Three weeks ago I was able to fly down, baby Jasper and I, to Chicago for a quick two-night visit with my dear college friend Missy. She is sick with Lyme disease so I told her when I planned the trip out that I had no expectations to do anything. I just wanted to spend time together and hopefully bring some brightness and encouragement to her during this time.
We didn’t shop on the magnificent mile or visit Millenium Park. We did get to spend hours just sitting on her white denim couch talking about life, and God’s faithfulness through trials and our kids. We covered topics that we never get to while we’re on the phone, our kids screaming in the background. That’s what girls do best. Talk. I love friendship, and believe it’s one of God’s greatest gifts.
After leaving I was reminded that even in this busy season a simple phone call to a good friend can brighten my day and hers. A note in the mail or a meal delivered when a friend is struggling is one of the top investments we can make with our time.
Missy and I did get to go to Giordonnos for Chicago Style Pizza (a must when I’m in Chicago) and I told her the only other restaurant I really wanted to get to was Chick Filet since we don’t have one in MN. Have you ever had the carrot salad from chick filet? I always get the carrot salad as a side.
I love it, but I found an even better recipe. It’s called Carrot Craisin Slaw, and I found the recipe on my friend’s blog “The Kid Friendly Home”.
I use my food processor to grade the carrots and I at least quadruple the recipe. The food processor makes this recipe easy.
Carrot Craisin Slaw:
3 cups grated carrots
1/4 cup craisins
2 Tbs. white wine vinegar
3 Tbs. canola or olive oil
1 Tbs. honey
1 Tbs. water
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
Combine all ingredients. Chill before serving. See if the kids think it’s desert! (You can always try…)
I am making this Carrot salad today as a side for a good friend who had a baby. They’re family eats gluten free so I was looking for kid friendly, gluten free sides. I hope you try it.
What long time friend do you miss? Pick up the phone just to say hi :).
Made the carrot salad as a side tonight since we grilled. It was a big hit! Thanks Sarah!
Good Maia, it’s one of our favorites! So glad we have the weather now to go with our summery dishes :).
these are great!!! next time doubtful accusing, condemning thoughts come in.. know they are lies. God is using you and gifted you!
This is the 2nd post I’ve read tonight, Sarah! I’m sharing your insights with my friends in New Haven. Love that I can experience your sweetness, even though we’re miles apart. You continue to be a cousin I look up to. Keep up the wonderful work as mom, wife and daughter of God.