Five sourdough bagels, one for each year!

There is still SO much to learn (more than just photography!), and I’m beyond thankful for the Mastermind Group I joined this year. Getting on frequent Zoom meetings with a bunch of like-minded foodies has transformed the way I do things now. We finally met in person earlier this month with a retreat in Nashville. SO MUCH FUN!

Mike’s List!

Mike put together his top six reads of the year. He’s definitely into self-help and leadership books, and even takes notes on the ones he reads. Oh yea, he’s a FIVE on the enneagram!

February – “normal” life

While we were hearing more and more about this strange virus, we moved on with life – bike riding on warm weekends and wedding planning with Josh and Tiffany.

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Socially-distanced coffees are a thing. Okay, so maybe the girls and I don’t just stick to coffee. Sometimes we test margaritas, muffins, scones, etc. After a few weeks of going nowhere, seeing no-one, and going a little craycray, I finally started gathering a few friends who were willing to hang out in the back yard, 6 feet apart. This was a lifesaver for me, because girlfriends are life during stress. Thank you, Julie and Lisa, for being my therapists! And then eventually Cathy came to play.

May – surgeries resume

After our trip to Hawaii in January of this year, we learned that Mike’s cancer was back. He had another spot on his liver, his third recurrence there after his initial colon surgery back in 2007. When we talked to his oncologist, we were in the middle of shut-downs and his doc said that his surgery was considered non-essential at the time. The hospital was prepping for an onslaught of COVID cases, and the only surgeries they were doing were emergency, life-saving ones.

Mike’s cancer is, thankfully, a slow-growing carcinoid cancer, but the only treatment option is surgery. So while waiting was rather mind-blowing, we had to wait, knowing that the tumor would be slowly growing inside him. From March to May we waited, and then as soon as things started opening up, surgery was scheduled. Mike had two lobes (or 1/4) of his liver removed, and I couldn’t be with him. Dropping him off at the hospital was painful for both of us. (And you can see the orange envelop on Mike’s bed (below), where I wrote Dr. Gogel a personal letter, giving him “advice” on how to take care of my guy.)

We are relieved to share that the margins were good, and he is in remission once again. In typical Mike style, he had surgery on a Friday and was back to work (from home) the following Monday. He was also soon doing his morning Peloton work-outs, and working his magic in our back yard. God is good.

Our poor pup tore his ACL in May, after jumping off of the couch (we think), his favorite place to nap during the day. After deciding that being a 3-legged pup was no fun, Theo had surgery to replace the ACL in his left knee. It was a difficult recovery for him, but he made it through. We’re happy to report that he’s his happy self again, despite the occasional limp. Theo turned 10 years old at the end of September.

August – wedding bells

Like so many other couples, Josh and Tiffany were forced to postpone their April wedding to the end of August. The journey was tearful and frustrating, watching the shutdowns and wondering if they would even get to move forward in August. As we got closer to go-time, it was also hard knowing that most of our family wouldn’t be making the long trip to celebrate with us. We have siblings all over the country, and while they had originally planned to attend, COVID put a stop to that.

So thankful for Mike’s dad and his wife for making the trip, and also for many good friends who showed up for us. If you are reading this, know that your presence was so appreciated. You have no idea how much.

September & October – socially distanced trips

It was SO nice to finally get away in mid-September, the first time going anywhere since Hawaii in January. We joined some good friends at an Oklahoma lake and did lots of boating, skiing, eating, drinking, story-telling, and laughing! It was also nice to enjoy some cool weather.

BTW, that is Mike showing off his slalom skills on the ski he used as a teenager. He’s still got that swag!

I took my first flight (during the pandemic) in late September to see my Dad, who lives in a nursing home in Iowa. My five siblings joined me and we were lucky enough to stay at my sister and brother-in-law’s farm. Dad was allowed outside visits and we loved seeing him after way too long. It was also SO nice to spend time with my siblings as we currently live in six different states! {Selfie by my sister, Jackie!}

It was a great time to be in Iowa. Fall colors and Dana was harvesting the beans.

We also took a little trip to Austin in early October to spend some family time. Zach and Kirsten are studying at UT, and Josh and Tiffany (and Luca!) joined us too. We hit up the breweries (pictured at Zilker Brewery here), ate some yummy food (LOVE the food trucks!), and spent time at our Airbnb playing cards.

Mike and I also did our biking thing. We hauled our own bikes down this time, and loved exploring the area. Barton Springs was one of our favorite adventures this time, and I’m pictured below, swimming in the chilly 68 degree water. COLD but so refreshing!

November – a family emergency

My sweet niece, Stephani, was hospitalized in the Minneapolis, MN area, with bacterial meningitis in mid-November. The infection caused a vegetation on her mitral heart valve, and she eventually was cleared for surgery to replace the valve. Stephani spent three weeks ALONE in the hospital (again, due to COVID restrictions in the hospital), fighting for her life, while her family and friends prayed from afar.

We are beyond grateful that Steph is home recovering with her husband and sweet baby girl. She is indeed a miracle. Thank you to all my personal prayer warriors, for your prayers and support.

December – counting blessings

While life has been difficult at times this year, we are grateful for the gifts we have been given. Mostly, we are blessed with amazing family and friends, many who have also walked a difficult journey.

We are looking forward to a better year ahead. Hopeful that vaccinations will help minimize the virus, that a new administration will implement a better strategy, and that our loved ones (and every one of you) stay safe.

Cheers to you all, who continue to join me on this blogging journey. Thank you for trying my recipes, writing reviews, commenting, sharing, and showing up. YOU are appreciated so very much.

P.S. – on the side

In the kitchen!

