Morning all! We survived the weekend birthday madness- if you missed my last post catch that HERE.
My Dad, who was visiting, spoiled us every moment he was here. Our dishwasher broke on Friday, and the part that my husband needed to fix it didn’t arrive until today, so instead of messing the house up and having to hand wash a bunch of dishes we ate out for almost every meal.. crazy, I know, and my stomach is bloated up like a hot air balloon because of it.
What is it about restaurant food that swells you up? High sodium levels? It tastes good going down, but it’s not easy on the gut!
My husband just left to take Grandpa back to the airport. It’s always so difficult to say goodbye. I wish he lived closer. My Dad is someone that I can pour my heart out to and he always listens with the most loving and open heart. He fills my cup and is someone’s company that I crave. I feel refreshed and more motivated, but also so sad without him. We are so much alike– you know that feeling of being completely understood and cared for? That’s how I feel and as we age, we just get closer and closer. Back to Washington he goes, and we count the days until his next visit… I’m hoping Thanksgiving.
This week I get back on the Hamster wheel and rush my children around to their activities. It’s a little depressing, but I’m feeling like I have my anxiety more under control. I know what I need to do to stay on track this week and that is to NOT put so much pressure on myself to get it all done. My Mom suggested that I jot down what I need to get done and only do the most important tasks. I think she’s right on. She is another one who is always caring for me and I am SO fortunate to have her live only 2 miles away. She’s my rock and devoted to me, my husband and children. I’m so blessed to have such a supportive family.
This week I’ll go back to the TMJ specialist and acupuncture practitioner for more treatment. I am feeling so much better, but I want to maintain what they’ve done and not go back to being in so much pain. I believe the Dentist is going to fit me for a night guard that actually works and isn’t causing more harm like my last one. This is something I have to live with, but managing it is very important to my well being, so I must put forth the effort… I need to take care of myself! Why is that so difficult?!
I know today is Meatless Monday, but we had this delicious Lemony Chicken Noodle Soup last week, so I thought I’d share it. It takes only 25-30 minutes to prepare and my kids LOVE it. So much so that I pack the leftovers in their school lunches. It would be delicious without the chicken too, so try that if you’re going meatless!
What You’ll Need
2 cups of Rotisserie Chicken
1 onion minced
2 celery stalks diced
2 carrots diced
1/2 cup of small pasta ( I used Stars )
32 oz. of Chicken Broth ( 1- large box) 64 oz. if you like it more soupy
Juice from 2 lemons
Salt and Pepper
1 T. Grape seed Oil
How to Make It
In a large dutch oven, place oil and heat to medium high temp. When Dutch Oven is hot, add onion, carrots, and celery – saute for 7-10 minutes or until softened. Add pre-cooked Rotisserie chicken and cook for another 5 minutes. Add Broth and bring to a boil. Add pasta, and reduce heat, cook for 10-12 minutes. Serves 6-7. Can be frozen up to three weeks and reheated.
