
We are kicking off this week with a fantastic kayak trip with some good friends on Sunday afternoon. It wasn’t just any kayak trip on a lake, but we were emulating what George Washington did a few hundred years ago – we crossed the Hudson River … twice.
The Waterworld excursion kicked off with a brief safety check. We must know how to use a paddle, wear a lifejacket, and avoid flipping over. We did not want to capsize in the Hudson River. You never know what chemicals and other toxins are present.
We paddled North from Newburgh against the current and steered towards the other shore, aiming for the Beacon landing.
Once safely on Eastern Shore, we walked to a local brewery, Two Way Brewing Co., to enjoy a pint of whatever hobs mixture we preferred. After an hour of beer tasting, we set “sails” towards Newburgh again, a much faster ride with the current.

We repeated the beer tasting at the Newburgh Brewing Company, an old loft warehouse converted into a very cool brewhouse.
I admit, I might have enjoyed a cold spiked iced tea while crossing the Hudson River; Hoop is my preferred brand. It’s essential to stay hydrated while doing physical exercises, and what better place than riding shotgun on a twin kayak with my lovely wife?
Limited Prep but simple dinners
So, because of our booze cruise on Sunday afternoon and several DIY projects around the house, I did not have time to prepare and cook any meals. As such, my evenings will be busy cooking when I get home.
This is also our last week before school starts, so the kids must fend for themselves. They have simple options like Mac n Cheese, grilled cheese, cup noodles, and a mixed salad.

I’m making a few one-pot meals for dinner again, and we love various versions of rice and chicken skillet meals. Firstly, they are relatively easy, and secondly fast. You can make a nice one-pan chicken dinner in less than 45 minutes.
If I have time Monday night, I’ll make a few dinners to avoid further stress during the week, as I’m lining up several DIY garden projects this week.
I’m taking a few more PTO days to wrap up projects and spend time with the kids before school starts next week.
We will wrap up the week with Rod Stewart, where we will grill a few taco smash burgers on the 17″ Blackstone griddle.
Meal Plan
Lunch | Dinner | |
Monday | No school or camp | Chicken Burrito Skillet |
Tuesday | No school or camp | Galinhada (Brazilian chicken & rice) |
Wednesday | No school or camp | Best Chili … according to the recipe |
Thursday | No school or camp | Street Tacos with Tender Pork Loin |
Friday | No school or camp | Taco smash burgers – concert tail gaiting |
One day, I might get so organized that I will link the meals below to my recipes. We can only live in hope!
Have a fantastic week, my friends. I hope you enjoy these meal plans. It is much easier to make food in advance, although you must invest several hours preparing meals during the weekend.

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