Dating

Dating is not what it used to be. My husband and I are high school sweethearts, so our first dates were “school dance dates,” complete with silly pictures and everything. Eventually we had traditional “grown up dates.” You know, like “movie dates,” “pool hall dates,” “concert dates,” “fancy restaurant dates,” and even “opera dates.” Then when our daughter was born, my husband and I started going on “house dates.” We would make some special meal or order takeout and have wine or cocktails. And we’d really try to savor the evening, just enjoying each other’s company. It was surprisingly fun.

But dating has changed again. Sure, we still do “house dates,” but I also find myself planning dates with my daughter. We make some special dessert or watch a ballerina movie. I try to squeeze in dates with girlfriends, and we go out for lunch or drinks. And I also arrange playdates for my daughter and a friend to get together as often as possible. Sure, dating is not what it once was, but it’s still pretty darn fun. Maybe MORE fun since it involves a little more creativity.

Strangely, I had already written this post when I came home and found this surprise from my husband, which I think will be tonight’s date:



So what was your last date like? High school dance, takeout, or a ballerina movie?

Goat cheese what???

So I made up a recipe last night. Who makes up a recipe on a weeknight, right? Well. I guess I do. And you ask . . . “Why?!?” I guess there are three reasons. I (and my family) have to eat something. I hate to spend much time cooking, especially on a weeknight. And I hate to throw food away, which means I need alternative ways to empty the fridge.

So last night’s dinner was my very own Goat Cheese Mac ‘n’ Cheese. To make, heat a T of melted butter with 2 1/2 T flour and whisk for a minute. Add 1 ½ cups of milk and bring almost to a boil, whisking often. Add a few seasonings, like salt, pepper, a teaspoon of dry mustard, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Whisk in about 2 oz of leftover goat cheese and about ½ cup of shredded cheddar. Once the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, pour over plain leftover pasta and serve.

Total time = 15 minutes, maybe less.

So how much time did you spend making, ordering, or waiting in line for dinner last night? I’m always amazed how quickly a homemade meal can be thrown together. Of course, that’s not always the case, but it worked this time.