Why You Should Say Yes to a Meal Offer

OCTOBER 31, 2023  /  KELLI NAPOTNIK  / 

Why You Should Say Yes to a Meal Offer
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.

Why You Should Say Yes to a Meal Offer

#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!

Read other recent articles by Kelli Napotnik:


Back to all blog posts
 
 

Adina & Maureen
Adina & Maureen

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

Subscribe to the TTAM Blog...

 YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS

Helpful Posts

Recent Posts...

Visit TakeThemAMeal.com's profile on Pinterest.
 

Coordinating a meal for a group?
Try PerfectPotluck.com
!