My frustrations were poured into the blog in 2020! I was a cooking/baking maniac, especially over the summer months when I’m usually traveling and planning fun outings. Sourdough was definitely a thing for me, and I’m proud to say I’ve mastered the crusty loaf. Avocado toast is one of our favorite things, and adding the sourdough was the “icing on the cake”, so to speak!

Sourdough is a process, but once you learn it, it’s easy. When I can, I’ll be documenting how to make a starter and growing it into a real live thing, as well as recipes! I named mine Gertie, and she is thriving in between occasional naps in the fridge.

In my mind.

Books? Yes please. I’ve really taken the time to read this year. The best thing for my mental health has been to turn OFF the news and either listen to music, a “crime junkie” podcast, or sit down and read a book. (I also love listening to books on Audible.) There is nothing better, especially when you find a good read that you can’t put down.

Below is a stack of some of the books I’ve read this year.

On the Peloton.

In addition to biking outside, I’ve fallen in love with the Peloton. Ok let me rephrase that. I love to hate the Peloton! This machine is a beast, but I do love the work-outs, the instructors, the community, and how it makes me feel when I’m done – sweaty (like dripping), accomplished, and ready to tackle the day. Canceling our gym membership and riding the Peloton is just 2020 smart. Do it if you are able!

On the couch.

I LOVE couch time at night after a busy day in the kitchen. When I can convince Mike to watch a good Netflix Show, there is nothing better than to curl up with a blanket and a cup of something warm. We recently watched The Queen’s Gambit, and it was REMARKABLE. Watch it if you haven’t, and let me know what your favorite shows are, please!

Good riddance 2020. Here we come 2021!

While 2020 will always be a year to remember in so many ways, it was a season of knuckles to the grindstone for me. This little blog of mine has not only kept my hands busy in the kitchen and on the keyboard, but it’s kept my mind occupied while so much in the world seems out of control.

Anxiety has always been a thing for me, and I’ve been known to have a panic attack now and then. But I have to say, the blog “saved my life” in the midst of the pandemic. I probably spent more hours developing recipes and cooking, photographing, and writing – than ever before. Muting out the noise around me was paramount for my mental health.

2020 – you have challenged me!

My four year anniversary brings forth so many emotions. But mostly good ones. I’m so thankful for all of you for reading along with me, and perhaps trying a recipe or two. Thank you!

Cheers to my hubby, aka chief food critic, cheerleader, psychologist, and back-up photographer!

Here are a few of the latest happenings around the blog.

1. I’m cooking in a brand-new kitchen.

Some of you know that we did a huge remodel last fall, and I FINALLY shared it on the blog last month after many requests. I’m so happy you are interested, and if you follow me on my insta stories, I share a lot of glimpses of everything happening in my kitchen – from cooking to happy hour to chasing Theo around the island. I love everything about our new space, and it’s definitely my favorite room in our house.

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2. My side hustle has been monetized.

Woohoo! After a little over two years of blogging, this side hustle has actually changed from a cost center to an income center for our fam. Now let’s be real. I’m not buying cars or paying college tuition yet, but I AM adding to our household income with some extra cash to spend. So if you see some advertisement while scrolling, that is what’s currently fueling my blog so I can continue to bring YOU more recipes to enjoy. Keep reading along, friends!

Mediavine is the ad agency I’m with, and they’ve been so great. Not only are they easy to work with, but these folks are also really giving too. After my mom passed away in April, I sent them a quick message regarding omitting ads on the tribute post I wrote, and they sent flowers to our house THAT VERY DAY. I was simply floored! Mediavine, I love ya.

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3. SueBee Homemaker is on YouTube!

Gosh, that sounds weird. I’m on YouTube. Ha! So it turns out that food bloggers make videos for YouTube, and I finally did it. My sweet future daughter-in-law, Tiffany, is my producer, and we’re a good team. Our goal is to share one new video on YouTube a week, and we’re filming about three videos at a time whenever our schedules allow for it. We share lots of laughs, especially during my many goof-ups, spills, or “slips of the tongue”! In other words, bloopers are just a natural occurrence.

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4. I was recently interviewed on a podcast.

As y’all know, podcasts are a thing now. Like a HUGE thing. I’m a loyal listener to many of them, which is perfect for my hours of kitchen time. Instead of watching Young and The Restless (I watched that craziness for years!) or the latest talk show, I’m spending hours listening to so many podcasts.

So I was pretty pumped when Elaine from Dishing with Delishes wanted to interview me on her food blogging podcast. We had a great chat, talking about how I started blogging, what equipment I use, what my top recipe is, and so many other things. Please take a listen and let me know what you think!

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5. I’m headed to my first-ever blogging conference.

There are many blogging conferences that take place every year throughout the U.S. I was originally scheduled to go to a food blogging conference in 2018, but my foot issues, unfortunately, sidelined me from attending. When I heard about MVCON19 (a conference held by my ad agency) being held in Austin, TX (just three hours south of us), I signed up. The bonus is that 1) my husband is going with me, and 2) Zach, our youngest, is close by at UT Austin!

While I’m a little nervous to attend with so many talented entrepreneurs, I’m excited too. I’ve heard tons of good things about conferences, and I’m ready to take this little blog to the next level and to serve my readers better.

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THANK YOU!

From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for reading along on this journey, for trying my recipes, for leaving reviews and feedback, for spreading the word, and for being you. Y’all make my world brighter, and I hope I do the same for you.

High School Sweethearts

As many of you know, Mike and I are high school sweethearts, meeting in the 3rd grade when he moved to town. We had secret crushes (well, mine was secret anyway) on each other for most of our years that we’d known one another. He lived next door to my cousins, and so we were often together as kids playing flashlight tag and kick-the-can. I was a tomboy through most of my school years, and remember playing kickball against him in middle school, all the while crushing.

