Pasta with Gorgonzola Cheese and Roasted Cauliflower

My nephew, Dalton (sister’s son), and niece, Laurel, (brother’s daughter), got together on Christmas eve and cooked up this “boujee” (their description!) version of my favorite dish - mac’n cheese.

Tender roasted cauliflower florets, Gorgonzola cheese, and the organic pasta they used, sets this apart from my typical elbow macaroni and cheddar dish, and make it special enough to serve at any dinner party of distinction. It’s versatile enough to use as a vegetarian main, or a side. (Perhaps to a halibut filet?)

Dalton and Laurel, a very Cousin Christmas!

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into small florets (less than an inch)

• ¼ cup olive oil

• ¾ teaspoon

• freshly ground black pepper

• 1 large leeks, halved and thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• 8 ounces pasta like farfalle, bowtie, or fusilli

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed

• 6 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled

• chives for serving

Directions:

1. Pre-heat oven to 425 degrees.

2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower, leeks, and garlic with olive oil, salt and 3-4 twists of freshly ground black pepper. Spread in a single layer onto a baking sheet or roulade pan and bake for about 35-40 minutes until cauliflower is tender and all veggies are caramelized.

3. Cook pasta in large stock pot of salted boiling water - remove from heat just BEFORE it is al dente. Remove about 1 cup of the water - set aside, then drain the pot.

4. Return the pasta to the pot, add the butter, Gorgonzola, a few more twists of the black pepper and 1/2 cup pasta water. Stir thoroughly until cheese is melted and evenly distributed.

5. Add the roasted florets. leeks, and garlic to the pasta, then season with additional salt and pepper (if desired). If it is too dry, add more of the reserved pasta water.

6. Dish into shallow serving bowls and garnish with chopped chives. Serve it up warm and delicious!

After carefully taste-testing and much discussion, our two burgeoning chefs decided it could be made even a little more extra by adding crab or lobster to the mix. I have to agree.

Take Comfort | Chicken & Green Chili Soup

The ravages of winter weather have affected much of the country. Whether it’s wind, rain, snow, sleet, or hail, unless you live in a southern state, you know it’s winter!

No kind of food brings me comfort as much as a hearty bowl of soup. This recipe, which calls for chicken (try it with turkey too) and chopped green chili’s, is Mmm Mmm good, and guaranteed both nourish and to you from the inside out!

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 3 cups Anaheim or Hatch green chili peppers, chopped

• 1 large yellow onion, chopped

• 1/2 large red bell pepper, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup of flour

• 5 cups chicken broth

• 1 can (19 oz) green enchilada sauce

• 1 1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper

• 3 cups cooked chicken (or turkey,) chopped

• 1 cup carrot, chopped or use the whole, small, peeled kind

• 1 can (15oz) black beans (pinto, cannelloni, or red beans work equally well) drained and rinsed.

• 1 can (15oz) whole kernel corn

• 1 can (15oz) diced tomatoes

Directions:

1. Melt butter in large stock pot over medium heat. Add chopped peppers, onions, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and onions are translucent.

2. Add flour, and stir to coat the mixture well. Add chicken broth, enchilada sauce, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil and add chicken, carrots, beans, corn, and diced tomato.

3. Reduce temperature to Medium and continue to cook for approximately 20 minutes (until carrots are tender.)

4. Serve hot. (Add a dollop of sour cream or guac if you like!)

This is a super delicious meal all by itself, but made even heartier with the addition of a slice of Cheesy Jalepeño Loaf (which I conveniently linked to for you!) But only if you’re not actively avoiding carbs, like I am right now…

Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Balsamic-Honey Glaze

My oldest son hosted our Thanksgiving dinner this year. Well, what I really mean to say is that my daughter-in-law hosted Thanksgiving dinner this year.

While Isaiah works hard to provide for his family, so does Riely, and let’s face it, she’s the one that does the majority of the holiday prep.

Nearly 40 guests were invited into their gorgeous new home, where we feasted on not one, but two, delicious smoked turkeys. I brought the mashed potatoes and pumpkin dump cake; all other the sides, salads, and desserts were provided by the rest of the grateful guests.

The roasted Brussel sprouts with a balsamic-honey glaze were a stand out!

Ingredients:

• 2lbs Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved.

• 1/4 cup Olive oil

• 1 teaspoon each:

  • garlic powder

  • thyme

  • oregano

  • paprika

  • black pepper, and

  • sea salt

• Glaze

  • 1/4 cup Balsamic vinegar

  • 1/4 cup Honey

Directions:

1. Place prepared Brussel sprouts in a large bowl, toss with olive oil and seasonings until evenly coated (add or subtract seasonings as you desire, you know me, I use recipes as guides!)

2. Spread seasoned sprouts on a shallow baking pan and place in preheated 425 degree oven.

3. Meanwhile - combine vinegar and honey in saucepan and heat until mixture begins to reduce and thicken.

4. Roast sprouts until tender and some have begun to blacken - about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally.

