MacKenzie,
Sorry about the tardiness of this post. In all honesty I completely forgot until after your month birthday had past and then figured as long as I was a few days late, I could be a few more. I know you appreciate me focusing on spending time with you girls when I'm not at work though.
You are so smart, such a ham, and so lovable.
It is amazing how much you are learning each and every day. You have started telling us the names of animals in addition to the sounds that they make, you know all your colors, and can identify and say almost all of the capital letters. You are getting to be very good at naming people and you are remembering who goes in which family (for example when we ask you about Dee, you will ask about Doc too). Mommy thinks it is funny that you will listen for the ring tone and try to guess who is calling Mommy. If you are playing like you are talking on the phone you will usually call Dada or KiKi (who you sometimes call Tuh-tah and sometimes call Ki-ki). I think our next big project will be in relation to counting, you will point to items as we count them and will make sounds like you are trying to count. Sometimes we can hear you say six and seven when counting randomly, but we aren't sure. You are saying more and more multi-syllable words and will try to string multiple words together into sentences. It is so shocking to hear some of the sentences you will say or repeat. You have also been doing a lot of singing your own tunes, picking out words in familiar songs, and doing motions to songs (especially The Ants Go Marching and I'm a Little Teapot). Of course your favorite phrase is "read book", you have also started asking to "play blocks", "snack please", and "elmo watch please". I would put Go Dog, Go as your favorite book right now, but you also like many others. It is cute to see what songs you want me to sing as you will make a pouty face and sound if you don't like what I am singing until I change it.
You are a big goober and will intentionally do things to make us and your sister laugh. Anytime someone asks you to smile you will give them a big cheesy smile and wink one eye closed. We have had to delay any picture attempts for a few seconds until you open your other eye! Because of this we taught you the Popeye laugh to go along with your winking. In other ways to try and please us, we are teaching you all sorts of Aggie behavior like Whooping, Horse-laughing, Gig'em Aggies, and Howdy. It is cute to hear you do all of these things, but even you have your limits and will say "nooooo" if you are done showing off. You like to tickle people and like to get in Keegan's face to try to make her smile and laugh. You just look very pleased whenever you are successful in making us happy...which you do without even trying. You love to cuddle up and read books, give kisses, and when we tell you to squeeze in hugs you will put your hands on our shoulders and squeeze them. You are so affectionate to the people you know and love and quickly warm up to others. Two Sundays ago you were moved to the next nursery class at church (you are now a Monkey) and went right in without any problems or complaints. Thank you for making my life that much easier.
You prefer juice to any other drink and will often drink a little slush if we get one for a treat. You look like such a big girl holding a cup and drinking out of the straw. You really like fries, but not mashed potatoes. You have been indifferent about vegetables lately, but not to the point where we are going to start force feeding you. Your spoon skills have definitely improved and you are getting better about not dropping oatmeal or applesauce off of your spoon. Your favorite snack right now is multi grain cheerios (che-lee-ohs) and are still crazy about pasta (esp mac and cheese) and pizza. We often ask you what you want for breakfast and will alternate between pancakes, eggies, and oatmeal. If eating a peanut butter sandwich you will eat part of it, then open it up and lick off all the peanut butter! You are doing very well out of Mommy's care and I love the concentrated time I am devoting to you girls in the evening. Your naps and sleep is wonderful and you are doing great sharing a room with your sister.
MacKenzie, this list is brief compared with all the amazing things you do each day. Our love for you is immeasurable. Thank you for blessing us each and every moment.
Love,
Mommy and Daddy
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Keegan is half a year
Keegan,
Yesterday you turned 6 months old! Is it possible for you to already be that old? It seems like just yesterday we were finding out we were expecting you and now you are already a real baby! We see you do things and we think to ourselves that you shouldn't be doing that, you aren't nearly old enough, but you are. You are just our little sweet pea and we always think of you as a teeny little baby instead of a girl who is growing and becoming more and more active each day. You went to the doctor yesterday and you weigh about 17.5 pounds and are over 26 inches long (around the 70th percentiles for both), you also barely cried for your shots...such a brave girl!
You are eating solids! Only once a day and only a very little bit, but you have tried cereal, carrots, peas, and green beans. We like to start babies off with veggies so they don't get used to sweet fruit (because then you would only want to eat sweet stuff). You have enjoyed it and will grab the spoon to try and feed yourself. It will only be a few weeks before you are grabbing at little finger foods to try and feed yourself so Mommy is enjoying this time where she gets to feed you, even if it is very messy. With me going back to work you are drinking pumped milk for two to three bottles a day and nursing the other 5 or so. You enjoy nursing, but when you are done you would much rather look around and play than laying or snuggling with Mommy.
Your sleeping schedule is changing a little bit. You are taking a 1 hour or so nap in the morning, a three hour or so nap in the evening, and will usually go down for bed around 8 and wake up once to eat before sleeping through the night. Mommy thinks it is funny that when she wakes up in the morning she usually wakes up to find your smiling face peering up in the crib. You usually have rolled onto your back and either have your arms behind your head or your feet curled up in the air while sleeping. You also enjoy sucking on your middle fingers still, but you don't do that all the time. You enjoy bath time and will lay there listening to Dada talk to you while washing all your body parts.
