There are many things that make me happy in this life: dark chocolate, Cary Grant movies, and cousins. Especially cousins. I have heaps of cousins and I love them to bits. We are scattered across Canada, the US and Europe, but whenever we get together there is much hilarity, great story telling, and that feeling of connectedness that transcends friendship. I feel very lucky to have such great rellies.

Last night I got to drive to the beach and spend the evening with my cousin Cindy, her hubby Lee, and their two hilarious kids, Hayley and Ben. I love these guys because I can totally be myself with them. They make me laugh so hard and I always feel comfortable and welcome.

And boy oh boy can Lee ever cook!!

I arrived as he was hustling back and forth between the oven and the grill, carrying trays laden with all sorts of fabulous things like grilled lemon slices layered with sweet onion.

…salmon cooked beautifully with dill, cream and more sweet onions.

From the oven he brought out these delectable cheese-filled mushrooms…

…and to-die-for twice baked potatoes filled and topped with cheeses.

Then he followed all that deliciousness with a gorgeous Greek salad of cherry tomatoes, brightly colored peppers, red onion, and loads of feta cheese. Absolutely fantastic!!

Their 2-year-old Ben watched with interest as I photographed each dish in the waning evening light, and promptly insisted that his own food be photographed. So here for your viewing pleasure is Ben’s bowl.

After dinner we eased back in our chairs and talked, catching up on the years we lived apart. When the kids were tucked in bed Cindy and I pulled on sweaters and headed down to the beach. We found comfy perches atop a large piece of driftwood and talked for ages as we watched the sunset, not budging until our backsides were numb and our limbs shivering. It was wonderful.

It’s been a good week and I have much to anticipate this weekend: Classic Movie night with my cooking group, a jolly picnic with friends, and Brit murder mysteries with my folks.

What are you looking forward to this weekend?