7-Can Soup

I've always been a big fan of The Pioneer Woman...I think she makes really tasty, comfort food, and there's nothing I love more when it's chilly out. I ran across this recipe for her soup recently and figured it was too good to be true. Seriously, Hadley could make it if she could just master the can opener. When I first read the recipe, which calls for Velveeta cheese, I thought, "Yuck." But I promise you it's good and creamy, and you'll want to make it again and again.

 

Disclaimer...if you're a health food nut, this recipe is probably not for you. I live by the old adage, "Everything in moderation." Side note: my Dad used to always tell me growing up, "Everything in moderation except for drugs and cigarettes, Lindsey." :) Another Dad-ism for you. This soup would probably give you your month's worth of sodium intake in one spoonful, and it's made with a can of Hormel chili (gasp!). But if you're pressed for time and need something easy and good, this is it, friends. Just take an extra multivitamin the day you make this! ;)

 

Enjoy!

 

 

 7-Can Soup

{The Pioneer Woman}

 

1 can meat-only chili

1 can (15 ounce) kidney beans

1 can (15 ounce) pinto beans

1 can (15 ounce) black beans

1 can (15 ounce) diced tomatoes

1 can (15 ounce) corn (I used fiesta variety)

1 can (10 ounce) Rotel

Salt And Pepper, to taste

8 ounces Velveeta, cubed

 

Directions

 

Without draining the cans, empty the corn, chili, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, tomatoes and tomatoes with green chilies into a large pot over high heat. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes to bring all the flavors together. Add salt and pepper as needed. (I used pepper but didn't think any salt was needed.)

Dice the cheese and stir it into the soup until melted. Serve immediately. We served ours with a dollop of sour cream and cilantro for garnishing. I added tortilla chips to the side for dipping.

 

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I've got to get busy...we're moving tomorrow, and if you looked at our house you wouldn't be able to tell we're moving in 24 hours. Hope everyone has a happy day!



White Bean Chicken Chili

It is full-on winter here, so it's the perfect time to make soup. I wanted to try something new, so I broke out the trusty Google search engine and typed in what I was looking for...and voila, after reading through several recipes, I thought the one below sounded the best. And it was really, really good! Part of why I like Allrecipes.com is because of the reviews...I've learned that you can take a recipe from good to great just by reading the reviews and tweaking recipes according to others' input.

 

White Bean Chicken Chili

{Allrecipes.com}

 

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth

1 (18.75 ounce) can tomatillos, drained and chopped (I used a jar of salsa verde after reading recommendations)

1 (16 ounce) can diced tomatoes (I used 2 cans of Rotel)

1 (7 ounce) can diced green chiles

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander seed

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (I used a little more)

2 ears fresh corn (I used 2 cans of corn, drained)

1 pound diced, cooked chicken meat (I used a Rotisserie chicken)

1 (15 ounce) can white beans (I used 2 cans, drained, but kept the juice to the side...I ended up adding some to the chili to make it soupier)

1 pinch salt and black pepper to taste (I used a good bit of salt)

 

I also added red pepper flakes to make it a little spicier!

Per reviews, I added 2 tablespoons of corn starch to thicken it up...I didn't think it made that much of a difference.

 

Directions

 

Heat oil, and cook onion and garlic until soft.

Stir in broth, tomatillos, tomatoes, chilies, and spices. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.

Add corn, chicken, and beans; simmer 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I left mine on the stove for a few hours on low heat and just stirred occasionally.

Garnish with sour cream, chopped cilantro, and shredded cheddar. Serve with tortilla chips for dipping.

 

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Hope everyone has a great day! And this may be TMI, but I'm OK with that when it comes to this subject...I'm off to get my annual mammogram today. I've been getting them since I turned 30, and I had a baseline in my 20s. I hope everyone reading this gets theirs as often as they've been advised! There is nothing to it, and I promise it's not painful...waiting for the results is the worst part. But it's so important to take care of ourselves and to be proactive in our health...that's my soapbox for the day! ;)

Weekend Update & The Golden Globes

Awards season...my absolute favorite. I have loved the glitz and glamour for as long as I can remember. In college, I have so many special memories of watching the awards shows with my grandmother. She lived only about 20 minutes away from where I went to school, and every time an awards show came on I'd spend the night at her house. We'd eat dinner together (she'd usually take me to her local country club), and afterwards we'd watch the show, discussing our favorite gowns of the night. I'm thankful for those good times.

 

I'll do a Golden Globe recap below, but first...a little glimpse into our weekend.

