs all week with a side of avocado! So good!
Tuesday-Chicken Feta This seriously is the number one request I get in my home! Every week I ask the boys, including Trey, what they want to eat. And as God is my witness this one is on it every week! Which drives Trey crazy because he is not the biggest spinach fan! But the kids LOVE this one!!!!!
Wednesday-Lemon Chicken and Rice I was inspired by another blogger on this little ditty! It is so good that I am still dreaming about it and cannot wait to eat it again! You really should give it a go! It is one of those recipes that is not super simple, but it is so good and so worth the effort.
Thursday-Red Beans and Rice I love whipping this up on a Thursday because when I double it we can eat on it all weekend! Fun fact….Red beans and rice is so good as a left over after it has marinaded in all the things!!!!!
Friday and Saturday-Kitchen is closed!
Sunday-Spaghetti Sunday I get more fun and positive feedback on this one! I just love it! And your family will love this recipe! Trust me!
My heart is so full when nights like this happens!
So there we have it! Another week of Simple Suggestions! What will you be cooking? I would love to know!
Bon Appetite!
Amy
Mommy and Me Time
Dear Mom,
Mother’s Day number 3 without you is going down in the books. Time does make this easier for sure, but I still get those sudden surges of grief where this rush of sadness overcomes me and I just want to crumble. I still wonder “what if”….
What if we had moved you to Dallas? What if we had forced you out of your house into assisted living? What if I had come home more? All the “what if’s” give me is pain. Real pain. I imagine things going differently. I imagine you still here IF we had only done things differently.
It is selfish of me actually. I want you here because this year has been hard and I could have used my mom. So selfishly I sit here saying, “What if we had moved you to Dallas?” Well, here is the what if….If we had moved you to Dallas you might be dead anyways due to loneliness. All of your friends and your entire life was in Graham. You LOVED that town. You LOVED your friends. You LOVED your church. So even if you were here in Dallas, you might not have been able to be there for me like I wanted, like I needed. The “what if” we had made you move to assisted living….well, I am not going to lie. I personally think you would of thrived there. You LOVED people! You loved being around people. You loved serving people. I think you would have been the Mayorette of the assisted living in Graham, but the point is that is not what you wanted. I wanted it. For selfish reasons! So you would still be here!
I have learned alot through all my counseling since you have been gone. One big thing is everyone has a right to feel how they want. Be who they want. Live THEIR life how they want. That is what you did. No it is not what I wanted and no it did not end how I wanted it to, but I am proud to say you got to do it your way. You lived your life your way up until the very end and you did it with strength and you did it with grace.
I still remember having the conversation with you in the ICU at Presbyterian Hospital about dying. You were not scared at all. I told you I was and your response to me was a very quiet response I remember. You simply said very quietly, “Everybody has to do it.” I remember crying and asking you if were you scared. I was so concerned about you being scared. You held my hand and said, “No.”
We both knew your day was coming and it was coming fast. Funny thing is you surprised us all and got out of the hospital! I remember thinking we were dodging a bullet. Only to have that bullet hit two weeks later and I never saw it coming. I still remember “Your day.” I remember what I was wearing. My perfume. My hair. All of it! I got up early and went to Starbucks, which is so unlike me. I got to the hospital before all my siblings! I remember thinking we were going to have some “Mommy and me time”. I literally thought that. Boy was I mistaken.
I knew they had intubated you the night before, but they made it sound like it was to make it easier on you so you could heal from the sepsis. I remember calling my girlfriend Leigh who is a nurse and saying, “Is this prolonging death?” I remember Leigh gently saying it would keep you calm and peaceful. It would breathe for you, but if you did not want extraordinary measures I needed to listen to your wishes. I remember going to bed relieved that the tube would calm you Mom and that you could heal. So basically I decided you were going to live! And I told my brain it was going to be ok and I firmly believed it!
I decided I would get to the hospital early to cheer you on in that endeavor! When I arrived the door was shut to your room and I remember the minute I opened it there were two nurses and a doctor in the room. A very kind nurse asked me if I was family. I nodded because I could tell something was not right. My gut knew it. You were asleep….so I thought, but you were really unconcious. Your organs were shutting down and I was the first one on the scene so I was the one who got the news. I crumbled to the ground and they got me a chair. I kept saying I was suppose to get to talk to you agian. I remember asking the nurse this question, “Will I hear my moms voice again?” She shook her head no very slowly and help me while I cried.
She was a good nurse and I never got her name because that day from that moment on is a blur to me. If I did get it I forgot it. Funny how it is nurses week and here is a prime example of someone who was my hero that day and I don’t even know her name so I will never be able to thank her for the strength she brought me so I could call each sibling and tell them to come the hospital. My sister actually got there while this was all happening so that was one less phone call. And my sister in true “get things done fashion” started asking all the questions of “What if we do this”, “What if we do that”. I remember just being numb and holding your hand begging for you to squeeze mine……that did not happen and later that afternoon your time came and you slowly and peacefully left us.
I miss you so much Mom and as I said in the beginning of this letter….time does heal…..but I do miss you so. Some days more than others, but this I know for sure, there is NEVER a day that goes by that I don’t think about you. Mom you were the best mom I could ever have and I love you so much and I miss you so much. I am proud of you Mom and I am proud that you were my mom!
Happy Mother’s Day Mom!
All my love,
Amy
Lemon Chicken and Rice
So I decided to try a new recipe. One that I got from another blogger, Turtle Creek Lane, but I changed a few things to fit my family’s taste buds, however, you guys, you should really check Jennifer out. She makes every holiday magical. I swear her house comes to life! She has a gift and she is super sweet and kind!!!! So go give her a looksie if you do not know her! I promise you will fall in love.
Back to the chicken. So this recipe was a little more involved than most of mine, but you guys, don’t let that stop you because the end result was mouth watering! I promise! So give it a try and let me know what you think.
Ingredients:
Chicken thighs or breasts (I used 8 boneless, skinless, thighs because Trey prefers thighs over breasts)
salt and pepper
2 cups chicken broth
6 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
3 tablespoons chopped garlic from the jar
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons olive oil
2/3 cup diced shallots
4 tablespoons salted butter
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
Extra lemons sliced
4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Prep:
Preheat oven to 375
Using a mallet, pound your chicken down. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper, not a lot of salt, but we do like our pepper. This is for taste.
In a small mixing bowl, combine your broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, garlic, pepper flakes, and wine. Set aside.
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add your chicken and cook for about 3 minutes each side. When finished (and your chicken will not be cooked all the way through) remove your chicken form the skillet and place it in a 9 x 13 greased cooking pan.
Reduce your heat to medium and add the shallots along with the broth mixture. Whisk that and cook it down for about 15 minutes. Make sure you scrape the bottom of the pan so all the brown bits are loosened which will enhance your flavoring. Once this is cooked down (about 15 minutes) remove from the heat and add your butter. Once butter is melted add your cream.
Pour this over your chicken and place some of your sliced lemons on top. Cook on 375 for about 8-10 minutes or until your chicken is cooked through.
You don’t have to put a slice of lemon on every piece of chicken, but sprinkled through out.
Rice:
This rice is so easy to make. All it requires is 2 cups of white rice. Put that in a medium sauce pan. Add 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring that to a boil. Once it is boiling turn it to simmer and place a few lemon slices on top and sprinkle with Lawrys Season Salt. Cover and let simmer for 15 minutes. DO NOT STIR! Just let it fluff! Remove the lemons before plating.
The lemons give it a nice fresh flavor. It compliments the chicken very nicely.
Serve your Lemon Chicken with Lemon Rice and some brocolili and watch the entire family salivate! So good!
Until Next Time!
Bon Appetite!
Amy
I use this amazing tool to cut parsley, cilantro, any herb! I LOVE IT!
Simple Supper Suggestions #5
It’s May and I can see the light at the end of the tunnel! I can taste summer!!!!! Can you? Or are you bogged down with all of the end of school activities. We have a little of that going on as well so I really need the next couple of weeks to be super easy when it comes to feeding the kids. I hope I can help alleviate some of your stress with the following meals. They are all very easy and very delicious!
Monday-Marinated Cole Slaw-After a week of mexican food I think we will go a little all american on Monday. Here at the Berry house I will have Trey grill some hamburgers and I will make my delicious Marinated Cole Slaw and pair it with some grilled corn on the cob. Super easy and everyone is happy!
I tried broccoli in it last time and my kids were not fans….but I was! So if you like broccoli try it!
Tuesday-Primal Mom’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad This little salad is so good and easy. I really like it when I am coming off of a big week of heavy mexican food or out of the holiday food coma because it is super light and healthy.
Wednesday-This week our B for D will be super easy. We will have eggs however the kids want them which means some will want scrambled with cheese and others will want over easy. I will pair it with bacon, toast, and maybe some bisquick pancakes. For my bacon, I like to heat my oven 375 and get a cookie sheet. Line it wth foil and spray it good. I fill that sheet with bacon and cook it for 30-45 minutes depending on how you like your bacon. It is so easy and clean up is quick and your hair does not smell of bacon! I am telling you, kids LOVE B for D! It is so funny too because it is so easy!
Thursday-Chicken Basil Pasta This dish is amazing and if you want to make it healthy you can use zoodle noodles, or spaghetti squash and you can use regular noodles for those who do not care for zoodles. My kids prefer regular so believe it or not I do it both ways and it is still easy. It is a very light and refreshing pasta and one we love.
Friday and Saturday I am off the clock!
Sunday-Spaghetti Sunday If you are new here then you do not know that Sunday Nights here are for friends and family! My house is always open for friends and family and I make spaghetti for whoever wants it. Why? Because it fills my heart and because my husband Trey and I have been doing Spaghetti Sunday since 1992! True story! Check it out and maybe you and your family will start your tradition!
So there are some simple ideas to get ya through the week!
What will be on your dinner table this week? I would love to have some new recipes to share!
Until Next Time!
Bon Appetit!
Amy
Eight is GREAT
Dear Graeme!
I cannot believe you turn 8 today! It seems like just yesterday I was pregnant with you! I still remember the day I found out God was blessing us with you! I will not lie, I was in shock! You see we were told we would not be able to have more babies after we lost our sweet baby bear that is in heaven. So mommy just went on with life. I went on but I have to tell you I was empty. Something was missing. Do you know what was missing? YOU!