You have been playing more and more and love your exersaucer where you can play and stand up at the same time. You aren't consistently rolling over from tummy to back, but you can do it and you have started working yourself into moving around in circles some. You are getting good at reaching out for stuff and playing with it (Mommy will need to watch her cup more). You always look like you are studying...people, toys, the environment...you are very observant and studious looking...but you also look very relaxed and laid back. You always look at people when they are talking and you like to give them a big gummy smile when they look back at you. You are a very relaxed baby unless you are very tired or very hungry...then you will scream like a wild banshee. Your cry is very piercing and is definitely a girly shriek...I'm glad it is reserved for only a few times here and there. You love to try and talk and will have entire conversations where you are talking to yourself and trying different sounds out. You love for us to blow raspberries on your tummy and in your neck (which is very ticklish) and love for us to pretend to eat your fingers or toes. You are very giving with your laugh when we do these things. You have started straining more against the car seat in the car, especially to look at MacKenzie and to laugh at her. You girls already laugh and talk together, I am so happy to see how your relationship develops more each day.
Keegan you are simply a joy. People love to talk to you and to see your smile and to comment on how big and beautiful your eyes are. They talk about healthy you look and what a good baby you are. We are so thankful for you in our lives.
We love you always!
Mommy and Daddy
Yesterday you turned 6 months old! Is it possible for you to already be that old? It seems like just yesterday we were finding out we were expecting you and now you are already a real baby! We see you do things and we think to ourselves that you shouldn't be doing that, you aren't nearly old enough, but you are. You are just our little sweet pea and we always think of you as a teeny little baby instead of a girl who is growing and becoming more and more active each day. You went to the doctor yesterday and you weigh about 17.5 pounds and are over 26 inches long (around the 70th percentiles for both), you also barely cried for your shots...such a brave girl!
You are eating solids! Only once a day and only a very little bit, but you have tried cereal, carrots, peas, and green beans. We like to start babies off with veggies so they don't get used to sweet fruit (because then you would only want to eat sweet stuff). You have enjoyed it and will grab the spoon to try and feed yourself. It will only be a few weeks before you are grabbing at little finger foods to try and feed yourself so Mommy is enjoying this time where she gets to feed you, even if it is very messy. With me going back to work you are drinking pumped milk for two to three bottles a day and nursing the other 5 or so. You enjoy nursing, but when you are done you would much rather look around and play than laying or snuggling with Mommy.
Your sleeping schedule is changing a little bit. You are taking a 1 hour or so nap in the morning, a three hour or so nap in the evening, and will usually go down for bed around 8 and wake up once to eat before sleeping through the night. Mommy thinks it is funny that when she wakes up in the morning she usually wakes up to find your smiling face peering up in the crib. You usually have rolled onto your back and either have your arms behind your head or your feet curled up in the air while sleeping. You also enjoy sucking on your middle fingers still, but you don't do that all the time. You enjoy bath time and will lay there listening to Dada talk to you while washing all your body parts.
You have been playing more and more and love your exersaucer where you can play and stand up at the same time. You aren't consistently rolling over from tummy to back, but you can do it and you have started working yourself into moving around in circles some. You are getting good at reaching out for stuff and playing with it (Mommy will need to watch her cup more). You always look like you are studying...people, toys, the environment...you are very observant and studious looking...but you also look very relaxed and laid back. You always look at people when they are talking and you like to give them a big gummy smile when they look back at you. You are a very relaxed baby unless you are very tired or very hungry...then you will scream like a wild banshee. Your cry is very piercing and is definitely a girly shriek...I'm glad it is reserved for only a few times here and there. You love to try and talk and will have entire conversations where you are talking to yourself and trying different sounds out. You love for us to blow raspberries on your tummy and in your neck (which is very ticklish) and love for us to pretend to eat your fingers or toes. You are very giving with your laugh when we do these things. You have started straining more against the car seat in the car, especially to look at MacKenzie and to laugh at her. You girls already laugh and talk together, I am so happy to see how your relationship develops more each day.
Keegan you are simply a joy. People love to talk to you and to see your smile and to comment on how big and beautiful your eyes are. They talk about healthy you look and what a good baby you are. We are so thankful for you in our lives.
We love you always!
Mommy and Daddy
Monday, August 15, 2011
Natural Childbirth
This post is about my thoughts on Natural or Medicated Childbirth and what each has done for me...
With MacKenzie my full intention was to go without pain medication, I told myself I could do it, I told myself that pain medication wasn't an option and I poured over Bradley Method books. I practiced some, had Matt read about the method, and prepared myself for a easy childbirth. Fast forward to my labor and after teaching five full days, going into labor at 11 p.m. on a Friday, and being hit with a completely unexpected onslaught of contractions at 6 a.m. with no build up and no relief in sight, and I was done with the idea of natural childbirth (and told Matt as much). I knew I could work through the contractions, but I wasn't sure if I would have the energy to push at the end and I wanted to enjoy the process. I wasn't enjoying the labor like I wanted to and that frustrated me (which was even less helpful). My nurses were slow to help as this was all occurring during a shift change and I was done with trying. We took the intravenous medication first "just to take the edge off"....that was a huge mistake. It did nothing for my pain and made me completely loopy and I felt out of control. I asked for the anesthesiologist to come in and give me an epidural and I felt relief within minutes. I was able to rest for an hour before pushing and woke up rejuvenated and ready to meet our baby. We were able to laugh between pushing and enjoyed the process thoroughly.