We started dating after Mike turned 16, and could pick me up in his old Monte Carlo. The car wasn’t much, but it was squeaky clean for every date and he was prompt to pick me up within the minute. We usually went out for pizza at Godfather’s Pizza, followed by a vanilla cone at McDonalds, before heading to one of our homes to “watch TV” (aka… make-out). Sorry Dad! Mike remembers my mom standing at the top of the steps to our basement announcing that I had to play the organ at early church, and that he should go home now.

Marriage at 22

We both headed to Ames, IA, after high school to attend Iowa State University. Go CYCLONES! It’s hard to believe that we stayed together during that time, but we survived the trials and tribulations of college life. We were married the month after graduation.

June 24, 1989. We were still practically babies, but we started our lives together. I often think about how naive we both were. Two kids growing up in small town Iowa, ready to face the world. We had no idea what was in store for us, but that is called life.

We’ve faced heartbreak and loss, pain and setbacks, but also more love and joy than we ever thought possible. Above all, we’re best friends who love nothing more than to spend time together.

Early Life Together and Kids

We started out in the St. Paul, MN area, moved to Chicago for a little over a year, and then headed to the Dallas, TX, area in 1993. We are now proudly Texan, and have lived here for almost 26 years. We’ve slowly adjusted to the hot summers, and both declare that we can tolerate the heat better than the snow and cold up north. Having a backyard pool helps, but still – it’s hot.

Mike and I were blessed with two boys, Josh in 1996 and Zach in 1999. Raising them was a joy and a challenge all at the same time. They have filled our home with so much love, and even more noise than we could imagine. Josh has recently flown the nest, while Zach will be a sophomore in college. They are good boys, and we are grateful.

The Empty Nest

While the nest isn’t QUITE empty year-around yet, it’s definitely looming. Early on in our lives with kids, we rarely left them. Date nights included two young boys – yes, we know…not smart. But now we’re super happy about date night, party of two, EVERY night. Haha.

Here’s how we like to spend our time together now.

• Traveling. We absolutely love to travel, and we were on a roll (Europe, Hawaii, Napa, NYC, etc.) until my foot started misbehaving again. But we’re figuring it out, one step at a time.
• Trying new restaurants. Surprise! We’re foodies, of course, and we love trying new fun places. Mike has a list of all the restaurants we’ve tried so far in 2019, and we aim to keep adding to it. Feel free to give us a suggestion or two, if you live in the Dallas area.
• Hitting up a brewery. Yes, beer! We love our craft beer, and are slowly learning to be more adventurous. I even occasionally try the hoppy beer. It’s growing on me.
• Theatre – We’ve been on a roll lately with broadway shows, including Hamilton, Hair Spray, and Chicago. We’re heading back to NYC soon (like 5 days!) to do a little broadway stint there too. Can’t wait!
• Riding bikes. We love our little Texas country rides and then stopping for coffee or brunch along the way. Our long-term goal, however, is to bike in every state. So far, we’ve got about 12 checked off the list. Time to get biking!
• Cooking at home. I do most of the cooking, but Mike can grill up a mean piece of meat. We work pretty well together, and he is an excellent taste-tester and dish washer.
• Sitting outside for happy hour. We are winos, and there is nothing better than hanging outside together on our deck in the summertime, admiring Mike’s beautiful yard. He has the greenest thumb! During the colder months, we sit in our comfy rocking chairs in the sunroom. Yup, we’re old.
• Couch time. We don’t watch a ton of TV by any means, but enjoy a good Netflix series now and then, along with a little making out.  Breaking Bad is probably our #1 so far. Got ideas? Do tell!
• Podcast discussions. Yup, all you ladies be jealous. My man likes to listen to all kinds of podcasts, of which many are self-help. He got me going on them, and now I can’t stop! I mean, all this info to make us smarter people…for FREE! And now, I’ve got this hubby who likes to talk about feelings and goals and dreams and love and passion. My dreams have come true. For real.

Happy 30th anniversary, honey. You make me soooooooooo happy!

xoxo ~Sue

After a week of mourning the loss and celebrating the life of my dear mother, I’m sitting here looking at all of the photos of her, and smiling through tears at the wonderful flood of emotions I’m feeling. What a beautiful life she lived.

Mom passed away on Holy Thursday, April 18, 2019, from complications of Alzheimers, a cruel disease that slowly took her away from us. We are sad, but we know that she is now fully restored, and free of pain and confusion.

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Family was Mom’s #1 priority.

Norma Jean (Becker) Reding was born on June 15, 1937, the 9th of 14 children. She met Dad at a local dance, and the rest is history. They married in May of 1957, settled in St. Joe, Iowa, and proceeded to have six children – Lauri, Jackie, Dave, Shari, Sue (me), and Rob. Mom was a SAHM (stay-at-home-mom), and was the ultimate housewife and mother. I have vivid memories of her hanging the bedding outside on the clothesline, ironing everything we wore (even Dad’s “hankies”), cleaning our home twice weekly, making homemade casseroles to feed eight, mending our clothes, planning picnic lunches/family barbecues with relatives and friends, and making sure we were properly dressed and on-time for church.

Mom and Dad were married for almost 62 years. They were a traditional couple – Dad was self-employed and Mom took care of the house and kids. They loved each other up until the end, with Dad holding Mom’s hand as she took her final breath.

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Swaddled in Love

Over the years, Mom and Dad gained four son-in-laws and two daughter-in-laws, and then 15 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren (with one on the way). Grandchildren were so special to Mom, and even though her children moved far and wide, she and Dad were present to welcome each one of them to the world. Mom was a “baby whisperer’. She knew just how to rock them to sleep, and taught us new parents how to bathe, swaddle, and feed. I’ll never forget the trips to Dallas to meet their grandsons.

