Page 38 - AAA Every Day – AAA Hudson Valley – November/December 2022

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Holiday Harvests
When I think of the holiday season, my mind
goes to many festive things, but perhaps most importantly the three Fs ... family, friends and food! I was recently lucky enough to attend a chili cookoff at my dear friend’s home. It was quite an interesting experience. Six different people made chili to submit to the competition. About 15 of us all got to taste and vote on our favorites in different categories. It was such a fun afternoon to spend in the fall weather with excellent company and good food. The winner of the best chili took home “The Golden Ladle” as well as bragging rights. We decided immediately that we will have another cookoff next year with a different fall harvest theme, perhaps apples or pumpkins.
With fall and winter holidays comes yummy recipes full of rich spices like sage, rosemary, thyme, cardamom and cinnamon. Whether cooking for many people, your family or even just yourself, why not learn a new recipe or two? Not only can you perfect wonderful new options for future dinner parties, but you can ask for some helpers and make new memories. If you are tired of cooking your own traditional cuisines, perhaps try adding holiday food from
Shutterstock: Brent Hofacker
other cultures to add some literal flavor.
Another event quite common this time of year is
not only the big Thanksgiving dinner with family but Friendsgiving. This is a more recent tradition where people celebrate with their chosen families. Most
often, just like with the traditional holiday, Friendsgiving involves a potluck of popular foods like stuffing, mashed potatoes and pecan pie. Celebrating with loved ones of any description helps the season to be joyous, especially when delicious food is involved.
This also is a season of giving. We should all consider donating to help organizations that host Thanksgiving and other Holiday dinners for those who may not be able to have one on their own. Many wonderful grassroots organizations invite hundreds of local residents annually to eat a warm, home-cooked meal. Donating to food pantries, whether it’s goods, money or even time, is a great way to help the community.
No matter how you choose to celebrate (or what you eat), may your days be merry and bright!
Emily Gnacik is the Editor of AAA Every Day Magazine.
38 I NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022