The Balanced Writer

*Dear Mom
*An Arby's Copycat Chicken Salad
*May Giveaways

My Momma

Dear Mom

This weekend is Mother's Day, so if you haven't put a card in the mail or thought about a small gesture like carnations or a rose bush, you may want to think about what you could do for your mom. Sometimes just a heartfelt letter can say it all.

My mother lives about six hours away which seems far to me. She doesn't like computers so we don't get to send emails or goof off on Facebook. After raising six kids, my mom has turned her attention to raising her grandchildren. She's always there for everyone when they need her, and the woman never sleeps.

Whenever people talk about their mother being their best friend, I understand. I don't know that we're best friends in the social sense, but we are the closest of friends and drop whatever we're doing to hang out whenever we possibly can. My mom chose to stay home instead of work when I was growing up. She worked in our church youth program while I was a teenager. Growing up in a Chicago orphanage, she never had a family of her own, so she dedicated her life to her kids.

Mom and her girls. I'm the runt.

My mother taught me everything I know that matters. She led by example when it came to faith and perseverance. She taught me how to color my hair, set a table, be gracious, forgive, serve others, be kind, cook a meal and wash laundry. The list goes on and on, but you get the gist. I wouldn't be who I am today without my mom. She's my greatest fan; and that's the best gift you can give a child. So mom, if you're reading this, know I love you and miss you, and I'll be home soon.

An Arby's Copycat Chicken Salad

A Son's December Wedding.

 I fell in love with Arby's seasonal chicken salad sandwich a few years ago, and about had a meltdown when I learned I couldn't have one whenever I wanted. When my son got married last December, I searched high and low and experimented over and over until I came up with a great copycat recipe. It was super delicious, and we had it at the reception. I think I made it work.  It's awesome anytime of year. Enjoy!

The Balanced Writer's Chicken Salad

1 can (1 1/2 cups) chopped chicken breast, rinsed and drained

3/4 cup of mayonaise

1/4 cup of chopped celery

1/2 cup of chopped walnuts

1/2 cup of sliced red grapes

1/2 cup of chopped apple (1/2 apple)

1/2 teaspoon of salt

Mix well and chill. Serves 4.

May Giveaways

Some of my giveaways this month if you're interested:

1.LDS Publisher Book Giveaway: Win a copy of Jane Austen-inspired, Josette, by Danielle Thorne during the month of May. Comment to win.
http://www.ldspublisher.com/free-books/

2. Win a copy of pirate treasure ship adventure BY HEART AND COMPASS by Danielle Thorne from The Wordsmith Journal:
http://www.thewordsmithjournalmagazine.com/for-readers.html We're giving away a Nook Simple Touch with Glow-Light OR Kindle Paper-white! (winner's choice!) preloaded with over $100 worth of books, including one from Danielle Thorne.

3. May 16th: $10 Target Gift Card Giveaway with Danielle at The Balanced Writer.