One thing I always insisted upon as a single mom was having meals with my kids, at the dinner table, on plates with silverware, a napkin and a "big boy" cup from as soon as the kids were able and until this very day. There is something about the familiarity of experiencing a meal together that makes food special, and not just something to chow down on and blast through a day. Because we raised our own chickens and food in our garden, the kids have gained an appreciation for food that otherwise would escape them - producing food is hard work, and our preparation of that food needs to be respectful of the farmer's efforts.
*It doesn't have to take forever, though!*
As a busy mom, fast, easy meals have been vitally important. I have four books that I rely heavily on for their kid-friendly food choices and speed/ease of preparation. They are accessed multiple times per week, despite the availability of internet recipes. There is just something special about those bookmarked pages propped up on my cookbook stand with no need to "refresh" a screen. There are stains, notes and highlights, and it makes the preparation even more personal.
It's also time for a contest! Win your very own copy of Martha Stewart's Great Food Fast from me just by commenting on the post with your favorite meal that you make for your family. I love to hear about what is special to you!
Have a blessed week!
Erin
I insist on a sit-down dinner, even with our tiny family of 2. My son loves BBQ Chicken :)
ReplyDeleteYour son will always remember this sweet tradition. :)
ReplyDeleteMy kids love fried potatoes with sausage, something my mom used to make. It's just the 3 of us also (1 girl & 1 boy), and sitting down for a meal with them is the highlight of the day. :)
ReplyDelete