Fall is my favorite time of the year. Yet, as October moves along I find myself at times feeling sad. My father was born in October and died in October. I think of him daily wondering how he'd handle certain situations, what he'd think about what's happening in our world, his reactions to watching his grandkids play sports, and remembering his smiles as he enjoyed a good meal with his family.
I grew up having incredible home cooked meals, sitting at the table with both parents and all four sisters. Dinner time was when we shared our stories about our day. A meeting time, laughing time, and eating time! Once a week my grandparents would visit and bring special treats from my grandfather's store (he was a butcher and owned a market). We never wanted for food that was for sure! I have wonderful memories and many are of my family seated around a big table.
I have tried to create this experience for my children. In this day and age it is a challenge for us to all be able to sit at the table together because of the different activities and because of my husband's commute. Meal time is sometimes rushed, but we do manage to all eat together at least 5 days out of the week. My kids have developed an interest in cooking and enjoy food. I feel very lucky! During a soccer tournament yesterday, we were able to take a break in between games and warm up in an Italian market. I felt like I was with my dad. The smells brought back so many fond memories. Too many choices so we had to sample a few items! I was inspired looking at all the prepared meals and bought some sweet Italian sausage to use in this week's menu.
Our meals for the week...
Monday: Creamy baked pasta with kale, Parmesan and sausage (going for a healthier version and using brown rice pasta)
Tuesday: Steak sandwiches with a health slaw salad and home made sweet potato wedges
Wednesday; Walnut crusted chicken breasts with quinoa and salad
Thursday; Vegetable rice bowls (trying something different for Teddy-he always chooses risotto so we're branching out!! Kind of like potato bar night, but with brown rice as the main ingredient and lots of toppings. ill let you know how it goes.)
Friday; Pizza night and big salad-trying a new recipe--arugula with maple-roasted pumpkin
Saturday: Busy weekend so making a big pot of meatball soup with good bread for dipping. A favorite here on cold days.
Sunday: Curry rubbed salmon with napa slaw ( recipe from a favorite cook book-power foods)
On my dad's birthday I'm going to try and bake an Orange-walnut olive oil cake with sweet yogurt. Looks delicious! Another recipe from Power foods. Just hope I can pull it off!
Enjoy your week! Take time and enjoy your meals with your loved ones.
Donna
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