A Love To Last A Lifetime

This past weekend I had the pleasure of being apart of two very special peoples wedding. One of my very best friends, who has been my friend since 7th grade, and her fantastic fiancé.

These two people couldn't be more perfect for each other. I haven't met too many couples that truly complement the other so well. They lift each other up and make each other better people (didn't think that was possible). They glow when they are around each other or even just talk about one another. And I couldn't be happier for them.

It was a really fun weekend, even with the freezing rain we got Friday night. I must say, walking in heels on an ice rink -parking lot- is quite the experience. The wedding day was gorgeous and, thankfully, not too cold!!

I'll never forget the wonderful memories made. The icy rehearsal, meeting great people, staying up till 1 am, getting ready, watching my best friend walk down the aisle, and pigging out on the most amazing Italian food. Every moment was perfect. I'm so very blessed to have been apart of it all.

A Weekend Wrap-Up & A Heartwarming Recipe

 This past weekend it was cold here in wonderful Wisconsin.With a daily high in the low 60's it felt like October not July. We still enjoyed our usual summer weekend outing to the farmer's market though. The sweet scent of all the fruits and vegetables, the gorgeous brightly colored flowers and the to-die-for food vendors are enough to bring a person back every week.

 This Momma got to enjoy some much needed me time {with the little one, of course} and got to go shopping!! I see some great style on a budget posts in the future!!

With the weather being cool it made me crave a warm pot of chili {which pairs perfectly with the amazing sourdough we get from the market}. It's breakfast time here and I already want a bowl...especially since leftover chili is the best chili. This chili is a quick and easy recipe. It doesn't require hours to make it...just 1. It is better {of course} if you let it simmer for 2-3 hours but it isn't necessary. I typically make it the day before we are going to eat it and then throw it back in a pot to heat it up.

Chili

1 1/2 Lbs Lean Ground Beef

1 Large or 2 Medium Onions, chopped

4 Cloves Garlic, minced

1 Tbls Olive Oil

1 Cup Celery, diced

1/2 Cup Green Bell Pepper, diced

1/2 Cup Red Bell Pepper, diced

4-7 Tbls Chili Powder

2 Tsp Garlic Powder

1 Tsp Onion Powder

1 Tsp Black Pepper

2- 15 oz cans Red Kidney Beans

1- 15oz can Diced Tomatoes

1-15 oz can Tomato Sauce

1 Tbls Worcestershire Sauce 

6 oz Beer (or Water)

Hot Sauce, to taste

1. Cook ground beef in olive oil with onion and garlic until browned in a large pot. Break up meat with a spatula as you cook. Drain off fat.

2. Add bell peppers, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce (if desired). Continue to cook on low heat for 3 minutes while stirring. 

3. Add remaining ingredients and gently bring to a boil.

4. If enjoying right away, simmer for 1-2 hours. If you are making ahead of time, simmer for 30 min, turn off heat and allow to cool. Reheat when ready to enjoy. 

5. Serve with shredded cheese, chopped onion, and sour cream. 

I hope you all had a splendid weekend full of fun!!