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My Favorite Blogs – Dinner: A Love Story

2013 November 5
by WWGD

MyFaveBlogs-WhatWouldGwynethDo

Here is another look at one of my favorite blogs (the first one is here and you can see the rest of them, which I will talk about in no particular order, on the right sidebar):

I learned about Jenny’s blog when I learned of her book – both conveniently titled “Dinner: A Love Story.” You can (and should) buy it here. And if you’re like me, you will immediately go and buy it for two of your friends, too.

I became consumed with the notion of a family dinner a little over a year ago when Kai wasn’t even two. Which made it very hard to be a mother consumed with the notion of a family dinner. But Jenny’s book (and later blog) helped me realize that by setting the foundation early, we were already years ahead. Even if my littles can’t sit still for an entire three-course meal or need a variation of what we are eating or sometimes nibble on cheese and crackers while we feast on homemade rack of lamb, as long as we are all doing it together, we are doing it right. I grew up in a home where family dinner was important and non-negotiable and the stability and comfort I got from that simple ritual is one that I feel strongly about (well, at least five nights of the week – sometimes you need a night off).

Jenny’s book is a fantastic read following her and her writer/editor husband through the early years of their dating relationship to today with life in the suburbs and two kids and shows how their dinner schedules, tendencies and recipes of choice evolved through the years. She started keeping a record many years ago of what they ate for dinner every night. Every night, friends. And that dedication to the notion of family dinners, simple food, easy recipes and a fun, lighthearted approach to cooking makes Jenny’s blog (and book) one of my favorites.

She shares a great variety of recipes that grown ups and littles can appreciate, she makes them easy to follow along and navigate, she tells you what cocktail goes best with what…and most importantly, she puts heart and soul into her writing, her food, and her unwavering devotion to the importance of the family meal. It truly comes from a place of love and there is simply nothing more delicious than that.

Thank you, Jenny for writing a cookbook that was fun to read, keeping up a blog that is engaging and informative and for that mustardy pork chops with apples and onions recipe.

5 Responses
  1. Liz Duncan permalink
    November 5, 2013

    I also grew up eating dinner with my 5 sisters and my dad at the dinner table. Our mom would always be in the kitchen, but never ate at the same time as us. These moments of growing up are important memories that my sisters and I all share. I think the “dinner time” moments are extremely positive for the parents and the kids.

    I’ll definitely have to look into purchasing this book!

    Thanks!

    • WWGD permalink*
      November 5, 2013

      You should, you will love it! It’s actually also a fun read, aside from the recipes.

  2. Christina permalink
    November 5, 2013

    I just made her recipe for Pork Ragu Pappardelle for dinner last night & it was a hit. Beautiful book and great recipes!

    • WWGD permalink*
      November 5, 2013

      Ooh, good to know! Haven’t tried that one yet. It looks a touch intimidating 😉

      • November 5, 2013

        Just need to put in another good word for the Pork Ragu… it is INSANE. A must try ASAP.

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