5. Remove from oven, drizzle glaze over the top, stir to coat and return to oven for approximately 5 more minutes.

6. Serve hot.

7. Add cooked bacon or sausage crumbles to the roasting mixture if desired.

Even the kids gobbled these tasty little morsels up! They are super easy to prepare and a nutritious side to any family meal, but fancy enough to serve at your holiday dinner party!

(If you’re as lucky as me, after dinner you’ll get a live musical performance! Because, while my son may not be a domestic wonder, he - and our good friend Sharif - can sure play guitar and sing!)

Enjoy!

Adoption | One Way to Build a Family

My new book, One Heart At A Time, was released on October 16.

So much attention since has been placed on my unusually large number of children, and I’ve lost count on how many time I’ve answered the how and why questions.

For all the big and small details (and so much more!) pick up a copy of my book! For a quick run-down, and to know why I feel so passionately about adoption, read this blog post.

A family gathering a few years ago - not even close to a complete showing!

Here’s the short answer to the questions: I had three biological children from two of my marriages, and I have adopted 10 children (number 11 in process.) My husband, Paul, has 5 children of his own. So that brings my number to 14, and our combination to 19.

The longer version is this:

I’ve always wanted to be a mother. When I married at 22 I couldn’t wait to make my new family of “me and you” into “baby makes three.” My husband was a divorced father of 2 children already and not one that you wouldn’t exactly define as present or available. I knew I could change that. Ha!

Sonny and I - or Robin Hood and Maid Marion…

At 24, I gave birth to Isaiah, “Sonny” as his dad called him… He is my Number 1, my first child, the miracle that made me a mama!

Fast forward 9 years later - my husband had found greener pastures around Sonny’s 2nd birthday and I had been a single mother since.

My job in radio had taken me from Seattle to Boston, and then on to Philadelphia. While in Boston I’d met a young man in a church group that was cute, charming, loved to laugh, and loved the Lord. I married him, glossing over the fact that he was 8 years younger, lived with his parents, and his fine set of wheels was - a bicycle. Soon after, I was thrilled to be pregnant with Shaylah, my baby number 2.

A few years later we were back in Seattle, Me, Sonny, Shay, and Doug. The marriage was shaky but I was determined to make it work. I was feeling that the 10 year gap between Sonny and Shaylah was too much and I thought about adoption. By thinking about it, I mean I moved forward, looking for a child to love, to embrace, to ‘fill out our family’. We were introduced to a boy, one year younger than Sonny, and learned about “twinning,” matching up children that are of similar age to one you already have in your home, which helps the bonding process. And so, enter my child #3, Emmanuell.

A single mother of 8!

Manny, we soon learned, had two younger siblings in a foster-care situation. Of course they could come for visitations… of course you may call me Mom while you’re here… and when their foster family had a crisis and they needed to be re-homed, of course that home had to be ours. The month that Tangi and TJ (#’s 4 & 5) moved in with us? Of course I find out I’m pregnant!

When Zachariah, my third bio-babe and number 6 to join the family, was born, we’d gone from a family of four, to a family of eight in less than a two year period of time. Eight is great, but not so much for Shay and Zack’s dad.

In all fairness, I hadn’t given his push-back much consideration. I worked and provided for the family, I was willing to put in the late nights and early mornings, and anxiety isn’t a word in my personal vocabulary, so the fact that he was completely and totally overwhelmed didn’t really register. Two years later the marriage ended.

Soon after, I got a call from a friend who was an adoption facilitator. There was a toddler in need of a home, STAT. I drove to the parking lot of a local teriyaki restaurant; TK was placed into my arms and clung to me tightly. He was just a year younger than Zacky, and became child number 7.

My radio program had been syndicated for a while and my career was taking off. The older kids were transitioning out of the house and I found a farm (a life-long dream) to move myself and the three left at home to. Just three. Shaylah, now aged 12, Zacky 7, and TK 6. I renovated the farmhouse and built three bedrooms for three kids. One. Two. Three.

My Angel and my Blessing.

And oh… I dated a wonderful man briefly, a pastor with a young adult daughter who had a baby of her own. I fell in love with this earnest young woman, who had never had a mother in her life… Adult adoption? Yeah, it’s a thing. Lonika, my number 8, has never lived with me but became my daughter when she was well into her 20’s, and, I gained a granddaughter close to the boy’s age, all in one fell-swoop!

Bridget with Sammy, who is now in Heaven.

This plan was working until my attention was steered toward a Liberian refugee camp in Ghana, West Africa. Point Hope was re-born and soon I brought into my home and heart, Angel and Blessing, welcomming numbers 9 and 10! Surely this was enough!