For me, having pain medication meant that I could laugh, smile, and be calm during my first child's birth. It let me regain composure, it helped me rest, and regardless of whether my feelings were irrational or not it helped me be in the emotional state I wanted to be in. It helped me reflect on MacKenzie's birth as a positive experience.
With Keegan my intention was to do the best I possibly could, for as long as I could and if I decided to pursue pain management then I would go directly for the epidural. Fast forward to labor and I was progressing well, knew what to expect, and had support of a nurse who instilled confidence in me going natural all the way. She told me that I could go natural because I was already doing it...and only had a little bit longer to go. I was able to focus on working through my contractions because going medication free was my reality. I had about a 10 minute window in which to decide whether I wanted the epidural or not...I went from 5 to 7 cm in about 10 minutes of pitocin and the doctors needed to know what to do. When I made the decision to go medication free I had no way to turn back. This fact helped me immensely. I had to deal with what was coming and did so fairly calmly and just focused on relaxing as much as possible. When it was time to push I felt immediate relief and the pushing portion of labor was way easier than I thought it would be.
For me, going medication free meant a number of things. First, it meant that I was able to immediately get up and move around. I can understand now how women in olden days used to go directly back to taking care of their chores (not that I wanted to...I can just understand how that is possible). I felt less nausea and overall felt physically good (better than MacKenzie). Emotionally it helped me learn what my body was capable of. It helped me learn how I could push myself (not just a baby out) and really work with my body towards a goal. Whenever I run or am working out now, I remember that. And when I am facing challenges I look on them as my reality and something I need to take in stride.
Speaking of working out, both labors and deliveries have given me empowerment in another way. I alternate back and forth between doing weight machines for a few weeks and free weights for a few weeks. I felt a little hesitant to workout on the free weights a few months ago. This is a legitimate feeling with the onslaught of men working out in that section of the gym. They sweat, they usually wear funny clothes, they lift incredible amounts of weight, and the kicker for me...they make sounds that no person should make when working out. I have a really hard time with the grunting and howling these men utter as they lift. It really is intimidating to me. I started to turn away from the free weights and work out on the machines instead until I thought to myself..."No! You have been through childbirth. TWICE. And one of those times was without pain medication. That is something none of those men can say. You have just as much of a claim to be up there." And I confidently walked over, picked up my little weights and did a grunt and howl free workout. So an additional thank you to Mother Nature for giving me that too, I feel honored to have experienced that twice and hopefully...one day...no this is not an announcement (we have enough going on right now thank you)...we will experience it again. And when we do, we will see how things go and go without pain medication as long as we can...and go straight for the epidural if we want it!
With MacKenzie my full intention was to go without pain medication, I told myself I could do it, I told myself that pain medication wasn't an option and I poured over Bradley Method books. I practiced some, had Matt read about the method, and prepared myself for a easy childbirth. Fast forward to my labor and after teaching five full days, going into labor at 11 p.m. on a Friday, and being hit with a completely unexpected onslaught of contractions at 6 a.m. with no build up and no relief in sight, and I was done with the idea of natural childbirth (and told Matt as much). I knew I could work through the contractions, but I wasn't sure if I would have the energy to push at the end and I wanted to enjoy the process. I wasn't enjoying the labor like I wanted to and that frustrated me (which was even less helpful). My nurses were slow to help as this was all occurring during a shift change and I was done with trying. We took the intravenous medication first "just to take the edge off"....that was a huge mistake. It did nothing for my pain and made me completely loopy and I felt out of control. I asked for the anesthesiologist to come in and give me an epidural and I felt relief within minutes. I was able to rest for an hour before pushing and woke up rejuvenated and ready to meet our baby. We were able to laugh between pushing and enjoyed the process thoroughly.
For me, having pain medication meant that I could laugh, smile, and be calm during my first child's birth. It let me regain composure, it helped me rest, and regardless of whether my feelings were irrational or not it helped me be in the emotional state I wanted to be in. It helped me reflect on MacKenzie's birth as a positive experience.
With Keegan my intention was to do the best I possibly could, for as long as I could and if I decided to pursue pain management then I would go directly for the epidural. Fast forward to labor and I was progressing well, knew what to expect, and had support of a nurse who instilled confidence in me going natural all the way. She told me that I could go natural because I was already doing it...and only had a little bit longer to go. I was able to focus on working through my contractions because going medication free was my reality. I had about a 10 minute window in which to decide whether I wanted the epidural or not...I went from 5 to 7 cm in about 10 minutes of pitocin and the doctors needed to know what to do. When I made the decision to go medication free I had no way to turn back. This fact helped me immensely. I had to deal with what was coming and did so fairly calmly and just focused on relaxing as much as possible. When it was time to push I felt immediate relief and the pushing portion of labor was way easier than I thought it would be.
