A K.I.S.S. Christmas

*A K.I.S.S. Christmas
*Chicken and Rice Mexican Soup


A K.I.S.S. Christmas

It's no Pinterest project, but the boys got this baby up in 20 minutes (so they could get back to their video games).

I hope all of my American followers enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday this year with family and friends. We kept it low key since two of our older boys are out of state and my dear husband had to work (because planes fly on Turkey Day). Rest assured, there were still plenty of desserts. My heart is full of gratitude for all of the blessings of health, safety and employment in our home.

Christmas is around the corner now,  so it's that time of year when stress brings out the worst in people. Unfortunately, it should be the other way around. Sometimes the best solution is the most obvious: Keep it simple! Here's a few tips to help you stay balanced this season no matter which holiday you celebrate.

1. Keep a weekly list. Each morning, look at your weekly to-do's and make a daily list of what you have time to accomplish. ....If you're not a list maker, now would be a good time to start.
2. Set a shopping budget per person and stick to it. Wandering through shops with a blank checkbook or credit card is not going to save you money. We're humans, we're impulsive.
3. Plan your family holiday activities for the month ahead of time and write them on the family calender so there's no surprises. Include school concerts and parties.
4. Plan your exercise in advance. Three days a week should do it, even if it's 15 minutes at a time.
5. Don't underestimate the power of morning meditation or prayer. Schedule 5-15 minutes before your morning routine to clear your mind.
6. Focus on eating healthy meals at least twice a day. Fruit smoothies, yogurt, nuts or raw veggies should be a daily goal.
7. Do your best to keep everybody on a regular sleep schedule.
8. Be prepared to say, "No." We can't do everything and please everyone.
9. Be flexible. Plan, relax, execute, flex. (P.R.E.F.) Notice "relax" is step number 2. Try it.
10. Smile--even at strangers. It goes a long way.

Chicken and Rice Mexican Soup

If you're sick of turkey leftovers, this chicken and rice soup is a delicious, comfort dish that is low in fat and good for you. If you're not sick of turkey, by all means, substitute your leftover turkey meat and no one will ever know.

The Balanced Writer's Chicken and Rice Mexican Soup

1 single serving can (11.5 ounces) of V8 Juice

1 can of black beans (Do not drain.)

1 can of Rotel tomatoes with chilies

1 can of chicken broth

1 cup of corn

1/4 cup of instant brown rice

1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken or 1 can of chicken breast chunks

1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon of onion powder

1/2 teaspoon of cumin 

1/2 teaspoon of dried cilantro or fresh chopped cilantro to taste

Bring all ingredients to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer 10 minutes. Stir occasionally. Serve with cheese, plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and chopped avocado. Serves 4-6.