It’s funny how a year sounds like a long time. But looking back, this past year has flown by! For example, just over a year ago I was bringing my new baby boy home from the hospital. Somehow I blinked and he has grown from an infant into this walking, talking toddler with his own independent thoughts. Where did the time go?

It was also just about a year ago we started the SeaPak blog. Happy Birthday to us! We started the blog to share quick and easy seafood ideas that fit into everyday life and don’t leave you trapped in the kitchen all day. A lot of things have changed in the past year but one thing has stayed the same – I’m not laboring in the kitchen on Labor Day!

Last year I served up Firecracker Shrimp Dippers along with grilled meat and super easy sides. It was fun and easy and everyone enjoyed it. So why change a good thing? This year I’m planning to put the guys on the grill again, more to get them out of the way than anything! I’ll be serving Popcorn Shrimp Nachos as a starter – they’re easy to whip up and adults and kids love them (you may want to skip the jalapenos for the kiddos). For sides, I’ll whip up a colorful salad with greens, broccoli, red and yellow peppers, red onions, and ranch dressing and have fresh melon slices. I can finish all of the slicing and dicing before guests arrive and just throw everything together at the last minute. See? I told you it was easy.

What are your holiday plans? Going out of town? Spending time with family? Whatever’s on the agenda, we at SeaPak hope you enjoy your day off!