I decided in December that I would take my time easing into January. I know some people go all gangbusters. They start a new diet, join the gym, or start a new regime to improve some aspect of their life. I have many friends who still do New Year's resolutions. I don’t think I’ve had a serious resolution since I was a kid. Mainly because I was never successful at them, so why punish myself? Over time, I started to make what I called commitment lists. It was just between me and my bedside journal. On the year commemorating 15 years in business, I had a list of 20 items. I figured if I set my goal there, I could hit or pass my actual goal of 15. I had the whole year to complete them. I finished the year checking off 17. You couldn’t tell me anything. It made me feel so successful and accomplished. I even did a happy dance. The following year, I kept it light with 5. I hadn’t completed a single one. Did I feel like a failure? Yes!! I knew it was possible because I had done the nearly impossible the previous year. They eventually got done, but not with much fanfare. It was like without sentimental motivation, my goals fell flat. But why? I wasn’t putting the first things first. Now, my approach is very different. I stopped making checklists and started making checkpoints. Deciding where I wanted to be and how many different ways I could get there. I can’t say enough about how well it works for me instead of lists of things I may never accomplish. As a result, this year already looks different for me and my business. I used to do mainly corporate catering, and I loved it. It was very predictable and consistent. Now, it's more social events, which often require me to think on my feet and take extra time communicating with my clients. Last year, we did birthdays, anniversaries, family gatherings, engagements, and even some divorce parties. We did teas for adult women and little ladies. For this year, I’m excited that we are expanding our basket deliveries and premium picnic options. I’m also over the moon to share that I've started to compile recipes for a Feast cookbook. So, no more resolutions or commitments, just a roadmap with a new journey ahead. Wish me luck.

· Leah's Thoughts ·

In 2025 I’d like for people to show up how they would like to be remembered. Show up acting like an a$$hole and be remembered that way. Show up being honorable and be remembered that way. Choose to show up in a manner that your Mother would be proud of.

· Feast Food Fact ·

Horseradish is a perennial plant in the same family as mustard, broccoli, cabbage and radish. It is a root vegetable cultivated worldwide and used as a spice and a condiment. It is native to southeastern Europe and western Asia. It has been grown since antiquity for its medicinal properties. Both root and leaves were used during the Middle Ages as a traditional medicine. It was introduced to American during European colonization. Both George Washington and Thomas Jefferson mention horseradish in their garden accounts. It was used by Native Americans to stave off scurvy and as a treatment for the common cold.

· Food Holidays & Events ·

February

5 - Frozen Yogurt Day

7 - Fettuccine Alfredo Day

14 - Valentine’s Day

18 - Drink Wine Day

25 - Clam Chowder Day

· Health & Nutrition ·

The winter blues is a term used to describe a general feeling of sadness, low energy, and lack of motivation that some people experience during the winter months. This seasonal shift in mood is often attributed to the shorter days and decreased sunlight exposure, which can disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle and impact the production of mood-regulating hormones like serotonin and melatonin.

Symptoms of the winter blues can affect your appetite. As a result the winter months call for warm, comforting foods that nourish and energize. Here are some excellent choices that may help.

Root vegetables with hearty options like carrots, sweet potatoes, beets, and turnips are packed with vitamins and minerals. Roast them with herbs and spices for a flavorful and healthy side dish. Warm bowls of soup or stew are perfect for chilly days. Load them with vegetables, lean protein like chicken or beans, and whole grains for a complete and satisfying meal. Vitamin C is crucial for boosting immunity during cold and flu season. Incorporate plenty of citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons into your diet. Don't neglect your greens in the winter! Leafy greens like spinach and kale are packed with nutrients. Add them to soups, stews, or stir-fries. Opt for whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats for sustained energy and fiber. Oatmeal is a classic winter breakfast option.

· Monthly Recipe ·

Valentine's Day Sweetheart

Salad For 2

2 cups of spring salad mix

1 cup strawberries

½ cup roasted pecans or praline

¼ cup crumbled goat cheese

Salad dressing

Cut V in the top of strawberries. Cut through each strawberry to look like a heart. Place spring mix, heart shaped strawberries, pecans and goat cheese on plate. Top with champagne vinaigrette or balsamic vinaigrette.

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