Family was everything to Mom. She gave all of herself to us, and she and Dad rushed to the side of their children whenever we needed them. There were sick babies, surgeries and illness, the death of their grandson, Ben, and other emergencies. They traveled for fun too – new houses to settle into, grandchildren’s birthdays, ballgames, and activities, and just because. Mom and Dad loved coming to visit us in Texas, and when I was still working, I’d come home to a kitchen full of homemade breads, rolls, and cookies. Let’s just say the boys were over the moon! Josh told me recently, “I’ll always remember her little quirks, like always making sure I was full.”

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Norma Jean’s Kitchen

This blog is dedicated to Mom, aka Norma Jean’s Kitchen. The kitchen was indeed her happy place, and we spent countless hours with her, scouring cookbooks for certain recipes, baking bread and cookies (along with full meals), and just having coffee at her kitchen bar. I’ve shared many of her recipes on here, most of them being her wonderful baked goods. I have so many favorites, but the collage above is pretty representative of Mom’s baking.

Mom’s love language was definitely food, and she gave away more than she kept at home to consume. When she baked bread and rolls, she made double batches so that we could deliver to the neighbors and the priests that lived across the street. Her freezer was always stocked with extras for when her grown children came home for a visit, or for the many drop-in friends and family. When people dropped in, a pot of coffee was brewed, and a few cookie balls were taken from the freezer and baked fresh. She was known for her hospitality, and she did it so well.

For the 56 years that Mom and Dad lived in St. Joe (in our childhood home), they played an active part in their parish community. Mom was often the head of her church group, parish dinner, or the monthly coffee and rolls after Sunday mass. She sang in the choir, distributed communion, and was a lector for weekend services. When volunteers were needed, Norma Jean was usually first in line.

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A “green thumb”

Norma Jean had the greenest of thumbs! She loved tending both her beautiful flower garden and vegetable gardens. Summertime was an exceptional time of year, and she shared her bounty of fresh garden produce with her friends and neighbors. Fresh lettuce, onions, radishes, beets, carrots, green beans, rhubarb, potatoes, cucumbers, and tomatoes GALORE! Dad got his fair share and then some, and Mom made sure his lettuce and cucumber salads had an excessive amount of vinegar and onions, just like he wanted. I can picture her now, bent over in the garden getting every ripe veggie, bringing them into her kitchen, and then working her magic. Gosh, what I would give for another glimpse.

In the early years at the nursing home, Mom tended to the flowers on the deck, deadheading to the nth degree (and occasionally removing flowers instead of brown leaves). Eventually, that faded along with so many other things.

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Homemade Quilts and Potholders

Mom was lucky to be near to so many of her siblings. She loved her “sister time” (and sister-in-law time) – playing cards, sewing quilts, and cooking and baking together. All of us kids have a couple of her homemade quilts, and she made each of her grandchildren a special baby quilt at birth and a larger one for their high school graduation. Potholders were her specialty, and she gave many of those to her kids, grandkids, and other friends and family who happened to stop by.

When Mom started needing care her family showed up often, and we are beyond grateful for them.

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Home Sweet Home

Mom and Dad took pristine care of their home and yard, and it was evident each time we visited. We made so many great memories there, and while the house was small, we continued to congregate there as our family grew in size. “I’ll be home for Christmas” took on new meaning each year, and I’m so happy that my boys experienced this joy along with their grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Moving Mom and Dad out of their forever home started a difficult journey. Dad was failing physically, while Mom was becoming more and more confused. They eventually needed full-time care, and we reluctantly moved them into Good Sam’s Nursing Home, where our older sister works. Lauri has been our saving grace, being there for Mom and Dad whenever needed and then some. Our family is so spread out, and navigating the waters of time and distance has been tricky, and far from perfect. During Mom’s final moments and over the past week, Lauri’s diligent attention to the details of the Visitation and Funeral services, and her compassionate consideration of our dad and all of us, have left us extremely thankful.

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Deeply loved. May she rest in peace.

Our childhood home stands across from the beautiful St. Joe church; the place we were baptized, where we attended weekly (and sometimes daily) mass, where some of us were married, and the building that grounds us still today. Mom’s funeral took place here, and she was laid to rest in the cemetery behind the church (where my sister recently took this photo). It’s the same place we played as kids – flashlight tag and sledding down the hill – and also, the same place our family circled on countless walks for exercise or just to stroll and view our small village from the hillside.

I feel peace when I look at this beautiful sunrise, with that church steeple that we know and love. Our mother is finally at peace, and so deeply loved.

What I’ve learned.

• About blogging. The world of blogging is pretty crazy and amazing and frustrating all at the same time. This year has been a year of growth for me. I’ve learned a crazy amount, and I still have so far to go. My ideas are abundant, but there is so much that is involved in creating a good recipe, and even more to share it in a meaningful and helpful way. I’m still learning every day, and hope to inspire others on this journey.
• About myself. My year has been an ongoing journey. I’ve struggled greatly with chronic pain this year, (and for over half of my life), but I’ve realized that I’m still building MY story. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes pain gets the best of me. But it hasn’t stopped me from going forward with my blog and enriching my relationships. I’m focusing on what I CAN do, and less on what I can’t. The compassion I’ve seen from my three boys (and from so many others) is nothing short of amazing, and for that, I’m beyond thankful.

The Blog.

As I continue to create and share new recipes with you, I can’t help but to look at the stats and notice what y’all enjoy eating AND drinking!

