This time of year I usually inquire of friends, neighbors, even strangers, what they plan for Christmas, especially on the food front. This years there were lots of weather-dependent answers (flight cancellations, road closings, temperature conditions).  

Traditions Kept or Altered

Many were having traditional, family meals or easy favorites. Others were adventuresome enough to try new recipes. An emergency care worker told me he’d be lucky to grab a ham and cheese sandwich, because he was working on Christmas Day.

One woman told me she’d recently lost a loved one as well as a pet. It would be a sad Christmas. I could understand her feelings. (We buried my mother on Christmas Eve many years ago.) All I could do was assure her that, in time, the tears would be replaced by soft smiles and fond memories.

Yes, Christmas is not about where we are in life’s journey or what we eat. Christmas is about love and sharing and believing. Fortunately, life gives us many chances to do just that. But we have to be on the outlook.

The Christmas Clam Chowder

And since this is a flood blog, let me say, I believe I’m going to love the sharing of the day with my family. The meal will be a blend of traditional and experimental dishes. Robin will make her delightful, New England Clam Chowder to kick off the festivities. While we wait on the Baltimore Lump Crab Cakes to brown in the oven, we can nibble on the appetizer tray. Austin is making a Caesar Salad. Lisa and girls—our family dessert specialists—will add sweetness to the celebration.

Having a family of foodies and good cooks definitely comes in handy on a holiday, 🙂

Ahh .  . . Christmas. If we can keep it for a day, maybe we can keep it for a lifetime.

Merry Christmas!

Let it snow Sugar Cookies