Happy New Year!

The last few years I've welcomed every new year with a ritual I adopted from my mother. I make posole, big steaming cauldrons of pork and hominy stew, and I open my home to friends and family for an Open House. No ceremony, just come by and have some posole. Bring a bowl, bring the kids, bring your hangover if you have it and have some soup.

Truth be told, I have changed it up a bit, as I usually do. My mom makes menudo (tripe and hominy stew), but there's no way I'll be able to get my husband, kids, and friends to try it. So, I make posole. And while I'm being truthful, this year there was only one honored guest as most everyone was sick and I was feeling a little run down myself. Miss Tiffany of The Nesting Project stopped in. If you haven't checked out her blog, you should. I still thank my stars that she moved next to me and became my neighbor and best friend.

So, not quite the same traditional Open House, but you've got to roll with it, right?

Still, there is something restorative about beginning the year like this. Surrounded by loved ones, and nurturing our bellies and spirits. Bolstering ourselves for the challenges of the New Year (including taking down the Christmas tree!!).

This year, this is my new challenge. To try to channel my thoughts and goals and begin to write again. It is overwhelming and intimidating and exciting. Like all new adventures should be. I've been stalling forever because I have no idea what to write about. The idea that abounds is "Write about what you know". Well, I don't really think I know anything. So my best friend says "Write about what you love". And that I can do. I love good company, good food and good wine. I love my family and friends fiercely.

I love a good steaming bowl of posole and how it restores my energy for the coming day, week, month, year.

Here's a virtual bowl for you too.

Buen provecho!