Dad's Recovery and A Recipe from Mom

Last Thursday in Denver, Dave's dad had open heart surgery to replace his mitral valve.

While it hasn't been easy since then (is it ever easy the first days after major surgery?), he's making progress towards recovery and we're all so thankful for that.

The latest news this morning from Dave's sister is that he may get to go home today. Of course he still has weeks of recovery ahead of him, but at least it will be in the comfort of home, and eating mom's food!

If you've ever eaten a meal prepared by my mother-in-law, you know what a great cook she is! In our early years of marriage, when we lived down the street from them in St. Leon, Germany, I learned so much from her about cooking.

And I'm still making her recipes today!

One of her most comforting meals is Hamburger Chowder. I have made it countless times over the past years and every time it reminds me of her and her servant's heart to literally feed thousands over the years.

What a blessing that gift has been to so many.

Paired with this recipe for Carrot-Apple muffins (no kidding - very possibly the best ones I've ever made, and they're gluten free!), it was comforting to cook while thinking of, and praying for, mom and dad as they walk this road of recovery.

Want to enjoy mom's Hamburger Chowder too? Here's the recipe:

1 lb hamburger, browned
1 onion, chopped

3 cans chopped tomatoes
1 small can tomato paste
1 cup cubed potatoes
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup shredded cabbage (I think this is the secret ingredient!)
2 cups water
3 cubes beef bouillon
1 TB parsley
1-2 tsp seasoned salt (I use Lawry's)
Pepper to taste

After browning hamburger with the onion, add all other ingredients and let simmer for 1-2 hours. Serves approximately 8!