This weekend, I plan to spend lots of time with my family just . . . being.

School has started here and ever since we’ve been blowing and going. I am looking forward to doing some fun things with my kids and having an actual conversation with my husband.

A novel concept.

We’ll be grilling out, inviting friends over and playing. Thank you, Labor Day, for giving me the chance to enjoy my family — and some really good food.

I hope you do the same.

Happy Labor Day!

Now THAT’S a well-used grill!

We often have impromptu get-togethers in our backyard with the neighbors. So. . . we’ve got to keep lots of good food on hand. You know, just in case.

There are always steakburgers in our fridge or freezer and this weekend we just happened to have a bunch on the grill when our neighbors stopped by for a swim and a burger. What fun!

This is my beautiful friend’s “halfburger.” I’m trying to get her to patent the name, but she just thinks I’m crazy. She is very dainty and lovely and half a burger is all she needs.

Me? Well, let’s just say I can easily handle an entire burger.

We just love summer at our house and when you’re prepared, fun can happen at any time!

How have I gone my whole life not knowing this tidbit?

I have just learned the ultimate secret to making perfect patties. The next time you cook steakburgers you must try it.

Elizabeth Karmel, a total grilling diva, tells us that putting a thumbprint in the middle of your burger before placing it on the grill keeps it flat and avoids the “swollen belly burger” syndrome.

Who knew? Well, apparently this is a technique the restaurants have been holding close to the vest for years. I feel so “in the know!”

Elizabeth even hawks a “Steakhouse Burger Press” that automatically shapes your patties and includes a thumbprint on each one. How’s that for efficient?

You can check out her burger press here. Get your steakburgers here . . . and happy thumbprinting!!!