Thanks Nan!

In previous posts, I mentioned that there are a lot of things of my mom's that I would love to have. As luck would have it (or in this case, not have it!), I didn't get the art gene, so having all of her paintbrushes/other supplies would probably be somewhat lost on me. I do love to cook, so I am a bit sad that I don't have all of the recipes that I know and love from my childhood. That being said, I was at Nana's house this week and she gave me a cookbook that had a Carroll Spate classic contained within! Hooray for the Chile Rice Casserole! :)

Chile Rice Casserole

2 1/2 Cups Water

1 Cup Raw Rice (not Minute Rice)

2 Cups Sour Cream*

Kosher Salt to Taste

1/2 to 1 lb Monterey Jack Cheese, grated

1/2 to 1 lb Cheddar Cheese, grated

7 oz can diced green chiles

3 tbsp. Magarine

1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the rice, cover pan, cook 20-25 minutes until rice is cooked. Let rice cool. Mix the cooled rice with the sour cream and salt. In the bottom of a greased 1-1/2 qt casserole, spread half the rice mixture. Sprinkle the cheddar and monterey jack and chiles on top. Add the rest of the rice. Dot with butter and sprinkle with Parmesan. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

*can be substituted with Ricotta Cheese

Okay, I just read the recipe and realize the main reason why I liked my mom's food so much--she bathed everything in butter and cheese (the true nectars of the Gods if you ask me!). I will make it my mission to revamp this classic and figure out a healthier way to make it. In the meantime, I'm already thinking of how I can experiment with a few other ingredients. I really hope Samantha enjoys spending time in the kitchen with me--I'm already planning our first Christmas cookie decorating session!

In Sammy's world...

Yesterday was a big day--she rolled over on her own--twice! While laying on her tummy in the play gym, she rolled from tummy to back! I think this is further testament to the fact that she hates tummy time! Also, she is drooling like crazy. According to the pediatrician, this means that the salivary glands are turning on, but my Nana seems to think that teeth might be coming. Not sure if we're ready for that quite yet! :)

Looking cute in the custom onesie from Auntie Cari!

We're branching out and trying other chairs!We made it to Nana's house for two visits this week Not the best picture of Samantha, but Allen loves her monster pj's! She's starting to use her sit up seat!