Three Things....

Number 1) If you're friends of mine on Facebook, then you know that today, I went and "early voted."



I just find it easier with Luke to vote early with VERY FEW people around -- then, when Luke's jabbering and NOT sitting still while I'm voting, it's not quite such a big deal as during the general election day.

But, on a very good note -- Luke actually did wonderful for a two year-old while I was voting. He obeyed me each time though curiousity got the best of him when he saw the flag in the voting room (Luke really likes the American flag -- YAY!).

We had just been at McDonald's with our friends Andrea, Ava, and Marin. I purchased Luke his first Happy Meal (yes, it was his first). The "toy" was a Trick or Treat bucket with stickers. The bucket went into the courthouse with us, but he carried it in and out himself; therefore, I didn't mind.

Early voting truly is a wonderful invention. And, if you live in the same county in Kansas as we do, click HERE for early voting as well as November 2 voting information.

Remember -- we are VERY fortunate to live in a country where, as citizens, we have the opportunity to choose who are leaders are. Please -- go and vote!

Also, and I promise I won't make this too political -- there's A LOT going on in government right now. Some would say there needs to be change. Voting is the ONLY way that will happen.

*****

Number 2) Recently, Luke has really gotten into shoes. He's learning how to put shoes on. Because his shoes tend to be rather difficult to get on (they go on somewhat difficult), he LOVES to play with our shoes and socks. It's pretty funny when he puts our shoes on (especially Marc's) because they're SO huge on his feet.

First, from the other day -- Luke's attempt with my shoes.





Second, from last night -- Luke's attempt at Marc's shoes and socks. Luke entertained us for a good solid hour with these shoes, requiring a little bit of help, but NOT too much for a child who's just learning.









*****

Number 3) Yes, this post is once again getting long....

But, on Monday, I made THIS POST with the Friesen Meal Plan for this week....

My friend, Diana, in a comment, mentioned that she'd like to have the recipe for the Enchilada Casserole. Knowing she's probably not the only one who could benefit from it, here it is.

It's from a collection of Taste of Home recipes. I didn't actually get the recipe online, but whenever I try to find this specific recipe online, others pop up. In other words, I've been unsuccessful at finding it online, though I'm sure it's "out there" somewhere.

And, after reading through the recipe, scroll down to read my little "notes" on the recipe. And yes, overall, we enjoyed this recipe and would recommend it to others. Also, this recipe is meant to be divided into two parts -- one for eating and one for freezing. If you're serving a large group, just make it into one large pan.

Enchilada Casserole

1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
1 C. water
2-3 Tbsp. chili powder
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
2 C. Salsa (divided)
10 flour tortillas (8 inches), cut into 3/4-inch strips (divided)
1 C. (8 oz) sour cream
2 Cans (15 1/4 oz. each) whole kernal corn, drained
4 C. (16 oz.) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

1) In a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the water, chili powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes

2) Place 1/4 C. salsa each in two greased 8" square baking dishes. Layer each dish with a fourth of the tortillas and 1/4 C. salsa.

3) Divide the meat mixture, sour cream, and corn between the two casseroles. Top with remaining tortillas, salsa and cheese.

4) Cover and freeze one casserole for up to 1 month. Cover and bake second casserole at 350 degrees for 35 minutes. Uncover; bake 5-10 more minutes or until heated through.

**NOTE: Sarah's changes -- We really like cheese in this household. Therefore, I added cheese to the meat mixture so that there was cheese "in" the casserole as well as on top. Also, rather than layering corn, sour cream, and meat mixture, I mixed it all together. It was faster and easier.

Have fun, and enjoy!