Our Cup Runneth Over (almost)

It was the first weekend of the CYSA Association Cup in Lemoore.  Our sweet Stingrays played for the first time in their snazzy new uniforms and they advanced - barely.  Their record was 1-1-1 but they got through on goal differential.  It was cold but clear and gorgeous.  These sweet girls played great, and left it all out on the field.  I am really looking forward to next week in Elk Grove.

My friend Mary and I drove up together.  We had a car full of kids - two of Mary's, plus Garrett and McKenzie.  We left Friday and managed to avoid all traffic.  The drive went really well, and we made such good time that we had dinner at Harris Ranch.  Mary and I both had a burger, and it was really tasty.  Not the best I have ever had, but tasty, once the kitchen got my order right.  You would think cooking a burger Medium Rare wouldn't be that difficult.  They did make it right.

Three games of fabulous soccer followed.  The first game ended in a tie though the Stingrays totally dominated the game.  The girls took the second game and then lost the last game.  We had a few injuries, and Mary and I ran a mobile PT clinic in our room to rub and stretch the girls out. 

It is really wonderful to watch these gals as they grow and develop into such fine young ladies and athletes.  They are really delightful.  Here's hoping they continue to love this game.

Back at home tonight, I tried a new recipe - Spaghetti Meatball Pie.  Everyone absolutely loved it, and I even made enough to have some leftovers.

Spaghetti Meatball Pie

Ingredients:12 oz. uncooked spaghetti
2/3 C. Parmesan Cheese
3 eggs, lightly beaten
2 balls fresh Ricotta cheese
25-30 small meatballs, thawed
1 Jar Marinara Sauce
½ c. shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt & Pepper, to taste

Directions:Preheat the oven to 350 F. Cook the spaghetti and drain. Return to pot and add eggs, parmesan cheese, and salt & pepper (to taste). Mix well. Place pasta mixture in greased pie pan, pressing down slightly to form a “crust”. Spread with meatball halves on top of crust. Pour marinara sauce over meatballs and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Top with chunks of ricotta.  Loosely cover with foil (spray foil with cooking spray to avoid sticking) and bake for 20-25 minutes at 350 degrees. Remove from the oven, let sit for 5- 10 minutes, and then cut into slices and serve.  Enjoy!!!

Finally, four years ago yesterday, I lost my sweet daddy!!!  It seems unbelievable that it has been that long.  I am most saddened to think that he hasn't been able to see my kids grow into the kids they are today, and the adults they will be.  I also hate to think he never met his youngest granddaughter Ella.  He so loved being a grandfather.  I miss him so!!

Here's to Dad!!!