Families are always in such a hurry these days that they often don't even get time to sit down at the dinner table together.  It's such a shame that family time around the dinner table is becoming a thing of the past.  Families need that time to reconnect and share the trials and tribulations of the day.

There are ways to make this happen.  It's really is all about planning ahead and making the best use of your time and resources.

Making meals ahead is an excellent way to prepare healthy, quick and easy meals for your family. It makes life easier and takes all the guess work out of the question, "What's for dinner?"

Here are the steps you need to follow to make your meals ahead of time.  It's very simple.  You just need the right spices, some gallon freezer bags, a couple canned goods, and the meat of your choice.

First, you bag about 2-3 lbs. of your meat of choice in your freezer bags.  You then add your spice (I recommend our pantry staples).  The next step is to add the appropriate canned good -- the recipe could call for cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes, etc.  After all the ingredients are in the freezer bag, you seal the bag and then mix the ingredients all together by "smooshing" the bag. 

After all your meals are prepared, you can stick them in the freezer until you are ready to prepare them. 

There are 3 ways to prepare these meals:

1)  thaw freezer bag items; bake at 350 degrees for about 1 hour;

2)  grill; or

3)  cook in a crock pot for 4-6 hours.

Very easy, quick and simple!

National Eat Together Week is fast approaching.  Isn't it time you take control of your family dinners and begin eating together around the dinner table?  I enjoy helping families reclaim their dinner time through fast, easy, and delicious meal planning solutions.  Let me help you!

Did you know that one of the best ways to get our kids excited about dinner is by having them help prepare the meal?

Here are some important tips from A Trovola Together, to remember when cooking with your kids.

1.  Invite your children to choose the recipe or help plan the meal.  It gives them a sense of independence and allows them to make good choices.

2.  Explain safety rules for the stove, appliances, and sharp utensils.  Teaching children the "rules of the kitchen" at an early age helps instill the life skills they will need in the future.

3.  Read the recipes and plan cooking steps together.  You can practice those reading and problem resolutions skills!

4.  Wash your hands before starting to cook or eating.  It is so important to teach our children good hygiene.  Explain to them why it's important.

Once your meal is prepared, you and your family will be able to enjoy great conversation over a delicious homemade meal! 

You can find more ideas and great kid-friendly recipes at www.atavolatogether.com