I can’t believe that we’re already turning over the first page in our 2013 calendar. Life is truly moving too fast. Don’t you wish that Valentines Day was later in the month? I could definitely use an extra week or two to get ready. Friends are sharing adorable ideas for decorations and cards and treats on Pinterest, and I’m so inspired but I’m not sure when we’ll squeeze these in.

Definitely on my list: Sweetheart Cherry Pies by Sarah at CakeStudent.com (check out her recipes by clicking the image!)

Inspiration is like the first step though, right? Now to find the time and make it official on our calendar.

One welcome change is that we noticed the days are getting longer. Driving home from dinner with friends this past week, we realized that we could still see some daylight on the horizon and it was after six o’clock. And I’ve managed to leave the office a few days this week while it was still light outside. These little moments put a smile in my heart because I know that we’re that much closer to spring and summer.

Here in Portland, we love summertime. Spring and fall are beautiful but our summers are magical.

Let’s sneak some spring into this week’s family meal plan:

Bird’s Nests with a side of whatever is in season

Monday - Sausage, peas and pasta toss

Tuesday – Bird’s nests with roasted red and sweet potatoes

Wednesday – Mummy’s ramen noodles 

Thursday – Fish with chimichurri sauce, mushroom quinoa and roasted green beans (I’ll check at Trader Joe’s for fish, frozen and already marinated)

Friday – Avocado basil pasta with bacon

Ready for something fun? My friend Asha at Parent Hacks shared my daughter’s clever Valentine box from a few years ago. This still makes us all giggle when we see it.

Have a great week!