Lentil Soup is Yummy

I am eating Progresso Lentil Soup right now. It is not something I would have purchased in the store, but there was a can of it in my office, left from my predecessor. I am getting sick, so soup sounded good, and I have recently read the health benefits of eating a lot of beans and lentils. As I like lentils, I thought I'd try it.

DELICIOUS! It's got a light tomato base, some chopped celery and onions in it. Apparently it's an Italian soup. I added some chopped fresh green beans that I had to give it some veggie benefits. It's low-fat and full of fiber, although it's a little high in the sodium content.

I give it a two thumbs up!

My Version of Menu Planning

I recently had dinner at someone's house, and they made tater tots. I've had dreams of tater tot casserole ever since.


Cheesy Pineapple Casserole is one of my favorites. Mmmmm......

Comfortable old, and exciting new

I'm drinking some hot chocolate as I type this. Hot chocolate is something I haven't partaken in that often in recent years. HC and hot tea has had a re-birth with me in 2008. I'm trying to lay off the coffee (heightened anxiety and dehydration) and really enjoy a hot chocolate and hot tea. Some of my favorites are peppermint and chamomile tea, and World Market's Dark Hot Chocolate.

Another area I've resolved to be better at in the coming year is building community with new people. I tend to get comfortable with the ones I have and not want to have to put the time into new ones. It can get exhausting. But once in awhile you meet someone that you'll really connect with, but won't know that until you take that first step and agree to meet that person for lunch.

I had that experience, today. I'm really glad I did it. I know that I took a first step into a friendship that God wanted to happen.

My New Favorite Break Time Snack

If you are like me, you crave a mixture of sweet and salty. If you are like me, you loved all things baked goods, particularly cookies and bread. Trader Joe's has just MADE MY DAY!

Car Parts

Does anyone else stress out at the thought of having to take their car in for an oil change, for fear that they will call you and list the myriad of expensive things that need to be taken care of? I know Amy does, because we've discussed this in detail, before. She does seem to be the queen of this happening. Sorry Amy. After reading one of your recent posts, I've begun praying for your car to be okay.

I just had to take my truck in. After talking to my dad, he suggested I get my belt changed. I also needed an oil change. I was able to keep the anxiety relatively low, and it turns out that I need a new belt, a new pully (or something like that) and an oil change, and it's going to cost me...$150!!! Merry Christmas to me!!!

Seriously, it's a gift that it's not that expensive. Mom and Dad, this is what your Christmas money will be buying me. As my sister Yvonne says, "The practical gifts are great!"