How Do You Watch Cartoons?

When I was little, I had to eat a carrot while watching Bugs Bunny cartoons.  For Nate -- every morning he puts on his superhero cape and mittens to watch Team Umizoomi.  Spaceship pjs and OJ are also a requirement.

Warm Up with Chili

It's been a chilly day here and it's going to be an even colder night.  What better way to warm up than with a hearty bowl of chicken chili.  This recipe is in heavy rotation in our house during the winter months.  It's easy to make, smells great and tastes even better.

Southwest White Chicken Chili (serves 6)

1 Tbsp. vegetable oil

4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into cubes

4 tsp. chili powder

2 tsp. ground cumin

1 large onion, chopped

1 medium green pepper, chopped

1 can condensed cream of chicken soup

3/4 C. water (see note below)

1 1/2 C. frozen whole kernel corn

2 cans (15 oz. each) white kidney beans, rinsed and drained

Optional: sour cream, Cheddar cheese, cilantro

Heat oil in 4-qt. saucepan over medium-high heat.  Add chicken, chili powder, cumin, onion, and pepper and cook until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender, stirring often.

Stir soup, water, corn and beans into saucepan and heat to a boil.  Reduce heat to low.  Cover and cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Sprinkle with sour cream, Cheddar cheese or cilantro to serve.      

Note:  adding only 3/4 C. of water will make this chili very thick, especially the leftovers.  I like mine to be almost like a soup so I add additional water or chicken stock.  

Be Still My Heart

My Valentine #1:  didn't want to cooperate yet resigned himself to a photo while he held his Valentine's Day craft and treat.

My Valentine #2:  had no choice but cooperate while I took her photo since she can't maneuver her own limbs.

My Valentine #3:  my partner in raising #1 and #2.  My love.  My best friend.  My gardener (grows his own lettuce).