Everything Under the Son

Yesterday, I decided I would try to re-create a wonderful recipe from Pei-Wei.  Nathaniel and I love to eat at Pei-Wei when we go out of town...deliciousness!  We recently tried their lettuce wraps and they were good, so I thought I could make them myself without having to wait for the next out-of-town trip to enjoy them.  I was right, and if I do say so myself, mine were even better, and probably more healthy.

Anne's Chicken-Lettuce Wraps

1 Chicken Breast
Mushrooms
Zucchini
Onion
Brown Rice
Large Lettuce Pieces

I sauteed the chicken, and then diced it up super small and tossed it back into the pan.  Then I added finely diced mushroom, onion, and lots of zucchini squash.  After it had been in the pan a minute or two, I added some Teriyaki sauce and kept stirring and tossing it all around.  At the end I threw in a little bit of steamed brown rice.

Serve in large lettuce pieces, like a taco!

They were amazing!!


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...and I cannot help but to continue giving thanks.

- wonderful Christmas memories made with family
- warm beds to sleep in on cold nights
- Natalie's smile, complete with new big kid teeth
- that Levi is well now, the tummy bug hit him while we were out of town, so we headed to Urgent Care
- pear candles
-clean socks
-the mounted longhorns that were my grandfathers, given to me by my daddy
- time off from work
- hubby taking the car for an oil change
- spending time at home as a family
- Natalie's smile as big as Texas while she rides her horses
- Levi flying his new rocket-ship all around the house

..and so much more.

Happy New Year!

Yes, it's true.  Christmas is only days away. 

Through this season of giving and receiving, I am striving to focus on gratitude.  I want to find true contentment, a contentment that isn't defined by stuff.  I want to be happy whether I have or have not.  I want to live a life of joy and thankfulness, regardless of my financial standings or material possessions.  'Tis a hard time of year to not compare, or wish and want for more and more.  But in my heart, I want to rest easy.  I want to love more, love deeply.  I want to laugh and share.  I want to be content.

In 2011, though I am beginning today, I will use this place, this little corner of the world, to count my endless gifts.  Truly, the list is endless, and sharing them here will help me to be aware and always looking for the blessings.  I am discovering that to truly live a life of worship, I must be constantly reminded of my relationship with God...and counting my gifts is a constant reminder that EVERYTHING is from HIM.   You see, the last year has been a big spiritual battle for me...wondering if God hears my cries, and if He really does care for me.  I have failed in my relationship with Him, but long to do better.  I am so thankful for grace, and that His mercy for me is new every morning.  He has continued to love me through my doubt, anger, and fear.  He's waiting for me.  My first step is acknowledging His presence...that each and every thing I have is from Him.  If you'd like, you may join me.  Let's make 2011 the year of constant thanks.

--glistening Christmas lights on the tree
--warm apple cider in my cup
--laughter from kids when we play "Guess Who?"
--soft pillows to rest my weary head upon
--cards from friends near and far, well-wishes for the season
--that tiny baby boy, JESUS, who changed everything...for me!
--pancakes in special shapes as a treat for the kids
--hand lotion
--diet coke
--hubby's smile for me...from across a room strewn with toys
--sunshine


And you...what are you thankful for?