Personal Tragedy

So I normally try not to post anything negative on here, but I have to today. I'm from a small town in Kentucky. A town where everyone knows everyone. I grew up with the kids in my graduating class and we're all pretty close. 

This past week, I lost a good friend in a car accident. Justin was an amazing guy. He was probably the sweetest, most caring guy you'd ever meet. He'd take the shirt off his back and give it to you. He was actually my first boyfriend, if you can call a 5th grade romance a boyfriend haha. But we stayed close all of middle school and into high school. After high school, we went our separate ways. I moved to Georgia and he stayed in our hometown. After all, that's what most of the farmers' kids did. 

Right before we went home for Christmas, I talked to Justin. I just wanted to catch up and see how he's doing. He was doing well and it was great to hear. After coming back to Georgia and getting back into the swing of things, I see about a terrible accident that occurred. I searched, trying to find a name. No luck. Then all of a sudden, his name popped up. His cousin was talking about how hard it is on him to lose Justin. It hit me like a truck. I was on the road when I found out. I fought tears, but I finally gave in. How could he be gone, when we had just spoken? I wasn't able to attend his funeral, which shattered me. But my thoughts are with him and I know he's still with us.

As much as my heart hurts, I pray for his family. It's harder on them. I pray that God comforts them in their time of need and heartache. And I ask that you all please do the same.

Rest easy Justin. You'll be greatly missed. 

Cheesy Potato Soup

Growing up, my family went out to eat every Sunday together. It'd be me, my mom, my dad, my grandma and my grandpa. Most Sunday's we went to O' Charley's. Although my entree might change, I always got the Potato Soup, just like my mom.

After I married my husband, I moved to Georgia. There is absolutely no O' Charley's anywhere near where we live. How on earth would I go without my Potato Soup? By creating my own of course. Now this soup may not taste like O' Charley's, but I like it way more. It's not only delicious but it's super easy to make. It's a family favorite in our household!

What you'll need: 

• 1/2 of a large onion, chopped (I use yellow)
• 5-6 large potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 3 Tbs butter
• 2 1/2 c chicken stock
• 1 cup shredded cheese (I use Monterrey Jack)

Directions: 

• Chop onions. 

• Melt butter in a pot. Saute onion until translucent. 

• Cut and peel potatoes 

• Add in chicken stock and potatoes. Bring to a boil.

•  Reduce heat. Simmer until potatoes have softened.
• Using a potato masher or fork, mash potatoes. I like to leave some small chunk in my soup. 
• Add cheese. Stir in, until melted. 
• Serve with a little sprinkle of cheese on top. Enjoy!

Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup

Cold weather is here and nothing can warm you up quite like a big bowl of soup. I, personally, am not a fan of canned soup whatsoever. It just doesn't taste like the homemade version. So I decided to come up with my own recipe for my favorite, Chicken Noodle.

You will need:

• 2 Tbs unsalted butter
• 1/4 c sliced celery 
• 1/2 c sliced carrots
• 1/2 c minced onion
• 8 cups of chicken broth (you can use more if you want it more soupy)
• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded (watch out for bones)
• 3 1/3 c egg noodles
• 1/2 tsp dry basil
• 1/2 tsp dry oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Directions: 

I just wanted to show off the new knife my husband got me with my name on it.

• Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add in celery, carrots, and onion. Cook until tender. 
  

• Add in chicken broth, shredded chicken, noodles and all seasonings. Stir to combine. 
• Bring to a boil, then turn down heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Enjoy!