Christmas 2

Thankfully, my grandma found me a small tree at the thrift shop she works at, so I'm set. I've been clothed by that place since childhood. Anyone in the Manhattan, KS area check it out, Seven Dolors Catholic Church Budget Shop. My tree is about four feet tall and has white, green, and red lights; so cute. I plan to decorate it after finals. Just remembered I don't have a tree topper. I may make one. I'm thinking cardboard, alumninum foil, a hot glue gun, and glitter. My masterpiece star from high school sits proudly on my parent's Christmas tree every year. It does the job.

I've purchased a couple Christmas gifts, so I am making some progress. I'll be done with school in half a week and able to shop, decorate, send cards, and bake.

I didn't win the Ugly Christmas Sweater contest, but I sure did try. :)

The vest has Christmas bears on it and the shirt underneath has Christmas trees. Felt pretty silly, but had lots of fun! In other news, at the party while dressed in my ugly Christmas outfit, I ran into the guy that wrecked into my car like 3+ years ago. The one I kinda went out with a few times back then. Kinda weird. He's air force, how the heck is he still stationed here?! Awkward!

What I'm Thankful For

I literally could spend hours listing all my blessing, because they are many. I'll try to keep this short and sweet.
I'm thankful for:

my parents; I haven't always appreciated them, but God has given me many circumstances that have helped me realize how blessed I am to have them in my life. When my dad had a TIA (pre-stroke), I realized just how much of a hole would be missing in my life without him. Whatever sense of humor I have; I got it from him. Any car maintenance, moving, or support I need he's always there, ready to lend a hand. His cancer bout several years ago brought us all much closer. Though he'll never be quite the same from the surgery, I'm just happy he's still here. My mom is the calm, steady rock in our family. Her lung disease diagnosis last year rocked our world. Despite the pain and lack of energy, she was still positive. What a blessing. We're all living with a new normal, but the point is that we're still living. Just over five years ago, I faced an trying nine months of doctors doing many test but not knowing what was wrong with me. Between the pain and steriods I didn't feel like myself. My parents had to help me with everything; carrying my groceries, opening things for me, and they drove me to every out-of-town doctors appointment and there were many. Rheumatoid arthritis has been a difficult journey, but I'm thankful for the company God has given me along the way. I'm so blessed that I get to see my parents at least once a week. I love going home!

my grandma; she's a strong woman. When I feel too old to do something, I remember that in her mid-30s with 6 kids, she put herself through nursing school to become an LPN and make a better life for her family. Despite being on a fixed-income, she is always generous with whatever she has. It doesn't matter what time you come to her house she always offers you food and drink; you never leave hungry. She's also pretty wise; always reminding me to "take it one day at a time" and to pray and ask the Lord for help.

both sides of my family which are really close. I know, if I ever needed anything they'd be right there ready to help. Over the years, I've realized not all families are like this.

our fur faces, Max and Riley. They're always happy to see me when I come home, but then again, they're always pretty happy. Reminds me to enjoy the simple things like the sunshine, time together with friends or family, fresh air, a treat, or a nap. ;)

my job; through it I get to impart on students what I'm passionate about: workforce development/professional development. I've also made great friends through my job. In just over a year, I've had experiences I never would've dreamed of: grad school, being in a commercial, and being a K-State Track and Field official. I'm definitely blessed to be at K-State.

friends. Though my friends are ever-cycling out of town, I'm thankful for the time I've had with each of them. I appreciate their perspectives and companionship on this journey through life.

In no way whatsoever, is this a complete list of everything I'm thankful for; like stars in the sky, my blessings are innumberable.

Recipe #4: Pan-Fried Chicken Tacos

So, I'm Mexican, but I only made pan-fried tacos for the first time last month. Why haven't I made them before, they're so easy!

I made them again, today. So, I had some chicken I'd cooked and I added it to a pan with some taco seasoning and a little water. Next, I added the seasoned meat to tortillas and pan-fried them. We added avocado, raw cabbaage, red onion, cheese, and salsa. So good!

Needless to say, my friend loved them! :)

Chicken Salad Update:
Shocking news! My grandma LOVED my chicken salad recipe I made last weekend. She normally isn't a huge fan of my cooking, so this is big news! She liked it so much she had two helpings and asked if I had more at home. She's one of the very best cooks I know, so this is truly high praise and I'm one happy girl. :)

I made some for my parents. My mom loved it and asked for my recipe. She's an amazing cook too.

I shared some with a friend who also asked for my recipe.

You know you've done something right when people ask for your recipe. :)

Has anyone tried any of the recipes I've shared?

My First Memory

Ever have a food or beverage trigger a memory from long ago? Maybe even something you'd forgotten? Well, it happened to me and it triggered my very first memory which is also my very first memory of my grandma.

Several years ago, I went to a coffee shop with a friend. I looked at the menu and saw "Honey Milk." This seemed familiar from when I was little, so I ordered it.

In my first sip, I was transported back over 20 years in time. All of a sudden, I'm an infant. The house is dark, except for the glow of the light over the stove. It is early morning. Once again I am sick, but I feel safe and warm; my grandma is holding me, soothing me. She made me honey milk to help me feel better. It's warm, sweet, and soothing too.

I had forgotten everything about that time until my first sip of honey milk.

My mom was a single mother. We lived with my grandma. Grandma worked 2nd shift at the hospital on post. She'd come home and see my exhausted mom up late with me again, because I was sick. So, she'd send my mom to bed, saying that she'd stay up with me since she needed to unwind anyway. We'd both drift off to sleep, me cuddled against her neck.

What a perfect first memory; feeling warm and loved with my grandma. :)