I write a lot on this blog about the kinds of DIY projects I am able to do because of what I learned from my Dad. Well, I've also learned a thing or two from my Mom! For example, my Mom is an exceptional cook (among many other things), and since she often requested (= required) our help in and around the kitchen, my brother, sister, and I learned our way around that all-important room in the house!

Since I am working from home this week, I volunteered to cook dinners each day. Admittedly, I don't volunteer for this job nearly enough (wife nods head in agreement). The truth is, I actually get some joy and satisfaction from cooking meals (when things go to plan, of course). My problem is that I am just OCD enough that (a) I must work from recipes and (b) there must not be any deviating from the recipes! I am sure that my wife and two kids (all of whom have cooked with me or I with them) can attest that I occasionally bring a bit of stress to cooking projects ("Did you measure...?" "Did you add...?" "Don't forget the...." "What do you mean 'substitute'?!?" -- I know, I know... how very un-farm-kid like of me!🙂)

Anyway, here is the menu for the week:

Monday (the "big" meal)

Marinated pork loin, mashed potatoes with homemade garlic-herb butter, and green beans.

Tuesday (the easy peasy meal)

Salmon patties, mac-n-cheese, and broccoli (this was a staple in the menu in my childhood, esp. in the late 70's and early 80's when times were tough on the farm--but it's good stuff!)

Wednesday (the "grilling is my game" meal)

Grilled turkey burgers, baked beans, and sweet potato fries

Thursday (the "simple but savory" meal)

One pan roasted potatoes, sausage, and veggies (this recipe is super easy and is a fave at our house)

Friday (the "cooking by phone" meal)

Pizza night

Ok, so Food Network is not likely to call and offer me a cooking show based on this menu, and it is not even close to the level of my Mom's cooking. Nevertheless, I'll cook in honor of my Mom and to give the lovely CJD a bit of a break.