Today I want to talk about Thanksgiving.

For me, one of the biggest challenges for both Christmas and Thanksgiving is to not become busy during the event, but to be present, and also to not become stressed before the event, but to be relaxed, and to enjoy the time with my children, with my family, because that's basically what it's all about. It's not about making it perfect.

This is a concept that my brain doesn't easily accept, but I really do want to be present. I want to have the mindset of being present and not the mindset of finishing, or making it just right, or making it just how I want it, but rather to enjoy that process with them. It is easier now that they're a bit older - it was more challenging when I had many young children. But either way, I really want to engage with them, connect with them, and make special family memories together.

Today, I thought it might be fun to talk about some US presidents and their favorite meals, with Thanksgiving coming up next week, and in honor of the elections. Let's talk about some of our recent presidents and what they liked to eat. And then I'll mention some from quite long ago, and what they enjoyed.

I find it really fascinating seeing what someone will eat when they have a chef at their disposal, and can eat whatever they want. I think the first ladies would have had a lot to do with planning menus, and even encouraging their husbands to eat healthier things. Some of the things I'll mention are from when the presidents are just on their own, and they eat whatever they feel like, and then other things would be more what they would eat if there's a White House dinner, or a small dinner party, or if they’re simply eating with their wives, but is still cooked by the chef.

Today, we're going to be talking about kitchen utensils that I find really helpful in cooking and serving food.

I don't like having a ton of stuff, especially gimmicky things, lying around the kitchen. Good utensils have got to be simple, fit into the drawers, and really be super helpful.

There are no affiliate links with these - these are just things that I have in our home that I wouldnt want to do without. See familyfoodformoms.com for photos.

Let's chat!