One of my favorite things to do since my receiving my new diagnosis is to cook.  It's something that I used to despise simply because it was so physically challenging.  I could barely use a can opener much less chop and dice all those veggies that taste so good.  All that has changed and now I cook a homemade meal nearly every night for dinner, so when my daughter passed her summer school class (testing out of 8th grade math so she can take 9th grade math as an 8th grader), I knew I had to do something special.  

Winona spent hours studying for the first six weeks of summer, so the least I could do was spend a couple hours making some of her favorite foods.  I made lasagna (with a sauce I made from scratch and froze a couple weeks ago), Olive Garden's Zuppa Tuscana and Peach Cobbler!   I know that this may not seem like a big deal to some, but to me this was huge, because Winona used to have to make ME dinner!

When I was at my worst, I physically couldn't move around the house in the late afternoon/evening and making dinner just wasn't an option.  My sweet giving daughter would make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and we'd eat them picnic style in my bedroom as we watch Curious George and Dragon Tales.  At the time, I felt terrible that I wasn't able to be the mom I so desperately wanted to be.  These days, I'm able to be the mom I always desired to be and SO MUCH MORE!  

Last nights dinner was a success!  Yes, it took me a couple hours to prepare and I'll feel the knots in my back for a couple days, it was worth it!   If I can make these dishes so can you!   

Lasagna  http://www.yummly.com/recipe/Easy-beef-lasagna-304084?columns=3&position=2/56

Olive Garden's Zuppa Tuscana  http://www.momontimeout.com/2011/11/olive-garden-zuppa-toscana-soup/

Peach Cobbler  http://www.gonnawantseconds.com/2015/06/southern-peach-cobbler/

These are all easy to make, but are delicious as well.  Happy Cooking!!!  

So, it's cold outside.  I live in Minnesota, so when I say cold, I'm referring to sub zero weather with a wind that freezes your face!  The Gov of this fine state has called off school for Monday, something that hasn't happened since the mid 90's! 

With the snow flying and my body chilled to the bone (after getting groceries), I decided that today was the perfect day to make homemade Potato Corn Chowder and Spaghetti Sauce.  These are two things that I have never attempted to make.  Oh, and don't worry, I don't plan on serving them together. 

I couldn't help but smile as I chopped veggies and measured out spices for nearly two hours.  Back in the day, it was all I could do to make Hamburger Helper! Plus, in weather like this, my muscles would become to spastic to do anything other than sit.   I love that I enjoy cooking for my family.

​Now that my cooking is nearly done, I can get started on the laundry that is waiting for me outside the bedrooms.  It is a blessing that I can do what I want, when I want.  It's colder than heck outside, but I grateful that it's cozy warm in here. 

I'm not quite sure how I am getting it all done.  My house is clean and homemade caramel rolls have just came out of the oven.  I am exhausted from all the housework. but I am so grateful that I did it!  Not long ago Steve and I had to pay someone to come clean our home and paid a neighbor to make our family dinners, because I phsyically couldn't do it. 

Here I am 3 1/2 years later cleaning and cooking like a fool.  Or should I saycleaning and cooking like a woman who loves her husband and children?    

I will continue to give thanks for all of my abilities.  I am able to contribute to my family and I will never forget where I came from.  I would be fine if I didn't receive any gifts this Christmas, because my new mobility is a gift that I never thought I would receive.   I love my life and the family I get to share it with. ​

​It's hard to believe that another year has passed and it's Halloween already!  Growing up, this day was bitter sweet.  I loved creating a costume and getting a haul of candy, but I dreaded walking house to house at the most difficult time of day (afternoons and evenings were always a challenge).  I was never about to give up time with friends or chocolate, so I used up the last of my energy and even borrowed against the next day just so I could experience this special day like every other American kid. 

Now, I love Halloween.  It's no longer bitter sweet.  It's just SWEET!  I was able to take my kids to the Goodwill in search of the perfect costume (disco girl, cat and dog) and I have invited friends over for dinner tonight.  I wasn't ever able to make a nice meal for guests.  Today I made two kinds of soup, homemade wheat bread and a Halloween cake that impressed my girls.  The best part of this day will be tonight when I take my kids out trick-or-treating.  I will get to see the look on John's face when candy is placed into his pumpkin for the first time. I never experienced that with the girls. A mobility scooter can't go up steps, therefore, neither could I. 

As kids, Halloween is all about the candy. For me, it's all about creating more happy memories with family and friends. 

Have a safe and happy Halloween everyone!