Nooooo, because a few years later, Sammy, (#11) who had spent 15 years in an orphanage, and Bridget (#12) who had a personal horror story she shouldn’t have even survived, wandered into my life, my heart, and my home.

And then Blessings little sister, Delilah, my Lucky 13, whom I had been taking care of in Africa, became critically ill, and the birth mother, critically uncaring.

And then their little brother, Baby Paul - whom I was also caring for in Africa, and who had been dropped off with Point Hope personnel because their mother had decided he too, was not worth her time or attention.

And here I am - a mother of 14 (or will be as soon as Bae Paul’s process is complete).

Before bringing Sammy and Bridget home, I married Paul. We’d dated for 6 years and as a father of 5 grown children, he was looking forward to a child-free retirement. Hahaha!

He loves this crazy menagerie as much as me and is so stinkin’ in love with Baby Delilah and Baby Paul, to whom he is their Papa.

Last week I found myself in Washington DC, speaking to the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations about the crisis facing inter-country adoptions. It was important to me to be there, and share my story, because International adoptions have slowed to a trickle - down over 80% since 2004 and may cease all together. This means there are hundred of thousands of children that need homes. Children who are the victims of civil war, disease, famine… Children that have been ostracized because of physical or mental impairments, which are looked upon as a cursed in many societies... Children born female, which don’t have the same value as males…

When I completed my first international adoption in 2006, my children were two of 26,000 adopted from foreign countries. last year there was 4,200. This is a crisis.

I was also given the great honor of being inducted into the National Council for Adoptions, Adoption Hall of Fame, for my support of, commitment to, and involvement with building my family through the process of adoption and for founding Point Hope, a voice for forgotten children.

“Another alarming reality; 80% of children - boys especially - who have spent time in the foster care system will be in jail before age 25.”

Here’s some statistics on the US foster care system that will shock you. There are over 486,000 in the foster care system right now. About 20,000 “aged-out” last year; that is, they reached the age of 18 (20 in some places,) were turned out of the temporary living placements they’d been given, and financial support ended. I ask people, “How many of you have an 18-25 year old child? Are they ready to be 100% self reliant? Who do they call when a tooth breaks, when their heart breaks, when they’ve been in a fender bender?” Another alarming reality; 80% of children - boys especially - who have spent time in the foster care system will be in jail before age 25.

I am passionate about this! There are so many ways to build a family. Adoption is one.

You don’t have to be rich, married, or perfect. If you are at all interested in helping a child in the foster care system and providing a forever home, please don’t hesitate to do the research and make the connections!

Here’s a link to get started:

Adopt USKids

My book, One Heart At A Time, is available for purchase everywhere books are sold, and through the website HERE.

My Book, One Heart At A Time, Is Gathering Attention!

What an exciting week it’s been!

My new book, One Heart At A Time, became available in book stores everywhere on Tuesday, October 16th, and it has recieved so much media attention. I feel so very, very, blessed!

It was a labor of love to write, and especially difficult after losing my son, Zachariah, to suicide. Finishing was nothing short of a miracle, but one, with the help of God, that happened.

Complete it, I did, and it’s all shiny, polished, and on book shelves ready for you to pick up and read! I hope that you do, and I hope something in what I write about my life and my heart inspires you to reach out to others, just one single heart at time. Get to known them, their hopes, hearts, dreams, and struggles…

This is the way we will change the world!

The book’s release is gathering a lot of attention. Here’s a few of the places I’ve been or have picked up on my story and how I hope to be a small part of changing the world - just as I encourage you to be - One Heart at a Time!

Find your favorite - or find new favorites - in the media coverage that follow !

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Good Morning America on ABC:

Early this Tuesday morning, I got to spend time with one of my favorite people, Robin Roberts, on ABC’s Good Morning America! (How is she always so chipper at that early time of day?!)

On the show, we were able to talk about so many things - life, farm, kids, and the devastating loss of my beloved Zacky - and I couldn’t help but shed a few tears even though I told myself I wouldn’t!

Of course, we talked about my new book, One Heart At A Time, which is available wherever books are sold!

I had an amazing time with Robin, she is a warm, engaging, smart, and gracious woman who’s love knows no bounds, I’m so grateful to be included in that circle.

In case you missed it, here’s a link to view the GMA segment:

Good Morning America Link

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Megyn Kelly TODAY on NBC:

Wednesday, I joined another TV legend, Megyn Kelly! I hope you were able to tune in to the TODAY show on NBC!

There I was, bright, early, and nervous, with my make-up on and in my Sunday best, talking to Megyn about my book and my life, the challenges, the joys, and how I am so very very blessed.

Megyn was engaging, sensitive, and kept me on-track (as I tend to go off on tangents about things I’m passionate about - and I’m passionate about a LOT of things!) I was grateful for her allowing me to share some facts and thoughts about the broken US foster-care system and I hope by doing so it touched both hearts and nerves. We have got to step up and do something about the way that kids are warehoused and shuffled around until their time runs out and they are forced out into society, broken and ill-prepared.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Megyn, and I hope to do it again soon.

