check this out

 First, you've GOT to try this soup.  IT'S BEYOND DELISH.  You could make it vegetarian if you use vegetable broth rather than chicken broth, and omit the prosciutto (but for realz, the prosciutto is fabulous).  If you've never had prosciutto, first, it's kind of a bacony-hamish meat.  Second, try it.  Wrap it around chicken, throw it in your soup, just try it.  It's spendy so don't go crazy, but try it.

OK, here's the recipe: 2T EVOO; 1/4lb prosciutto, chopped; 1 lb zucchini, discard seeds, cut & chopped; 2 ribs celery, chopped; 1 carrot, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bay leaf; 3 cloves garlic; salt & pepper; 32oz chicken stock; 1-15oz can cannellini beans, rinsed (I mash these after they've cooked for awhile because let's face it, beans are nasty); 1-15oz can crushed tomatoes; 1/4lb penne; basil; 2T butter

1. Heat the EVOO & add prosciutto, cook until browned.

2. Add zucchini, celery, carrot, onion, bay leaf & garlic.  Season with salt & pepper.  Cook until vegetables are tender.

3. Stir in the chicken stock, beans & tomatoes.  Bring to a boil.

*Note, if you want to do this meal as a make-ahead dish, after the soup is brought to a boil, cool completely and either freeze or refrigerate.  Then, when you reheat, bring to a boil again, and cook the pasta.

4. Add the pasta & cook until al dente.

5. Stir in basil & butter.

Enjoy!

Then...

check out brother's new trick

How cute is this naked little boy sitting on the potty?!?!

We've been working on potty training for awhile, but nothing real serious.  Right now, it's still just fun for him to sit on the potty, not a permanent activity.  Up to this point he hasn't pottied in the potty.

until tonight

tonight...

HE DID IT!!!  HE POTTIED IN THE POTTY!!!

Look at how proud brother is of himself

Mommy made quite a big deal out of it.

I may have over-exaggerated.

But I'm OK with that.

Mommas are supposed to over-exaggerate when their kids do extraordinary things.

And going potty in the potty chair is extraordinary :)