Happy New Year!
Most years I set one resolution that's tangible or physical. Something I want to accomplish at the house, in the gym, in the garden or with friends and family. Beyond that, every year, my main goal is to seek joy in almost everything I do…even in things I don't like doing (LAUNDRY!). Folding my favorite pair of jeans, thinking about when I'll wear them next, listening to a good podcast, drinking wine - these are all things I've done to make even laundry bring me more joy.
Joy and happiness mean something different to everyone and it's always changing. I find that it's seasonal, too. Living in Colorado, what makes me happy in the cold, dark winter is different than what makes me happy in the bright, warm summer. Summer and winter are so different where I live in all times of year, so I try to find seasonal solace by embracing what the other doesn't offer. This winter here are some things that are making me happy:
- Oversized Sweaters
- Hot Drinks from my Ceramic Mug
- Warm Fires
- Fuzzy Socks
- Constantly Varied Movement
- Ironic Moments with Family
- Cashmere Scarves
- Good Comfort Food
That's a pretty good list! And I've been fortunate to be able to tick off all of these at least once and most of them several times. Finding joy after the holidays can be hard, but I intended to keep finding joy in repeating these things and finding new ways to enjoy them - especially the last one. There are so many good comfort foods that I love making when the weather is cold. I also love exploring new ones! It's a great time to want to spend time cooking and baking in a kitchen. Here are a few of my favorite comfort food recipes:
Mandarin Orange Olive Oil Pancakes: Fresh pancakes hot off the griddle are impossible to beat! Our family loves to sometimes indulge in breakfast for dinner. We mix up the classic pancake with fruity olive oils and drizzle them with Maple Dark Balsamic Vinegar.
Roasted Garlic Hasselback Potatoes: Potatoes are one of the ultimate comfort foods, especially when combined with cheese and our robust, savory garlic olive oil.
Our flavored olive oils make excellent enhancements to soups and stews. Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale and Roasted Pepper & Tuscan Herb Tomato Soup are two of my family’s favorites, especially on cold winter evenings!
Truffled Butternut Squash Macaroni & Cheese: Truffle is one of my favorite, comforting flavors. When combined with warm, gooey mac and cheese you get a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.
I hope you find joy in as much as possible this new year!
Ciao!
- Andi