Bonus - I was able to meet and hug a bright news personality, Jenna Bush Hager while on the set!

Here’s the link to watch the segment!

TODAY with Megyn Kelly Link

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Woman’s World Magazine:

Most likely, you’re going to be in a grocery store line sometime this week. If you’re like me and you are the supply sergeant for a small army, you’ll probably find yourself there multiple times!

While you’re standing in line trying to keep your kids entertained, or making eyes at the toddler in the cart in front of you, look around for this weeks copy of Woman’s World Magazine!

Yep, that’s me on the cover, in the fuscia colored dress, looking happy as a girl from a small town that finds herself staring back from the cover of a national publication can be!

The folks at Woman’s World were so kind and compassionate, as all the media have been, when asking about my family is coping after our loss. I feel so fortunate that they chose to showcase me on their cover, and share a beautiful story of my family inside.

I’ve asked folks to share pictures of where they find this issue of Woman’s World magazine - take a picture and post it to Facebook or Instagram with the #radiodelilah, like others have been doing - it’s been a lot of fun!  

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Guideposts Magazine:

In late September, I was also featured in Guideposts Magazine. I’ve read and loved Guideposts all my life.

The stories contained between the glossy front and back covers always inspire and uplift me, and I am both honored and humbled to think that perhaps my story will do the same for you and others.

Here is the link to Guideposts video on the role of prayer in my life - something I do every day, all day!

Guideposts Link

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InsideRadio, Extra Close Up:

InsideRadio launched a new feature on Tuesday the 16th, called “Extra Close Up,” and they chose me to be the first to showcase!

What an honor!

As a radio-gal, this has Extra Special meaning to me, and I’m so very pleased and proud to be featured in this new segment.

Here’s the link to a short, but sweet, and very nostalgic little story:

InsideRadio Link

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Parade Magazine:

I was in the midst of the media blitz in The Big Apple - New York City - when it was brought to my attention that Parade Magazine had run an article me and One Heart… Here’s the link to that!

Parade Magazine Link

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Headline News with Mike Galanos on CNN:

On Thursday morning I sat down to talk with Mike Galanos on HLN. (How handsome is he?!)

I loved his directness and his authenticity. I know Mike has the capacity to change the world and a platform to touch many hearts.

He did not shy away from asking about my faith, which is central to my being and what gets me through each and every day. We touched on Zacky and Sammy, my radio program, my sometimes crazy but wonderful life, Point Hope… and the big message; Say yes!

Open your heart to the possibilities of loving larger and more vulnerable than ever before and the return on your investment will be overwhelming blessings.

Watch the segment:

HLN Link 

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And…

Good Day New York, Fox 5:

It’s always great to be able to drop in to Good Day New York when I’m in the city!

I had a delightful time with the morning team, and even though I’d covered the ground (I thought) several times before, found there is always more to talk about!

My heart feels so full and hopeful as I am gifted the opportunity to share my message with so many people on so many platforms.

Here ya go, if you’d care to take a listen:

Good Day New York Link

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I know there will be more to come, stay tuned and thank you for being a part of my world and my heart!

Falling Into October

It's been an emotionally difficult few weeks. 

A year ago, on October 2nd, my son, Zachariah, changed his address to "Heaven". I wrote this in my newsletter, and shared my raw truth with you, because to skip over it and write only about the wonder and joy of autumn would be disingenuous. I grieve.

Grief is like the wake of a great ship, beginning as a mighty and powerful wave that smashes against that which is closest, but continuing as many, many, many spreading ripples, reducing in size and fury, but still felt long after the ship has passed by.

It's been a year of firsts. The first day without him, the first Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's. The first winter without his snow boarding gear piled up after a day on the slopes, the first spring, birthday, Mother's Day. The first summer of bonfires with his friends present in the evenings and he missing. The first anniversary of the last day I spent with him, and the last day he spent here on earth. I grieve.

And I hope. 

I hope that you are not taking a single moment of a single day for granted. I hope that you are holding those you love close to you, if not physically, in thought, heart, and prayer.

I hope that you remember how much value you have to the world, how much you are loved, and how your absence would be felt not just by those who gave birth to you, by those who grew up with you, by those you brought into the world, but by the hundred, thousands, millions perhaps of lives that would be impacted by your absence.

I hope that you are greeting autumn with open arms and an open heart, marveling as I am, at the colorful display of turning foliage, the flight of birds overhead, and the sounds of children gathered in school yards. 

And I hope that as the bushes and leaves shed their leaves, preparing for a Great Sleep so they may awaken in the spring refreshed, green, and Alive, you, as I, are taking a cue and learning to let go...

I 'Eight' It All! Chili

Today is my older brother, Matthew’s birthday.

