When did Sunday start to feel like a second Saturday? Lately our weekends are crowded with activities—extra practices, driving lessons, and volleyball—so I’ve been craving a quieter rhythm that allows for genuine rest and family time. This week is no exception: we have an extra golf team practice, a driving lesson, and a club volleyball commitment. Our church routine has been hit-or-miss this year, but I’m aiming for the relaxed 5pm service at The Story Houston when we can make it. I’ve been practicing the power of saying “no” to more weekend obligations, and I have to admit it feels liberating. Time isn’t infinite; choosing how to spend it with intention is one of the best gifts we can give ourselves and our family. Wishing you a peaceful weekend.
SUNDAY
After church, we like to keep things simple and social—dinner out at La Lucha or the Original Ninfa’s on Navigation when the schedule allows. Weekends are also when middle- and high-school homework lands on the kitchen table, and I’d love to reclaim more of that time for family instead of study marathons. If you’re trying to protect your Sundays too, consider setting one small boundary this week: a single committed activity and one unplanned hour for rest.
MONDAY
First thing Monday morning I have a yearly mammogram appointment—necessary, not fun. A gentle reminder to schedule and keep your important health visits; they matter. Dinner tonight is meatless Monday: Chana Masala, a comforting and spiced chickpea dish that’s easy to prepare. Use garam masala from the spice aisle and consider finishing plates with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of green chutney for brightness. Serve with basmati rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
TUESDAY
I’m teaching a class at Magpies Gifts in Bellaire today where I share simple spring and summer entertaining recipes—great for anyone looking for easy crowd-pleasers. For a fast weeknight dinner at home, fish tacos are my go-to: halibut, arctic char, or wild salmon all work well. Top with a creamy fish taco sauce and quick slaw for texture. This meal comes together quickly and is perfect for nights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.
WEDNESDAY
Cooking class during the day and my parents arrive in town, so it will be a full evening of homework and club volleyball practice. That calls for an Instant Pot dinner that satisfies a crowd—lasagna soup is a favorite around here and is hearty without a ton of effort. Pair it with salad greens from the garden dressed with a simple homemade vinaigrette. If you’re wondering about pressure cookers, pick a reliable model from a well-known brand and look for one with easy-to-use presets and a sturdy build.
THURSDAY
Thursday tends to be the week’s tipping point: I have a private cooking class, there’s an afternoon JV tennis match, a 7pm volleyball game across town, visiting grandparents, and more homework. On nights like this, it’s either another Instant Pot meal, creative use of leftovers, or a takeout rescue. I’m usually running on fumes by Thursday, so we often opt for fajita takeout or something similarly quick and satisfying. If you prefer to cook, simple skirt-steak fajitas with peppers and a quick lime-cilantro slaw are an easy homemade option that feels celebratory without being complicated.
FRIDAY
We’re celebrating a 13th birthday a day early with dinner out, and the girls and I will bake a classic yellow birthday cake with chocolate frosting for dessert. Baking together has become our small ritual—mixing, tasting, and decorating is a sweet way to slow down and mark the week’s end.
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