This recipe is inspired by the Social dimension of wellness.
Social wellness is about relating . It's about attracting and maintaining long-lasting relationships. Further, it involves building healthy, nurturing, and supportive relationships as well as fostering a genuine connection with those around you by taking the time to listen and learn from others.
“Soup is a lot like family, each ingredient enhances the others; each batch has its own characteristics. And it needs time to simmer to reach full flavor.” - Marge Kennedy
I grew up in a small country town in Illinois with 3 siblings; I was the youngest with two sisters and one brother. We weren’t rich but lived quite comfortably in a beautiful ranch style home in a neighborhood where everyone cared for one another. We were raised with Christian values and continue to share them with others. My father was ill for most of my young life, and much of my mothers' attention was spent caring for him, so it was my siblings who watched over me. All three of them have their own unique characteristics and gifts that contributed to my upbringing.
“Our family, a circle of strength and love, founded on faith, joined by love, kept by God together forever.” - unknown
During this struggle, it was my oldest sister, Suzanne, who saw to it that I was cared for properly. By that time, Suzanne lived down the street from us with a family of her own. I was only 15 years old when my father died and quite troubled considering the circumstances. At that age, I really looked up to my sister, Suzanne, as she was and still is intelligent, honest, loving, and beautiful. She was the rock during that time, and I am forever grateful to her for loving and watching over me.
Next is my brother, Chuck, who shared the responsibility of watching over me. Our relationship was a bit different as Chuck was more like a friend to me but with brotherly love. Chuck and I shared my fathers' love for music - especially Pink Floyd. He loved fast cars and taught me how to drive stick shift. To this day, we share a special bond like no other. He is strong, kind, and loving and at a moments notice, he will drop everything to help someone.
Then there is my second sister, Penny, who is a bit closer in age to me - only 6 years apart. My relationship with Penny was also unique as I spent the most time with her. We had a summer home in Wisconsin where we spent a lot of time swimming, water skiing, and playing cards. Although she had a boyfriend and many friends at the time, she always took the time to play with me and let me tag along with her and her friends. She, too, is someone I admire and look up to. She is strong, resilient, beautiful, and oh so, sweet.
To this day, I cherish each one of my siblings, especially since both of our parents are gone. I love each of them deeply and appreciate all the special and unique gifts each one has contributed to our family. They are truly a blessing, and I couldn't feel more grateful to them for loving me!
Recipe of the Day: Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Homemade Croutons
INGREDIENTS
For the soup:
4 Tbsp of Unsalted Butter
6 cups of Broccoli Florets
1 Small Onion, diced
2 Cloves of Garlic, minced
4 Tbsp Flour
4 cups of Chicken Stock
1 cup of Heavy Cream
2 cups of Freshly Shredded Cheddar (8 oz block)
2 oz of Cream Cheese Softened at room temp
Salt and Pepper, to taste
For the croutons:
4 cups of Cubed Challah Bread
Couple Tbsp of Olive Oil
1 tsp All Purpose Seasoning
Pinch of Salt
About 1/4 cup of Freshly Grated Parmesan
INSTRUCTIONS
In a small soup pot, add the butter and allow it to melt. Add the broccoli, onion and garlic and saute for about 10 minutes. Then, stir in the flour until well incorporated. Add the stock and cream, bring to a simmer, and cook until the broccoli literally falls apart and the soup has thickened. Meanwhile, make croutons.
In a large bowl, toss all the ingredients for croutons together. Place in a single layer on a parchment paper lined baking sheet and pop in a 350 degree oven for 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Allow to cool while the soup finishes cooking.
Stir in the cream cheese, cheddar, salt and pepper until fully melted. Serve with croutons and enjoy!
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