For the Taste Buds
Prepping for feasting on the 12 days of Christmas
For real, we will not “feast” every single day of Christmas, but with everyone home, there is a lot more time spent on food. Cooking and baking longer projects are some of the ways that we enjoy the break from school. Between sports, appointments, and work, cooking is something done as a way to provide nutrition. However, during the winter break, we can make treats and favorite dishes that take more prep time and longer cooking times.
We will make gingerbread houses at some point.
Perhaps I will make lasagna, a dish I love, but I never feel I have the time to make it properly. My daughter has been eager to learn how to make crepes now that she has mastered pancakes. This is also an excellent time to bake breads and rolls.
Feasting is not about massive amounts of food a’la the Ghost of Christmas Present. It’s more about the thought and time it takes to prepare food. It’s about taking time to enjoy meals rather than running around as we so often do.
This year, I have been grateful for the help of the local food bank, which has provided my family with staple goods. I was also finally approved for SNAP (food stamps), which will help feed my rapidly growing children.
Every day, I try to practice gratitude for the food I have been given, the cooking skills I have learned, and the food that came from my garden. In so many ways, feasting feels like having enough to meet the day's needs and making it enjoyable.
We will feast in other ways this week, with ample time to sleep in the cold, dark mornings without rushing to catch the bus. We will also be able to read the books we have received and catch up on holiday movies.
One of the things that I hope for during the winter break is snow. There has been far too much rain and ice for my liking. Snow is preferable for playing, driving, and the general mood.
May this week bring love to your senses and your soul.
Merry Christmas to all who celebrate.
I like your definition of feasting. "Feasting is not about massive amounts of food a’la the Ghost of Christmas Present. It’s more about the thought and time it takes to prepare food. It’s about taking time to enjoy meals rather than running around as we so often do."
Less rushing to do the necessary things and more time to be together enjoying crafting the treats in food and decor.