I was parked in our driveway on Tuesday afternoon with my very tall, nearly 9 year old snuggled up with me in the front seat of my car. He was teary about friends - in so many words, expressing a desire to feel pursued and chosen in friendship. I was trying to not go down with the ship, an easy crier and sensitive friend myself, and tried to listen - to talk about our responsibility in good friendships. I care about this so much for myself, and love my kids more than anything, so I care about their relationships as well. Our other kid rages at us - this week it was because I am, quote, "the only parent who puts produce in their kids' lunch! Everyone else gets Oreos and Lunchables and you are the WORST!" or that she still has to sit in a booster seat in the car because it's the law, but apparently my fault. This felt like a tricky parenting week. I did also cook a lot.

I tested some Weeknight-friendly Birria tacos that I think my omnivorous folks will love. I made a pretty Green Goddess Wedge Salad up net Friday, so you'll have that one in time for Easter brunch. One of my favorites this week is that bagel sandwich. I can't wait to pack a good tomato in there this summer. The pasta is also my attempt to find a good dairy-free pasta dish, obviously resorting to tahini for creaminess, and good hot or cold. It doesn't compete with cheesy pasta, but I loved the leftovers for lunch.

You guys like to hear store-bought favorites too, and my current favorite snack are the Simple Mills Honey Cinnamon Sweet Thins from Costco (and elsewhere, but the Costco bag is basically a two for one deal).

That's what I've got this fine Friday! Big hugs to you and happy cooking.