Graeme, when I found out God was giving us you I honestly did not believe it. I would go to the doctor darn near EVERY week, true story! You can ask Dr. Bertrand. I would go in and ask for a sonogram just to make sure your heart was still beating. To make sure you were still growing. And to make sure there was no extra fluid around you or your brain. That is what happened to baby bear. Dr. Bertrand and his staff were so patient, understanding, and kind. I needed that because I was so worried about you and I was so scared of losing you.
On December 13, 2010, Daddy and I found out we were having a boy. YOU! I remember that day like it was yesterday. Your big brothers, Daddy, and I went to my special doctor, Dr. Rinehart. He was a funny guy I remember. His humor always put me at ease. That day however, I was very impatient. I had to see him every two weeks and for some reason that morning I was really panicking. Maybe it was because I knew Will and JP would be with us and I could not bear for them to see what happens when the babies heart beat has stopped, like what happened to baby Berry. Who knows really. What I do know, up until that day I did not believe I would have you. I lived in fear of losing you, but something happened the minute Dr. Rinehart told your brothers they would be having a baby brother. Something magical. It was at that moment I knew in my heart you were mine and we would have you. I think the same thing happened to Daddy. Because, after that day, Daddy started singing to you in my belly and talking to you and everything changed. Changed for the better. I can’t explain it.
I remember writing Baby Berry a note that day. If I find it I will share it with you. I thanked her for the 16 short weeks she gave me and thanked her for watching over you until God gave us you. I thanked her for going to Heaven because now we got you. I think it was at that moment I let go and let God have her and realized she would have been very sick on this earth. I realized her going home to God was better. She would not be in pain and we would have you.
This may be a lot for your maginificant 8 year old brain, but the point is I want you to know how lucky I feel to have you. How lucky our family feels. I want you to know we all love you so much and you make our world complete. Before you my heart had a hole and I was very sad. You came into our world and we are complete. You make us complete Graeme Berry!
I love you so much boo! I see big things ahead for you! I believe in you! And I love you sooo!
Happy Birthday Graeme Bear!
Love you mostest!
Mom
B for D is Always a Winner!
Here in the Berry house if I announce we are having B for D you would think I announced we won the lottery! It is like a real treat for the boys and I am really not sure why. But, I have decided I would start changing up what they expect and see if they like it. This past week I tried a different casserole. One I got from my dear friend Paige. I changed it up just a tiny bit, but the over all verdict was “HOME RUN BABY!” Per Trey and the boys loved it too! So this little recipe definitely will be going into the Berry dinner rotation.
Poblano and Sausage Casserole
Ingredients:
2 Poblano peppers
Olive Oil
1 pound ground sausage (You can use lean turkey sausage and make it leaner)
1 Onion (I got the box already chopped in the deli section)
1 Tablespoon chopped garlic from the jar
5 Egg Whites
4 Eggs
1/2 Cup milk (use skim if going leaner)
1/4 Cup greek yogurt
1 Teaspoon kosher salt
1 Teaspoon black pepper
1 Cup shredded cheddar cheese (use low fat if going lean)
4 Cups shredded hash browns
Prep:
Preheat oven to broil.
Cut your poblano peppers in half length wise and remove the seeds.
Coat the peppers in olive oil and place on a cookie sheet skin side up. Place under broiler for 10-15 minutes or until peppers are nice and charred. Remove from oven and let cool.
Take ovens temperature back down to 350 and lightly spray a 9 x 13 baking dish.
While peppers are cooling put about 1 tablespoon olive oil in a frying pan and place your onions and garlic in the skillet and heat them up until translucent. Once translucent add your sausage and brown your meat. Once your sausage is brown, drain your grease and set aside.
Remove the charred skin from your peppers and dice them up.
In a large bowl whisk your egg whites, your eggs, milk, yogurt, salt, and pepper. Whisk it until the lumps are out. Add your sausage, chopped peppers, cheese, and hash browns and mix well. Make sure all hash browns are coated in the mixture.
Pour into your casserole dish and bake for 1 hour covered with foil. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until top begins to brown. Let cool.
Serve with avocados, tomatoes, and salsa!
Delish!
Bon Appetite!
Amy
April Book Review
So I missed March! But with very good reason…..I was on a mission trip and I got pneumonia and I just could not keep my eyes open. I hope I never get that mess again! It was VERY bad! But, as the saying goes, “I’m back and I am better than ever babe!”
With one exception….Most of the books I read this month were great, but one, well I just can’t lie. It was hard. It was deep. It was an entire experience and one that I have yet to complete, but I am just worn out from trying to understand. I am sure it is an exceptional book, but I think it was a little deep for me. With that being said I will leave it to you guys to decide!
