"Change In All Things is Sweet" -Aristotle

As most of you know, Josh and I are officially now residents of Midlothian, TX! It's been almost exactly one month since we have moved and little by little this small town has become home. It's been a slight adjustment (for me!) - going from restaurants/shopping/nightlife at the tip of our fingers to having to "plan" outings to run errands or go eat! Don't get me wrong - there are places here, but more of the local "everybody knows your name" type dinner and family owned restaurants. I don't even have a Target or Hobby Lobby down the street (I know!) but it's been a great way to wind down and relax more. I don't feel the need to always be doing something or going somewhere, and for those that know me, it's hard! Our house is coming along and finally feels like home, it's a cute, quiet neighborhood (you can see the stars at night! - yes..it's the little things) and everyone so far is super nice. We are working on a few more projects in the house, then I promise to post pictures!

As if moving wasn't change enough, I've been at my new job for a month now and couldn't be happier! It's a different environment but definitely a welcomed change. I love my team and have been having fun learning about all the Microsoft/Xbox products (yes for all you gamers out there, I do get to play video games on occasion). To anyone that doesn't have an Xbox Kinect - get one! They are so fun!
Josh has also started his knew job at the high school and is so excited to begin football season just next week. I'm pretty pumped too after meeting all the coaches at the family pool party last weekend - everyone is like a one big happy football family! I've learned the coach's wives are very involved in supporting the staff (and players!) by providing lunches during two-a-days and after game meals. I'm really looking forward to being part of such a fun organization. First game of the season is August 31 against Waxahachie - come cheer on the Panthers!

We're slowly adjusting to this great little life here in Midlothian and are looking forward to seeing what this year brings. If it's anything like the last 3 months we will be more than happy! Change can be hard to welcome but we're welcoming it with open arms.

It's been awhile...but here is my latest recipe! So good...and SO easy!

Slow Cooker Spinach and Tortillini Soup

What you need:

1-1 1/2 - 2 ounce envelope white sauce mix
4 cups water
1-14 ounce can vegetable broth
1 1/2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
1/2 cup chopped onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried basil, crushed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1- 7 or 8 ounce package dried cheese tortellini (about 2 cups)
1-12 ounce can evaporated milk
6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves or torn spinach
Ground black pepper (optional)
Finely shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)

What you do:

1.Place dry white sauce mix in a 3-1/2- or 4-quart slow cooker. Gradually add the water to the white sauce mix, stirring until smooth. Stir in broth, mushrooms, onion, garlic, basil, salt, oregano, and cayenne pepper.

2.Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 5 to 6 hours or on high-heat setting for 2-1/2 to 3 hours.

3.Stir in dried tortellini. Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 1 hour more or high-heat setting for 45 minutes more.

4.Stir in evaporated milk and fresh spinach. If desired, sprinkle individual servings with black pepper and Parmesan cheese. Makes 4 servings.

Xoxo,
J & K