Making Waves...or something like that

Well, it's time for my monthly post. I would love to say that so much has happened and that I am bursting to tell you all about it...but it's been a lot of the same old stuff lately...and that's ok. Since we last met, Mike and I have been adjusting to our new apartment. In someways it s huge improvement from where we were. All I can say is AIR CONDITIONING! We haven't had to cook like eggs on the sidewalk this summer. Also, I have my own washer and dryer. Now, once upon a time, back in the day, which was a Wednesday you know...I could have cared less about a washer and dryer of my own. I was the one who was fighting against the traditional woman's role has homemaker and all around maid.

Now, just for the record, my mother was a stay-at-home mom and we were very blessed for that. It was back in a time where two incomes were not needed to survive and support a family of 8 children. Those days have long since past and now you need 2-3 incomes just to support a family of two! I always figured I would get bored being a housewife and would not be fulfilled as a person. However, marriage has taught me a few things that I would like to share with you at this time.

#1 - There is nothing wrong with wanting to be a trophy, housewife!
Being a homemaker is a wonderful blessing and is taken for granted by WAY too many women. Being able to not have to work, being able to keep the house clean, the laundry done, meals cooked and time for hobbies is an amazing thing. I honestly think I could find enough to do with my time if we were at the point where I didn't have to work.

#2 - Paying bills and being an adult BLOWS!
I was very blessed to have parents who tried everything to teach me about saving money and not getting into debt. We, like most Americans, have debt. Most of it is due to medical bills. BLAH! I think I have said enough there. But, I also know that each month, as we pay the bills down a little more, we are one month closer to being debt free.

#3 - Cooking is something that doesn't just come naturally...
No my friends...you must work on it! Now, I am a pretty good cook, if I say so myself. Baking is more of my specialty, but I have mastered the art of making chicken rolls. (I will post my recipe below for those who are interested.) But I have made some real nasty meals in the last year that Mike, bless him, ate and tried to enjoy. But someday, I will master the art of cooking and leave Julia Childs in the dust...may she rest in peace.

Now, I have learned a lot more then that in the last year of marriage, but those have been the main things that have been on my mind lately. I won't lie...marriage is hard. When people say it's the hardest thing you'll ever do, they aren't just whistling Dixie! It takes EVERYTHING you have to make it work and to be successful. But, in the end I am told, it will be worth it.

Also, as just a side note, Mike and I are doing a play! It's called Making Waves and it's for the Wasatch Theatre Company Page to Stage Festival. It opens on Sept. 10th at the Rose Wagner Theatre downtown. I will put more info up as it get closer. We are both actually acting in it and are looking forward to performing it. So, put it on your calender and I will put up more info soon.

Holly's Totally Amazing Chicken Rolls

1 tube of crescent rolls ( There are usually 8 in the tube)

1-2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (or 1 can of canned chicken)

2 tablespoons of sour cream

1/2 package of cream cheese, softened

2 slices of cheese, cut into 4ths (I like provolone, but cheddar works too!)

1 cup of raw spinach

1 can of cream of chicken soup

2 tablespoons of milk

Salt and pepper

Warm the oven to 400 degrees. Separate the 8 rolls from the tube and put them on a flat surface. Add cream cheese to the shredded chicken. If canned chicken is used, reduce the cream cheese to 1/4th package. Lay a few leaves of spinach on the rolls. Add piece of sliced cheese on top of the spinach. Take a spoon full of the chicken mixture and place it on top of the cheese. Roll the dough up, making sure the edges are closed and place on a cookie sheet. Let the rolls cook for 10-12 minutes. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

For the gravy topping: Add can of cream of chicken soup to saucepan. Mix in the milk and sour cream. Stir frequently. Allow to simmer. This should be done the same time the rolls are. Pour over chicken rolls and enjoy your dinner!