1. My momma’s Chewy French Bread continues to lead the pack of ALL recipes. That makes me pretty happy, and if she only knew how she has impacted so many. She’d be proud, as I am of her.
2. From the looks of it, all you really need is one good main course, three healthy sides, and a big helping of homemade ice cream. Yes, that’s YOU. Throw the pork shoulder in the oven all day, get the veggies going, and talk the kids into churning something sweet. I like it. I like it A LOT!
3. Boozy Cocktails…y’all like your beverages! Three of them made the list, and I’m in love with all of them. Cool and refreshing, and oh so pretty.

Here are my top nine recipes for year two!

1. Chewy French Bread
2. Strawberry Lemonade Vodka Slushies
3. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes
4. Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad
5. Slow Baked Pulled Pork
6. Pesto Vegetable Pasta
7. Classic Skinny Margaritas
8. Blackberry Peach Frozen Margaritas
9. Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream

A couple of other nerdy stats for my fellow geeks.

• My blog has grown in views by 350% over last year!
• In terms of geography, the U.S. makes up about 83% of my audience, while Canada holds about 7.5%, the UK and Australia at almost 2% each, and the remaining 5.5% spread among the remaining countries.
• Age-wise, the 25-34 range is my largest audience (hello Gen Y!), followed by 35-44, and then 55-64. My range gets skipped in order, go figure.
• As I guessed, women log in about 83% of the time, while men do about 17%. Women ROCK! But ok ok, men do too.

Want to know what I make most at my home? (None of these are in my top nine!)

• Mike is a huge fan of my Peanut Butter Power Balls and my Cinnamon Nut Granola, so I make sure we NEVER run out of these. NEVER.
• We make daily smoothies at home almost year-long. It all started with my Orange Julius Smoothies and has continued to so many other varieties.
• Our passion for seafood has prompted two of our favs, specifically my Skillet Blackened Tilapia and my Baked Asian Salmon in Foil. So dang good every time! I even keep a large batch of the blackening seasoning in a mason jar.
• We’ve always made a ton of chicken, so my Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls are a no-brainer. The marinade has its own recipe now, because we use it for steak too, and make it often.
• For soups, it’s a huge toss-up between my Creamy Wild Rice Soup and my Chicken Tortilla Soup. I LOVE soup season and am constantly whipping up a huge pot of something hearty and filling.
• We also roast a ton of veggies, and my current go-to is my Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. You shave the Brussels sprouts very thin, and then mix it with a small amount of crispy bacon. Perfection.
• Lastly, my Creamy Mushroom Risotto is a clear fav. I personally think it’s a show stopper, which is great for when company is over for dinner.
• Looks like I almost skipped the SWEETS! I’m currently in pumpkin mode, but I’m also a scone girl. My Maple Oat Pecan Scones are Mike’s favorite and Zach prefers my Petite Vanilla Bean Scones. I love them both!

Can we chat?

1. Blogging can be a lonely gig, and while I love it most of the time, I’d love it more if we could chat. If you don’t mind, and if you’ve ever made one of my recipes (or even tasted it), could you scroll down to the bottom of that post and give me a review? Please? And then I’ll comment back. We can chat.
2. I’d love your feedback. What do you enjoy most about my blog? Do you have any suggestions, changes, additions, etc.? What kinds of recipes are you looking for? More cocktails? Healthy dishes? Pumpkin anyone?

And lastly, I want to thank you.

Thank you, each and every one of you, who have ever googled a recipe at suebeehomemaker.com, signed up for my email updates, or followed me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, etc. Thanks for sharing my blog with your friends and family, co-workers, church acquaintances, and neighbors.

It is my goal to connect with all of you while sharing with you all the comforts of a home-cooked meal. Food is more than nourishment. It paves a way to gather with those you love and to share good conversations around your table. It is my hope that you build relationships through food.

xoxo ~Sue

P.S. Remodel Update! As many of you know, our kitchen and family room are getting a major facelift. Demo started in early September, and we now have a new ceiling in the kitchen, beautiful new cabinets and beams in both rooms, booth seating in our kitchen nook, and so many other little things. It’s exciting to watch it all happen, and we are beyond ready to move out of the little man cave we are calling our office, TV room, and kitchen. Lots more work is ahead, but it’s going to be so amazing. I’ll share all of it with you in the upcoming months.

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p r o u d

This guy. He ran his 2nd marathon in June. The same one (Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, MN) 20 years apart, and get this. He slashed 20 MINUTES off of his time, running this year’s marathon in 3:34, ALMOST qualifying for Boston. Is it possible to age backwards? For real? Maybe a second Benjamin Button in the works here.

Oh, and it gets better. Both of his brothers ran it too! Afterward, the three amigos dipped their toes in CHILLY Lake Superior and posed for a few pics. Then the three of them hobbled, limped, and almost crawled to the hotel.

I know what you’re thinking. Did they cross the finish line arm in arm?

No. They did not. But they ALL finished. And they all drank beer afterwards. Mug to mug.

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n o s t a l g i c

Here they are. All grown up.

Josh and Tiffany are back at TTU for their senior year. Yes, college – not high school. EEP. Did I miss something here? Because the last three years are a blur to me.

Josh is actually graduating in December, a semester early, and then Tiffany will graduate in May. So they will be “long-distance dating”, which might be tough on these two kids millennials.

I know that BIG things are in store for Josh and Tiff.

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e m o t i o n a l

Send help! My baby is about to start college.

ALL the emotions lately, and more. My eyes are leaking.

We dropped this kid off at UTSA on Saturday, and the empty nest is now feeling VERY…empty. I know Zach will do great, especially without momma bird hovering, reminding, waking, reminding, and hovering. Repeat.

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f r u s t r a t e d

I’m not gonna lie. The past nine months have been THE HARDEST. Chronic pain is no joke.

