Hubby and I have become big fans of making dinner in our home this year. Part of this is due to our decision to keep a more strict budget, but the other part is because it creates a more intimate atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of life. We often have busy and very opposite schedules so eating in an intimate, homey setting (preferably pet-free) allows us to focus on each other and discuss the events of the day. I look forward to these evenings when I get to sit down, one-on-one with this handsome man and grow deeper in our marriage. Of course with good conversations, food must always be involved!
We just finished up the Whole 30 diet last week so we were eager to spoil ourselves this evening with some gourmet meats - pastrami and smoked salmon, aged cheeses - smoked cheddar and Gouda, and crispy wheat crackers. We paired this board with a classic Caesar salad. It was light, flavorful and created the perfect atmosphere for this date night in!
Another critically important aspect of this dinner (important for me... not so much for Hubby), was the WINE! Oh wine... it's been far too long my friend. Wine isn't Whole 30 compliant so this evening called for celebration! I chose a pinot noir for tonight. I'm a fan of most any red wines so I picked this lucky bottle up at Costco. I'll be honest, I am NOT a wine expert! Most of the time I'll choose a wine by how much I like their label, but Lord knows I'm not going to spend more than $20 for a bottle of wine! It might sound silly, however I haven't had a wine I haven't enjoyed!
___________
Alright ladies and gentlemen, it's time to plan a date night in with your spouse (or significant other). For you married couples, this might sound mundane or repetitive, but there are many times in a marriage where the little battles of the day need to be celebrated. It's a time when the things that get swept under the rug are brought back to the surface. When each person's struggles can be thought through and more importantly, prayed for. It's a time for vulnerability and encouragement. A time for growth in one of the most important relationships a person can have with another human. So I challenge each and every one of you to gather your favorite, quick and easy dinner, pour yourself a glass of wine and enjoy the company of your most favorite person!
Enjoy!