 

It was our last official weekend in our current house...we're moving Friday...yikes! We spent most of our weekend at our new house, unpacking boxes and trying to get everything set up. Rob bought two new TVs (what is it with guys and their TVs?), and he was sweet enough to paint Lily's room. I really love the current colors in the house (white and mint green), but I wanted something fun for Lily's room. She inherited my little sister's bedroom furniture (including a queen sized bed), and I want something very simple as far as a bedspread goes. Probably white with fun sheets and throw pillows. So she helped me pick a light purple color for the walls. I just adore how it turned out. I'd have my whole house purple if Rob would let me. Just kidding...kind of...

 

 

I hope I'm not boring my few readers with all this talk of the new house. But the truth is I'm excited. This is the first house that I helped choose, so it's been a lot of fun for me. I lived in apartments up until Rob and I got married, and when we married I moved into his bachelor pad house. It's been a wonderful home, and I have loved making it my own, but it's also fun getting to start from the ground up, almost! ;)

 

One of the things that sold me on our new house is all the storage options. Storage galore, I tell ya. I love to cook and am excited about the possibility to entertain more. The kitchen has tons of drawers for my serving pieces...and they're truly pieces I treasure. Not to mention the double cabinet to display my wine and cocktail glasses.

 

I've mentioned before, but my parents moved only a month or so ago. They downsized a good bit, and we have been so fortunate to have inherited a lot of their unwanted furniture...mainly things that they just don't have space for anymore. Our new house has a screened in porch, and this outdoor couch from my parents works perfectly out there. I picked up these pillows from Target to make it our own...I just adore the fun colors. Makes me even more ready for spring.

 

 

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I think Ricky Gervais is hilarious...I just love his humor, even though it's often at the expense of others. He's one of those who says things, and you wonder to yourself if it's OK to think it's funny? Like you probably shouldn't laugh...or at least be caught laughing. That said, how awkward was his interaction with Mel Gibson? You could cut the tension with a knife...yikes...I wanted to hide under my couch...and Mel needs to take a break from the tanning beds...his skin looked like leather!

 

 

My favorite moment from the night was Amy Schumer and Jennifer Lawrence presenting. They are really funny together...and I just love that they're real-life best friends. Seems almost too good to be true! Neither of them can really do any wrong, in my book.

 

Now for my favorite fashion from the evening...

 

Hands down my absolute favorite was Jaimie Alexander in Genny. The emerald green against her alabaster skin was just stunning.

 

 

My other favorites...

 

Jennifer Lawrence in Dior. Her hair wasn't my favorite, but that dress and necklace were divine.

 

Zendaya in Marchesa...love the tiers, and the color is so unexpected.

 

Jennifer Lopez in Giambattista Valli. I could've done without the necklace, but the color is stunning. And I love the cape.

 

Helen Mirren in Badgley Mischka. Pure perfection. If only I could look that good at her age!

 

Gina Rodriguez in Zac Posen. At first I was thrown off by the pointy boobs, but now I'm starting to think it gives the dress an edge. I love the color and the pockets too.

 

Laverne Cox in Elizabeth Kennedy. A vision in white. Love the train.

 

Jenna Dewan Tatum in Zuhair Murad Couture. Spectacular...the color, the silver beads, and the pockets...also love the plunging neckline...if you can do it, I say go for it!

 

Amber Heard in Gucci...just stunning. The color and the neckline with the flowers. A show-stopper.

Brie Larson in Calvin Klein Collection...love the cutouts...just wish I had her abs!

 

Rosie Huntington-Whitley in Atelier Versace...another gold dress that I adore...especially love the draping on the top...

 

And then, the worst of the night goes to Katy Perry. It's just so predictable...of course she'd wear something low cut...and the hair is so Elvira/Snooki. Blech...

 

 

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That's it! Although I now have a list a mile long of movies I want to check out...I hope everyone has a great day! I'm making soups this week because it's downright frigid here, and if they're a win I'll share the recipes here. Stay warm!



Life Lately

We have been busy in the new year! My current life has existed of getting our new house ready for the move/packing up our current house for the move...and good news...we have a date! We're moving next Friday, January 15...#thingsjustgotreal

 

And for those who have asked, here's a picture of our new house...we really love everything about it, and our plan is to stay in it for the long haul. I can't wait to get to know our new neighbors and to enjoy exploring the area around us.

 

  

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I worked this past Saturday, and it was a doozy. Without saying too much, I'll just state that I was quickly reminded how important it is to have a living will. Because if you don't and are unable to make decisions for yourself, your next of kin will...and we don't always see eye-to-eye with our loved ones. Anyway, it's hard to think about, and may even seem morbid, but it's so important and has the potential to spare a lot of heartache in the end.

 

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The girls started school back on Monday, and we're all happy to be back in a routine. The holidays were really special for us this year, and as much as I love Christmas (seriously...love!), I'm also happy to start the new year, feeling like the world is my oyster! ;)

 

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I had all intentions of composing a list of resolutions, but I never got around to it. I love the idea of resolutions and setting goals for oneself and so forth...hmm...maybe next year! I do, truly, want to give up Diet Coke, but I'm not ready just yet. I know that it can't be good for me, but it's my daily afternoon treat, and I'm hooked. I might save it for Lent.

