The Packers left Titletown yesterday and headed to Dallas!  That’s right…in a few short days they will be working to bring the Lombardi trophy back to Green Bay where it belongs!  As Lombardi would say, “I firmly believe that any man’s finest hours – his greatest fulfillment of all that he holds dear – is that moment when he has worked his heart out in good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle – victorious.”  What a joyous day it would be, not only for the fans, but more importantly for the players wearing Green and Gold, to leave Texas…Victorious.  From my couch in Iowa City, Iowa…I will be wishing them just that.  Lord knows I will be proudly sporting my Rodgers jersey, clapping, cheering, and shouting at the TV in my attempt to encourage them along.  Go Pack!

Speaking of Lombardi, how many of you have read his book, “What It Takes To Be Number One?”  For those of you who haven’t, I highly recommend it.  Vince Lombardi’s story and legacy has encouraged me, guided me, and reassured me.  There are days, weeks, quarters, and years in which we see the results we work so hard for every day.  There are times we are called into the final game or onto the big stage and applauded for all we accomplished.  But there are also the days we feel knocked down, in last place, with nothing to show for all the work we’ve put in in the the days, weeks, and months leading up to that point.   It is in those moments that I hear Lombardi say, “It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.”  And with that, I turn my computer back on, re-pack my bag, fill my planner, and head back to work!  No matter what you do..these words apply to you too.  So whether you are winning right now…or struggling to keep your head above water..Press On!

And in your free-time, get ready to celebrate and enjoy a big game!  If you are anything like me, you are already planning the menu.  🙂  So today, I thought I would offer up a suggestion.  One of our favorite game-day meals comes from the kitchen of Mom & Dad Boudreau.  For the last several years, Mom & Dad have been making these delicious sandwiches for a late night snack on Christmas Eve.  After all the gifts have been opened, the Wii has been good and warmed up, board games are back in closet, and Christmas Story is into it’s 3rd viewing…the Jalapeno Beef Sandwiches are served.  Slightly Spicy…Mighty Tasty!

My first attempt at making this recipe came on New Years’s Eve.  The way they were devoured by our friends and family joining us that night, I’d say they were almost as good as Mom & Dads!  Next time, I’ll add a little more jalapeno.  We all agreed…we needed just a little more KICK!  From the look on our faces in the picture below…we were plenty happy tho!  Give these sammies a try for the Big Game…bring a smile to the faces of YOUR friends and family.

JALAPENO BEEF SAMMIES

6 – 8 Servings

• 3lb Sirloin Tip or Chuck Roast (cut in half)
• 1/2 Cup Water
• 1 Can (4 oz) Diced Jalapenos (hot)
• 1 Envelope Italian Seasoning/Dressing Mix (Good Seasons)
• Slider Buns
• Arby’s Sauce & Arby’s Horsey Sauce (Some locations will let you purchase the sauces.  At others…grab a handful of packets.  I did!)

Combine water, jalapenos, and italian seasoning mix.

Place beef in crockpot.  Pour mixture over beef.  Cover and cook on low for 8 – 10 hours.  Shred.

Top buns with beef and your favorite Arby’s sauces!  Serve with chips and a pickle!

Whether it be a Super Bowl party this weekend or your next friendly gathering, give these sammies a try!

“I would say that the quality of each man’s life is the full measure of that man’s commitment to excellence and victory – whether it be football, whether it be business, whether it be politics or government or what have you.” 

~Vince Lombardi

Indulge.  In Life.  In Love.  In Food.