Some of you might have read my foot story back in February.

A quick update.

• My foot doc sent me to a pain doc. (I had a PRP – platelet rich plasma – injection in my left foot, and it still hasn’t healed.)
• Pain doc sent me to PT. (Starts this week, oh joy.)
• Repeat MRI scheduled for late Sept.

Thank God for my family and friends, for my new love/hate relationship with swimming, my sweet puppy, Kroger Click-List, athletic tape, my knee scooter, my kitchen roll-y chair, and the BLOG.

Oh, and books.

And WINE, margs, and mules.

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e x c i t e d

What??!! A FIXER-UPPER at MY house??

YES. We’re gutting the kitchen and family room, and starting over. We’ve been working with a designer this summer to create a brand-spanking new kitchen and a family room with zero wainscoating. Halleluia! I’m over the moon about it, and I can’t wait to show y’all what we’re doing.

It’s gonna be so great. Minus the three months of living in construction dust with no kitchen.

If y’all would like to invite us over for dinner sometime, we’re free Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, starting September 4 through mid to late November!

BTW, the slab above will be our kitchen island. Andra (our designer) gave it the once over, and I gave it a big thumbs up!

My Pinterest Board is called “Dream Kitchen”, for those who want to follow it, amidst my many many many food boards. But hey. What good is a Dream Kitchen without food inspo?

P.S. I’ll be documenting the remodel on my Instagram Stories if you’d like to follow along. Get ready for a HUGE mess.

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h u n g r y

People often ask me why I’m not a larger person because all I do is cook. For real!

I tend to cook pretty healthily overall. Balance is key to me, so I do splurge every once in a while with a cookie or a cupcake. I eat chocolate nearly every day (these!) and can’t resist the scones that I bake. They are my absolute fav.

The honey roasted nuts above are sort of addicting, and I’ve made a few batches lately. Stay tuned for the recipe this fall!

Did I tell you how much I LOVE blogging?

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t h i r s t y

I love me some pretty cocktails. Ok, taste is important too!

This one is actually my Strawberry Mexican Mule, but in a glass instead of a mug. I love creating new cocktails. Drinking them is bonus, especially if I have a fellow tester. That’s why most of my recipes are for TWO, not one.

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r e m i n i s c e n t

We just returned from a week in Colorado. My sweet nephew married his lovely lady in a beautiful outdoor wedding, and most of my family congregated. Pictured above is:

• Aaron and Sally, the sweetest newly married couple!
• The four of us, plus Zach’s girlfriend, Kirsten. Josh’s girlfriend (Tiffany) wasn’t able to make it this time.
• Me and my siblings, in order of age (or wisdom?). It was so nice to see everyone, and my sister, Jackie, is the BEST hostess!

While Josh golfed, and Zach and Kirsten hiked and checked out the Boulder scene, Mike and I stuck to our usual. Lots of coffee and lots of biking.

We biked on two different mornings and burned some serious calories both times (AND my foot held up both times). However, they were FAR different rides.

1. The first ride was on rental bikes from the hotel. We pedaled from Broomfield to Pearl Street in Boulder, a round trip of 26 miles. The trickiest part was the uphill climb on the trail next to I36. It took forever, and if it wasn’t for my SuperMan who literally pushed me up the hill (with his hand on my back), I might still be on the side of the road. The elevation was definitely a factor for me, and I sounded like a freight train.
2. The second ride was on my sister and bro-in-law’s mountain bikes. We hit the Dirty Bismark Trail that began in back of their house, and after 15 miles (over two hours) and bunch of swear words (and a few tears) by yours truly, we made it. Parts of the trails were full of LARGE rocks, and probably a bit higher level than this old body can take. Mike took them like a champ. Go figure!

We love Colorado, and we’ll definitely be back!

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l o v e d

We always get back here, don’t we? The guy who does it all.

I’ve had some rough foot days lately, and he’s always there with a hug and a shoulder rub. This picture was taken on our 29th wedding anniversary, and he planned a sweet night out for us.

So thankful for him.

This post has been on my mind for the past several weeks. I’ve been hesitant, because it’s a lot, and I dislike talking about my feet. In fact, I’d rather walk over hot coals than to admit that my current circumstances have completely overwhelmed me. But I’ve decided that if I can help anyone going through any kind of pain or depression, it’s worth it.

My Foot History

When I was 23, newly married and an avid runner, I suddenly developed terrible foot pain. I was super focused on staying fit and trim, and my acute pain led to a panic like no other, and a search for relief. I went from foot doctor to orthopedic to physical therapy. I bought numerous shoes, orthotics, foot wraps and cushions. Fortunately, my diagnosis of plantar fasciitis was most likely correct, and my pain slowly got better.  However, I was never able to go back to running and instead stuck to biking and other low-impact exercise.

I began speed walking after the boys were born, and I was beyond happy with a kid in the jog stroller, pounding the pavement and burning calories. When Zach was one (and I was 33), I had another severe injury to my feet. This time was different. Both feet were not only throbbing, they were burning and tingling. Once again, I was sidelined in pain, and began searching for a remedy. I saw podiatrists, orthopedics, massage therapists, yoga and meditational experts, neurologists, acupuncture specialists, and pain management clinics. Looking back now, my symptoms were more nerve related than anything else.

While the pain slowly got less intense, I still suffered after several years, and finally decided to have a Plantar Fasciotomy on my right foot (the worst one at the time). The minimally invasive surgery ended up sidelining me again, and it took me months before I returned to pre-surgery health. I told myself that surgery was a mistake, but over time, I healed to some extent. I had good days and bad days, and adjusted my life accordingly.

