Dear Denise,

.....And you will be missed dearly. Thank you for being such an amazing example, teacher, manager and FRIEND.

.:Rainy Day Recipe Spotlight:.

Call me crazy, but I enjoy rainy days.

I think it is because we don't get them a lot (well, with the exception of this week). *Disclaimer: I must admit that every time I smile at the wet window pane when I wake up, I think of a poor bride that is getting married today who is probably not as thrilled; however, they say rain on your day of wedded bliss is a sign of good luck?....

There is something about the smell of a rainy day, the sound of the rain as it hits the rooftop and windows, and how the gloomy weather makes you want to put on your most comfortable jammies and read a good book by the fire. I love it.

It also makes me want to eat yummy soup and so I did just that. Taco soup to be exact.

I'm no Rachel Ray, but I would say my soup was delish'!

.:Taco Soup:.

1 lb ground beef

1 medium onion

1 package taco seasoning

1 160z can kidney beans (drained)

1 16oz can tomato sauce

1 16oz can corn (not-drained)

1 28oz can stewed tomatoes

Brown beef and onion. Drain. Add taco seasoning, corn, beans, tomatoes and tomato sauce.

Simmer for 1 1/2 hours.

I topped mine with tortilla chips, cheddar cheese, sour cream, olives, and fresh cilantro (may substitute cilantro for green onions).

Enjoy!