When Theo was born, we started a new tradition with my college roomates.

Instead of a baby shower before the birth which always felt incredibly awkward to me, we decided to host Welcome To The World parties for the new human a few weeks after they—and most importantly the parents—accumulated to life. The tradition started with Theo in 2015, continued with Theo’s first love Coley in 2016, and this weekend, we got to welcome our newest baby Claire.

What I hope for these kids—other than the obvious—is to grow up together the way I grew up with my parent’s friend’s children. We didn’t live in the same place, we didn’t see each other every often, but we shared so many common experiences and the bond of parental friendship. That means something. Let’s see if we can share it with the next generation.

In other news, ideas for dinner:

Tomatoes/Cherry Tomatoes

• Tomato and Corn Tarts
• Spicy Tomato and Spinach Galettes with Runny Eggs
• Grilled Romaine, Charred Corn, Tomato, and Fennel Salad

Bell Peppers

• Fried Halloumi with Bell Peppers, Carrots, Capers and so much other good stuff
• Cod and Potatoes with Romesco Sauce
• Baked Salmon with Bacon and Soycotash

Watermelon/Honeydew Melon

• Black Bean with Melon(s) and Feta Salad | Food52
• Watermelon Campari Granita | Food52
• Smoky, Spicy Watermelon and Prosciutto Bites with Goat Cheese and Mint | Bowen Appetit

Red Norland Potatoes

• Cod and Potatoes with Romesco Sauce
• Paprika and Thyme Roasted Chicken with Potatoes
• Red Cabbage and Sausage Soup

Sweet Corn

• Tomato and Corn Tarts
• Grilled Romaine, Charred Corn, Tomato, and Fennel Salad
• Baked Salmon with Bacon and Soycotash

Fennel

• Grilled Romaine, Charred Corn, Tomato, and Fennel Salad
• Roasted Chicken Thighs with Clementines
• Artichoke, Cucumber, Fennel, and Radish Salad

Tokyo Bekana

• Sub for bok choy in Scallion and Coconut Rice with Pork | Food52
• Sub for bok choy in Pad Thai Redux | Food52
• Sub for bok choy in Fried Rice with Ginger, Bok Choy and Peas | Food52

Patty Pan Squash

• Grilled Summer Squash and Peaches with Blue Cheese and Herbs
• Stuffed Patty Pan Squash
• Warm Patty Pan Squash and Chickpea Salad