If he were still with us, he’d be turning 60 years old today. Instead, he’ll forever be a young, goofy but brilliant, 26 year old engineer, unafflicted with the arthritis, declining eye sight, and other maladies of age I’m beginning to experience.

I’m posting this recipe in honor of him, because of his love of chili and cornbread, both of which he could put down in extraordinary quantities (6’5” after all…)

And after consumption, I swear he could have provided enough natural gas to fuel a third world country! With 8 cans of beans, I’m sure this is one recipe he would both find fulfilling and get immense devilish glee from!

Make it with ground beef or turkey, or leave the meat out all-together and have a delicious, yet still quite musical, vegan meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans White Beans (drained)

• 2 cans Chili Beans (seasoned pintos, not drained)

• 2 cans Pinto Beans (unseasoned, drained)

• 2 cans Kidney Beans (drained)

• 2 tablespoons of cooking oil - your choice

• 1 Red Bell Pepper, diced

• 1 large Yellow Onion, diced

• 2 cans Ro*Tel Diced Tomatoes

• 2 cans Diced Tomatoes (w/green pepper & onion)

• 2 cans Diced Tomatoes

• 2 pkgs dry Chili Seasoning (to taste)

• 1-2 cups of Water

• 3-4 tablespoons granulated Sugar

• 1 ½ pounds of Ground beef or Turkey, browned and fat drained

• Salt & Pepper (to taste)

• Red Pepper Flakes (to taste)

Directions:

1. Sauté pepper and onion in large stock pot until onions are tender and translucent.

2. Add ground meat to pepper/onion and cook until brown.

3. Open Everything! That’s the most difficult part of this recipe (all that thumb exercise!)

4. Add everything on the ingredient list to the large stock pot.

5. Stir together, cook at a simmer for 2-4 hours, just enough to let all the flavors combine; stirring occasionally.

6. If desired, top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream & green onion.

7. Serve with a nice chunk of cornbread with butter and honey!

• This also a very good crockpot recipe, but you’ll want to cut the recipe in half to make everything fit!

Happy Birthday Matt! Thanks for taking care of my boys up there in heaven. I’m sure you’re eating chili, watching Blazing Saddles, and laughing your heads off together!

Spinach, Beet & Feta Salad with Candied Walnuts

One of the best things about living amongst a goat herd is the abundance of fresh feta cheese - I kid you not! (See what I did there?!)

And one of the best things about having an abundance of fresh feta is this recipe using another of my favorite things - beets! In combination with a bed of vitamin and iron rich spinach, and protein packed walnuts, it's pretty much a win, win, win, win...

Try it!

Ingredients:

• 4 medium beets - cleaned and cut in half

• 10-12 oz baby spinach greens

• 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts

• 3 tablespoons maple syrup

• 1/2 cup frozen orange juice concentrate

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Place beets in enough water to cover in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, and cook until tender; 20 - 30 minutes. Drain, cool, then slice or cut into cubes and salt lightly.

2. While beets are cooking, candy the walnuts. Using a skillet over medium-low heat, cook the nuts until warm and beginning toast. Stir in maple syrup until evenly coated. Remove from pan to small plate and let cool.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice concentrate, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper to make the dressing.

4. Place a large helping of baby spinach onto each of four salad plates. Divide beets into equal portions and top spinach with them. Do the same with the sliced onion and candied walnuts. Top generously with the feta cheese.

5. Drizzle each with dressing and serve up to hungry diners!
   

   * For a hearty meal, slice up some grilled chicken and add to each plate!

Zack's Grove

This spring, when winter began ebbing away with lessening ferocity, and tips of green - Zack's favorite color - began appearing on barren branches I set myself to work on a new garden.

I threw my pent up energies, anger, and frustration at the project; I poured my grief into it.

I planned, I directed, I dug. All spring and into the summer I worked until my my hands were calloused and my muscles were sore, hoping the physical fatigue would help me get a restful nights sleep - which has been difficult since my beautiful son left us.

Situated next to a large pond rimmed with cattails and wildlife - the buzzing, colorful dragonflies, ducks, geese, and the many critters that come to drink along it's edge - and full of many trees that were donated by a friend to stand sentinel at his memorial service last October, I call the new garden Zack's Grove.

Paul brought down the school bus shelter that Zack and his siblings had waited in on cold fall mornings, and we placed it close to the pond, so that even on the darkest of days when the storm rages within and without, I will have a place to sit and be still with my son.

Amongst the trees, I planted as many green and purple flowers as I could lay hands on, and I guarantee there will be more to come. These are my Zack Attack colors.

On October 2nd, a year to the day Zack decided to change his address to “Heaven,” friends and family gathered here in the grove to remember him. We shared, we laughed, and we cried even more tears, adding to the millions we've shed over this past year without.  

