Baby Talk and Chili Recipes

I had another doctor appointment today and there's nothing new to report.  I'm still not dilated and I'm a short 9 days away from my due date.  I figure next week (pending I'm still pregnant) that they will begin discussing induction options.  I'm hopeful that they won't induce too soon and will at least allow me to have an appointment on February 21 (especially since my original due date was February 23rd). 

So, since there's not too much to discuss, I figured I'd offer up a recipe this week!  I made this chili last night for the Super Bowl and was told it was good, so I hope you enjoy it!

1lb lean beef
1lb italian sausage
1 onion, diced
1 green pepper, diced
1 can of crushed tomatoes (26 oz)
1 can of tomato puree (26 oz)
1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
2 cans chili beans, drained and rinsed (I usually use one chili bean and one black bean)
1/4 cup of chili powder (this time I used a packet of chili mix instead)
2 tsp ground cumin
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground pepper
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp sugar
1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
tabasco, red pepper flakes and worcestershire sauce

I saute the onion and green pepper in a little olive oil for a minute or two and then add in all of my ground meat (both the lean beef and sausage).  Once it's browned, I add some worcestershire sauce and all the spices to the meat and mix it together.  Then I add the beans, crushed, diced and tomato puree and stir it all together.  I keep it on the stove top all day over low heat, stirring occasionally.  Obviously, the longer it sits, the better it is!  If you have people who like it a little spicier, consider adding fresh, diced jalapeno in with the onions and green peppers in the beginning or adding red pepper flakes or tabasco when adding the spices.  I usually find only adding mild spice appeals to more people and they can add their own heat at the end.  I usually garnish it with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream and tostitos chips to crumble in the chili if any one wants it (that's my favorite way to eat it!).  Hopefully if you have been a victim of the snow and cold weather this winter you can use this to warm up you and your family!  I'll keep you updated if/when the baby comes before next week!!