Long Legs and Squishy Cheeks

Today marked my first weekend as a single mom for a few hours while The Husband went back to work. With two boys. And two hour sleep increments. He went into work two days this week which allowed J to go back to school (our church offers daycare for staff kids) for a few hours. So truly, my first two days sans The Husband also meant  I was sans a busy toddler. This weekend was reality if full swing.

:: pause for the 49er game ::

THANKFULLY, Rett had a good night. It's been a solid week now since these days of hell endurance training. He'll still have some random tummy fits, usually as the result of the daily hiccups, but honestly,  it's been so nice to get some chunks of sleep even though I am still on edge with every little grunt or bleat he lets out in the middle of the night.

:: STUPID Giants! ::

Overall, I think we did great (totally patting my own back). By the time family came over to watch this uber-frustrating 49er game, all 3 of us were showered/bathed, dressed, fed. The main rooms were vacuumed and crockpot nacho shredded chicken was simmering. High fives all around!

As I was getting both boys dressed, I totally found myself reminiscing of how little J used to be as I was putting Rett into an old outfit of his. I used to be able to hold him with one arm. I used to be able to rock him to sleep. I used to feed him. I used to give him a bath in the sink. I used to carry him in the car carrier. He used to have squishy cheeks!

And now?

He's in a full-on booster seat with his crazy long legs! I have to physically FOLD his laundry now since there is so much more material. I have to explain why he can't have five more graham crackers. I don't get to freely kiss his forehead without some kickback, a.k.a. toddler protest. I get to listen to him pray at night for every aunt, uncle, grandma and grandpa. Mama-tear moment? Oh my word yes.

::sigh::

At least I have these squishy cheeks to ease the pain ...

And for your Sunday enjoyment...a new recipe for October! Crockpot shredded chicken nachos...Here is an awesome option for your next 49er party...where they will actually win...UGH.
I found this recipe on the Pillsbury website and decided to modify it just slightly to top our nachos...

Crockpot Shredded Chicken Nachos

What you need:

2 lbs. frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 oz. Taco Seasoning
1 can (15 oz.) pinto beans, drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (4.5 oz) chopped green chilies
1/4 cup chicken stock
2 tablespoons lime juice

Directions:

Place the frozen chicken in your crockpot. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken breasts. Then cover the chicken with the beans, tomatoes, chilies, chicken stock and lime juice. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours or until chicken is thoroughly cooked and shreddable. Once ready, pull out the chicken and shred with two forks. Add the chicken back into the mixture and let simmer a few more minutes. Voila!

Add to nachos, burritos, tacos, quesadillas...Whatever your little heart desires!