The book is A Tree Full of Angels: Seeing the Holy in the Ordinary, by Macrina Wiederkehr. I really want to like this book! I can tell I would love the author! And I know this sounds weird, but I got some good advice from it. I actually shared it in my letter to God so I am not sure why I am having such a hard time grasping alot of it. Maybe that is all my heart can take right now. Who knows. All I know is I will finish this book someday and I think everyone who is really searching for a spiritual path, well, maybe this book is right for you. Maybe you and I could discuss it. I really do believe in my heart of hearts when I pick it up again I will get another little nugget of inspiration like I did this time. I know this all sounds weird, but just trust me and get it and see if you can feel what I am talking about.
I decided to then pick up my gal pal, Rachel Hollis’s book, Girl Stop Apologizing. So here is my honest feedback. 1. I LOVE RACHEL! 2. I LOVE HER STORY! 3. I follow her on social media. 4. I went to the movie premier of Made for More. And 5. This book was a repeat of all of that. So for me, well I have heard it all. For you, if you are new to Rachel, then you might enjoy it. I did take alot of notes, but it was stuff I had heard before. So in a nutshell. If you are like me and love Rachel and you feel like she is your bestfriend, then get the book to support her. If you follow her, but could care less about her story, well you have heard the material. If you do not follow her, get the book and start. Am I glad I got it? Heck yes! Did I love it? Yes, but simply because I love her. Will I read it again? Probably not seeing that I stock her on social media!
After reading two books on improving myself, whether it be spiritually or emotionally, I decided to turn to chic lit and take a moment. So I picked up Hissy Fit, by Mary Kay Andrews. This book was just what I needed! It starts out with the main character catching her fiance having sex with her best friend minutes before the wedding! Yep! That was all I needed to be hooked! It was a light read about crushed dreams, relearning yourself, and new beginings, but not without a little bit of fun here and there, and a huge plot twist that I never saw coming. Would I recommend this book? Absolutley! Especially if you just need a break from reality and you want to get wrapped up in someone else’s drama!
I guess I was thinking that Hissy Fit was enough of a break from heavy material and I decided to read The Tattooist of Aushchwitz, by Heather Morris. What was I thinking? This book was so good, but so heavy! I literally had to make sure not to read before I was going anywhere around people because it would bring me down. Like really down. I will say it is a great story about perseverance in the midst of hell and how the human spirit really is amazingly strong, especially when love is involved. If you are a sucker for a beautiful love story and if you like stories about the true strength of humans, then this book is for you.
So I found myself needing a break from heavy again and I decided to go to my favorite author who never lets me down when it comes to an easy story, with a little bit of drama, little bit of love, and always a beautiful setting. Elin Hidlerbrand! I just love her! I always know I can count on her books and this one was no exception. Winter in Paradise was such a fun read. Although it did include a plane crash and anyone who knows me knows I am terrified of flying so I hate seeing movies with plane crashes or reading books with plane crashes. The good news is this book did not really focus on the crash in detail so I was super excited about that. In true Elin form though there were a few plot twists that kept me so interested. Basically the husband of the main character was in the plane crash with his mistress in the middle of the BVI’s. That is all the information I want to give you as I promise you will love reading this book. It has a sequel and I can’t wait to dive in!!!!
Last book I got, I actually got on audible per the recommendation of the person who told me about it. Not sure if yall remember I had a little dental emergency after I was coming out of my pnemonia fog. It was a Friday afternoon and my cap fell off. My dentist could not see me, but she referred me to a guy in Plano who generously waited for me and fixed my tooth. We got to talking about life and he suggested I get the book, God Never Blinks: 50 Lessons for Life’s Little Detours, by Regina Brett. Not only did he suggest this book, but he told me to get it on audible. BEST ADVICE EVER! Hearing Mrs. Brett read her own book was amazing! And the book is basically what the title says. Life is too short, don’t sweat the small stuff, stay present, and know God has you and will not blink. This book will be a gift I give always! I can’t begin to tell you how special this book is! I highly suggest you getting it on audible like I did and then getting to have by your bedside to refer to often! I did! I am not kidding…..go to this link now and buy it now! Dont’ think about it! Just do it!!!!! You will not regret it!
So that’s March/April!
I would love to hear if you have read any of my suggestions and if you have send me a picture and your thoughts and I will post it on instagram as a re-gram! Would love also to know what you are reading! I am always looking for a new book!
Until next time!
XO,
Amy
Simple Supper Suggestions #4
Happy Monday! We are days away from May which do you know what that means? Days away from Cinco de Mayo, days away from end of school year activity hustle and bustle, and just a little closer to summer break!!!! Yee haw!!!! That is all I have to say! I LOVE SUMMER BREAK! I love the slow pace and I love the memories made! Who is with me?
But, we have to get through May to make it to the break! And let me tell ya…..when you have two high school aged kids in the house and an elementary aged child….well, put your seat belt on folks! It is about to get messy, busy, and stupid crazy, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel! And we mamas still have to cook and feed those kids! This week I have mexican themed dishes because some of you might have a Cinco de Mayo party or two to go to and most of these dishes you can bring along! So I thought I would kill two birds with one stone here! Hope you like what you see. I promise they are all very easy and very tasty!
Monday-Ju Ju’s Taco Soup! I love a good soup and I love to make it on monday night so that I have the left overs to eat on all week at lunch! This soup is so easy and so good! Serve it with chips, salsa, queso, guac….top it with avocado, cheese, sour cream, and cilantro….Oh my it is so good! My mouth is watering thinking about it!
