Our Lives Are Changing Every Day . . .

I remember when we didn’t have computers; when our company’s technology consisted of a Xerox typewriter with a 10 page memory capacity; when Fed Ex was revolutionary; and when someone asked us to send them a fax, sounded like they were asking for “just the facts”. Isn’t it incredible what has happened in just 25 years?

In the 1950’s, most women stayed at home and spent 2.5 hours per day preparing dinner for her family. Today, 70% of women work outside the home. I grew up with the adage, “necessity is the mother of invention” and I had an experience last week that brought those words to life.

I bought an auction item at the annual YMCA fundraiser. My purchase was for “Dream Dinners” – 12 pre-packaged meals that I would prepare and freeze for future use. Two weeks ago, I pulled out my gift certificate; went on line as instructed to schedule my cooking session; and chose my menus. Two days later, I arrived at “Dream Dinners” excited but not sure of what it was that I was going to do. Walking into the kitchen, I was welcomed by Steve Hall and his culinary protégées. In just a few minutes, I had peeled off my jacket; put on my apron; washed my hands and was ready to prepare!

During the next two hours, I worked from station to station, preparing dinners that I had pre-selected. The facility was immaculate; the attention to cleanliness and friendliness was delightful and my enthusiasm for this concept grew minute-by-minute. Two hours later, I had 12 meals that were fresh, healthy and ready to go. As I drove home with my cooler of food, I thought about why I had such a good time and this is what I realized:

• We all want to be good parents and preparing healthy meals for our families and friends is a way that we measure ourselves
• My experience was fun; friendly and made me feel welcome
• The quality of the ingredients and the finished recipes was exciting
• This two hour session enabled me to provide healthy meals for my family with a minimum effort and maximum use of my time
• The recipes drew me out of my culinary rut and inspired me to try new things
• I anticipated that we would entertain more because the work was all done ahead of time
• The price was right – great value for the product

Just think about this modern day solution. Necessity drove inspiration – inspiration drove invention. I don’t think my Mom would have appreciated the need for this service in the ‘50’s, but in sharing one of my Dream Dinners with her, she joined me in my enthusiasm and appreciation for its benefits to me and my family.

Business is business. Whatever the service, whatever the product – we succeed as a result of our ability to adapt and embrace the world and the changes that influence our lives. “Dream Dinners” was such a great reminder of this – and the dinners were delicious too! Bon Appetit!