 

 

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When I start to get bummed about the fact that the holidays are over, all I have to do is turn on my TV. Hello return of Downton Abbey and The Bachelor! First things first, I'm so sad that this is the last season of Downton Abbey...it's such a good show and unlike anything else I watch. I'm going to miss the characters so much when it ends.

 

 And then there's The Bachelor. I think Ben is obviously a good guy, and he's definitely handsome...but I think he's so boring! I don't know, I just like a little more pizzazz in my guy...thank goodness I found Rob! :) My favorites so far are Lauren B. and Caila. And Lace...just kidding...and now I am further convinced that Becca's jaw is wired shut. I have never in my life seen someone open their mouth so little when speaking. I first noticed it on Chris's season, and it's even worse this season. Yikes...

 

Lauren B.

 



Caila

 

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Does anyone follow the Instagram account Drake On Cake? I'm obsessed. Joy the Baker out of New Orleans is the author, and she puts Drake lyrics on cakes...genius...and hilarious...

 



 

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I got a gift card from Target for Christmas, and along with some of the essentials, I picked up some other fun things on a recent trip!! That should be my resolution...stop buying unnecessary items at Target!

 

Is this beach tote not the cutest thing you've ever seen? I got it for both girls to share this summer...will work as a beach bag or even an overnight bag. I love the pattern.

 

Girls' Tote Bag Graphic Black

If you put a real-life photo of an animal on a T-shirt, I'm pretty much sold. I adore this one I picked up for Lily.

Girls' Long Sleeve Crew T-shirt

 

Who else agrees that the narwhal is the most underrated animal on the planet? It's like the unicorn of the ocean.

Girls' Long Sleeve Narwhal T-shirt 

My girls live in leggings. These are just the cutest. Love the colors and donuts...umm, yes please.

 Toddler Girls' Donut Leggings

 

I picked up these pajama pants for myself. Thought they were too cute.

 

 Women's Sleep Pants

 

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Shoes are probably my weakness. Well shoes and purses. OK...shoes, purses, and jewelry...and sunglasses. I saw these shoes on a fellow blogger, and I knew I had to have them...they're a cross between a bootie and a high top sneaker, and they're leopard. They're super comfy and make me feel a little more hip than I am. Ha!

 

Sole Society Ziggy High Top Sneaker

 

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I need to stop snacking so much in the new year, but I'm like a squirrel...always snacking (aren't squirrels the animals that snack throughout the day? Or do I have that wrong?). Below are two of my recent favorites I've picked up. I found both at my local Kroger.

 

 

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I've started collecting wine glasses. I love mixing and matching them...the more eclectic, the better! I just picked up this set from World Market with some Christmas money. I think they look way more expensive than they are, and I love a stemless glass.

 

Gold Stemless Wine Glasses 

 

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Santa brought me some bracelets that I've had on repeat lately. The one on the far left is Kendra Scott, and the three bangles on the right are by Alex and Ani. The "L" and the "H" stand for my girls, Lily and Hadley.

 

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Lastly, I've mentioned before that I follow a lot of interior designers on Instagram. Dina Holland Interiors is probably my favorite. You'll see why below...a nook in her bedroom. I'm swooning over every element but especially that artwork...gah...

 

 

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This post was a whole lot of random, but that's kind of me...haha...hope everyone has a great day!

Smoked Sausage, Spinach, & White Bean Soup

It's finally feeling like winter once again here (after temps in the upper 70s and 80s!!), so I'm back on a soup-making kick! This one is super easy and is filled with protein, something I'm trying to get more of in the new year. I served ours with shaved parmesan on top and thought it added so much. I did add a good bit of salt to our soup...just thought it needed it, but I guess that's personal preference. I'm all about soups this time of year...enjoy! 

 

 

Smoked Sausage, Spinach, & White Bean Soup

{The Comfort of Cooking Web site}

 

1 Tablespoon olive oil
13 oz. smoked sausage (chicken, turkey or beef)
1 yellow onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 sprigs fresh thyme
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes
2 (15 oz.) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups (32 oz.) low-sodium chicken broth
10 oz. fresh baby spinach
Salt and pepper, to taste
Grated parmesan cheese, for serving

 

In a large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add sausage and cook 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until nicely browned. Add onions and garlic; cook 2-3 minutes, until soft and fragrant.

 

Stir in thyme leaves, Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, beans and chicken broth. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered 25-30 minutes. Stir in spinach during last 5 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper.

Spoon into serving bowls and top with grated parmesan cheese, if desired.