We ate pizza and drank sour-patch smoothies, yes, his favorites.

As were his wishes, we placed his ashes beneath a tree, one that has 5 different apple grafts, that will grow large and tall and proud, bearing fruit season after season. Our "Zapple tree" is in the center of a large tear-drop shaped planting bed, that represents the tears, mentioned above, that even on the brightest of days, continue to fall.

That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither--
whatever they do prospers.
Psalm 1:3

In the end, Zack’s Grove is a beautiful reminder of Zack's vitality and zest for living. His sylvan home; a peaceful retreat to rest, to pray, and to visit with my son.

Jalapeño Popper Dip

It’s football season! Which for a lot of us mean it’s chip and dip season! Here’s a favorite of mine and for the studio folks. Jalapeño Popper Dip - so crispy, so cheesy, so packed with flavor!

Serve it up in the den, on the tailgate, or in the studio break room - no matter where or when, it’s going to be gobbled up and enjoyed!

Ingredients:

• 2 8oz packages of cream cheese

• 1/2 cup mayonaise

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 4 medium Jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and finely chopped (for extra spicy dip, leave some seeds!)

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 3/4 cup chopped green onion

• 1 cup crispy bacon (or turkey bacon) bits

Topping:

• 6 Tblsp melted butter

• 2 1/2 cup Ritz crackers crushed

• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, black pepper, and chopped jalepenos. Stir well making sure all ingredients are well blended.

3. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, green onion and bacon bits to cream cheese mixture and stir well again.

4. Place mixture in a 7x11” oven proof pan. (Any casserole or baking dish that is at least 1” deep will work.)

5. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, Ritz crackers, parmesan cheese, and spread over top of dip mixture.

6. Cover pan with foil and cook for approximately 45 minutes, remove foil and cook for approximately 10 minutes more or until topping is crisp.

The next step is to grab your favorite bag of chip and get to dippin’! This dip also is the bomb to top your tacos or any Tex-Mex sorta meal!

Cheesy Jalepeño Loaf

Fall is in the air, in fact, we tried to have a BBQ at the studio recently and even though the sun was shining brightly, the wind was from the north and so cold we picked up our plates and headed in to eat in the dining room!

I can't think of a better way to eat my way through this transitional time that with a mix of fresh veggies and fruits from the garden and some warm comfort foods like soups. Paired with those items, there can be nothing better than a thick slice of this dense cheesy bread.

Made with a beer batter base, and incorporating a little spice (not too much) with jalepeño peppers, it's just the ticket to a tailgater, an office potluck, or your next family meal.

It's "Steve Made" of course, so you know it's been tried and tested.  Here ya go!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup packed shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1/4 cup pickled jalepeño peppers, chopped
• 2 tablespoons green onion (green part), chopped
• 12 ounces of beer 
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for greasing

Directions: 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Grease a 9 x 5 bread loaf pan with butter.
3. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic salt, and sugar in a large bowl.
4. Add the cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, jalepeños, and green onion, stir until combined.
5. Add beer to mixture, using a spatula stir until combined and batter is wet.
6. Transfer the batter to the greased loaf pan. Use the spatula to level the top.
7. Add the melted butter to the top of the batter, making sure to cover the entire top of the batter.
8. Bake for 1 hour, or until a knife inserted in the middle of bread comes out clean.
9. Remove bread pan from oven to a wire rack and let cool for 10 minutes. Then remove bread from loaf pan and let cool on wire rack for 5 more minutes.

Mmmmm. Thanks Steve!

One Heart At A Time | September Book Club

Visit the One Heart At A Time page

Let me tell you about my new book, One Heart At A Time!

At Rosetta Books urging, I began the process of putting my personal journey, referred to by many as "philanthropy," (but something I simply call giving back) down in written format.

It's something I believe we should all be encouraged to do, and what my goal was and is with this book. It's also my belief that giving back is something that we are born understanding. Humans are social creatures and intrinsically know that we need one another to survive. That God-given knowledge is often discouraged however, in deference to "becoming successful" and "getting ahead" and from and early age we become conditioned instead to be ego-centric beings. 

One Heart At A Time is all about my personal philosophy; big change happens by small measures. One. Heart. At. A. Time.

In my book, I'll tell you about my family, my childhood, my upbringing, and my many life experiences - the good, the bad, the ugly, and the down right hilarious - and I'll talk about how this life I've led, and the people in it, have shaped me into the person I am today. 

"If we are going to change the world, one heart at a time, we must make sure we and those closest to us are fully engaged and aware of the beauty of the natural world, fully engaged in real life, real connections, real human and nature interactive experiences. We should be more excited about reality than reality shows...

...What if you took it upon yourself to spend time with a young person, instilling in them something to care about?

...Believe in a young person, and you will change the world for  that person. Teach a young person that talking is better than texting and reality is better than virtual reality - and indeed you will be doing that child and this world a great service."

