A Holiday Pause, a New Dutch Oven, and Getting Back to the Kitchen
If you noticed things went a little quiet around here over Christmas and New Year’s — that was intentional.
The holidays felt like a season to fully step into, not rush through. Less posting, more being present and it was exactly what our family needed!
Now that things are settling back into routine, I wanted to share a little recap — and ease back into weekly recipes.
Christmas in Our House Looked Like This
This year felt especially magical for the girls. We leaned all the way into the season.
We did all the Christmas things: driving around looking at lights, visiting Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens for Gardens Aglow, and attending a live nativity that absolutely blew us away. That one is officially becoming an annual tradition.
We decorated sugar cookies and gingerbread cookies, went to a couple of parades, Callie performed in her Christmas dance recital, we watched every Christmas movie we love (and then some), and listened to Callie’s favorite Christmas songs on repeat. As much as I love them… I think we’re all ready for a little break before hearing them again next year.
There were also lots of cozy days at home reading Christmas books, doing crafts, sitting on the couch together, and just soaking it all in. The slower pace, the togetherness, the little moments — that’s what I’ll remember most.
The Gift That Changed My Kitchen Plans
One of my favorite gifts this year came from Desmond: a Dutch oven.
I’ve wanted one for a long time, but especially since starting this blog. I can’t even count how many Mediterranean-style recipes I bookmarked, only to realize they required a Dutch oven — and then quietly move on because I didn’t have one. It was frustrating, especially as I started pushing myself to try new things in the kitchen.
Since Christmas, I’ve already put it to good use. I’ve made a stew, spaghetti, and a new bread recipe. The spaghetti wasn’t overly Mediterranean, but we were craving a comfort food night. I still made my own sauce, used turkey meatballs, protein noodles, and served broccoli on the side. Not perfect, but balanced enough for us.
The bread turned out pretty good too, which felt like a win.
Sourdough: A Little Nervous, A Lot Excited
Along with the Dutch oven, Desmond also got me a beginner sourdough kit which is something I’ve been curious about for a while but always felt intimidated by.
My starter is on day six right now. It’s moving… slowly. I think keeping our house a little on the cooler side has something to do with it. But I’m excited to see where it goes and try my first loaf once it’s ready.
I’ll definitely share an update whether it’s a success or a complete fail!
Back to Weekly Recipes (With New Tools and New Ideas)
This little holiday pause gave me space to enjoy the season and also get excited again about cooking and creating. Having new tools in the kitchen makes me genuinely excited to get back into weekly recipes.
There are so many ideas I’ve been saving that I can finally try now, and I’m looking forward to sharing them here as we settle into the new year together.
Before I jump back into recipes next week, I’d love to hear from you:
How was your Christmas season? Is there anything you’re excited to try in the kitchen (or in life) this year?
My new Dutch oven, all ready for cozy Mediterranean-inspired meals and bread experiments. Isn’t she pretty?!
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