Happy Memorial Day!
Monday, May 30th, 2011From Monday Mom – Neetika:
Today, my family is having a barbeque, as I’m sure many families around the country are. I’m can’t wait. Not only do I get to make some of my favorite recipes, but I also have several relatives coming over who have not yet spent much time with Haley. I just hope the weather cooperates!
First up, the salad course. I’m making mixed greens with goat cheese and grilled portabella mushrooms. I’m particularly excited about this because I didn’t partake in the soft cheeses while pregnant. Then we have some standard grilling staples like hot dogs and vegetable skewers. My favorite entrée will be the chicken with white sauce, a Southern classic made from a delicious recipe given to me by my mother-in-law. We’re finishing things up with a ridiculously great banana pudding. Here’s the recipe if you are interested. It’s the no-bake kind—just assemble and let it set in the fridge.
When we have outdoor parties, we always play games in the backyard. We love badminton, bocce ball, and just throwing around a football or kicking around a soccer ball. I love the competition and bonding with family members. Though I am famous for being obsessed with the couch, the television, and air conditioning, I have to admit it feels great to stretch some muscles and get active. And it’s inevitable that someone will do something hilarious we will laugh about for years to come. I’m so excited that Haley is now a part of these traditions. Certainly many cultures enjoy grilling their own delicacies, but I love how in America, cookout holidays always seems to correspond with days marking and celebrating our freedoms. It seems especially appropriate to be outdoors, enjoying this land and time with loved ones. Have a safe and happy day, and don’t forget to appreciate the fact that you can.