We are all a bit under the weather around here. The boys have slight colds and I have something brewing. Last night, after dinner, the boys got a chocolate chip cookie from Daddy. That perked them right up. They plopped in a chair across from me and lo and behold, my camera was just at my fingertips. I managed to click without them freaking out and Oh am I so happy!
Look:
Photos of my kids together. Lovingly, I might add.
For those of you who don’t know, my brother in-law is from Morocco. This year, he wasn’t able to travel home to celebrate Eid (the end of Ramadan), so we thought we would bring a little Casablanca here to Long Island.
We all did our best as everyone contributed. Dinner actually turned out scrumptious. I researched a ton and realized that Dinners and Dreams was my best resource. Beautifully written and photographed.
I decided on making Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Olives. Oh My was that good. I had an authentic Tagine from Morocco that, at the last minute, put aside and used a Dutch Oven. I thought it wouldn’t be big enough. Afterwards, I realized I probably could have used it. It made for a lovely serving dish nonetheless. I also didn’t use preserved lemons. I didn’t miss them ; )
My Mom picked up some Turkish bread from Nazar for dipping into the juices.
My Mom also made an eggplant side (on the right). I have no idea how she made it but it was so refreshing. I made a red cabbage salad which added a nice texture and crunch to the meal.
My BIL made a cous cous that was delish with beef and carrots and other good stuff.
For dessert, Mom made this moroccan biscotti. Filled with Pistachio and raisins, it was perfect with hot tea.
I think that night was the start of a new tradition. Whether it is on Eid or not, having an authentic Moroccan dinner was good for our souls.
Spent the afternoon relaxing at Pindar Vineyards yesterday. Drank wine, listened to music, packed a picnic and laughed with friends. Samy from Creative Courses Catering made us steak sandwiches that were too die for. The kids had a great time getting their faces painted and playing Frisbee. It was the first day that I actually felt chilly when the sun went behind the clouds. This is it. Summer is gone and Fall is here. The smell in the air is different too. The East-end was in full swing with pumpkin picking and cornstalks. I’m not there quite yet. Maybe in a couple of weeks.
It was a delightful day:
We love trying new wines around here. Do you have a favorite?
We decided well in advance last minute, to have a Labor Day party. Luckily, our friends were able to make it and we all had a super great time.
Enjoy:
Monsta – by surprise of course.
Carly and Sam
Maritza and Chris
Timmy
My sister Jules and Samy
Cubby
Holly and Rob
Joey
David and Debra
Mary
Tony
Jules and Mia
Jill and Joe
Joey and Monsta armed with their DS’
Party didn’t wrap up till around 11:30. Hung around talking, guitar heroing and laughing.
Today, I sent my boy to his first day of Kindy. Oh my Gosh, I really can’t believe it. I am really excited for him and he was pretty psyched as well. I’m getting pangs of anxiety though (just little ones) trying to think what he is doing at this very second. What if he is lost in the hallway? What if he can’t open the container I put his peaches in? HAHAHA, I make myself laugh. I know everything will be fine and that he will come home safe and sound.