 

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New Year's Eve has always been the most depressing holiday to me. I mean, if you have fun plans, great...but if you don't, you basically feel like a loser. So I just don't really observe it anymore. Denial is sometimes a good thing, right? But really...in order to further not acknowledge the world's worst holiday I'm going to work tomorrow...so I'm forced to go to bed early...a win-win in my book.

 

I hope everyone had a happy 2015! I'm planning on doing a 2015 recap in a few days, along with writing down some of my goals/resolutions for the new year that I'll most definitely keep for a good two weeks. In all honesty, 2015 was a really good year...filled with good medical news for my family, joyful children, a furthered relationship with Christ, new friendships, and many, many happy times in between. I hope and pray 2016 will bring much of the same...for me and for you! See y'all next year! ;)

Merry, Merry!

I hope everyone had a merry Christmas! I ended up taking the last week off from blogging...not intentionally, but things just got so busy here. That tends to happen this time of year, huh?

 

The weekend before Christmas we traveled both days to see family in different parts of Mississippi. It was so much fun to have so many of us together. Both of my sisters were in town, and having time with them was the best...it's only about once or twice a year that the three of us are able to be together (my little sister lives in Portland, Oregon!), so we treasure that time when it happens.

 

 Some of the cousins together at a Christmas brunch.

Little, middle, big...

The night my sisters were both in town we had a small get-together at my house. Nothing fancy, and we just ordered pizza from a local place...but it was so fun nonetheless! We exchanged presents and had lots of laughs!

 

I did make a batch of peppermint bark and some Christmas cookies. Both were great.

 

 

My older sister and me...the height gene skipped one of us...bet you can't guess which one? ;)

 

One of my girlfriends from high school had a mini-reunion at her house last week while a lot of our friends were in town for the holidays. I had the best time seeing some of my high school buddies! I am that one person on the planet who preferred high school to college. We had an awesome class and even with a lot of different circles, we all seemed to get along very well. There's just something about growing up with people that lends itself to a very special bond.

 

 

My parents gave my girls a Frozen jeep for Christmas, and they are in love...I envision lots of trips around the neighborhood and in the backyard in this new toy!

 

 

 

The night before Christmas we had a casual dinner with my parents then came back here where the girls opened their Christmas pajamas. We put out cookies and milk for Santa, and thankfully the girls fell asleep quickly. Christmas morning is my favorite. Picture overload below!

 

Hadley's big gift from Santa was a tricycle. She also got a Calico Critters house that was a huge hit!

Santa brought the girls the Doc McStuffins Check-Up Center and Magna-Tiles to share. I'm having as much fun with the Magna-Tiles as the girls are!

Lily got a lot of little things, which she loves. Santa brought her a Journey doll from Toys "R" Us...a knock-off of the American Girl doll...but Santa wanted to make sure she liked it before getting the real deal in a few years! And I honestly was so impressed with this version! I think she's just precious.

 

 Rob was so excited about his new doll. Ha!

 

Both girls got a pair of unicorn slippers. Just wish they came in my size!

We got Rob a ThermoWorks Thermapen meat thermometer. Great gift for the guy in your life. A fancy meat thermometer for a guy is the equivalent of a nice purse for a girl...he was stoked.

 

 

 

Christmas morning breakfast. If you've never had a Kringle, you need to try one. It's a tradition every Christmas over here. Pure heaven on a plate.



 

 Santa definitely picked up on our love of unicorns. Lots of unicorn treats were waiting for the girls on Christmas morning!

 

 

We went to see Rob's family the day after Christmas and had a wonderful time there. Rob's brother and sister-in-law have a son who is around Lily's age, so they always have the best time together!

 

Rob's parents gave us the most beautiful drawing of Hadley for Christmas. We have one of Lily when she was around the same age. I can't wait to frame it...it looks just like my baby girl and captures her little personality perfectly!

 

Sweet girl fell asleep about 10 minutes before we got home...that always happens, doesn't it?

 

 

A few days before Christmas Rob and the girls went back to Lily's room to wrap my present. Lily came out holding the present, so proud, and said, "Mommy, I can't wait for you to open your present!! Daddy told me not to tell you what it is, but it's a purple robe!" When I said, "A purple robe?!?!" excitedly, she said, "Sshh...don't let Daddy know I told you!" Anyway, because of her little slip-up I was able to open my robe on Christmas Eve and wore it on Christmas morning...it was the perfect gift!

 

 

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And today feels like Christmas all over again as we close on our new house at 1:30!! We are so excited and can't wait to have a little more space and a large backyard for the girls to run in and explore! We'll be slowly moving in, as we haven't sold our current house yet, but I guess that's one positive...we can move in at our own pace...

 

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I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas with their loved ones...we surely did...being able to spend cherished time with my family and friends was a blessing...and celebrating the birth of Jesus was and still is the greatest blessing of all.