For me, going medication free meant a number of things. First, it meant that I was able to immediately get up and move around. I can understand now how women in olden days used to go directly back to taking care of their chores (not that I wanted to...I can just understand how that is possible). I felt less nausea and overall felt physically good (better than MacKenzie). Emotionally it helped me learn what my body was capable of. It helped me learn how I could push myself (not just a baby out) and really work with my body towards a goal. Whenever I run or am working out now, I remember that. And when I am facing challenges I look on them as my reality and something I need to take in stride.
Speaking of working out, both labors and deliveries have given me empowerment in another way. I alternate back and forth between doing weight machines for a few weeks and free weights for a few weeks. I felt a little hesitant to workout on the free weights a few months ago. This is a legitimate feeling with the onslaught of men working out in that section of the gym. They sweat, they usually wear funny clothes, they lift incredible amounts of weight, and the kicker for me...they make sounds that no person should make when working out. I have a really hard time with the grunting and howling these men utter as they lift. It really is intimidating to me. I started to turn away from the free weights and work out on the machines instead until I thought to myself..."No! You have been through childbirth. TWICE. And one of those times was without pain medication. That is something none of those men can say. You have just as much of a claim to be up there." And I confidently walked over, picked up my little weights and did a grunt and howl free workout. So an additional thank you to Mother Nature for giving me that too, I feel honored to have experienced that twice and hopefully...one day...no this is not an announcement (we have enough going on right now thank you)...we will experience it again. And when we do, we will see how things go and go without pain medication as long as we can...and go straight for the epidural if we want it!
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Craziness
A lot has happened in the past week...but it all started last Wednesday...
Wednesday night: We went to our good friends, The Roberds, for dinner. Allen and I first met when I started teaching at Cy-Ridge. He also taught on my team as a World History teacher and became Team Leader my second year. We ended up moving down the street from him and enjoyed visiting and growing a friendship between our family and his. Allen is a lot like me and is definitely like the big brother I never had. At dinner they let us know that they are moving back to Utah in the next month to couple of months. We are very happy for them and that this means better opportunities for them as well as more time with their families. They will definitely be missed however and I may have been more than a little sad to hear this news. In the course of talking about their move Allen talked about putting in his resignation at the school and we laughed about the fact that if I wanted a job then it was available. Matt and I talked about it more at home, but decided that a number of factors were working against us and maybe this wasn't the best timing. We both privately thought about it a lot more and thought about how we could make things work if I was to return to school.
Monday afternoon: I get a call from another teacher on my team asking if I was interested in coming back. We talked about it for awhile and I decided that Matt and I should really commit some prayer time and discussion to the possibility of me returning to work. We sent out a prayer request to our ABF and talked to some family about what this would mean from our family. We did feel strong support and love from so many of our friends and family and we are extremely thankful for that. We also looked at every angle and possibility. We didn't let ourselves get too excited about the positives and didn't let ourselves get too down about the negatives. We thought about it, reflected on it, and prayed on it.
Tuesday morning: We talked some more.
Tuesday afternoon: We talked some more. Then we decided that just because a few co-workers might want me for the position that doesn't mean that I am a shoe-in for the position, there are a number of factors that could play into hiring for the district. So we placed things further in God's hands and told my would be new Team Leader to throw my name out there and see what happens. We also began to inquire about childcare and started preparing ourselves for me having the position because we knew it would be easier to get out of working mindset than to put myself into it. I got a call back later and was told to call the school to set up an official interview.
Wednesday day: I called and set up my interview and prepared to do my best feeling confident that if this was supposed to happen then it would.
Thursday afternoon: I arrive for my interview, sit quietly while the Associate Principal and Department Chair finish an interview for a different position, and go through all my wonderful talking points in my head. After our obligatory greetings I sit down and wait for all the tough questions. I am told this is not an actual and official interview, they just want to go over a few things with me. We chat for about 15 minutes, tell me they are happy to have me back and that I should try to come in next week for Orientation. I am instantly relieved on the job side of things, I am excited to teach again and happy about what this means for securing our finances and maybe providing Matt with the chance to pursue an advanced degree. I immediately feel overwhelmed however about all the things at home that need to be taken care of and all the details that need to fall into place. As I walked out of the school I began to cry, not out of sadness for working, but just in an uncontrollable wave of emotion at all the stress I was able to let go of and all of the new stress I would be taking on at the same time. But the facts remain...We are assured that this is the path we are meant to leave, feel so happy about being in teaching again, and glad for such an amazing opportunity (in this economic climate it is almost unheard of to be offered a teaching job like this in this manner). I feel confident that it will make me a better mother and wife as it will force me to focus and concentrate on them in an attempt to "make up" for the time spent in the classroom. I have been so appreciative of this time home with the girls and teaching is truly a great profession for getting to spend time with your own children as well. I am not sure how long this "stint" will be, we are taking things as they come.
We really appreciate everyone's help, support, and prayers and will continue to rely on that this year. I am sure you will get to hear some amazing stories and hopefully some funny ones too as I endeavor to educate 180 15 and 16 year olds this year!
