Sunday Dinner – Chicken Divan

Is the tradition of the Sunday dinner lost in our society today? As we move farther from our families and take on more responsibilities and activities we seem to spend less time in our homes. Growing up in South Baltimore my family had dinner together every evening, but Sunday dinner was special. We always ate downstairs in my grandparents apartment. Nana would make a roast with potatoes and carrots and green beans. Every Sunday it was a variation of the same dinner and afterwards coffee was served with cake. There was always coffee and cake. 

I look forward to Sundays. It ‘s the day I get to spend the most time with my family and I find myself more aware and eager for this time now that my son is closer to graduating from high school. How many more Sundays will we share our evening meal? I can’t tell you the last time I spent a Sunday afternoon with my own mother which is something I must remedy. 

On Sunday I always cook a big supper, something that involves various pots and pans and usually an entire afternoon. Today I made Chicken Divan. It was quite simple, though my kitchen sink is now over flowing with discarded utensils and plates. I don’t think I’ll ever be a neat or organized cook. 

The dish came out splendidly and I was pretty proud of myself until my teenager declared the dinner smelled like perfume. He ate heartily despite his comment. My husband enjoyed his dinner but afterwards enquired whether it was heart healthy. I took that to mean that it was good, but don’t make it again. 

I enjoy trying out different recipes, some are more successful than others. How else will I know if I don’t try? Whatever the outcome I always accomplish my goal and that is to spend time with the people who mean the most to me.