Meatballs and Red Gravy

Next week, high school soccer kicks off — which means between high school and junior high, we will spend every night this week shivering in a stadium somewhere watching the boys play — and I love every single minute of it. Seriously! Teaching seniors reminds me yearly how fast these days go by. Plus, itContinue reading “Meatballs and Red Gravy”

Penne a la Vodka

Today, our yearbook sponsor photographed the class favorites. This day always makes me smile because there is so much overlap between the categories. Most atheletic is also a valedictorian. Most school spirit has awesome style and is also brilliant. And so many of my students not there today show so many of these traits, tooContinue reading “Penne a la Vodka”

Michael’s Instapot Chicken Tikka Masala

Last year, I started teaching a night class for a few weeks before each ACT. And I loved getting to interact with kids from all different schools and meet some great personalities along the way. My little “side hustle” became one of the best parts of the week. Today, for the second time, I connectedContinue reading “Michael’s Instapot Chicken Tikka Masala”

Smoky Venison Chili

Do your kids ever talk you into things that no one else can? I grew up in a hunting family. but I’m the only one of my siblings who has never killed a deer. My dad always offered — I was just never that interested. My husband, too, has offered, and while I’ve always beenContinue reading “Smoky Venison Chili”

Chicken Big Mamou

This recipe would not typically qualify as a “Tuesday night meal” for our family. Normally, we’d be rushing from piano to soccer, or Quiz Bowl to tennis, and I’d be looking for something that comes together in less than 30 minutes while kids finish up homework. Except during a stay-at-home order. And then, sign meContinue reading “Chicken Big Mamou”

Shrimp and Grits

One of my best friends got me The Southerner’s Cookbook for Christmas. Produced by the editors of Garden and Gun magazine, the book is pretty enough for my coffee table… and it features essays by some of my favorite Southern food writers. I’ve had fun trying out some of the recipes, and will try toContinue reading “Shrimp and Grits”