Tuesday-Crock Pot Tacos. So easy, so quick, so good!
Wednesday-Mango Chicken. I was not sure I would like mango in my chicken, but you guys….this is so good! I like to put fresh jalapenos on top to give it a little kick with the sweetness and oh my LORD!!!! YUM!
Thursday-Mrs. Andrea’s Kings Ranch Chicken. When I make this I usually double or triple it and freeze the extra casseroles. It is super to have those ready in the event I have a friend in need or something pops up and I just can’t get dinner ready. Not to mention EVERYONE LOVES THIS DISH!
Friday and Saturday this mama is off duty!
Sunday-Spaghetti Sunday usually, but May 5 calls for Mexican Street Corn! Pair it with fajita meat and veggies, along with chips, salsa, guac, queso, rice, and beans. BAM! You have yourself your own little Cinco de Mayo Celebration Meal!
Provechito!
XO,
Amy
Mothers Day Gift Ideas
Mothers Day is just around the corner….This holiday still stings a little. Not really sure why either because my Mom hated getting gifts. She would always say, “Send me a hydrangea or a gift card to get my hair done.” Honestly now I just wish I would of done what she asked instead of tried to do otherwise. That was what she wanted, but I always thought I needed to be creative. Truth is, my mom was stupid simple! Like ridiculously simple and I don’t think I ever honored that because….well….I am not! That is the truth. Now I wish I would have just relished in her simplicity and then it would have alleviated so much stress! Learn from me!
Today I am here to help those of you whose moms might be like me….not simple….does not make them good or bad, just makes them someone who is hard to buy for. It is very ironic for me to write that. Why? Because I use to think my mom was hard to buy for and that was because I was too selfish not to see she was really simple and wanted just what she asked for… a phone call, a card, and time. That is all…..nothing big, unique, spectactular, or god forbid something she would have to dust! That makes me giggle but it is so true! So today I am bringing ideas to you especially if your mom is like me and likes thought out gifts. If she is not get her, her favorite flower, a card, a phone call, a framed picture, a gift card for a mani/pedi, or her hair. She will love it! Trust me…..but most importantly if you can, give her the gift of your presence. I so wish I could.
These are some of her amazing earrings…I have the rainbow hoops and love them!
Jewelry! Jewelry is always a good go to! I have two sources that I love! One is a personal friend and her jewelry is delicate and precious and the other designer I do not know, but I love the sentiment behind her pieces. Check these girls out! I promise you can’t go wrong and you might even find something for yourself.
First up the amazing Jennifer Porter. Now Jennifer’s pieces are unique and very classy. They are simple and pieces you can wear everyday. I love how delicate they look, but how amazingly sturdy they are. I wear my heart necklace ALL the time to remind me of Worthy Heart and my purpose. I have beautiful rainbow hoops which are multi colored sapphires, in honor of my beautiful boy JP and to remind me of God’s promise. I got these as a gift from two VERY special people in my life, Elizabeth and Corinne, and I wear them everyday. Jennifer does not have a website, but if you are on instagram I HIGHLY encourage you to go check her out @jenniferporterjewelry She is out of California, but if you live in Dallas, rumor has it she will be here in May before Mother’s Day. If you would like to go see her jewelry in person send me a private message and I will see what I can arrange. She has also generously offered my readers a discount code of 10% off if you mention WORTHY HEART! So go take a look and get you, your mom, and your friend a unique, beautiful, thoughtful, piece! Everyone wins!
This is my heart necklace that I wear everday all day and all night and everywhere! I love it so much!
For my more sentimental mommies. Lisa Leonard Design is your girl. I have a number of her pieces as well and each one represents something about my kids, from their names to their birthstones, to sentimental stories that only I would understand. If your mom is sentimental and likes jewelry I highly suggest you taking a look at this gal. Each piece is simple and can be worn with jeans or your little black dress. The nice thing is, no matter how you are dressed, you are always wearing a piece of your heart!
Some of my favorites! Each ring represents each one of my children. The gold one with diamonds in our precious baby in heaven.
If your mom is more like my mom and is so simple that the only piece of jewelry she wears is her wedding band you could consider skin care. After all we ladies like to keep our skin young and dewey! I have the perfect company for you! Busy Beauties. I am actually in love with their products. To see how I got started wearing their skin care click here! I promise your mom or friend will LOVE their products. They have hair products as well that I have not tried yet, but people who have just rave about it! So if you know someone who would love skin or hair products….or both….go check them out here If it is your first time to order they have given me a code of FIRST and you get 25% off your first order. If it is not your first time you can enter the code YAY20 and get 20% off! Happy shopping!
The next idea I have is what I got my mother in law….I really hope she is not reading this now….if you are Gramzee….HAPPY MOTHERS DAY! My mother in law LOVES to give gifts that help people and I wanted to incorporate that in the gift we got her this year. While I was at a women’s retreat at our Church in February there was a vendor who had the coolest product! SaPeyKa! They are a woman owned, who sell handmade quilts made from vintage saris in communities located in South Asia. How cool is that? And you guys, these quilts are stunning and so soft! I want one! They come in all kinds of colors and textures. I am thinking about getting each boy one for Christmas they are that GREAT! You can check them out here and I promise you will not go wrong with this gift! They are a little pricey for a blanket, but they are handmade and so stinking soft! I can’t wait to get my own! If you do purchase one, make sure to mention Worthy Heart’s Mother’s day post and you will get 20% off!!!! AWESOME DEAL on an AMAZING blanket!
