The Story Behind the Casserole
When my daughter Katlyn was in 2nd grade, her teacher asked each child to bring their favorite recipe to class. The kids were going to make a Christmas Recipe Book for their parents, grandparents, or whomever.
I was not excited about this project, thinking the teacher was adding something to my to-do list. So I just pushed it further down my list. Like any other mom of three small girls, I was trying to balance them and an overflowing, cluttered house, plus help manage a farm.
Digging for the Farm Favorite Recipe
Katlyn has chosen her recipe...several days before it's due. And of course, I wait until the morning of and 10 minutes before they are supposed to catch the bus. I go digging for the recipe can't find it. By this time, I'm cussing her teacher (I know, I know..it's not the teacher's fault. It's mine). I grab the shortest recipe I can find and send Katlyn on her way.
The girls are gone to school, the house is quiet, and my mind is still racing. I have dishes stacked up, laundry piled high, and outside chores to finish. I'm just doing my best, feeling like I let my child down. And for goodness sake, I blamed the teacher!
Just Doing My Best
A week later, Katlyn comes home with her recipe book. She is so proud her recipe is published right along with her classmates. We sit together, read the pages, talk about which ones we want to try, and I realize at that moment...just doing my best is okay. I will get the dishes, laundry, and chores done, but I will not get this time back with my child. And, of course, I will try to stop procrastinating (that part hasn't worked out for me yet).
I'm Not the Only One
I also noticed many parents sent in quick recipes, just like me. I wasn't alone, and they were all trying their best too.
So here is one of our favorite casseroles out of the Shortest Written Recipes Christmas Book by Katlyn and her Famous Classmates...
YUMMY MAC and CHEESE
By Katlyn and Kim Rogier
1 3/4 cup Macaroni
1 stick Butter
1 pound Velveeta Cheese (cut up in cubes)
1 egg
2 cups milk
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