I have twenty minutes to write this post. I've got myself on a strict schedule this morning--something we homeschoolers are not used to--because I have been asked to sing at the funeral of a woman from my church who passed away this weekend. I will be bringing the girls, but they'll be playing together in the nursery while I slip in and out to offer what I can to this sweet family and in honor of this sweet woman who was such a strong part of our church community. I feel honored to be able to offer my voice as a gift to the family.

I knew I wanted to write this post first thing in the week for those meal-planners among us. I made the transition to meal planner in the last year and although there have a been a few weeks where I've slacked, the peace and time-saving of knowing what to buy at the grocery store and exactly what I'll be making at the end of each day is so helpful to me.

So I thought I would share a few recipes that we've been enjoying lately. Some are simple classics--but that is what I love. And I love finding a recipe that works. Others are great comfort foods. And of course, I had to throw in a kid-friendly dessert as well...

Enjoy!

Sarah's Chicken and Dumplings : Drop whatever it is that you are doing, and make this recipe tonight! Sarah is my neighbor and friend and an amazing, amazing baker and cook. This recipe is so good, I can't even tell you. We've had it twice in two weeks it is that good. The second time I made it my husband was so happy because he'd been under the weather the first time I made it and "couldn't fully appreciate how good it was." He proclaims it the best dumplings he's ever had. And while you're visiting Sarah for the recipe, check out all her recipes. Amazing, folks. Amazing.

Baked Ravioli : I know most people probably have a version of this in their repertoire, but this one was so simple and delicious. Especially the sauce. Usually my children pick out the chunks of tomato, but I found certain members of the family eating the tomato-y parts straight out of the dish.

Pasta with Turkey Meatballs and Bocconcini : This was is so yummy, too. You'll have to spring for the bocconcini--it's not exactly a pantry staple, but it's worth it.

Pork Tenderloin with Honeyed Butter : I like how simple this recipe is. Although be warned that, in my opinion, in needs to cook longer than the 7-10 minutes recommended in the recipe.

Vegetarian Black-Bean Chili : I'm trying to introduce more vegetarian dishes into our meal plans. It saves money and it's good for us. This one was a hit with everyone. Though I will confess to have a little bit of cheese and bits of bacon on hand to sprinkle over the top.

Buckeyes : And of course, dessert. I had to try this recipe because the last time I made buckeyes, it was a culinary disaster in the kitchen with my big sister--and I was probably in middle school. We had chocolate and buckeyes everywhere. Not to mention the number that completely dropped into the bowl of warm chocolate only to be fished out and plopped onto the waxed paper. It wasn't pretty. In a very weak attempt to redeem this recipe, I added 1/4 cup of wheat germ to the peanut butter balls. And we dumped the eyeball part in favor of a more traditional buckeye look. *My children helped me make the peanut butter balls. They were distracted during the chocolate dipping step. I think it was better that way. :)

What recipes are working for you these days? I'm always excited to add some more good things to my recipe box!