Lunchbox notes

Hopefully you're enjoying your summer and not thinking too much about back-to-school tasks. I did see some cute, free printables today at familyeducation.com. They have lunchbox notes if you have a child who doesn't think it's embarrassing to get a note from mom or dad at the lunch table. They also have coloring sheets, and worksheets if you are looking for those.

We're trying to pack every last minute of fun into our summer. We've stocked up on Popsicles and are watching lots of Braves baseball.

Have any good brown bag lunch suggestions? I have one who eats school lunches, and one who won't, so I'm trying to get some new lunch ideas together.

Hope your summer is good to the last drop!

Mini meat loaves

One of our 2006-2007 Times-Herald Teen Board Members, Michelle Landrein, entered this recipe in the 4-H food contest earlier this year, and won in her category. I love this as a great, easy family dinner. And with school, homework, and activities about to pick up, maybe you will too.

Marvelous Mini Meatloaves
By Michelle Landrein

1 lb. ground beef
1 box (6 oz) Stove Top Stuffing Mix
1 cup water
Tomato sauce
Shredded cheddar for topping

Mix first three ingredients until moist and well blended. Preheat oven to 375°F. Distribute evenly into 12 medium muffin cups which have been sprayed with cooking spray. Make an indentation in center of each mini loaf with back of spoon. Fill with tomato sauce. Bake for 30 minutes or until temperature reaches at least 160°F. Take out and top with some shredded cheddar. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoying the older generation

My paternal grandfather, my last living grandparent, turned 90 Wednesday. My family all gathered for the occasion last week at a state lake resort in Kentucky (Land Between the Lakes). Grandpa's wife, Rose, had us all submit questions, and he answered them. My kids have really enjoyed the booklet she put together. I read part of it to them at bedtime and we learned a lot we didn't already know. They've enjoyed picturing "Grandpa Charlie" as a young person. He was telling my seven-year-old son about having to work in onion fields all day when he was that age. He had a tough childhood and worked hard his entire life, and turned out to be the sweetest person I know. Enjoy your grandparents and great-grandparents if you are still blessed enough to have them!

By the way, if you are looking for a great family vacation spot for future summers or school breaks, Kentucky Lake was great. It's beautiful country with lots to see and do.