If your mom is like me and likes to cook then a fun cooking gadget with an awesome tea towel or apron is always a neat gift. I have just the idea for you!
Last idea I have is my new water bottle from QuiFit! Every women needs to be drinking their water! If you are like me you need help and you need a challenge! I have it! Check this puppy out from Amazon!
Now if your mom has a sweet tooth like me and you want to give her something sweet yet classy, you really shoud check out We the Birds Macarons Their macarons are not only beautiful they are so tasty it is ridiculous!
Last but not least if you are in the Dallas area and you want to just stick with what my mom always asked for, I have the florist for you! She actually does it out of her home and her flowers are stunning! You can find her on instagram @haute_chic_designs. Her name is Sara Tran Quang and her work is impeccable! Take a look and message her if you are in the area! I know she would love to brighten your mothers home!
So there are a few ideas to treat your mom, sister, wife, friend, or honestly yourself! Being a mom is a challenging, but oh so rewarding job. Every once in a while it is nice to get a thoughtful gift that will remind us that the challenges we moms go through are so worth it for the beautiful gifts from God…..our children!
Happy Shopping and Happy Mothers Day!
XO,
Amy
Simple Supper Suggestions #3
I am so excited to report that I have been getting all kinds of feedback on my Supper Suggestions! Everything from pictures of you guys cooking the recipes, to recipes you want me to try and share, (which while we are talking….I LOVE THAT!), to questions on what type of broth or where to buy what ingredient! I love it so bad I am going to keep it going! So keep the recipes coming, the questions coming, the love coming! I love you all!
This week is a little different at the Berry house as it is Easter and we are away so Spaghetti Sunday is out this week, but it will be back next week for sure, but with that this mama only has to cook 4 nights this week! Why? Well click here and see what my rule is in our house…..maybe it will work for yours too!
Day 1: Turkey Bolognese: This recipe is perfect for the family that LOVES pasta, but mom and dad need it a little healthier! Why? Because you can make it two ways and it is STILL simple! Take a look!
This with real noodles, but you can use zoodles just as easy and it is still as good!
Day 2: Taco Tuesday! Who doesn’t like Tacos on Tuesday? This recipe offers a little twist! Take a look!
Once you bake these and the cheese melts….OH MY GOODNESS!
Day 3: Christmas Morning Casserole! B for D is always a hit in my house! Don’t let the title scrare you! It is just what we eat every christmas morning at the Berry house!
Who doesn’t love breakfast for dinner!?
Day 4: Grubba’s Meatloaf: So my father in law was in the Air Force and legend has it when he would come home from being away he would send my mother in law to her parents for a little time away. She too had three boys and my father in law was gone quite a bit. 20 Years in the airforce will do that! Thank you Grubba for your Service! Point is he got REALLY good at meat recipes….Boys love their meat and potatoes! This recipe right here is super easy, super good, and if you have children that are scared of meat in a loaf, trust me it is a thing, just call it meatball meat! For some odd reason wording it differently does the trick! Who knew?
So that is what we are having for dinner this week! What about you? I would love to hear!
Until next time!
Bon Appetit!
Amy
Courage, Hope, Renewal....the Comeback
When people make mistakes, struggle or disappoint ... what’s your response when they WIN?
I could give you a lot of reasons why I don’t like Tiger Woods. Until today. Why I wouldn’t want him to win another Masters....or any tournament for that matter. Reasons why he doesn’t “deserve” to win. But if I am rooting against Tiger Woods, I am rooting against myself.
We all fail. We all disappoint. We all mess up. Big time. Tiger is no different than me. Maybe a different kind of failure or disappointment or mess up. His is more public than most of ours. But still human. In need of a Savior. In need of forgiveness.
He had it all. Everything. Until he didn’t. And the fall was not a small one. It was documented everywhere. All his sins, and there were plenty, for the world to see. Whispers, finger pointing, head shaking, headlines.
Slowly, with almost nobody watching and even less believing, he started coming back. An injury almost ended the comeback before it even started. He persevered through that as well.
Sunday, April 14, 2019, with the world watching, he does it. A generation who years ago sat with their dads watching Tiger win, sat with their own kids now and said, “watch this.” A generation inspired to become and excel at golf by watching Tiger on TV as kids watched one more time today as he passed them on the leaderboard.
His children who watched it all unfold over the last decade with their own parts in the story are waiting for him just off the 18th green. The mom who watched her son have it all, and then lose it all, is waiting too.
She never left...(by the way. Mommas almost never do).
The story isn’t perfect. They never are. We never are. But it’s a heck of a good one. Watch closely kids. Being great is one thing. Being great after falling out of grace takes twice as much work and ten times as much courage. That’s the good stuff in life. That’s why a bunch of old dudes got tears in their eyes.
