Why You Should Say Yes to a Meal Offer

KELLI NAPOTNIK

My kids recently came down with colds (aches, sore throats and lots of tissues). My mom offered to bring us a pot of soup and I felt myself hesitate to say yes. I'm not sure why it's difficult for me to say yes to a meal when someone offers (even with it being my mom). Perhaps I don't want to cause extra work for someone else. Perhaps I'm not quite at the point where I feel I can't handle the situation. The older I get, the more I realize what a blessing it is for a meal coordinator to set up a meal schedule or for a meal provider to deliver a meal. In the end, I was relieved to have the extra support and I thanked myself for saying yes!

Do you struggle to accept help from others when a friend or loved one offers? Instead, turn those feelings around and let yourself say "ok." Doing so not only strengthens relationships, but it opens a door to true community and friendship. We share a lot about taking meals at Take Them A Meal, but what a joy it is to be on the receiving end too!

I'm so glad I took my own advice and told my mom I'd love a pot of soup when she offered to bring us some. There was no need to search the pantry or make an extra trip to the grocery store when I was feeling run down from taking care of sick children. I was able to serve a bowl of my mom's onion soup as soon as it was dropped off. I made sure I poured myself a cup and was so thankful as I sipped it!

Here's how my mom makes the DELICIOUS onion soup she brought us:

Ingredients:

1 quart beef or chicken broth
3-4 large white onions, peeled and sliced
2 quarts of water
1 tsp minced garlic

Directions:

Simmer until onions are soft and broth has taken a caramel color. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water until smooth and stir into soup to thicken broth. (If using a crockpot, set up in the morning and cook on low for 8 hours to enjoy later).
Season with salt to taste.

I'm so glad I told my mom yes to her soup. It was rejuvenating seeing her and I felt it gave me the necessary strength to finish out our day at home, caring for all my kiddos.

Do you have a simple warming recipe you love during times of illness? I hope if you're like me, the next time someone offers to help you in any way you will gladly accept!

*Healing Tip* Freeze some of the soup broth in ice cube trays and thaw as needed anytime you need extra support. This could also be a wonderful way to give broth to a friend if the need arises and they could store in their freezer.

#1: Want to include something extra when you take a meal? Send along a good book and this DIY bookmark!

#2: Make taking a meal extra fun with this Ghost Chicken Pot Pie! It's easy to make and a creative way to get in the Halloween spirit!

#3: The first few months for new parents can be an adjustment, and finding time to enjoy a date night outside the house isn't always possible. That's why putting together this simple Date Night In Box is a perfect gift to drop off.

#4: If the recipient of your meal schedule has food allergies, here are some great recipes and resources for you as you consider what to make.

#5: This Easy Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is a quick and delicious meal you can whip up to take or make!

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Welcome! We're thrilled you stopped by. A well-timed meal delivered by a friend is one of the best gifts imaginable. In this space, we share our favorite recipes, meal-taking tips, and other ways to care for those who are dear to you.

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