Wednesday night: We went to our good friends, The Roberds, for dinner. Allen and I first met when I started teaching at Cy-Ridge. He also taught on my team as a World History teacher and became Team Leader my second year. We ended up moving down the street from him and enjoyed visiting and growing a friendship between our family and his. Allen is a lot like me and is definitely like the big brother I never had. At dinner they let us know that they are moving back to Utah in the next month to couple of months. We are very happy for them and that this means better opportunities for them as well as more time with their families. They will definitely be missed however and I may have been more than a little sad to hear this news. In the course of talking about their move Allen talked about putting in his resignation at the school and we laughed about the fact that if I wanted a job then it was available. Matt and I talked about it more at home, but decided that a number of factors were working against us and maybe this wasn't the best timing. We both privately thought about it a lot more and thought about how we could make things work if I was to return to school.
Monday afternoon: I get a call from another teacher on my team asking if I was interested in coming back. We talked about it for awhile and I decided that Matt and I should really commit some prayer time and discussion to the possibility of me returning to work. We sent out a prayer request to our ABF and talked to some family about what this would mean from our family. We did feel strong support and love from so many of our friends and family and we are extremely thankful for that. We also looked at every angle and possibility. We didn't let ourselves get too excited about the positives and didn't let ourselves get too down about the negatives. We thought about it, reflected on it, and prayed on it.
Tuesday morning: We talked some more.
Tuesday afternoon: We talked some more. Then we decided that just because a few co-workers might want me for the position that doesn't mean that I am a shoe-in for the position, there are a number of factors that could play into hiring for the district. So we placed things further in God's hands and told my would be new Team Leader to throw my name out there and see what happens. We also began to inquire about childcare and started preparing ourselves for me having the position because we knew it would be easier to get out of working mindset than to put myself into it. I got a call back later and was told to call the school to set up an official interview.
Wednesday day: I called and set up my interview and prepared to do my best feeling confident that if this was supposed to happen then it would.
Thursday afternoon: I arrive for my interview, sit quietly while the Associate Principal and Department Chair finish an interview for a different position, and go through all my wonderful talking points in my head. After our obligatory greetings I sit down and wait for all the tough questions. I am told this is not an actual and official interview, they just want to go over a few things with me. We chat for about 15 minutes, tell me they are happy to have me back and that I should try to come in next week for Orientation. I am instantly relieved on the job side of things, I am excited to teach again and happy about what this means for securing our finances and maybe providing Matt with the chance to pursue an advanced degree. I immediately feel overwhelmed however about all the things at home that need to be taken care of and all the details that need to fall into place. As I walked out of the school I began to cry, not out of sadness for working, but just in an uncontrollable wave of emotion at all the stress I was able to let go of and all of the new stress I would be taking on at the same time. But the facts remain...We are assured that this is the path we are meant to leave, feel so happy about being in teaching again, and glad for such an amazing opportunity (in this economic climate it is almost unheard of to be offered a teaching job like this in this manner). I feel confident that it will make me a better mother and wife as it will force me to focus and concentrate on them in an attempt to "make up" for the time spent in the classroom. I have been so appreciative of this time home with the girls and teaching is truly a great profession for getting to spend time with your own children as well. I am not sure how long this "stint" will be, we are taking things as they come.
We really appreciate everyone's help, support, and prayers and will continue to rely on that this year. I am sure you will get to hear some amazing stories and hopefully some funny ones too as I endeavor to educate 180 15 and 16 year olds this year!
Friday, July 29, 2011
Chili
I love making chili. I love how easy it is and I love the mixture of flavors one gets in a good bite of chili. I like chili on it's own, with cornbread, with fritos, on a hot dog...any way I can get it, I love it. I have found however that the more I make my own chili and fall further and further in love with it, the harder it is to enjoy any chili that is not my own (what a great philosophy for a monogamous relationship too...yes Matt...I just compared our relationship to chili). Often, not all the time but often, when tasting other people's chili I find myself enjoying it, then thinking "Oh if they only added this" or "If only they used this instead of that". Eventually I will think myself out of enjoying their chili and dreaming about mine because I have slowly "morphed" their chili into everything it should be (in my mind- mine). I will concede that Texan chili purists will snub my chili because according to current chili standards, a Texas chili should not have beans in it. I think this is outrageous and rediculous. First off- beans are a wonderful addition to chili because of the nutritional value it adds. Second- you really expect me to believe that cowboys wouldn't enjoy a bowl full of chili with beans?!? Regardless, here is the chili as closely as I can describe it to you...
Start off with an idea of how much and what type of ground meat you are going to use. This batch is ground venison and ground buffalo (venison because it is free to us plus delicious and lean, buffalo because my mom bought it and it is delicious and lean). I personally do not like fatty ground meat in my chili, but to each their own. You need to know how much meat because there is a precise ratio that occurs with my chili recipe. Basically for veggies and canned tomatoes it is a one to one ratio and for beans it is a 1 to 1.5 ratio. Thus, for every pound of ground meat you want, use one bell pepper and one regular size onion, and one can of diced tomatoes. Then use 1.5 cans of beans. Yes I realize you could soak and cook your own beans, but my method is so easy! Also, if you are going to make chili then make a huge pot to munch on for days, with friends, then stick in the freezer. It freezes really well and it is wonderful to be able to come home to a huge bowl of chili on unexpected rainy or cold (HAHA) days.
