Family Dinners

Tonight, we had an amazing family dinner.

The plan for this dinner started on Friday, when Emma told her father she was craving fried chicken. Dave sent me a text and asked me if I would make her chicken cutlets - which I would, of course - but it was on a FRIDAY during LENT, so I would much rather make them on a day when we could all enjoy. Chicken cutlets are my favorite meal!

Our little lives are crazy, fun and chaotic. Most nights, a family meal is darn near impossible. Kids come home from school STARVING and ready for dinner by 4:30. I rarely eat before 8. Rich eats whenever he walks in the door...you get my point. Well. Today, everything aligned perfectly for us to sit down and share a wonderful meal.

I had planned on making dinner for everyone and serving it early so that Rich had time to digest before his hockey game - but Mother Nature FROZE US OUT and his game ended up getting postponed. I didn't have to rush!

Chicken cutlets, breaded and fried. White rice, roasted broccoli and Velveeta cheese sauce...all just like my Mommy used to make when I was a kid. (She actually made it a few days ago for my Dad...but who is keeping track?!)

We sat down and enjoyed a peaceful, calm evening - Dave and Emma too! It did my heart good to have everyone sitting down together, saying grace and sharing laughter. Before the end of dinner, I learned something new - my children know sign language! Rosie was able to sign a whole song! RJ was able to show me how he signs "Please stop, friend." I was so, so impressed.

I treasure these family dinners. I treasure these moments with these people that I adore.