About five years ago, I began to have tingling pain in both feet that traveled up to my toes. It was painful, and caused me to seek a neurologist for help. Fortunately, the pain became largely controlled with the help of medication, and I was able to resume my “normal” activities after a couple of months.

Over the last several years, I had gotten to a point of less pain than I’d experienced since the boys were small. I was running errands with less pain, I was able to wear a small heal for special occasions, normal housework was more comfortable, and I could exercise (still low-impact) with minimal pain. We traveled to Hawaii twice in 2017, and I did several hikes, and survived (with less pain), making several checkmarks in the bucket list.

My food blogging started in October of 2016, and I found a new love. My days had clear direction, and while I shared recipe after recipe with my followers, I created new recipes for my family to try. I was most comfortable in my socks, standing in my kitchen on a padded mat, rotating between cooking, cleaning up, photographing, and then creating blog posts. Life was grand. I’d found my why, and I was loving every moment (well, except the clean-up).

Just over a year after my blog was launched, I had my most recent foot set-back. Right before Thanksgiving of 2017, I began having intense heel pain in my left foot, and moderate pain in my right. I immediately began my regimen of icing, stretching, resting, and so on. Finally, I decided to go to a new podiatrist for new perspective, who diagnosed me with plantar fasciitis, prescribed conservative treatment, and told me to walk more. After close to three months of trying to walk more (in crippling pain), two shots of cortisone, and custom orthotics that I can’t tolerate – the pain had worsened and I chose to use a knee scooter in the house, along with a rolling office chair in the kitchen.

What’s wrong with my feet and how does it feel?

First off, I have very long, narrow feet with an extremely high arch. Mike likes to say I have kid feet, or that God ran out when he got to that part of my body. Haha. So although there are other people with these characteristics, I have had repetitive injuries to them at no fault of my own. I was a runner, a walker, and have always been active. I played sports in high school, but have never done anything crazy, like run a marathon or climb Mount Everest. From the research I’ve done, people with high arches have less shock absorption and are more prone to plantar fasciitis.

Many doctors have told me I have plantar fasciitis, a condition that causes pain on the bottom of the heel. It occurs when the band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot becomes inflamed. However, I feel that I have nerve damage or impingement as well. My pain is different than the average case, and what I’m experiencing today feels like a combination of intense plantar fasciitis along with neuropathy. I feel throbbing, numbing, pins and needles. Sometimes it feels like I’m walking with a piece of glass in my foot. No matter how much I stretch or ice, the pain intensifies as the day goes on.

During the first two months of this most recent flare-up, I’ve tried the conservative PF treatment of cortisone shots, icing, stretching, and resting. The custom orthotics the doc had made are unbearable. But after too many REALLY bad pain days, I’ve had to listen more to my own body and walk less, not more. I’m also doing warm foot soaks with epsom salts followed by Essential Oils, using a TENS unit for blood flow, some icing, and tons of praying. So far, my pain hasn’t changed. In fact, I feel like it has worsened.

At my request, I recently had an MRI of both feet in search of some clarity. The results showed thickening in the plantar fascia, especially the left one which is the foot that hurts the most. There wasn’t anything else remarkable. My interpretation is that I DO have inflammation like typical PF cases, but I know there is something else going on. It just makes no sense that I’m still suffering so much.

Chronic Pain and Depression

Chronic pain is no laughing matter. It follows me everywhere, and rears it’s ugly head when I’m least expecting it. Over the years, I’ve had good days and bad days and everything in between. I’ve had to figure out ways to deal with the often times crippling pain, by planning ahead, asking for help, and often times, just saying no. Prayer is also a big part of my day.

When the kids were small, I dealt with terrible guilt about not being the kind of mom I wanted to be. Taking them to the park and not being able to chase them bothered me. Being unable to chaperone their school field trips killed me inside. Losing my patience over a silly matter that involved too much standing or walking kept me up at night. But do you know what? The only thing they remember about those times now is that I had a little red motorized scooter (for outside use only) that I used when pain was at it’s high. I think they thought it was cool!

Today’s chronic pain is still hard, but instead of me worrying about chasing them at the park, I’m asking them for help. Zach is my errand boy and stops at the grocery store whenever I ask him to. He’s returned gifts, picked up contacts, and taken Theo to the vet for me, among other things. Josh is my college boy who helped me immensely over Christmas break, and is now calling me often just to chat. I have sweet sweet boys who I love dearly.

It’s hard to admit to being depressed. That’s what happens with pain and being homebound for three months. I haven’t been to a store, shopped for my own groceries, or done anything beyond dinner out and doctor appointments. I’ve also made it to the gym to swim, and lately have relied on my knee scooter to get to the pool.

Coping

My family and friends have been unbelievable. Amidst the tears and sadness, the people in my life have really stepped up.

1. My guy. Mike really IS the best husband ever. He is by my side daily and helps me in SO many ways, including household chores, errands, and just everything and anything. But mostly, he is my rock. He’s supportive when the tears come, but reminds me that there is a meaning in all of this. Suffering is part of life and he encourages me to make it count for something. I know it’s hard on him too. Our dreams of traveling the world have been put on pause. The easy life routines have become difficult, and it’s hard to watch someone you love suffer. I’ve bragged a lot about the amazing person Mike is. But he is passing the test of “for better or worse” with flying colors, and he is showing our boys what true love means. He has made the simple act of getting out of bed so worth it.
2. Our boys. Josh and Zach have both been amazingly sweet. They have had to step up their chore game to help me, and both have been generous with hugs and phone calls (now that Josh is back at TTU). It’s never fun seeing your mom cry, and they really get it.
3. My siblings. I’m lucky to have three sisters and two brothers, and while their lives are busy and we are in six different states (yes, that’s crazy), they’ve reached out often (well, maybe not the boys but I know they love me anyway). I’ve shed some serious long distance tears, and I’m glad that technology has allowed for virtual hugs and encouraging words.
4. My friends. I have the kindest, most generous girlfriends. I’ve had a swarm of visitors, bringing me coffee, lunch, dinner for the fam, and wine. These girls have seen me at my low, through tears of pain and tears for the unknown. The days have gotten long at times, and I’m grateful for every single amazing friend and every single prayer being offered up for me.

