Alive

Alive: it's a great word, isn't it? I mean, firstly, if you're alive, you're not dead, and that's always a good thing. My son, who just turned 8, frequently likes to point out how near death I am, at my age (which is, I guess, old in his eyes even though I still feel twenty something). Still, it's a little disturbing to have a miniature person taunting you with the O-L-D word. But, I AM still alive, at least for now, and I plan to live like it.

Secondly, my cousin just celebrated her 5 year "alive" anniversary, because 5 years ago this week she survived an enemy attack while serving with the armed services in Iraq. I am grateful for both her survival and her service. What a great reason to celebrate: just being alive. We are all so lucky!

So, while we're alive, let's enjoy it. Let's eat good food that also makes us feel good. Let's eat like we want to still be alive in 5 years, or longer. Let's eat food that makes us LIKE being alive, and makes it continue for a long, long time.

So, jump for joy. Go do it. For real. No matter who sees. Because you're ALIVE, and that is totally awesome.


Sunday: Grilled Cheese and leftover soup

Monday: Hamburger Stroganoff, steamed peas, dinner rolls

Tuesday: Spicy Sausage and Black Bean Soup, Speedy Quesadillas

Speedy Quesadillas (these are from the Cooking Light 5 Ingredient, 15 Minutes or Less cookbook)

Cooking Spray
6 Oz Turkey Kielbasa sausage, sliced
1 c. diced green, sweet red, or yellow pepper
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can chicken broth
1/4 cup salsa

Coat med. saucepan with cooking spray, place over med heat until hot. Add sausage, and saute 1 min or until sausage begins to brown. Add pepper, saute 1 min.

add broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; add beans and salsa. Simmer, covered, 5 minutes. Top with cilantro if desired.

4 servings

Wednesday: Grilled Sirloin Steak, Roasted Butternut Squash, Steamed Green Beans

(grill enough steaks for tomorrow night's sandwiches)

Thursday: Steak Paninis, Broccoli Slaw, baked potato chips (commercial)

Friday: Meal Swap

Saturday: Pizza