Bear, Marcel and Pasta Fourno

So often on the blogs we share those very fun projects and living experiences we have with our kids. What happens when they grow up, move out and off to college? I can feel the tears welling up in your eyes now. I'll confess to a few of my own, but today I come with encouraging words. Once your kids, always your kids.

(Marcel Simone Dupont)

Yesterday I stopped by my big girls apartment for a little hang-out time. She's recently moved to the "grown-up" apartment. As I was sitting there eating lunch, playing with the dog, and loving the cat, it dawned on me that Zuzu is all grown up. So though she may not be living in our house anymore there are still the daily phone calls, the afternoon crafting sessions, favorite movie watching, our love of travel and photography and our deep affection for a dish called "Pasta Fourno".

(Bear Wilber the lap dog)

Over lunch we discussed all of the things in this world that are currently inspiring us, what projects we are in the middle of, and lots of good laughs. A few years ago I would have dread the thought of this girl growing up but it's turned out so wonderfully well. I've really had to learn to just enjoy the moment I'm in. Each moment has brought it's own very unique gift. 

Today, however, I'm going to leave with you with one of our favorite foods......Pasta Fourno.

Pasta Fourno

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

• 1 16 oz box of pasta shells
• 1 jar of tomato sauce. Any will do homemade or store bought.
• 1 small container of half and half.
• 1 small package of Italian 5 blend shredded cheese
• 1 package of mozzarella cheese
• salt and pepper to taste

1. Boil a pot of water. Once boiling add salt and a little olive oil.
2. Cook the pasta.
3. While the pasta is cooking. Mix the tomato sauce, half and half, and italian cheese mix into a bowl.
4. Once the pasta is done cooking, drain it quickly and add the pasta to the tomato sauce mix in the bowl.
5. Take a large baking pan and place the pasta mixer in it.
6. Spread as much mozzarella cheese on top as you would like.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes in a 425 degree oven. You just want the cheese nice a bubbly and brown.
8. Pull out of the oven and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes and then eat.

Enjoy!!!!