Here we are, at the beginning of a new year, looking forward with optimism, and, hopes of moving beyond the baggage of the past year(s), whatever they may be. We all had different experiences in the last year, and, yet, what brings us together each January is the hope that this year will be better than the last, however the last was!
I find myself beginning the year with immense gratitude. Life is by no means perfect but I am learning to accept it for what it is. It is a journey that has created space to embrace life's beauty with all of its uncertainties, and, created a resurgence of SELF. I have been gifted so much personal growth in the last several months; I am simply grateful to all those who were instrumental for it - friends, family and therapists! This year, I hope to continue that empowering work through introspection as well as challenging myself of what I truly want, seek and believe in - my sense of Self.
Every day we make decisions and choices, sometimes, with thoughtful consideration and often, simply as a reaction. This year, I plan to make more deliberate choices that are inline with the ideas of self. The secret to making good decision is to not mix values and facts. Yet, in real life, the line between value and perception (therefore relative fact) can easily become blurred. To maintain a sense of clarity, I suggest finding the answers to two questions. The answers to these may not be simple, and, may change with time and experience. Yet, they do provide an insightful and grounded base to start the journey from.
What can you ANCHOR INTO?
What can you LET GO?
TRUTH
The idea of bread and the experience of bread are quite aligned, don't you think? Would you say, it is a truthful entity? Bread, especially, warm, fresh yeasted bread, evokes a sense of comfort and care, of being nourished and held warm. Like the spirit of the feminine, it molds itself to your needs and yet holds its shape in the strength of its own identity
And, that is why, I begin this year by breaking bread with you.
RECIPES FOR THE MONTH
All the recipes listed here are great for your family, and, in the spirit of the month, give you a boost of hope!
All the way from Emilia Romangna, theErbazzone. If I could wax on the perfect snack that serves the hungry (of all sizes) from morning to bed, it would be delightful Italian tart made of mixed greens and a subtle oomph of Parmagianno Regianno.
In the spirit of anchoring and living, bananas have always been my steadfast friend and they will be yours too, when you make theseBanana Almond Muffins!
And, when you want to fly and try something new, change up your breakfast game with aDeustsch Baby! They are adorable for a family brunch, special or everyday.
We are still crushing scones here and why not?! It lends itself to any number of variations. Start with theseCranberry, Cheddar and Thyme Scones, to tie in some festive into the new year.
Snacks. January is for Snacks. It is the cold. It is the craving.Puff Pockets with Roast Tomato and Mascarponewill be a needed rescue
As we lean in more and more into warming dishes, try a bit of spice with something familiar. Bring home the Curried Beef Pot Pie + Gluten Free Tallow Crust
An oldie but always a goodie,Enchiladas. Make it meaty or vegetarian, the sauce is the bind that brings it all together.
Building on the idea of flavor layering, try thisOne Pot Chicken and Chickpea Stewwith a side of how this fits right into a busy parent's schedule with kids who, inconveniently, do not nap. :)
With Coffee or Cognac - Inspirations for the mind
I just finished reading Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and highly recommend it. It is my first book by the author and her evocative style of writing reminds me of Rohinton Mistry. She portrays the complexities of difficult times, when there are no simple or straightforward choices, with utter poignancy of language. The writing is skilled and draws you in to the characters and story. The bulk of the story is set during WW2, and reading it in these times, reminds me of how privileged we are, even though these are indeed difficult times for us.
Is it Ok to have a Party Yet? March Madness is coming and birthday parties are always happening, even in Winter. So, what do we do in these times? Listen to this podcast to find out what the data says.
Books I am currently reading and will share my reviews on soon.
Noise: A Flaw in Human Judgment - Daniel Kahnemann
Thinking Better: The Art of the Shortcut in Math and Life - Marcus du Sautoy