A few months ago I claimed on this blog that I'd keep you updated about our attempts to have dinner together most nights and try some new recipes, as our nearly four-year-old daughter has gotten a little picky and I wanted to diversify our options, so to speak.
But then came the summer, and with the magic of late sunsets and exploring tide pools came the inevitable lack of a regular schedule that makes this kind of project more difficult. Not that I resent all the onion rings and clam chowder we ate at seafood joints, or the blueberry muffins for breakfast, absolving our repeat crimes with a, "Well, we're on vacation..."
This week school is back in session, however; my daughter returned to Pre-K, which arranges our days very nicely. After I pick her up she and our son play for awhile at home or outside, maybe we see some friends or hit the playground, and when my husband gets home we eat dinner together - most of the time, anyway - followed quickly by bedtime for the kids. Amen.
We're only two days in and I've already found myself languishing in the creative department when it comes to thinking up and producing dinner. I like to cook. Don't get me wrong, I also love a night out or take in for dinner, but I do like to cook, and I'm always inspired to get better when I'm around people who are naturally good at the art of making great food.
So I'm making a public call for ideas and inspiration. What do you make regularly for dinner? What are your favorite food blogs or books? Comforting, familiar, impressive - even complicated - you guys name it. Because I'm looking for it all: a few new ideas that are easy when we're in a rush, or fun when I'm up for a challenge.
Parents and non-parents alike, what are we having tonight?
