Monday, December 26, 2016

Home for the Holidays

My Colorado boy missed his connecting flight and arrived a day late.  And my youngest started off his journey getting on the wrong bus for the airport.  But, they both finally made it safe and sound last Wednesday and Thursday and that's all that matters.
It's been 2 years since my Colorado boy was home which means it's the first time we've been together as a family in that time.
I'm seeing a lot more of him since he only has a few friends here for the winter break, while boy number two is still a teenager; sleeps all day and has plans every night.
Colorado boy was really hoping to see blue skies here in Kuwait, but ever since they arrived, there's been nothing but cloudy, gray skies.  At least it's not -3 like it currently is in his part of the world.
I've been making their favorite soups ... my boy wants to learn them all so he can make some when he's back in cold, cold Colorado.

Tortilla Soup is a very easy one.  Saute onion and garlic in olive oil.  Add vegetable broth, a can of chopped tomatoes, corn, some salsa, cumin, black pepper, garlic powder, a pinch of red pepper flakes.  I even added leftover black beans with spinach.  Simmer for about 10 minutes and then stir in some chopped cilantro.  Heat through and serve with avocado slices.  

Unfortunately, I never measure anything, so it's hard to share an exact recipe..  I just add ingredients to get a flavor I like.

Hope you all had a very, merry Christmas.

17 comments:

Maya Kuzman said...

Isn't it wonderful to have the family gathered together! Hoping you had the best of time! And I must thank you for the soup recipe - I love trying new recipes and just as you - I never measure - but work depending on taste.

Poppy said...

So lovely to have both your boys home for the holidays, Tammy!

Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy 2017! All the very best!

Poppy

Betsy said...

I am just so thrilled that you were able to have your family all together. I've learned to never, ever take those moments for granted. Our Japan boy always has me teach him a few family recipes whenever we're together so he can make them. One time he even called me back before face-time, to ask how to make oatmeal, "just like Dad's". Ummm. The directions on the package! He said it didn't taste the same as Dad's. That's because the love wasn't mixed in! I know you're soaking up each day my friend.
Blessings,
Betsy

Mereknits said...

I am so happy for you that both boys are home at the same time celebrating the holidays with you. I love that mine are home and would feel the biggest hole if one was missing. YOur oldest looks so much more mature now, time away will do that for you. I had to laugh Mr 23 is up earlier, Mr 19 can sleep til two. Little B is up at the crack of dawn, 6 Am on Christmas morning to be exact.
Enjoy your family Tammy.
MEredith

Quinn said...

How nice to have your family all together for the holidays - and I love the family portrait! Which boy is the film-maker?
It's definitely the Season Of Soup here. Last week I made a big pot of carrot and lentil soup with onion and ginger and cashew butter. When it was nearly gone, I defrosted and added pumpkin soup made back when I was hastening to use all the rescued (from the goats) pumpkins. When this batch of hybrid soup is nearly gone, I'll have to see what else I can work in - or start over. I love having soup on hand. When it's this cold, I am very happy to have soup even for breakfast.
Take care, and enjoy your wonderful family time :)

Teresa Kasner said...

Tammy... I am so happy both of your boys are home for the holidays with you. I know you're enjoying having your flock around you. Our flock is diminished here but thankfully we have our youngest son and his wife and two boys living here.. can't be closer than that! I loved seeing your whole family together. Enjoy your time, I know you are. ((hugs)), Teresa :-)

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Anonymous said...

So glad your boys could be home for the holidays.

Poor Stephen faced the same thing. It has been cloudy and grey ever since he got here over a week ago. But, at least he could still go out and get things done. It never got truly nasty rainy.

miruspeg said...

I can feel your joy Tammy having all the family together, it is something to be treasured.
All the very best is wished for you and your family for 2017.
Lots of love
Peggy xxxx

Sam I Am...... said...

Oh, what a lovely family you have and they have grown and changed so much since I started following you! I hope you have a wonderful time together and what a talented cook you are....I am so bad, I have to follow a recipe. I wish I was more creative but I'm not. I will try your recipe though if I can get the fresh ingredients. It sounds and looks so good. Enjoy!

Gracie Saylor said...

Wonderful that you are all together, Tammy!!!! Thanks for posting and letting us share your joy, and thanks for the yummy sounding recipe...I have never tried that exact combination, but want to now! xxxx

Melanie said...

How wonderful that both your sons have been back at home with you and your husband! Your soup looks and sounds delicious. Nice and easy to make, too.

Linda said...

Merry Christmas Season and Happy New Year festivities! How wonderful to have both of your sons home for the holidays!! :)

Kindest regards,
Linda

Lorrie said...

So glad your boys made it home! That's a wonderful gift. Tortilla soup is one of our favourites - always delicious, even without measuring!

Createology said...

Having your family all together is Priceless. Wellness with exercise and good food is the very best goal. Yummy Soup Dear.

Sangeetha said...

What a lovely family pic! It must feel wonderful to be all together again. I had to smile at "sleeps all day and has plans at night" because that is exactly what my son did. He flew to the US in September and I am miserable. Waiting anxiously to see him.
Enjoy your family time and make lots of lovely memories.
Hugs

Kit said...

Yay! Your boys made it home okay! Good to hear, I love that pic of all 4 of you. I hope your visit is long and happy with them. :) Kit

Lisa said...

The picture of you and your family is terrific. I hope you have a wonderful visit with your boys. I love this time of year but it goes so fast. I'm trying to relish every last moment.

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