LBJ Land

I hope everyone found Kyle's post interesting and informative.  It was probably a nice change of pace as well seeing a completely different writing style from that of my own.  A lot of time has passed since I have given anyone an update of what going on's have been taking place for Kyle and I.  Well, let me tell you.....

All the history buffs in my life would be pleased to know that Kyle and I spent a day exploring LBJ's ranch and learning more about our 36th President of the United States.  I am sure everyone but myself was aware already of the many changes LBJ had put forth while he was president.  I did not realize he had interest in so many numerous aspects of our nation.  One thing that impressed me was that LBJ was the one who pushed for the Public Broadcasting System. Ahhhhh to think Masterpiece Mystery would not have been in my life probably if it weren't for this man.  Anyways, the jist of the story is that LBJ went a couple notches up on my "favorite Presidents list" :)

Now interesting tid bits on this beautiful ranch LBJ lived on for most of his life.  First off, all the cattle on the ranch are from the same bloodline as the original cattle LBJ raised.  Keeping it all in the family...hmmm now that I typed that it doesn't sound as awesome and has a more inbred sound to it.  One of the Air Force One's that LBJ used can be found parked right outside his house there.  This particular plane is jokingly referred to as "Air Force 1/2"  because it is small in stature; it is more or less his puddle jumper plane from Austin to his ranch.  One final interesting fact about the ranch is that the house itself is known as the Texas White House. 25% of LBJ's presidency took place at his home in Texas...hence Texas White House. 

Other highlights of the last couple weeks:

• Kyle is getting his butt kicked 3 times a week doing crossfit (some intense workout program)
• I am extremely giddy about Autumn and I cannot stop talking about it
• Kyle and I cannot stop thinking good wishes to all the couples we know getting married this fall/winter....I believe so far we know of 5 couples were close to getting married this upcoming season...We won't make all the weddings, but know each and everyone of you is constantly mentioned in some conversation every 5 minutes :) 
• We did some grocery shopping at the Austin Whole Foods a.k.a the Mother Ship (whole foods headquarters).  Kyle was as smiley as could be because we got beers to go and got to shop while drinking our delicious beverages. 
• Twice in one day we went to 2 different brewpubs....North by Northwest and Black Star Co-Op...Kyle was once again on cloud 9! 
• Coming up next week......TEXAS STATE FAIR IN DALLAS/FORT WORTH!!!!  YAYAY!  

Okay this is all I can really think of at the time.  Hopefully you can tell from this post, but our lives have drastically slowed down now that Kyle is settled.  YAY I love boring versus mass chaos and stress :)  Hope everyone is doing well!  We think of our loved ones all the time and keep you all in our thoughts and prayers!  Please, keep us posted on any updates, we LOVE hearing from you all! 

xx
Madeline

P.S. Recipe of the week! 

Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry

Serves 4

This quick and easy stirfry is a great choice for a weeknight meal.

Nutrition

Per serving: 440 calories (100 from fat), 11g total fat, 1.5g saturated fat, 65mg cholesterol, 1090mg sodium, 51g total carbohydrate (7g dietary fiber, 4g sugar), 33g protein

Ingredients

8 ounces whole wheat linguine
3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons expeller-pressed canola oil, divided
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins, cut into strips
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons minced peeled fresh ginger
3 cups small fresh broccoli florets (from about 1 large crown)
1 carrot, peeled and cut into thin strips

Directions

Cook linguine according to package instructions, drain and keep warm. Meanwhile, combine broth, soy, vinegar, pepper and cornstarch in a bowl. Heat a wok or heavy skillet over high heat. When very hot, add 1 tablespoon oil. Add chicken and stir-fry until lightly browned, about 2 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside. Add remaining oil, garlic and ginger; stir-fry 30 seconds. Add broccoli and carrot; stir-fry 2 minutes. Add soy mixture and chicken, stir well, and cover. Lower heat to medium and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 3 minutes. Toss with linguine and serve.