Our Favorite Hummus

I've been experimenting, and I think this is it!

2 cups drained canned chickpeas, liquid reserved
1/2 cup tahini (sesame paste), with some of its oil
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus oil for drizzling
3 cloves garlic, peeled, or to taste
Sea salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Juice of 2 lemons

Process everything in a food processor; add the chickpea liquid or water as needed to allow the machine to produce a smooth puree. Serve, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with a bit more paprika. Great with pita bread or pita chips, sliced tomatoes, and feta cheese on the side. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.

Exhaustion and Smiles

I'm exhausted. Last week Mark was in Honduras for a mission trip (I hope he'll get to post about it!), and the week without him just about did me in. Besides missing him immensely during those chaotic times when I was on my own getting three little ones to bed, a close friend went through a crisis that sent me for an emotional loop. I missed Mark's emotional support terribly. Praise God, He's got my friend in the palm of His hand, and she's healing.

Back to the less important topic of my exhaustion. Why am I awake at 5:00 a.m.? Elijah cried out at 2:30 a.m., but I was able to fall back asleep. However, my brain clicked into a different gear when Elijah cried out at 3:30 a.m. Mark kindly got up again and was able to fix the problem - Elijah had a little rash and needed a new diaper. Must be those terrible cloth diapers we use (hey, hey, that's just a joke - they actually help prevent diaper rash! : ) Despite the fact that all was well, my brain was 'on' due to pregnancy hormones. I finally gave up after trying to fall back asleep for an hour, and came to the computer, where I discovered something silly that I want to share. Very timely. So, here's to all you parents who sacrifice more than you figured you would for your precious children. I hope it makes you chuckle.

Jaden the Ring Bearer

Today was a great day - Jaden got to be the ring bearer for Jacob & Sharon's wedding. Jacob is the oldest of my dear friend Alicia's four children. As I sat with Pierce in the front row, ready for Jaden to sit by us after standing at the front for a couple of minutes, a feeling of thankfulness came over me. For now, even with the challenges and chaos, my sons are still home. Their departures and weddings are still a ways off. I know it will fly by, but it was nice to get that reminder today - they're still in the nest. I gave Pierce an extra tight hug...