He hadn’t won a major in 11 years. 11 years! He has had personal issues and health issues. He let down many with some of his actions. He hurt loved ones. He let himself down. And I realized that this connection I had with Tiger is because I need the same grace as he does. I need the same forgiveness and redemption we all do. If I think it should be withheld from him, why should it also not be withheld from me?
If we pause long enough, we can all find ourselves in Tiger’s story. And that’s why we find so many celebrating....not so much the man as it is the celebration of grace and forgiveness and redemption we all need!
Sometimes the Comeback is even bigger than the Setback
Have a great week y’all
#Repost
Wish I could take credit for the above beautifully written story of Grace and Redemption…..I cannot, but I know one of the gals who wrote it, Barri Martin-Pautz, along with her friend! It was just too good not to share!
May this Easter we all remember this: Because He is risen we too can rise above!
Happy Easter My dear friends and readers!
xo,
Amy
Simple Supper Suggestions for Your Busy Week #2
Just like last week I will start with what we do on Sunday…..Spaghetti Sunday! If you missed last week you do not know that the rule in the Berry Casa is mom cooks Sunday-Thursday and takes Friday and Saturday off! It really works well for us and it is super easy for me because 99% of the time we have Spaghetti Sunday which is quick, easy, and everyone loves it! If I ever get my act together I will get this post out on Saturday and you guys too can partake in Spaghetti Sunday! I promise the kids love it and Trey really loves it! He reminded me last week that we started this tradition in college back in 1992. He said it feels like home to him. I love that!
So without further talk let’s get you guys started so you can have dinner on the table every night this week quick and effortlessly! After all, isn’t that what we busy mamas need! Fast and Easy!
Day 1: Spaghetti Sunday Simple, quick, and a huge crowd pleaser!
You can use any noodle you like, but the key and secret is the wine in the sauce!
Day 2: Chicken and Rice Soup I really like making soup, sandwiches, and salads on Monday nights because what that does is it leaves me with soup to eat on all week at lunch- which is a lot healthier than any drive through. I don’t do it every week because I like to keep the family on their toes, but I think I would if someone told me they LOVED having soup! Ha!
So good and so nice to have to eat on all week!
Day 3: Turkey and Squash This along with my feta chicken is one of JP’s favorite meals I make. It is so easy and so good and do you want to know what else? It is super healthy!
I really need to get a better photo!
Day 4: Steak Burrito Bowl This is such a delicious bowl I make. Graeme really loves it! I think your kids will too and you will love how easy it is and versatile!
Day 5: Gramzee’s Chili With baseball season in full swing I always think of frito pies and chili dogs! What I like to do is double this recipe and eat on it all weekend and I let the kids decide if they want chili dogs or frito pie and everyone is happy!
Hope you all have a wonderful week with lots of good eats!
Until next time!
XO,
Amy
Delish Spicy Tomato Basil Soup
I love soup and I love making a big pot on Monday’s and eating on it all week. My family does not like me doing it every Monday, but I proimse you this, if I could I would! It is so great to have yummy soups, on hand, that use only whole, unprocessed ingredients! Added bonus you avoid going through a drive through at lunch when you have a healthy soup in the fridge to eat on all week!
This past week I tried a recipe that I adapted for my family from Primal Mom. If you don’t know her I highly suggest you checking her out. EVERYONE loved it! I served it with grilled cheese and during the week when I ate from it, I just added some advocado on the side and bam….healthy and clean living at lunch! So give this soup a try and let me know what you think!
Spicy Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients:
1 package of boneless, skinless, chicken thighs ( I used 8)
3 tomatoes
Crushed jarred garlic
2 cups spinach
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried basil
Fresh cilantro (1 bunch)
1.5 cups heavy cream
5 cups bone broth (I used chicken)
2 tablespoons butter
salt and pepper to taste and parmesan for topping
Avocado for side
Prep and Instructions:
In a gallon bag add your chicken, 2 tablespoons of the crushed garlic, oregano, basil, and as much chopped cilantro as your family would like. I chopped up 1/2 cup and it was perfect. Shake it really well and put it in your slow cooker for 3 hours on high along with some of your broth. Not all of the broth. I used enough to have some liquid in their with the chicken. Mom Tip: I put my chicken in the crockpot in the morning and my crockpot once done goes to warm so make sure if you are doing this to add enough liquid so the chicken does not dry out.
About an hour to and an hour and a half before you want to eat shred your chicken but keep all the liquids from the crockpot. Chop your tomotoes. In another stock pot add your tomatoes and another tablespoon or two of chopped crushed garlic with your butter. Saute for 2 minutes. Add the rest of your broth and everything from your crockpot and mix well. Simmer for 1 hour and then add your cream and spinach to the stockpot. Mix well and simmer 20 more minutes.
Serve with grilled cheese or if trying to be healthy half an avacado sliced and parmesan cheese! So good!
Bon Apetit!
Amy
Letter to God
Dear God,
As I sit here to write this letter today, I am conflicted. Conflicted on the one hand because deep down in my heart I know you exist. I know you are there, but on the other hand I really don’t think I have believed that as of late. It is safe to say I am not sure I even trust you have me and my family in your best interest. That pains me to say it, but I realize it is true. I know you know what all this family has endured in the last year. I know you know all the pain and I also know that I feel abandoned somewhat so I am coming today in hopes that if I get this out and off my chest I can let go of it.
I am mad at you. Really mad. I don’t understand alot of things and I don’t understand you really. What is weird is you keep finding little ways to show me you still have me and you are here. Just the other day for instance, in the book I am reading the author suggested a new way to read scripture. Slower, more methodical if you will. She explained sometimes something might stand out. A word, a verse, whatever. If it does she said to stop. Well, yesterday in Hebrews 3 what stood out to me was Jesus WAS faithful. Moses WAS faithful. For me it was a whisper to stay faithful. I stopped right there and wrote that down in my journal and on my to do list. I made a vow that I would refer to it when I felt you were not with me. I held on to that all day. This morning I got up and started back in Hebrews 3 and kept reading and in the same chapter another thing stood out. Hebrews 3:6 talks about how I am the house and Jesus built me and He would never destroy me. So….I wrote that down on my to do list and referred back to it all day. Today was one of those days too where I needed it. BAD! Maybe that is why I decided to write to you.
Want to know what else is weird? I have not even decorated for Easter. My friends who know me know that is not normal. I just can’t bring myself to do it. Not sure why, but honestly I have not even thought about the fact that it is lent! What does that say about me? I am not sure. I know it bothers me. Why? Well, because I was raised in the church. I was raised to know you. I was raised knowing lent was a time to give something up. Which personally while we are on the topic I think is stupid! Giving up chocolate is suppose to make me closer to you? I don’t think so. Give up coke? Forget it! That will just make me crabby! I like the idea of doing good and being more like you. It’s kind of a mute point anyways! This is the last week of lent! So whatever…..
Point is I am kind of lost right now and really wondering where you are. I am not really sure what is at the root of this either. Is it anger? Is it unforgiveness? Is it a person or people? Is it a situation? I don’t know…the only real thing I know is I was taught long ago by Mom and Dad that simply following you does not make life any easier. Sometimes life is hard, sometimes people hurt you, sometimes situations stink, and they said when this happens hit your knees and pray. Well, I have been. I have even gone so far as to pray for people that have hurt me. All I want is peace. Isn’t that what we all want?
So as I sit here and write this honest to God (no pun intended) I feel a peace coming about me. Weird how this happens. As I reflect I am reminded that the first words out of your mouth after you rose from the dead were “PEACE”….. Which is really weird seeing that Easter is days away….so I am days away from the day you said this! I know the enemy is just attacking and I know he will continue to attack and you know what I am going to say to that…BRING IT YOU IDIOT! I am realizing while typing this letter that yes this has been a tough year, but you know what else, I am realzing my family is all the stronger for it and so am I. I am realizing you are working through me and my family and I am realizing that right now I know in my heart I believe in you and I know you…. I am just not sure what you, God, will do with me and my family. Want to know what else? It is ok. I love you and I know you love me. So I will just remember….I can’t, You can, so I will let you! I can’t love right now, but you can love me, so I will let you…I can’t take this hurt from my heart or change it, but you can, so I will let you…..I can’t change the situation, but you can, so I will let you…..I don’t know what the future holds, but you do, so I will trust you.
That is all I can do…..Thank you for loving me and my family and I know you will forgive me for this letter and I know you understand. Thank you for that!
Love your child,
Amy
Simple Supper Suggestions for Your Busy Week #1
Simple Supper Suggestions
I got a crazy idea last week and I want to try it out. My mission I am finding is to help busy people simplfy their lives while also teaching lessons I am learning along the way. I am by NO means an expert, but what I am is a busy mom with ADD who loves and adores her family but does not want to lose herself in the rat race of life. Any of that sound familiar? If so you have come to the right place and I hope I can help and maybe you can help me! Who knows? Wouldn't that be a win/win! So if you have any suggestions, ideas, or want to see something by all means throw it out there. I am listening and open! That is how we all grow!
So back to what today is all about....Today I would like to try throwing out simple supper suggestions for you all. You can take what you like and leave the rest. I promise I will not get my feelings hurt. Point is every Sunday, Trey and I along with the boys sit down, or text if I am being honest, ideas for supper the following week. What this does it is helps me to plan, shop, and be ready for whatever comes at me. Does it always work out? Heavens no! But, as I always say....Progress not Perfection and every step in the right direction is a step in the right direction!
So without futher talk....let's get this party started!!!!!!
Spaghetti Sunday! It is a staple in our house and super easy for Sunday night! We LITERALLY do this most Sundays!
Healthy Chicken Feta! A winner for a Monday night!
Sausage Stuffed French Loaf is perfect on a busy Tuesday night!
Blueberry Salmon is so delicious and so nutrious and since Trey is in charge of the grill it gives me a night off which is sooooo GREAT!
Easy and Quick Carbonara! Perfect on Thursday night game night!
Here is to hoping these suggestions will get your week started off right and help you get everyone fed! After all isn't that what it is about? Keeping it simple in the kitchen so everyone is fed and it is at home and not going through a drive through!!!!!
Until next time!
XO,
Amy