ode to peppermint + a recipe

this past weekend was full of whirlwind excitement.  not really, but when i say it, sometimes it feels that way.  it was busy to say the least, but we definitely took advantage of the extra hour and got a few things accomplished.

the step father in law is now on the extended stay program at the hospital where he can receive much love and TLC.

we ate some super terrific pizza here, while playing in downtown fort worth. can i recommend the mediterranean thin crust pizza?  

after stuffing our faces, we continued our fat kid marathon with some amazing cupcakes.

we also tickled our funny bones with this cinema feature.  you've got to see it in 3D for full effect.  can i say i want a waffle bot for christmas?

i went on a small ode to peppermint craze, where i managed to find these. but it was actually Nabisco brand Oreos! and they were heavenly!

finalized our weekend with grocery shopping & football.  oh and taco soup! (recipe below)

Taco Soup

1.5 lbs extra lean ground beef - (I actually used ground turkey and it turned out amazing!)

1 can ranch style beans

1 can pinto beans with jalapenos

1 can hominy - (I didn't add this - neither of us are huge fans)

1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

1 can Rotel mild (use extra hot for a really spicy soup - that's what I did)

1 can whole kernel corn

1 package dry taco seasoning mix

1 package dry hidden valley ranch dressing mix

Directions

Brown ground beef (or turkey).  Drain.

Combine meat with remaining ingredients in a large pot.  (I used my crock pot for this)

*I also filled up the diced tomato can twice with water and poured in for more broth.

Simmer until flavors are well blended & hot.

Top with cheese and enjoy with tortilla chips.

Recipe can be doubled easily. 

Also freezes well!

The mister and I really love this soup.  I actually have another variation of taco soup, but I prefer the one above more because it was soupier than the previous. The previous one is actually a stoup, so if you want something stewier, then thats perfect for you.

What did you and your loved ones do this past weekend??

Only three days left in the Real Simple Magazine Subscription Giveaway!