A Dose of Everett

Here is a super short clip of Everett in the Jumperoo. He didn't seem to jump much when it was on the carpet in the living room. I moved it into the kitchen so I could do some dishes (I know, few people believe I ever do dishes) and Everett took off!

Mexican Bean Soup

Super easy & super fast!!!

This moderately spicy bean soup was great for the early winter that decided upon us.

(You can even see the steam!)

Ingredients:
1lb of ground beef
Salt & pepper to taste

2 tsp of chili powder
1/2 tsp of cumin
1 tsp of oregano
1 540mL tin of kidney beans
1 540mL tin of black beans
1 tin of canned corn
1 796mL tin of diced tomatoes
1 56mL tin of tomato paste
1 c. water
1/2 tsp of Tabasco sauce (or any other hot sauce), add more if you like it spicy!
1 pkg. of taco seasoning

Instructions:
Brown beef, seasoning with salt and pepper, and drain fat

Add the remaining ingredients to the beef and simmer in a large pot for 20 minutes.

Note: Can easily double and freeze this recipe. To make it soupier, don't double tomato paste or beef and add more water when doubling (or if heating from frozen).

Note: Can also heat this in a slow cooker. On high for 30 minutes, then switch to low for 1-2 hours.

Christmas Preparations

We went to our local tree farm and got our Christmas tree on November 30th:

It remained undecorated until my family came over and helped put up the tree lights and decorate it.

My sister also decorated the mantle for us!

Here's the first family Christmas get-together of the season (Dec 7):

And here is a picture of Everett with his Great-Uncle Andy from the next day's get-together (Dec 8):

Baby's first Christmas is off to a great start! 

We're eagerly awaiting the celebration of Christ's birth!

Christmas Via Online Music

Breath of Heaven (Amy Grant Cover) by Elsa Jayne (free download!). Probably my favourite Christmas tune of all time!

Angels We Have Heard on High by Four Guys on One Piano:

Mele Kalikimaka by Gianni and Sarah:

Little Drummer Boy by Sean Quigley: