Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. Without the attachment to a specific religion, it’s a day that pretty much everyone can enjoy. And if you love the flavors of the season, like me, it’s a time to celebrate everything from cranberries to root vegetables. We usually celebrate Thanksgiving at our home in Brooklyn. I start the day with a Turkey Trot in nearby Prospect Park, which helps to clear my head for the full day of cooking and socializing ahead. My mother in law and a few friends join us around 5 and we finish up by the time the kids go to sleep. This year it’s just going to be me, my husband, and our three kids at the table. Since the littlest one has yet to even have her first taste of mashed sweet potatoes, and the older two don’t really care about the big feast, we really have no pressure to make any of the traditional foods. Heck, we could grill up some burgers and everyone would be happy! Well, everyone except for me. Those Thanksgiving smells remind me of my mother and of celebrations growing up. I’ll still be making some family favorites for us to enjoy, including the recipes below. After all, it just won’t feel like Thanksgiving unless there are some familiar aromas filling the house. I hope you enjoy these recipes and I wish you and your families a wonderful Thanksgiving—no matter how you plan to spend it!
Sausage, Cornbread and Quinoa Stuffing
Serves 12 3 cups of cornbread, cubed 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 4 celery ribs, chopped 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper 2 links sweet Italian chicken or turkey sausage, casing removed and crumbled 1 teaspoon fresh sage 1 cup dried cherries, unsweetened 2 cups cooked quinoa 1/2 cup fresh flat-leafed parsley leaves, roughly chopped 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper 3/4 cup low sodium chicken broth ¼ cup dry white wine
- Toast cornbread cubes in the oven or toaster oven at 350° for 10 minutes. Spray a 13X9X2 baking pan with cooking spray and set aside. Remove cornbread from oven and set aside; leave oven on.
- Heat the oil in a large sauté pan for 1 minute over medium heat, then add the onion and sage and sauté for 2 minutes. Add the celery and cook for 3 minutes. Then add the sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Transfer the toasted cornbread and quinoa to a large bowl and add the sausage mixture to it. Stir and add the salt, pepper, broth and wine. Transfer to the reserved baking dish and bake at 350° for 50 minutes, until golden brown on top. Serve warm.
Herb Roasted Turkey Breast
Serves about 6 1 whole bone-in turkey breast, 6 1/2 to 7 pounds 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves 2 teaspoons fresh sage leaves 2 teaspoons kosher salt 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 cup dry white wine, chicken broth or water
- Preheat the oven to 325°. Arrange a rack in a large roasting pan and place the turkey breast on it, skin side up.
- On a cutting board, chop the herbs with the salt, spreading your knife over the mixture to make a paste. Loosen the skin from the turkey breast with clean hands and spread the herb mixture evenly over the breast. Brush the olive oil over the turkey skin. Pour the wine, broth or water in the bottom of the roasting pan.
- Roast the turkey for 1 3/4 to 2 hours, until the skin is golden and an instant-read thermometer registers 165° when inserted into the thickest part of the breast. Check the turkey after it has been cooking for an hour and 15 minutes; if the skin is getting too brown, cover the turkey breast with foil.
- Remove the turkey breast from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes to allow the juices to evenly distribute. Carve the turkey and serve.
Spiced and Spiked Cranberry Cider
from Eating in Color: Delicious, Healthy Recipes for You and Your Family Serves 6 Despite all the wonderful flavors and scents of fall, I’ve never been a big fan of the season. I think it has always signaled an end of fun for me, and of course it means shorter days and added layers of clothes. But one thing I’ve always loved about fall is apple cider. As long as I have a steaming mug of it (preferably spiked!), I can brave those chilly autumn nights with a smile. This cider can also be made without the rum, and kids love it as a treat. 4 cups (1L) apple cider 2 cups (500ml) sweetened cranberry juice blend (100 percent juice) 2 cinnamon sticks 1 orange, sliced crosswise into wheels 6 ounces (180ml) rum
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cider, cranberry juice, cinnamon sticks, and orange wheels. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Strain the mixture (careful, it’s hot!) through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids. Add 1 ounce (30ml) of rum per 1 cup (250ml) serving. Curl up in front of the fire and enjoy.
Emotional Benefits of Getting Outside
Spending time in nature with your baby can strengthen the bond between you. The simple act of holding your baby close, feeling their warmth, and sharing new experiences together can create strong emotional connections. It’s also a wonderful way to reduce stress and improve your mood. When my littles were extra fussy, I’d take a walk around the neighborhood. Even though I don't live in an area with trails and surrounded by nature, simply behind outside changed everything. A little vitamin D does wonders!
Cognitive Development
Nature is a sensory wonderland for babies. The different sights, sounds, and smells can stimulate your baby’s senses and promote cognitive development. Watching leaves rustle, hearing birds chirp, and feeling the texture of a tree bark can all contribute to their learning and development.
