Dear 38-year-old Me

Hi.

This is you, from 10 years ago.

10 years ago you have a 4 year old and an almost 2 year old.  You stay at home with them.  Neither is in school yet, they are your full time job.

Today you woke up, started some laundry, then chased tornadoes.  Remember those days?  I know now things have to be a lot different with a 14 year old and 12 year old.... Maybe you miss the old days.  Don't.  I hope that you've learned to treasure your memories, but not let them fill you with regret.

I don't expect you to have changed the world or to have gotten famous, or to even have a super crazy successful career.  28 year old me doesn't really think those things are important.  My only expectation for you is to let God call you and that you are obedient.  I expect that you try to impact people's lives with how you live your own.  I expect that you don't let people walk all over you, but that you love those around you like you would want to be loved.  I expect that your relationship with Christ is stronger.

I do not fear getting older.  The only thing I think about getting older is that its surreal.  I think that I am a lot more wise than my 18 year old self... but I know I am still that girl in a lot of ways.  I think about my mom and people I know and how I am now how old they were when I was just a kid... and how differently I looked up to the adults I knew... how big and strong and heroic they all seemed... now that I'm that age myself I know they were just people like me.

I have to say, after cleaning up poopy diapers, even having our son wet his pants today (which at this point is rare), picking up mess after mess after mess.... arguing about play dough... having to duke it out with our husband on who is going to watch them what nights... I look forward to 14 and 12.... I bet they make their own sandwiches, even might do their own laundry now?

Maybe you are playing taxi and driving them everywhere... remember, you used to be stuck in the house ALL DAY with them!! Not that its bad, but right now you can't even poop alone.  I hope you are making up for all the alone time and sleep you gave up when they were little.

No matter where you are or what you're doing... I hope you don't feel panicked to make something of yourself or to be someone you're not.  40 is right around the corner,
I know you are probably rocking it.

Remember, I love you... and God loves you where you are.  I hope you never give up on yourself like you did in your twenties.  If you've lost your way, remember that God is the way back.  Good luck with the next 10 years.  You're doing great.

Love,
Me

salmon patties

Its been a little while since I posted and I have tried several new recipes recently and this one my husband and I both enjoyed. 

I am trying to eat more protein and paying attention to macros. I read a thread on myfitnesspal.com that explained it all pretty well. I found a chart that listed great protein sources and my eye caught tuna and salmon because they were low calorie and low fat. They both immediately were added to my grocery list.

I found a couple recipes for salmon burgers, salmon patties, salmon salad.... and most of them added mayo and bread crumbs, two big no nos for me.  So here is my low fat, gluten free version.

Salmon Patties
Makes 5 servings- 160 calories per patty
Ingredients:
2 - 7oz cans of salmon
1/2 cup old fashioned oats
3 tsp yellow mustard
2 egg whites
2 tbsp namaste gluten free flour
Salt and pepper

To prepare:
In a large bowl, add all ingredients and mix well.  Allow mixture to sit for at least 15 minutes, or until the oats have absorbed all the liquid (making it easy to form patties).  Preheat oven to 400 degrees and spray a baking sheet with nonstick spray.  In a skillet with a small amount of oil (nonstick spray will work), sear each side of the patty (heat will need to be on high and pan heated up before patty is placed).  Then place seared patties on baking sheet and bake for about 15 min or until heated through.

We had these last night with a salad and a side of steamed brussell sprouts.  They were rich with flavor and not heavy like the fried ones I have had.  My husband and I both loved them and they will be on the menu the next couple weeks! 

**Next time I will take photos to add to this post.