So chop your bell peppers and onions and sautee in vegetable oil in a large stockpot. When tender add the ground meat, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and brown until done. I do not drain any fat at this point as there is usually very little, but if you used Ground Chuck or something fatty, you may wish to.
Rinse and drain your canned beans. I like to use a combo of dark red kidney beans, light red kidney beans, and pinto beans. I do usually pour one can in without draining to provide a little thickening, but most of them I drain and rinse. Stir it all around a bit. Add canned tomatoes and one large can of tomato sauce for several pounds of meat (I'm sorry this isn't more precise, but I don't use a lot of measurements). This is where the fun comes in.
Liberally season with salt, pepper, red pepper, and garlic powder. Then add copious amounts of at least three different kinds of chili powder (we are talking about palmfulls here). You may think I am crazy for suggesting different kinds of chili powder, but it is a tip my dad gave me and I swear by it. Each brand of chili powder is unique in what kind they use, how long they smoke it, and what flavor profile it has. You will not get a depth of flavor without using different kinds of chili powder. If you don't believe me, next time you are at the store grab four or five different brands of chili powder and simply look at their color. Those different colors mean slightly different flavors which means tantalizing flavor for your otherwise drab chili. Also throw in a good amount of cumin just for extra smoky goodness...you will be ok if you only use one kind of cumin.
Now stir this up (I really recommend a good bamboo or wooden spoon for this...it adds so much to the authenticity of the dish) and walk away. For at least 30 minutes. Let it come up to a good boil. Now stir it and give it a taste. It probably needs more chili powder, a bit more cumin, and some garlic powder. Stir this in and walk away. Again, give it some time to work, you probably have a show to watch or laundry to fold anyways. Try again. You should tweak your flavors at least twice. Just remember that you can always add more seasoning and spice, but it is very hard to take away. But you probably need more seasoning than you think...
Once you are happy you can simmer until ready to serve. I highly recommend cornbread and a salad with ranch dressing on the first day, frito pie with red onions and cheddar cheese on the second, and chili dogs with Hebrew National all beef franks on the third! Enjoy
Start off with an idea of how much and what type of ground meat you are going to use. This batch is ground venison and ground buffalo (venison because it is free to us plus delicious and lean, buffalo because my mom bought it and it is delicious and lean). I personally do not like fatty ground meat in my chili, but to each their own. You need to know how much meat because there is a precise ratio that occurs with my chili recipe. Basically for veggies and canned tomatoes it is a one to one ratio and for beans it is a 1 to 1.5 ratio. Thus, for every pound of ground meat you want, use one bell pepper and one regular size onion, and one can of diced tomatoes. Then use 1.5 cans of beans. Yes I realize you could soak and cook your own beans, but my method is so easy! Also, if you are going to make chili then make a huge pot to munch on for days, with friends, then stick in the freezer. It freezes really well and it is wonderful to be able to come home to a huge bowl of chili on unexpected rainy or cold (HAHA) days.
So chop your bell peppers and onions and sautee in vegetable oil in a large stockpot. When tender add the ground meat, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and brown until done. I do not drain any fat at this point as there is usually very little, but if you used Ground Chuck or something fatty, you may wish to.
Rinse and drain your canned beans. I like to use a combo of dark red kidney beans, light red kidney beans, and pinto beans. I do usually pour one can in without draining to provide a little thickening, but most of them I drain and rinse. Stir it all around a bit. Add canned tomatoes and one large can of tomato sauce for several pounds of meat (I'm sorry this isn't more precise, but I don't use a lot of measurements). This is where the fun comes in.
Liberally season with salt, pepper, red pepper, and garlic powder. Then add copious amounts of at least three different kinds of chili powder (we are talking about palmfulls here). You may think I am crazy for suggesting different kinds of chili powder, but it is a tip my dad gave me and I swear by it. Each brand of chili powder is unique in what kind they use, how long they smoke it, and what flavor profile it has. You will not get a depth of flavor without using different kinds of chili powder. If you don't believe me, next time you are at the store grab four or five different brands of chili powder and simply look at their color. Those different colors mean slightly different flavors which means tantalizing flavor for your otherwise drab chili. Also throw in a good amount of cumin just for extra smoky goodness...you will be ok if you only use one kind of cumin.
Now stir this up (I really recommend a good bamboo or wooden spoon for this...it adds so much to the authenticity of the dish) and walk away. For at least 30 minutes. Let it come up to a good boil. Now stir it and give it a taste. It probably needs more chili powder, a bit more cumin, and some garlic powder. Stir this in and walk away. Again, give it some time to work, you probably have a show to watch or laundry to fold anyways. Try again. You should tweak your flavors at least twice. Just remember that you can always add more seasoning and spice, but it is very hard to take away. But you probably need more seasoning than you think...
Once you are happy you can simmer until ready to serve. I highly recommend cornbread and a salad with ranch dressing on the first day, frito pie with red onions and cheddar cheese on the second, and chili dogs with Hebrew National all beef franks on the third! Enjoy
Monday, July 25, 2011
21 months of MacKenzie
MacKenzie,
Yesterday you just turned 21 months, we are starting to think about your 2nd birthday already! It is amazing how much you change and pick up on a daily basis. If only we could harness that learning and developmental ability and apply it to everyone in the world!!! Above all of your "smartypants-ness" we love you and the child you are and you bring us so much happiness.
