giving thanks.

There are things I am greatful for. Things I thank the Lord for every day, but there are also things I forget to give thanks for. Like the difficult things, the growing things, the moments that seem impossible and unworthy to mutter the words "thank you for this." Today I feel thankful despite. Despite the fact that I am a thousand miles from my family who will be celebrating and loving on each other today. Despite the fact that I didn't sleep last night because I spent the hours holding my oldest daughters hair as she lost her cookies (literally, we frosted and ate way too many cookies yesterday). Despite my husband not being home. Despite the little things that I could ramble on about but it's unnecessary because I am not here to gain sympathy or a sad face from you. I just want to encourage you because I know many of you are feeling some of these same things today as your friends and family are celebrating with or without you. Don't fret over the little things and give thanks to the One who made it all. That is what I am doing today, giving thanks for everything, even though there's no pumpkin pie, because that's not what it's about.

To my family back home, I love you and I am forever thankful for you. And to my family here in Mexico, I love you and am equally thankful. Blessings on your day and Happy Thanksgiving.

surprise, it's a....?

Sometimes, when the air is cool and the sky is gray, I think to myself, "something MUST be made!" That "something" generally referring to a kitchen mess of sorts. Well, I concluded that it was one of those days as I sat on the patio this morning with a hot cup of coffee and almost morphed into an icicle. Cold, Mexico cold, is laughable for you Northerners, I know. But nonetheless, by my standards, it was chilly.

I cleaned my kitchen first (because it's only fun to mess up something clean) and then took a break as I read through all of my cookbooks. An hour later I was starving and had an overpowering desire to eat everything from holiday cheeseballs to wild goose with giblet stuffing. But I finally found it, the winning recipe. And I'm sure you're filled with anticipation in the wait to hear all about it.

Here's what I started with. I bet you're wondering what in the world you could make out of this. Well, let me tell you, it's amazing. Prepare to be wowed.

You're completely blown away, aren't you? Ok, ok, lame, I know. It's a fruit salad. Wow. I threw the eggs and red onion into the first photo to confuse you. But hey, this took time, and it was messy. I cleaned and cut each fruit with care and the overall product was festive and delicious. Oh yeah, I almost forgot, the most important ingredient (you should know this, we talked about it on my first post) Tajin.

Et Voila! Perfection.
(If you need the recipe don't hesitate to ask and I would be happy to drop everything in my insanely busy life to assist you in the washing and cutting of the delectable fruits of your choice)

Fraz makes kraut.

This is Fraz. I found him a year ago, expressionless and destitute. I gave him a home and a purpose. He loves sauerkraut. The jar behind him is full of it, or, at least full of the hope of becoming sauerkraut.

Made the old fashioned way; veggies, salt, water and plenty of time to ferment.

I suppose we'll see what becomes of it.

egg salad tango.

I know what you're thinking. I'd be thinking it too, I mean, seriously, who posts an egg salad sandwhich on their blog anyway. Really.

The thing is, I never know where to start and I think first impressions are completely overrated, so, I am starting this brand new blog with egg salad.

Enjoy.

Yes, I used product placement. No, I wasn't paid. I should have been, even a free bottle of Tajin would have sufficed. Tajin (if you don't know) is the most superb additive in the entire world. Imagine some not-too-spicy-yet-perfectly-spiced chilis dancing the tango with a couple of limes in your mouth.

(Maybe that's too weird for you.)

Either way, guaranteed to change the life of your tastebuds forever.