Welcome 2021

 We made it! There were definitely days over the past year (well, really since March) I think some of us thought 2020 was going to drag on forever in some sort of nightmare loop. But alas, Christmas came and went, and the ball dropped at midnight as planned. I don't know if another year has ever been welcomed with such excitement and anticipation. Sure, not much has changed thus far, but a new year brings new possibility and hope at the end of a very long dark tunnel. 

Now is the time a lot of people make those resolutions. Like I've said before, it's not really my thing. In fact, I think it sets us up for failure and feelings of guilt when we lose sight of them. So instead, I simply try to make a conscious effort to be better than I was the year before, even if only in little ways. 

In 2021, I have decided to focus on two things in my daily life. The first one, is simply something we all need to work on every single day...being more kind. I would like to think I am a kind person, but if there is one thing this pandemic showed me is that every single one of us needs to put more kindness and empathy out into this world. There are so many that don't have an ounce of either it seems, that the rest of us must show a little extra. 

The next one was inspired by our pastor's sermon this week at church. Listening. I know I could improve on this and am truly going to try to make more of an effort. Mostly, I want to actively listen while my lips are sealed. Many times, my brain is working so fast, my ears seems to tune out. I realize I need to slow down and take more in. 

So that is how I am going to attempt to improve in this new year, even if just a little. What about you? Do you have a list of things you are striving for? Maybe eating better? Cooking more? Trying new foods? 

I thought this was a great dish for the first recipe of 2021 because of the dreaded mushrooms. Our family are big fungi fans, but I hear from so many fans who don't dig on them. Maybe this year could be when you give them another try. They certainly add some rich, earthly flavor to this delicious soup. But I guess if that is a no-go for you, you could omit them too! 

 I hope however you are entering 2021, it's healthy, safe and with love in your heart.

 Mushroom & Corn Chowder

1/4 c. butter

3 carrots, diced

3 celery stalks, diced

1 medium yellow onion, diced

8 oz. button mushrooms, sliced

2 garlic cloves, minced

10 baby gold potatoes, cubed, skin left on

 4 c. chicken broth

2 c. half and half 

2 (15 oz.) cans cream corn

1 TBS dried parsley

1 TBS cornstarch

1 TBS water

Salt and Pepper

Dried Chives

Bacon Bits

Shredded Cheese

 In a large stock pot, melt butter over medium heat. Saute' carrots, onions, celery and potatoes for 5 minutes. Add garlic and mushrooms. Saute' for 5 minutes more. Add broth, salt and pepper. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes until potatoes are tender. Add half and half, corn and parsley and stir well. Increase heat to medium-high. In a small bowl mix together cornstarch and water. Once soup is boiling again, add cornstarch mixture and stir well. Lower heat to simmer and cook for about 15 minutes until just slightly thick. Garnish with dried chives and serve with shredded cheese and bacon bits.

 

Shared at Weekend Potluck