All About Baby Carriers for Nature Adventures
Choosing the Right Baby Carrier
When it comes to selecting the best baby carrier for summer adventures, there are several options to consider.
Types of Baby Carriers:
- Wraps: Perfect for newborns, providing a snug and secure fit.
- Slings: Ideal for quick and easy use, offering good ventilation.
- Soft Structured Carriers: Versatile and comfortable for both parent and baby, suitable for longer trips.
Factors to Consider:
- Baby’s Age and Weight: Ensure the carrier is appropriate for your baby’s size and weight. For example, Ergobaby’s Embrace Newborn Carrier is perfect for the fourth trimester where baby is small and you’re looking for an easy way to stay close. As they grow, you’ll want to upgrade to an all-position carrier that’s meant for growing babies.
- Parent’s Comfort and Ergonomics: Look for carriers with padded shoulder straps and lumbar support if you’re planning on longer outings.
- Ease of Use: Choose a carrier that is easy to put on and take off.
- Climate and Breathability: Opt for carriers made of breathable fabrics to keep you and your baby cool in hot weather.
Safety Tips:
- Proper Positioning: Ensure your baby is seated correctly, with their legs in an "M" position and their head should be close enough to kiss.
- Checking for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your carrier for any signs of damage.
- Ensuring Adequate Support: Make sure the carrier provides proper support for your baby’s head and neck.
Exploring Nature with a Baby Carrier
Ideal Spots for a Nature Walk with Baby
- Parks and Gardens: Great for leisurely walks and picnics.
- Nature Trails and Forests: Perfect for more adventurous outings.
- Beaches and Lakesides: Wonderful for enjoying the water and sand, with the right carrier.
Activity Ideas
- Hiking: Enjoy a scenic hike with a hiking baby carrier that offers support and storage.
- Bird Watching: Use your carrier to keep your baby close while you explore and observe wildlife.
- Picnics: A carrier can free up your hands, making it easier to carry picnic supplies.
Advantages of Using Strollers for Nature Adventures
While baby carriers are fantastic for mobility and closeness, depending on the adventure of choice you might want to be a stroller along too.
There are a LOT of baby stroller options on the market. So we understand how confusing it can be to choose the one that’s right for your family. Not only are there a variety of brands, but a variety of strollers that serve different purposes.
There are a few types of strollers on the market:
- Full-sized stroller: This is typically the stroller parents thing of buying for all its versatility.
- Lightweight or umbrella stroller:These compact strollers are perfect for on-the-go adventures.
- Jogging stroller: Designed for parents who want to combine fitness with outdoor adventures.
- Double stroller: Designed for parents with multiple kids, especially twins.
- Car seat carrier: These strollers connect to a specific car seat. We don't typically recommend these as they can be unsafe for baby and uncomfortable for parents who are pushing.
Learn more about the types of strollers and which one would be best for you.
Benefits of Bringing a Stroller
- Storage Space for Gear: Ample room for carrying all your essentials like a diaper bag, beach toys and more.
- Shade and Weather Protection: Built-in canopies to shield your baby from the sun when they are lounging.
- Options: If you have more than one kid, you can stroll with one and carry the other. Or, if you’re getting warm or your little one is getting fussy, you can switch up their position from stroller to carrier or vice versa.
Safety Tips for Strollers
- Ensure your stroller is in good working condition. Make sure buckles are still buckling and that there are no rips or holes that could compromise your baby’s safety.
- Use sunshades or bug nets to protect your little one’s skin.
- Securing the baby properly: always buckle up your baby for safety even if you think they are old enough to go without the buckle.
Combining Baby Carriers and Strollers
For the ultimate flexibility, consider using both a baby carrier and a stroller on your outings.
Combining both options allows you to adapt to different situations. Use the carrier for more rugged trails and switch to the stroller for smoother paths or when your baby needs a nap.
Transition Tips
- Smooth Transitions: Plan stops where you can easily switch from carrier to stroller.
- Pack Light: Only bring essentials to make transitions easier.
Tips for a Successful Adventure
Planning Ahead
- Route Planning: Choose baby-friendly trails and parks. Check local mom groups or outdoor groups and get recommendations for the best outings for kids.
- Check Weather Conditions: Avoid extreme heat or unpredictable weather. Even with our most breathable carriers, when it’s hot, it’s hot. And having two bodies against each other in the heat will be naturally hot and sticky already.
- Packing Checklist: Include diapers, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. These all-position carriers have storage pockets where you can fit some of the items easily!
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Pack healthy snacks to keep energy levels up and bring plenty of water for both you and baby.
Summer adventures with your baby are a wonderful way to create lasting memories and enjoy the beauty of nature together. From baby carriers to strollers, Ergobaby products are designed to provide comfort and ease for both you and your little one. So, gear up, get outside, and explore the world with your baby by your side.
Ready to embark on your own summer adventures? Check out Ergobaby’s range of baby carriers and strollers to find the perfect match for your family’s needs. Visit our website today and start planning your next outdoor excursion!