I don’t want to jinx it, but the baby is finally sleeping. I don’t know what came over her, but today, she did not want to sleep. At all. Whatsoever. She’d get drowsy, I’d put her down to sleep, and she’d be crying within a minute. We repeated this process for about 3 hours until she finally knocked off in her swing. She’s looking quite content at the moment, after having ended her 2 1/2 week streak of being very predictable in her fussiness. I enjoyed it while it lasted 😉
While she slept, I took the opportunity to plug in the baby monitor and play with Lily in the driveway – we both needed the fresh air. Ever since Shea’s arrival, Lily’s emotional state has been rather grim. The girl needs some doggy uppers.
Donna came over last night with her husband. Donna took Lily to the beach and believe it or not, the dog swam in Lake Michigan…in late October. I’m not even going to Google what the water temperhttps://preventionrd.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=16326&action=edit&message=10ature is because I’ll probably feel like a bad dog mom, but she didn’t seem to mind…especially after she got a warm bath and treats. 🙂 What a life, right?
Things around here have changed a lot, and the change in seasons seems to be playing nearly as much of a factor as the fact that we’re 2 1/2 weeks into parenthood. I am continuously reminding myself these days to fondly recall summers in Michigan and that in another, ohhhh…7 months, it will be time for the beach again.
Well, there’s a depressing thought.
I am SMITTEN WITH THE MITTEN! I LOVE SNOW!! ….So not working.
But, before I drive myself too deep into Michigan winter blues, it’s time to focus on fall. Football. Heck, even the world series has been enjoyable. This weekend, the temperatures will reach the 60’s. Or 60. But still…it’s better than the 30’s we’ve been having at night.
And chili. I can’t forget that the chili contest is in full swing. This weekend – Illini game and CHILI! As much as I wish I were as excited about the game as I am about the chili, it’s simply not the case. I mean, I will watch and enjoy, but I wish we didn’t have to lose every. single. game. Maybe this week is our week? Maybe. Maybe!
I have much higher hopes for the chili being a win. There hasn’t been a recipe not to love yet…this recipe for Chili Con Carne y Frijoles being no exception.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 lbs stew beef, cut into ¾ inch chunks
- 1 (32 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with jalapeños, drained
- 1 (6 oz) can diced jalapeños
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14 oz) cans no salt added dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (14 oz) cans no salt added cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 canned chipotle chili (in adobo), diced
- 2 Tbsp adobo sauce from chipotle can
- 1 Tbsp garlic powder
- 3 Tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- Heat the oil in a large, heavy bottomed pot. When hot, add the garlic and onion, and sautee until translucent. Add the beef, and brown on all sides.
- Add the remaining ingredients and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, and simmer, half-covered, for at least an hour, stirring occasionally. Serve with traditional chili toppings, if desired.
Does anyone actually LOVE winter? I specifically hate the short daylight hours.
Be well,
Ohhh, this looks so spicy and delicious! Poor LIly that’s gotta be a big change for her! We have an only (furry) child and I’m sure he will not be thrilled, the day we decide to have a (human) child 😉