Pass The Cup...Of Chili!

There's nothing like spending a Saturday morning at a good Little League baseball game! And, it's even better when you're watching that special little guy out on the field!

Whether it's a son, nephew, grandson...or in this case, a friend's son who you've known long before he was able to bat, it's exciting watching that special kid's every move! It's also one of the most nerve-wracking experiences, as I hold my breath each time the ball flies in his direction!

At some point, you do take notice of all the little ones, wearing their black Nike sneakers and clay stained baggy pants. The boy on first base stands in a striking "V" pose, ready to bolt with the crack of the bat! His cheeks are red and sweaty, under the large blue helmet. At a quick glance, he resembles one of those baseball statues with the wobbly head!

The dug-out is in a frenzy, as the team spots a little field mouse darting around their gear. All the boys go scurrying, except the one who just keeps guzzling his purple power aid drink!

My special boy was having a tough day, as his bat was just not connecting with the ball! As the evil "man" pitcher struck him out, I could see the disappointment on his face as he sluggishly walked off the field. It took every ounce of energy and adult self-control for me not to go out there and take down the pitcher! But I calmed down, and reminded myself that it was just a game...as long as they had fun! Deep inside, though, my heart broke for my special boy!

The most omnipotent player was the catcher. He was calm and confident in his squat position. It didn't matter how weighed down he was with his shiny red leg guards, black chest vest, and full face mask. He seemed like the man of the team...until he came running off the field saying, "Hi, Mommy" as he buzzed past the bleachers!

I sat there in disbelief, as I saw him whip out the plastic "protective gear" from the front of his pants, and pass it to another player. Could it be...they actually SHARE their protective gear???? Or was it my imagination that he passed the "cup"? There are some things us girls never dealt with in softball league!

As the game came to an end, and the two teams ran parallel giving each other "good game slaps", I saw my little guy grinning from ear to ear. Coach gave him the game ball because he completed one of the most valuable plays! Finally, I could breathe easily again...until, of course, the playoffs!
In honor of the catcher who passed the "cup", we give you the recipe for several cups...of chili! This is a special chili from Mama Melisi, which is mild and non spicy. If you want to spice it up, just add several drops of hot sauce to the recipe below. Again, we give it to you with love!

From Mama Melisi and Me


Chili

Ingredients:

1 lb ground sirloin (you can substitute ground turkey if you wish)
1 medium sized onion
3-4 cloves fresh garlic
1 small can Del Monte diced tomatoes (flavored with garlic and olive oil)
1 small can Progresso black beans
salt
pepper
parsley flakes
1 cup boiled white rice

Preparation:

Dice the onion and fresh garlic and saute in a light oil till golden in color
Add the chopped meat of your choice and brown until medium cooked, stirring as you go along
Add the diced tomatoes, and some salt, pepper, and parsley flakes
Add 1can of drained black beans
Simmer for about 20 minutes
While the mixture is simmering, boil your rice until fluffy
Drain rice and place on plate
Serve chili over the rice

**Add 1 tablespoon of the hot sauce of your choice if you like your chili spicy!