A Tasty and Mindful Summer

When you think of summer time, you think of fun in the sun, delicious food on the grill and good times with friends. The kids are out of school and summer ball is in full swing. Everything seems so alive! The weather is finally nice to get out and do things. So we do...

The COOKOUT. Stress and anticipation all for something so simple as a hotdog or a hamburger. Still worth it! The side dishes though...don't you think its the hardest thing to decide on?! Or is it just me? I have to be in the mood for this or that, or so-and-so has special food needs you need to be mindful of (which I am part of this troop! #plantlife). Sometimes it seems as if there are too many or too little sides to choose from to make! It can get a little overwhelming. Yet it's still worth it. We (speaking collectively) appreciate your efforts and for sharing your side dish with us, that is LOVE!

We all know a friend, co-worker, Aunt/Uncle, Mom/Dad or Grandma/pa that makes the best XYZ, and you look forward to it, you get a little excited just thinking about it...it holds its own special kind of magic. Sweet, savory, buttery, bright, fresh, whatever it maybe, it makes you feel a certain way. Maybe that's where my turmoil with side dishes come from. It is almost a little reflection of your personality or your love and contribution. If you are lucky enough to have a crowd pleasing side dish or two that everyone requests, you've got it made in the shade from here on out! You know what to get at the store every time and know what its going to take to make it, and you do it with love. Please send your love, support and suggestions to the rest of us!

All jokes aside, I do love to cook and prepare meals when I am in a good headspace, you do feel the love and energy you put into your food. So be mindful and excited when preparing your side, but also be forgiving of yourself and others if all you/they could muster to bring to the BBQ is a bag of chips. Ain't nothin' wrong with burgers and chips! No ma'am! Enjoy the heck out them, they are a staple.

One of the classic side dishes I do enjoy, is a good pasta salad. Even in the heat, cold pasta salad (with Zesty Italian Dressing) is always a win in my book! I could eat myself sick on it! Usually when I am craving it, I make a big batch and take it to share and there's generally some left overs, which means I need to eat it for breakfast, lunch and dinner until it's gone...

Either way, if you are gathering, know that your tribe will have plenty to share if you are worried about not bringing enough. Bring yourself, that's what they really want anyways, the rest is just a bonus! Keep it as simple, fun or complex as you like with your side dishes. You know everyone will be excited to try it no matter what! If it didn't turn out the way you anticipated, guess what?, it is now a learning experience and you can make that recipe into whatever you want, if you know it has potential! Breathe and enjoy each other's company and enjoy your collective efforts. This is what it's all about!

For all the grill masters out there, I understand the sense of pride. You have honed your skills and are master of charcoal and flame! Be proud oh warrior with the spatula and jorts. If it brings you joy, let it! I am not a grill master and would gladly admit it. I would end up burning something because I am distracted or not getting the thing to light in the first place. So you are appreciated! Celebrate accordingly!

My favorite summer time food at the current moment are these things (mind you, I am plant-based): Beyond Meat Patties (seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder and a little bit of Lowry's Seasoning Salt - chef's kiss! And I would dress it up however fancy I'm feeling at the moment), or a Beyond Meat Italian Sausage (this is MY brat! Also delicious with Amy's meatless chili) , or a quick, fast and easy Griller from Morning Star (on a soft bun plain as plain can be! These taste like the school's version of the McRib-naked, it has a soft mesquite flavor that hits the spot). If you are looking for something new, or are hosting and have plant-based eating friends, these are great to keep around! We appreciate ya!

With the swing of summer time living, I leave you with this: I implore you to go have that cup of coffee on the porch when its not too hot out yet and watch the sun come up. Have that quiet appreciative moment while watering your flowers, many times this summer. Kick your shoes off and go walk around in the grass barefoot and get grounded with yourself and the Earth. Be connected, be present, be grateful. Summer time can be full of schedules and travel and lots of socializing. Be sure to take time to recharge your battery so you are able to accomplish everything with ease. Think of these activities as things you want to experience and enjoy, instead of feeling as if they are obligations and burdens. Set your boundaries with yourself and others, and know it is ok to turn down the invite if you just have nothing to give or your kids are acting up. Your friends and family will understand and you can meet up with everyone again when you are ready. Be kind and gentle with yourself and others, and slow it down. If you find yourself complaining, try to replace those thoughts with positive ones. Everything will feel a little lighter and brighter! Laugh it all off if you need to, life should not be taken so seriously, it's a journey so make it a good one! Oh and don't forget the sunscreen!