Menu week of April 11th

The kids are going back to school this week and I already miss them. It’s been one of the most special breaks we’ve ever had together. While we saw images of beautiful vacations flashed through social media, there was no FOMO over here. We were genuinely content to be home and enjoyed being completely relaxed during our “staycation.” It’s that vacation vibe state of mind that you want to hold onto for as long as possible.

We all needed a break from the daily demands of life during the school year. I loved having conversations with the kids that didn’t include reminders about homework, the orthodontist, and bedtimes. Not only did I feel more connected to my kids but was struck by how connected they were with each other. They played basketball, laughed together, and truly enjoyed each other’s company. It seems the schedule of nothingness worked for all of us. The highlights included sleeping in, having no where to be, and the best hash browns on the planet at Nate n’ Al’s in Beverly Hills. Seriously, this may be one of the best vacations we’ve ever had!

Back to school means everything that comes with it: waking up early, activities, and homework. For me, it means transitioning everyone back into their routines smoothly and that takes organization. I think this brief reprieve from the rigors of the school year grind reminded me that dinner needs to serve as our daily “staycation.” An hour a day where we slow down to a stop from our busy lives. Dinner is the time where we decompress,talk about our day, and connect as a family. This is the way we recharge and ease into our nighttime routine.

This week’s dinner menu is designed to tempt everyone to the table with delicious, easy to prepare meals from Smitten Kitchen, Love and Lemons, Pamela Salzman, and me.

Enjoy!