I could continue to report on all of your eating habits, but I think you would find that a bit boring so here are a few highlights. You are doing better with a fork and spoon and drop less and less each meal. You will sometimes get frustrated with using utensils and will grab food with your hands, which is fine because you are still learning. When you don't like something you will hand it to us until we tell you to put it back on your plate or on your high chair tray. Yesterday while eating pizza you reached over to Mommy's pizza and swiped all of her black olives which I thought was very funny! You are not the biggest fan of sweets, but neither was I at that age. You will take a few bites still, but the biggest sweet you like are cookies and always ask for one at Kroger. You have started eating canned carrots with dinner which is a fairly new development. We also sometimes have to remind you that you like something by telling you to say "ahhhh" and then putting the food item in your mouth. Your reaction is usually along the lines of "hey...oh...wait...I do like this!" Your favorite foods right now are still Macaroni and Cheese, bananas, oatmeal (you request that for breakfast), and bread.
You are learning a lot. You are very good at your colors and we have started to teach you brown, black, and white along with the basics. You are doing great on your letters and will even name S, O, M, B, E, and W (duh-bwah-ooo). Mommy has to go back and teach you all of your lowercase letters now because she only taught you the capital ones. You will pick up on signs and new words very quickly and we catch sentences and phrases that you are mimicking a lot. You are very observant and we often have to look around for what you are showing or telling us because we know you see things that we don't. You like to show people how smart you are by looking around and saying all the things you can see while pointing to them. I hope you continue to learn and have a joy in being smart!
You love your puppies still, but a new love is for that crazy little monster..."Eh-mo!" I am not quite sure where you picked up on this love as we only have a few Sesame Street things and rarely watch it, but you have picked up on it strong. You look for him everywhere and love the little stuffed Elmo that I have found amongst your things. You have also picked up on Minnie and will claim that Mickey is Minnie too and Mommy and Daddy have been teaching you about Buzz and Woody from Toy Story. You love music and will dance with your hands in the air in a bit of a wild fashion whenever you can. You love to play with "muh-knee" as previously posted about and will snatch whatever money you can find to put in your purse or juice container of coins. You love shoes and walking around in shoes or socks (either on your feet or hands). We spend a lot of time reading and you will also sit on the floor on your own while reading and looking at books (so remenscent of pictures of mommy). You love to swim and to play in the water and like to explore the park, but it has been way to hot for that.
You are sleeping in a "big girl" bed as we got a full bed from Dee and Doc to put on the floor for you. You have transitioned well into the bed and have had no problems and have only once gotten out of bed to play. Speaking of Dee and Doc (and all of your grandparents and good friends) you now point out where we are going once we get close by...you will start saying the names of the people that live at the house when you recognize the places around there. You will also list off a long list of names when we ask you who you love (Vah-Vah, Enny, Vay-very, Ah-ie, Mama, Dada, Neh-nah, etc).
MacKenzie, this past month has been wonderful and I am really enjoying spending time with you. It still startles me to see how big you have gotten and how much you can do for yourself. I am thankful for every second you are with us and look forward to many more seconds to come!
Love,
Mommy and Daddy
Yesterday you just turned 21 months, we are starting to think about your 2nd birthday already! It is amazing how much you change and pick up on a daily basis. If only we could harness that learning and developmental ability and apply it to everyone in the world!!! Above all of your "smartypants-ness" we love you and the child you are and you bring us so much happiness.
I could continue to report on all of your eating habits, but I think you would find that a bit boring so here are a few highlights. You are doing better with a fork and spoon and drop less and less each meal. You will sometimes get frustrated with using utensils and will grab food with your hands, which is fine because you are still learning. When you don't like something you will hand it to us until we tell you to put it back on your plate or on your high chair tray. Yesterday while eating pizza you reached over to Mommy's pizza and swiped all of her black olives which I thought was very funny! You are not the biggest fan of sweets, but neither was I at that age. You will take a few bites still, but the biggest sweet you like are cookies and always ask for one at Kroger. You have started eating canned carrots with dinner which is a fairly new development. We also sometimes have to remind you that you like something by telling you to say "ahhhh" and then putting the food item in your mouth. Your reaction is usually along the lines of "hey...oh...wait...I do like this!" Your favorite foods right now are still Macaroni and Cheese, bananas, oatmeal (you request that for breakfast), and bread.
You are learning a lot. You are very good at your colors and we have started to teach you brown, black, and white along with the basics. You are doing great on your letters and will even name S, O, M, B, E, and W (duh-bwah-ooo). Mommy has to go back and teach you all of your lowercase letters now because she only taught you the capital ones. You will pick up on signs and new words very quickly and we catch sentences and phrases that you are mimicking a lot. You are very observant and we often have to look around for what you are showing or telling us because we know you see things that we don't. You like to show people how smart you are by looking around and saying all the things you can see while pointing to them. I hope you continue to learn and have a joy in being smart!
