The Way to a Father's Heart...

A couple years ago, SPH and I decided that the best present we could give each other for Mother’s and Father’s Day was time…time to sleep in, time to read the paper, time to do whatever the heck we wanted to do without worrying about how the kids would work into the equation. The decision was partly made due to the fact that SPH was in school full time and our budget was tight, but even now, with SPH working full time, we’ve kept the tradition. This year for Mother’s Day I spent a glorious day doing exactly what I wanted to do (shop, lounge, pedicure) without worrying about mealtimes, nap times, or any other kiddie things. This weekend SPH will do the same, although he’s still deciding between golf and some other options. Another Sweet Pea family tradition is a special meal on Mother’s and Father’s Day. My Mother’s Day celebration began with breakfast in bed and ended with my favorite grilled fish tacos. SPH is still mulling his food requests for Sunday, but this recipe would be a good bet. If you are looking for a way to say “thank you” to a special dad in your life, try my Apricot Basil Glazed Pork Chops. They are manly man enough for dad, but also sufficiently savory-sweet to satisfy your little ones too. They cook up easy and are delicious…and after all, the quickest way to a man’s heart is through their stomach! Apricot Basil Glazed Pork Chops 4-6 Bone-in Thin Cut Pork Chops ½ cup hoisin sauce ¼ cup apricot preserves ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, divided use 1 teaspoon hot sauce ¼ teaspoon fresh ground pepper ½ teaspoon paprika Combine the hoisin sauce, apricot preserves, 2 tablespoons basil, hot sauce, ground pepper and paprika in a large freezer bag. Add the pork and seal. Marinate for 2-4 hours, or more. Remove the pork from the bag. Preheat grill to high heat. Cook on each side for about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the grill and top with the remaining basil. Serves 4 Happy Father’s Day to all you dads out there…and thank you for all you do! SPC