Thanksgiving Wishes for You!
Hello everyone, Vanessa here today. Thanksgiving is about a week away - still wrapping my head around how that has snuck up on me. Usually by now I've got an idea of what dishes I want to cook for that 4th Thursday in November. I usually make a big meal, even if it's generally just the 2 of us at the table. We don't do turkey, but I like to include 1-2 recipes that come from family dinners of years gone by. I think that Thanksgiving food, more than any of the food-themed holidays, carries more emotional weight. It's not just food on those platters - it's memories, right? Memories are a lot of what we give thanks for. Of course, some of us are also fortunate enough to be building new memories - being able to wonder "maybe...". That maybe, for me, is like an open door into the privilege of learning about other people, which is something for which I'm always thankful.
Maybe some of you've got the turkey in the freezer and unearthed the holiday recipe folder and the autumnal-themed table runner. Maybe some of you are doing takeout and that's your tradition. Maybe some of you are going to have your yearly Godfather movie marathon, and just eat whatever is in the fridge. And maybe some of you took advantage of last year looking a little different and started new traditions: lasagna, anyone?
Maybe the holiday party season has begun again for you. We could see the return of the potluck this year after last year's pause. As an aside, check this week's recipe if you have some parties on the horizon: I think it's a good option for overcoming any holiday flavor fatigue as it's full of crunchy veggies, edamame, and Asian-ish flavors. If you do make it, leave the dressing to add just before serving and use pre chopped kale or peppers to save time.
Maybe your favorite part of the holidays is the leftovers! If you plan for leftovers and are interested in learning to turn a couple of them into new dishes, please register for the upcoming Plant-Based Plate: Plantsgiving Edition on November 18th for some fresh ways to transform some popular veggie sides.
Maybe you've been trying some new strategies to encourage healthy behaviors, like making certain dishes throughout the year instead of only at the holidays. This can help with feeling obligated to eat something because you only see it once a year. This might also open up holiday table to new traditions! Like lasagna. Or takeout.
There's no maybe about this, though: I absolutely, definitely for sure and without a doubt wish you a happy start to the holiday season. May it be one of joy and fulfillment!