You love your puppies still, but a new love is for that crazy little monster..."Eh-mo!" I am not quite sure where you picked up on this love as we only have a few Sesame Street things and rarely watch it, but you have picked up on it strong. You look for him everywhere and love the little stuffed Elmo that I have found amongst your things. You have also picked up on Minnie and will claim that Mickey is Minnie too and Mommy and Daddy have been teaching you about Buzz and Woody from Toy Story. You love music and will dance with your hands in the air in a bit of a wild fashion whenever you can. You love to play with "muh-knee" as previously posted about and will snatch whatever money you can find to put in your purse or juice container of coins. You love shoes and walking around in shoes or socks (either on your feet or hands). We spend a lot of time reading and you will also sit on the floor on your own while reading and looking at books (so remenscent of pictures of mommy). You love to swim and to play in the water and like to explore the park, but it has been way to hot for that.
You are sleeping in a "big girl" bed as we got a full bed from Dee and Doc to put on the floor for you. You have transitioned well into the bed and have had no problems and have only once gotten out of bed to play. Speaking of Dee and Doc (and all of your grandparents and good friends) you now point out where we are going once we get close by...you will start saying the names of the people that live at the house when you recognize the places around there. You will also list off a long list of names when we ask you who you love (Vah-Vah, Enny, Vay-very, Ah-ie, Mama, Dada, Neh-nah, etc).
MacKenzie, this past month has been wonderful and I am really enjoying spending time with you. It still startles me to see how big you have gotten and how much you can do for yourself. I am thankful for every second you are with us and look forward to many more seconds to come!
Love,
Mommy and Daddy
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Pesto!
Matt and I secretly harbored a fondness for pesto from each and I am not sure why. Actually I am quite certain that my thoughts were along the lines that there was no way my pumpkin hating, caramel discriminating, toffee despising, picky about seafood, have to have everything cooked completely lean hubby would ever like something as wonderful and simple as pesto. I am not sure what his thoughts were though, but recently when my dad gave me a huge amount of it from his prolific basil plant our desire for pesto emerged. As we had dinner ready for the next few days which did not warrant the use of basil tossed with marinara sauce (and we had even more basil than that would have required, even for our basil loving taste buds), we did have room for pesto with pasta in our meal plans. I had never made pesto before, but had been looking for an opportunity to give it a whirl (literally seeing as I used the food processor). Pesto is a wonderful little sauce that can be used as a spread for sandwiches, a topping for pizza or chicken, or a sauce for pasta. I love anything with basil and am quite fond of the texture of pesto as well...I like all the "bits". As with many things, this is not so much a recipe as a method, so please tweak to your hearts desire.
Wash a huge bunch of basil (ours fit into a lunch size paper sack). In food processor, grind up a handful and a half of walnuts (pine nuts (pignoli) are more traditional, but they are freaking expensive) and half a cup of Parmesan. Add basil and a heavy pinch of kosher salt. While food processor is running, stream (or slowly pour in) a decent quality of olive oil. I would start with a quarter cup and taste from there. Your optimal taste will involve a lot of freshness from the basil, a slight grainy and nutty flavor from the walnuts, richness and saltiness from the Parmesan, and a thin olive-y coating from the olive oil. Once you reach that (by tasting and tweaking to add more olive oil) then stop. If you have a thick pesto then we are good...this is what you would use as a sandwich spread, a pizza drizzle, or to spoon a top some grilled chicken. If you were wanting a pasta sauce then I do not recommend you continue to add oil until it is a saturated (like the fat...ha ha...but not really because it is olive oil...ha ha) oily, but pourable sauce. I recommend you save a cup of pasta water from cooking your pasta to thin the sauce out as you coat the noodle of your choice (I am particularly fond of rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine). This makes for a perfect "thinning agent" that also provides additional texture as the pasta yields starch to the water.
I will be making some more pesto tomorrow (another visit to Dad's), but not adding cheese and freezing it. This is the recommendation of every cooking show I have seen, so we will see how it works!
Enjoy!
Wash a huge bunch of basil (ours fit into a lunch size paper sack). In food processor, grind up a handful and a half of walnuts (pine nuts (pignoli) are more traditional, but they are freaking expensive) and half a cup of Parmesan. Add basil and a heavy pinch of kosher salt. While food processor is running, stream (or slowly pour in) a decent quality of olive oil. I would start with a quarter cup and taste from there. Your optimal taste will involve a lot of freshness from the basil, a slight grainy and nutty flavor from the walnuts, richness and saltiness from the Parmesan, and a thin olive-y coating from the olive oil. Once you reach that (by tasting and tweaking to add more olive oil) then stop. If you have a thick pesto then we are good...this is what you would use as a sandwich spread, a pizza drizzle, or to spoon a top some grilled chicken. If you were wanting a pasta sauce then I do not recommend you continue to add oil until it is a saturated (like the fat...ha ha...but not really because it is olive oil...ha ha) oily, but pourable sauce. I recommend you save a cup of pasta water from cooking your pasta to thin the sauce out as you coat the noodle of your choice (I am particularly fond of rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine). This makes for a perfect "thinning agent" that also provides additional texture as the pasta yields starch to the water.
I will be making some more pesto tomorrow (another visit to Dad's), but not adding cheese and freezing it. This is the recommendation of every cooking show I have seen, so we will see how it works!
Enjoy!
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