How to help someone struggling with chronic pain

Life is hectic, and everyone has their own crazy schedules. But if there is one thing I’d suggest to you, is to act. Instead of saying, “Please let me know what I can do for you,” say “I’m bringing lunch to you tomorrow.” When you are out shopping, call your friend and say, “I’m at the grocery store. What do you need?” If you sense that someone close to you is depressed, stop by and just be there for them.

Being a care giver isn’t easy, that’s for sure. But I’m an awful patient, and I’d much rather be the one helping instead of accepting help. I’ve had to swallow my pride, and say yes to help.

My Food Blog

One thing that hasn’t really changed that much is that I’m still creating, cooking, styling, photographing, and blogging new recipes. I’ve slowed down my pace considerably and my days look much different, but I’m moving forward. The creativity is so important for my brain, and I CAN do it. I’m using a chair to assist me, and as long as my family needs to eat, I’ll continue to create!

My recipes are made out of love. Nourishing and treating my family is my number one goal, and I really enjoy creating. This blog IS part of me now. I hope you will continue to follow along on my journey as it evolves, and I will keep you posted on my struggle to heal.

Almost every year for the last 15, I’ve hosted a Christmas Party of some kind. Sometimes I invite a bunch of girls over, other times I invite couples, and a few years, I’ve just invited a small group of girls – aka my coffee friends (THESE gals). It depends on what’s going on, or how much stress I can manage that year. Because let’s be real. Christmas stress is a THING.

THIS year has been extremely stressful for me. I’ve had chronic foot pain since I was 23 years old, acting up whenever it feels like aggravating me. I guess I’ve been overdoing it lately – too many hours of standing in my kitchen in my socks and not taking care of my situation, which is different than most. The stress is coming from the fact that it is difficult to walk right now. Yes. It hurts to walk. And stand.

So when I told the “coffee girls” that I wasn’t going to be able to host this year, Julie came to my rescue. She’s one in a million! I’ve known her the longest, as she was our back alley neighbor at our old house. We met one night when our colicky newborn, Zach, was non-stop screaming while I paced with him outside. Needless to say, I probably startled Julie’s family into coming over to see what the “fuss” was all about.

I’ve known the other special ladies since our oldest started elementary school. Cathy’s family had just moved in next door, and they still live there, thankfully. Terry, Lisa, and Cathy all had kids in the same first-grade class with our oldest, Josh, and we moms hit it off from the get-go. It wasn’t long and we were meeting for coffee almost weekly (often juggling part-time work schedules), discussing everything under the sun – from heartbreak and sadness to joy and celebration. Over the years, we’ve added a 6th lady to our coffees – Bailey(s) Irish Cream. Sorry, not sorry.

In addition to several other friends (and of course, my family), these ladies have been my rock for the last several years. During Mike’s cancer journey, our oldest son’s immune deficiency treatment, and any other day-to-day frustrations, they’ve been there for me. These four angels came to sit with me at Baylor Plano while Mike had his first surgery. They broke away from family obligations the day after Christmas to hold my hand and cry and pray with me while telling funny stories to distract me. They called to check on me a million times, helped me with the boys, and we met for coffee regularly as well.

While our family has had our challenges, the other girls have had their share as well. Other cancer journeys (yes, plural), back surgery, a brain aneurysm, the frustrations of parenting, and just life. It’s crazy to think of all that has happened over the last 15 years. You name it. We’ve had it.

So I wasn’t too surprised to see these ladies rally around me when I texted them regarding my foot flare-up. And I GLADLY agreed to let Julie host. Thank you, Julie, Cathy, Lisa, and Terry! Y’all are amazing friends.

Cathy made my Holiday Cranberry Apple Sangria recipe, and it was so good! I think I’ve got them all hooked on it now, and I’m hoping to see texts from them over Christmas with pics of their Sangria. (hint hint)

We also had quite the spread of food – pinwheels, crackers and cream cheese dip, corn dip and chips, Greek skewers, barbecue-style meatballs, pigs in a blanket wreath, and a festive pesto Christmas tree. Oh, and cookie trays with ALLLL the cookies!

YUM.

Julie disappeared in the middle of our laughs and appeared with the sweetest little Santa Hat Treats – aka jello shots! They were SO good, and we had a tiny bit TONS of fun devouring them. #headachesinthemaking

Keep scrolling!

What’s Christmas without a gift exchange? We all brought sweet little surprises for each other, and I loved it all.

I recently shared my White Chocolate Gingerbread Granola with you, and now you can see the recipients of my work. One for each of these special ladies, and they agreed to pose for me. CHEEEEESE!

I’m so very blessed to have found this group of girls. We NEVER run out of conversation and have solved many of the world’s problems, just FYI.

A big shout out to Curt, Julie’s sweet hubby, who took our group photos, and was most likely amused beyond belief. Good thing I didn’t share them ALL!

Aaaaand…after I got their permission to post our party, we all started joking about what movie star we wanted to resemble. So here we go. From left to right, we have Jennifer Aniston, Christy Brinkley, Scarlett Johansson, Cindy Brady (gotta match the pigtails), and Cindy Crawford.

Maybe we should have stopped with just one glass of Sangria. Or not.

Peace out, and Jingle All The Way!