(pg 181-182)

One Heart At A Time was a true labor of love. Finishing it was a true labor! Continuing to write after I'd lost my Zacky was difficult, to put it in the mildest terms, taking every ounce of effort I could muster. But One Heart, is also a tribute to my son, who has challenged and shaped me from the very moment he was conceived, and will continue to do so until our glorious reunion in the house of Our Father.

We’re going to change the world with love, one person at a time, one heart a time. Take the time in your life to know the person you’re next to, to know your neighbors, to care for your friends, and know what is on their heart.

I hope the book inspires and motivates you to reach inside yourself, through the web of personal experiences, triumphs, and tragedies, and take just one step outside your own reality in order to make a difference in another's life. In doing so you will feel your own weight lifted, and be awed at the domino effect of good and ever expanding love that you've initiated. 

One Heart At A Time will be available on October 12, in paperback, digital, and audio formats.

Please take a moment to visit the One Heart book page, which has more information about the book, its author (me!), endorsements from the likes of Debbie Macomber and Robin Roberts, and pre-order your copy today!

Pre-Order One Heart At A Time

Thank you, my dear friends! I hope you enjoy reading One Heart At A Time and it inspires you to open your heart to the vast possibilities of loving others into better lives!

A Berry Good Day!

There is a little gravel pathway near my studio that is flanked along one side by the back of the city's stables, where the mounted police keep their horses, and on the other by a woodland; a large patch of green towering trees and low brambling undergrowth.

I often walk this short foot path to stretch my legs and get some fresh air after a long recording session. It's maybe only 50-60 yards long and opens to an expansive park with couple of different play areas, a neighborhood P-patch, fields planted with wildflowers, paved sidewalks, and a large wooded area with trails for exploring nature right in the middle of the city. The city scape can be seen by peering beyond, but it is easy to forget where you are and imagine yourself in a forest primeval once you're under the shade of the large copse of Douglas Fir.

The other day after only a few steps onto the gravel, I noticed a plethora of berries growing along the wooded side.  Forever the forager (thank you Mom) I did less stretching of the legs and more stretching of the arms as I reached for sweet morsel after sweet morsel.

I saw first the little wild blackberries, native to the Pacific Northwest, and favored by my Grandpa Luke. These are smaller and not as abundant as the more ubiquitous Himalayan blackberry that was brought here as a cultivar and now dominates the berry scene. The little dewberry, as it's also called, trails gently along the ground and packs a powerful punch. Oh the memories I have of hunting this little gem down, pail in one hand, picking with the other! It was a chore to get enough for a pie, but boy was it worth it!

Next, I was really surprised and delighted to find a rare wild raspberry cane; I've only come across them once or twice out hiking or camping, and here they were in a city park! They look and taste just like the ones you're used to seeing in the grocery aisles, but perhaps just a bit sweeter on the tongue because the thrill of finding them makes your tastebuds stand up and applaud!

I also happened upon some thimble berries, deep red and velvety. It's not really my favorite because of the texture, I think, but others love it, and I appreciate the bright red color, next to the green, green leaves. Speaking of leaves, the thimble berry grows on a thornless bush with wide soft, velvety smooth leaves. The plant seems to invite you in as an honored guest and serves you up the best portion it has to offer. I gladly accepted it's hospitality!

A salmon berry hung just above my head; it was a later hanger-on'er,. Like some of the guest at an outdoor bbq on a warm summer night, this one was just having too much fun. It didn't realize that the shin-dig was over quite some time ago. I helped it on it's way by picking and eating it on the spot!

And lastly a single red huckleberry. It was a early arrival, and as welcome as the friend that comes before the cook out to help you clean the grill and set out the paper plates and napkins! I also, uh, embraced, this bright little morsel with a friendly hug. 

It took me as long to reach the park on this day, than it normally does to make a full circuitous route, but I was happy, finger stained, and most definitely re-energized! 

Are you a berry-hound? Where do you pick, what's your favorite? As always, I love it when you write to me at D@Delilah.com! We all have things we can share with others to spark conversation, warm memories, and new connections!

I hope, as you read this, you too are having a berry good day! With much love and the Lords blessings,

 

Balsam Hill | "Christmas in July" benefitting Point Hope!

I have some wonderful friends at Balsam Hill!

We met in the realm of the business world, and the relationship quickly developed to be so much more than an opportunity to showcase their amazingly realistic faux florals, greenery, and Christmas trees!

For the last two years, Balsam Hill has made the NGO I founded, Point Hope, a recipient of their charitable giving several times over. They have underwritten my annual Farm to Feast garden party, where people come together to eat fresh, locally sourced, and deliciously prepared foods, and learn about the work of Point Hope. In addition, they've made Point Hope a benefactor of their on-going philanthropy work.

