The hustle and bustle of the holidays are long behind us. As life whirls around and we go about our busy schedules, I can’t help but take a few quiet moments to enjoy all the glory happening as spring approaches. The transition from winter to spring has always felt welcoming to me. The foliage turning from the dark dense browns to the vibrant greens, the blooms popping out among the bare branches left behind from the past season, it makes me renewed in spirit.

For our family, spring means fellowship. Outdoor events, birthday parties, local parades, cookouts, bonfires and so much more. Planning, preparing and hosting family and friends is a great way to create memories… and stress. I try to find simple and easy “life hacks” to help me along the way.

Over the years, I’ve found those simple easy moments have created the best memories.
How a simple hot dog stuffed with cheese and rolled in a can of pop crescents can turn into a fun learning and interactive experience. Core memories created through the simplicity of things.

Author Kimberly Storm Ritter had the right idea when she wrote Busy Moms Cookbook.  It has become a family favorite in our household. This book has turned the daunting task of preparing meals into a simple, fun, and easy experience. My favorite part of this book is the list of staples at the front. I’ve always had my typical go-to items at the grocery store, but Kim’s list added some fresh new ideas. I’ve heard it said — “cooking is love made visible” — and what better way to show your child love than allowing them to join you in the kitchen?!

Food tastes better when cooked with those you love. My kids love pulling out my cookbooks and flipping through the pages. “Can we cook this one tonight mommy?” is always music to my ears. Knowing these moments are teaching them patience and a healthy love for food is important to me. For me, it’s calming the madness of the season with impressionable moments that last a lifetime.  Here is a recipe I think your family will enjoy.

Happy Spring!
Sheena