sharing hearts

There is nothing like a table full of comfort foods to get conversations going.  I have read that the family hardly gathers around the table to share the evening meal anymore.  Statistics also claim that the family who does gather for an evening meal three times a week share closer relationships and have stronger ties. I do believe that!

Around here the evening meal especially encourages conversations. My daughter with Asperger's is more inclined to open up and talk more right at the table. She asks alot of questions once she gets going, she is trying to figure so many of lifes mysteries out. Often as the other children drift away she will linger there with my husband or I and ask," are you staying for a bit longer."  One of us usually lingers right there with her, most times my husband as I start the washing up of dishes. She really opens up and shares her heart at this time and at this table. 

Yesterday I made a big pot of creamy potato soup with leeks and onions. So tasty with either a bit of cheddar of a sprinkling of crisp bacon.  And one must have oyster crackers--those cannot be forgotton or the soup may not be as highly praised...ahem.

Lydia has decided she needs to learn more cooking skills. She has been focused on breakfast and dessert items, but with the new year she wants to cook more dinners, by herself.  Well, get in here I say! She found a recipe out of one of her kid healthy cookbooks.  First up, a healthy version of "chicken nuggets". So simple, just chicken tenderloins dipped in buttermilk and then into bread crumbs seasoned with a bit of S&P. I think next time I will talk her into adding a bit of cayenne as she did put the hot sauce on the table last night for dipping.

I really love gathering around the table, eating good food and sharing hearts with my family. One day they may all have tables of their own to gather around, hopefully carrying on the simple traditions we have created of praying and thanking God for the bounty and sharing hearts with their families.

And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. ~Colossians 3:17



Blueberry Cottage Creamy Potato, Leek and Onion Soup

6 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 leeks sliced thin
1 onion chopped
3 tablespoons flour
5 cups hot water
6 cups potatoes, cubed (any kind, but yukons are creamy and buttery)
salt and pepper to taste
1.5 cups milk
1 cup of cream
*optional-pinch of cayenne
*optional but oh so good--cheddar cheese or bacon for garnish

In your soup pot melt the butter and saute the leeks and onions for 10 minutes over medium heat.  Whisk in the flour and stir constantly for a minute or two until the flour is cooked in and browning doesn't occur.  Whisk in one cup of hot water , blending thoroughly.  Stir in the rest of the water, add the potatoes and a bit of s&p. Bring this to a boil and let it simmer for roughly 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.  Strain the mix into a colander into another bowl. Pour the liquid back into the pot and puree the potatoes, leeks and onions in a food processor until smooth. Add this back to the pot and add your milk and cream.  Adjust your seasonings and get the soup nice and hot. Serve with your choice of toppings. Enjoy!