Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Such a Joy


My kids are such a joy. Even in the midst of these challenging years, joy in the tiny moments are {often} enough to keep my heart full.

I ran across a journal with a single line for each day - basically a mom's journal with one thought about the day. A dear friend of mine does this, and I think it will be a true gift to my girls. So, I've decided to reflect each day with a thought for each of them.

I have to admit that I'm a little bummed about the fact that I didn't take the time to do this when Emma was a little one, but there's nothing I can really do about that, right?

Although I don't plan on blogging all of my thoughts, here are a few rolling around in my head from the past couple of weeks.
How can it be, Eleanor, that you are already pulling up and walking around objects? You are a mere nine months old {this week} - I'm not ready for this.
Emma, I love that you say "Magaline" for "Madeline" - your current favorite book.

Emma is obsessed with blueberries, even in this, the dead of winter. Each night before she goes to bed, she eats and entire bowl.

I'm amazed at the intensity of Eleanor's thoughts and emotions. Let's just say that she is quite spirited when she wants something. I'm thinking the twos just might be terrible.

Sleep, oh sleep, you are a mystery to me. Even now at nine months old, Eleanor eats twice a night!

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Survivor Pantry :: Week One

When the pantry gets too full for groceries, you know it's time to stop spending and start surviving.

As the new year rolled around, we found our shelves too full and freezer overflowing - so Survivor Pantry began. What's nice about forcing yourself to use what you have is that creativity seems to abound. We allow ourselves to buy fresh meat if needed, and of course, food for the kiddos. The other thing we instituted is a weekly pizza night, which is a lifesaver in the middle of the week.

So, week one was a great success. It's been freezing here, so comfort food is on the mind.

Saturday :: A good ol' lasagna -- this recipe from The Pioneer Woman is great.

Sunday :: Sante Fe Chowder from Moosewood Restaurant - I love this soup! Super easy and pantry-friendly.

Monday :: Lasagna leftovers

Tuesday :: Chowder leftovers

Wednesday :: Pizza night!!

Thursday :: Five spice pork tenderloin and roasted sweet potatoes

Friday :: Tomato, red pepper and spicy sausage risotto - no recipe, sorry...it's a Dugald special.

Week one was a success. In the queue for week two - Saturday morning scones, homemade barbeque chicken with cornbread topper (ala Rachel Ray), breakfast potatoes and poached eggs, and whatever else we can figure out...