Survive the Time Change

All of sudden, this week seems very long... and it's only Monday morning! Judging from the posts on Facebook, I'm not the only one who drags through the time change. I'm recommending simplifying the meal prep this week. Here are some suggestions:

• Shop local and check out the take-out meals at cafe and catering specialist Something Classic--the chicken pot pie is a classic and there are other daily specials. Click on the link above for locations, or pick up a meal at the "Tiny Teeter" in Myers Park.
• Local gourmet catering company Porcupine Provisions has started something called "Bus Stop Dinners" (as in "pick it up on your way home from the bus stop.") Order by 3 p.m. on Sunday and pick up your meals Tuesday-Thursday from 2:30-4 p.m. at the location on East Boulevard (behind Rock Lobster). Email pqpine@porcupineprovisions.com for the weekly menu and further info. The sample menu I received included Grilled Swordfish Skewers with Tomato Couscous with a choice of grilled asparagus or dilled baby carrots for $24 (serves 4), in addition to other entrees; it also included a turkey lasagna serving 6-8 for $45--great for a last-minute gathering!
• Pick up some family style bbq from Mac's Speed Shop on South Boulevard--and don't forget the mac & cheese! (Go to the "catering" section of their web site and look up at the top for family-friendly choices.)
• Most churches around here seem to have a dinner program on Wednesday nights--if you are a church member (or are church shopping), now's the time to get there! If you are lucky, your church will ALSO have a children's program that will allow you to enjoy some after-dinner downtime.
  
• Trader Joe's (click here for locations) has pre-marinated meats that make dinner easier, and also pre-made meals. We love the frozen Asian food, too. The Fresh Market and Harris Teeter also provide easy meals-to-go.
  
• Pick up a roasted or smoked turkey breast at Honeybaked Ham. My kids love them and there are lots of ways to make an easy meal out of them, ranging from a simple sandwich to turkey tetrazzini. Go whole hog and pick up some sides, too!

To Do: Be gentle with yourself and family members as we all adjust to the time change.