This month, we've teamed up for their Christmas in July campaign. All month long, Balsam Hill has been giving back to different charities, and the week of July 22- July 29, they will be focusing on Point Hope!

Here's how it works. Visitors like you help to drive awareness and raise as much money as possible for Point Hope by engaging on my social media posts about Balsam Hill's charity campaign and by visiting their blog.

• Each like is worth .50 cents.

• Each comment and/or share is worth $1.

• If you mention Point Hope on Balsam Hill's BLOG, it's worth $2!

There is no commitment on your behalf, just your social media involvement. I so appreciate the extra minute or two of your time it will take, and, believe me, the underserved children and communities the funds will go toward supporting, appreciate it even more!,

Want to know more about Point Hope? Visit us HERE.
For more about Balsam Hill's philanthropy, visit them HERE.

Many many, thanks to my dear friends at Balsam Hill, a company that is making a difference in the world, one beautiful bouquet, wreath, and tree at a time!

Hooray for Special Dads!

Ok, ALL dads are special! 

But earlier this month, I shared some gift ideas for the dad (or dads) in your life. I also promised to give away two bundles of every item I'd recommended; all you had to do is write to me and tell me about the man that brings inspiration and honor to the title "Father."

Your responses came flooding in and wow, are there some amazing men out there! I so love to read your stories! 

I'm going to share two of them with you and I bet you'll agree that the gift bundles they will receive in the mail are well deserved.

Dear Delilah,

My husband, John, was not raised with a Dad. His parent divorced when he was an infant. Bad blood, meddling grandparents, and selfish thoughts (on both sides) kept him from having a relationship with his father. Growing up, he had his grandfather as a male role model. Unfortunately, his grandfather left the family when John was 10, again plunging him into the “fatherless” role.

Growing up, he wasn’t able to participate in the traditional father-son activities: father-son cake bake in Cub Scouts, Dad & me events, fishing on the lake, playing catch in the backyard, teaching him how to fight off bullies, showing him how to defend himself, how to tie a tie... the list goes on. 

Flash forward: A little over nine years ago, after five years of marriage, countless negative results-I’m pregnant. John bounced from feelings of elation right down to bone chilling fear. His biggest fear? He didn’t know how to be a father. 

He. Didn’t. Know. How. To. Be. A. Father. 

What did he have to look to? How was he going to show his daughter or son what a father looks like, when he didn’t know himself?

This man wept when he was finally able to look into the eyes of his son. He was overcome by a sense of the need to protect this innocent baby who was securely tucked into his arms. He proudly proclaimed to everyone that he was a father of a baby boy. 

Within the past eight years, he’s shown our son what it means to be a father. He’s present EVERY SINGLE DAY! He’s participating in all of the activities that he missed out on, with our son. Important life lessons, philosophical discussions, silly notions, and life’s quandaries are discussed around the workbench as they build their latest project. 

Sometimes, if you can catch him in just the right moment... you can see that lost little boy within my husband’s eyes and catch him smiling. For those moments, I am grateful. 

~ Shelby

Wow, what a powerful message! This man was determined to set a different course for himself and his child. I am so very proud of him, and all men who make the same choice to be a strong, unwavering presence in their children's lives! Please pass along a high five Shelby!

Dear Delilah, 

I am writing to you about my dad, Henry. I am one of 8 children. Yes I said eight! Four from birth and four born from the heart. Never was there a hesitant moment when my parents thought they couldn't take in another child from foster care that needed a home. My dad was always the one saying, "Let's do it. "

My dad took on two jobs for a bit to help cover expenses of so many children. He worked hard keeping the family afloat. 

Now I'm almost 40 and he is retired, yet he is still working so hard. He helps take care of my sister's children while my mom is at work, (she is a paraprofessional at a charter school in northern Michigan and has been doing it for 20 years or more.) He helps build props and sets at the school for no pay. He also plays in the church band every Sunday, participates in men's group, and sings for specials.

This past couple of weeks my father decided to use some of the money they had saved for renovations to create a fun outdoor area for the grandkids. He moved the fence to make the yard bigger, hand built the gate so his riding lawnmower would fit, set up new play areas and built a teeter-totter. He is so hand around the home and loves to do wood working and activities to make others happy. 

I just believe he is the most deserving father ever. I love him so! 

~ Thanks, Erin

Thank YOU, Erin, for telling us about this Super Dad. Taking on eight kids is not for the faint of heart (props to your mamma as well!) It sounds to me like your dad has discovered the secret to a happy life; loving unconditionally, keeping busy, and giving back.  Please give him my love and thanks for a job superbly done!

Enjoy your gift bundles fellas - there are great books, music, candy, and gift cards all packed up for you.

And now that you've read these, dear visitors, perhaps you understand why I ask you to write to me!

There are millions of amazing stories out there that delight and inspire. I want to hear them all! Please share yours with me too!

Drop something in my mailbox D@Delilah.com.