Tuesday, August 23, 2011

A kickoff to the celebration dinners.

A few months ago I decided that I wanted to do something a little special every month when it came to dinner time. Honestly, I got this idea from NieNie, as every year her family has a back to school feast and celebration. I love this idea, because what she is doing is creating a great tradition and her family has wonderful memories as a result. 

And as I've said before, that is what I want- to create a happy home filled with memories.

Since Dylan is nowhere near school age, I decided that on the first of every month I would make a meal that was a little more special than our normal dinners. I'm not looking to spend tons of extra money or time on these dinners, but I just want to do something a little special and fun. I really think that it's the little things that add up, but this is one little thing that I can do and want to do. I don't have the time or energy to go the extra mile with all aspects of being a wife or mother, but this is a goal that I can achieve and feel good about as a result. 

To kick off my 1st of the month dinner celebration was August's dinner- Summer Picnic.

See, I told you- nothing amazing or difficult. 

I made the most summery dinner I could imagine- barbecue chicken, corn on the cob, and fruit salad which we ate in our backyard under our grape tree (yes, a grape tree).


 See what I mean by our grape tree? Grape vine + clothes line = grape tree. 


Poor, angry Dylan.  Little one got mad at me for not letting him have the salt shaker, so he ran and cried on his trampoline. 

Overall, our August 1st dinner was a great success, and I can't wait until September 1st for the next dinner, which will be a birthday celebration. Dylan's birthday is on the 29th and Ben's is on the 30th. 

You'd better believe that cake is involved. 

4 comments:

Terri and Jack said...

What a fun tradition to start! Your family is very lucky. I'm looking forward to reading what you do in the coming months.

Ashley said...

I agree...what a fun tradition!! You are such a cute mommy! I love all the pictures (the one of you and Ben is so nice)! And I love your grape tree. At first I was sort of confused, but then I kept reading and saw the picture. That's so cool!
And I think it's so cool that you have that trampoline. Jared and I were just looking at that at Sam's on Saturday and thinking of getting it for Josie for her birthday (Sept 25th). I was a little worried because it said it was for ages 3+ but Josie loves bouncy houses and does really well. I think Dylan is more physically advanced than Josie (I think he walked way earlier than she did), but seeing that he has this tramp makes me think Josie could probably handle it at age 2. I think I may just have to get it. How long have you had it...are you planning to leave it outside over the winter?

Unknown said...

This is such a cute idea!!! I am excited to see what you do for September.

I always love the traditions that my parents provided for me, and I want to do the same. NieNie's back to school dinner and fashion show is the cutest thing ever. Why can't we all be like her? Gahh. I drool with envy.

Thank you SO much again for introducing yourself to me the other day! I am excited to get to know you and your cute little family!!

Lori said...

Love it!!! You rock Chrissi!
Also, where did you get the trampoline? I've seen those before and thought about getting one for Taylor.