Welcome back to the second installment of Get Together (formerly known as the Taste of Home Holiday newsletter). I’m Ellie, writing to you with a reason to celebrate every week. And when the time comes, we’ll do holiday countdowns, too.
This week, it’s back-to-school. Even though my son's school doesn’t start until September, plenty of people in our lives—kids and grown-ups—are already heading back.
This time of year brings up a lot of memories, but my favorite isn’t about the food in my lunchbox. It’s about the napkin. My mom decorated each one with a little note (“you’re a star”, “good luck on your test”, sometimes just a smiley heart). At first, they were a little treasure to keep to myself, but my friends started noticing. My mom’s notes helped an entire lunch table of 10-year-olds feel loved and seen. Fast-forward to college move-in day when Mom handed me a grocery bag. Inside was a whole stash of napkin notes ready for a school year she wouldn’t be there for. I still think about how her small gesture left such an impact. I'm inspired to do the same.
So even if nobody in your house is headed back to school, consider this your nudge to add a little joy to your routine. A few small ways food can help set one up:
Nominate a “first day” dinnerto mark every first day of school, first day of the month, whatever. Doesn’t have to be extravagant, just one you’ll look forward to. These 30-minute dinners fit the bill.
Welcome the teachers, too. Bake up one of these teachers’ lounge treats for a school near you.
Start your own napkin note campaign. Or use Post-its, or doodle on hard-boiled eggs. Leave little messages where someone you love will find them.
What’s your favorite school-food memory? Email me at ellie.martincliffe@tmbi.com.
School season is almost here! It’s time for fun and healthy back-to-school lunch ideas that will have your kiddos looking forward to returning to the classroom.
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