Combating the holiday blues…. with food!

Returning from a holiday always sucks. There is something so liberating about traveling, the feelings of freedom and adventure. When it is all over you can’t help but feel trapped by the humdrum of normality.

For me, this week was tough. The kids are not yet back to school, so it isn’t quite ‘normal’ but it was near enough. There was work, food to cook, washing to do, sports commitments and health appointments to attend. There were big bills too, with the credit card being hit with overseas transactions and a set of braces for my son.

It was all starting to get me down. I had to have a stern talking to myself …….. life is what you make it girl! There is no point sitting at home wishing I was back on holiday. I had to get out the door and do something fun, meet some friends, have a chat and eat some yummy food. Oh and yes ……. start planning the next holiday!

Lucky for me, I had a work lunch scheduled yesterday. We met at a restaurant called Nicola’s on the main street in Bunbury. I was not familiar with the place, having not really visited the centre of town in years, but my colleagues assured me I was in for a treat.

I decided on the ‘market fish of the day’ as I often do (I don’t tend to cook fish often). It was crimson snapper on a bed of Parmesan mash, topped with an olive and tomato salsa. As I was driving, I accompanied this with a glass of lemon, lime and bitters, my go to ‘sober’ drink.

It was delicious. At first I thought it didn’t look all that big, but once I started eating I knew it would be the perfect portion. The mash was indulgent and filling with its hint of cheese, the fish delicate and perfectly cooked. The tomatoes and saltiness of the olives topped it off perfectly, each mouthful pure pleasure.

When I finished I felt perfectly full, not uncomfortable and not needing more. I thought to myself, a coffee would finish things of nicely. But then the waitress informed us of the dessert special for the day…… banoffee pie. Seriously, this is probably the only dessert I can not resist!!

Fortunately, one of colleagues came to the rescue and offered to share one with me. Perfect….. I could try the pie and not feel too guilty about it, I quickly agreed to the deal!

It was amazing with the richest most decadent caramel, topped with whipped cream and sliced fresh banana. A touch of raspberry coulis breaking through for a taste sensation.

As expected, the girls were quite right I had enjoyed a lovely treat. Not only was the food amazing but so was the company. I am the ‘newbie’ at work but they have all been amazing at welcoming me into the team and making me feel like a valued member. I am excited about the future holds with these lovely, kind women.

My day wasn’t over yet. After driving back home and having a little rest, the family headed out to meet some friends at Amelia Park tavern for dinner. I know…….. how terribly piggy of me!

It was so lovely to catch up with friends and get out of the house on a Saturday night. The kids all get on well and we barely saw them as they played on the lawn, from time to time coming in hot and sweaty for a drink or food. We sat and chatted while sipping our cider and wine.

When it came to eating, I had to opt for a salad with lunch still weighing quite heavy! I went for a roast pumpkin, mushroom and halloumi salad which was delicious. Presented slightly different to what I expected, the pumpkin in wedges on the bottom with the mushrooms and halloumi layered above, then topped with greens and crunchy chick peas (which were surprisingly yummy).

I guess home ain’t so bad after all! I just have to make myself get out there and enjoy it. There are so many wonderful things on our doorstep here and it is my mission this year to discover them. From food and wine experiences, to beaches, walks and boating. Look out South West WA, The Travel Bee is coming!

TTB