Paella

Having been together six years by the time we got married, we didn't expect our newlywed year to feel much different and were happily surprised when it did. But just as quickly as it started, this first year of marriage has brought challenges that could have never been expected; ones that have forced us to re-prioritize, attending to circumstances that are quite unusual and hard to grasp at any age, let alone this one. Cooking once a week, or even at all, was the last thing on our minds. Besides being distracted and unavailable, it represented something uncomfortable and unfair. But like any tragedy, time passes, and even though it seemed that nothing would ever revert back to normal, some things have. And it's important to constantly remind ourselves that that's OK. This weekend we finally returned to our kitchen and it felt really amazing. Not to mention, this recipe was INCREDIBLE (no joke, we have witnesses). We've been in a seafood state of mind as of late and this paella did not disappoint. Be prepared for an all-night event - it's very labor intensive, but to say it was worth the wait, is an understatement. Although it's been unbelievably difficult, we've grown more this year than I could have ever imagined, as individuals and as a couple. Our perspectives have shifted and we feel older, seasoned and truly ready for life's many challenges and joys. Closer and tighter than ever. Because much like this recipe...of difficult beginnings, comes great flavor. :)

Newlywed Note

This is a beautiful recipe and was relatively easy to follow. We didn't experiment at all in regards to the ingredients and directions. If it ain't broke! But again, carve out a good amount of time for this. You'll have a TON leftover and it tastes somehow better the day after.