What I'm Thankful For: A Year in Food Moments
This year, as I pause for a moment of Thanksgiving reflection, my mind isn't leaping to grand achievements or sweeping life changes. Instead, it settles, quietly and contentedly, on the food moments—the small, simple plates that shaped the months, anchored my memories, and filled my home with warmth.
This is the reflection I captured in my latest YouTube Short, "What I'm Thankful For | Thanksgiving Food Moments," but here on the blog, I want to unpack the feeling just a little more.
The Seasonal Slow Down
My deepest gratitude this year is tied to the intentional act of slow living and seasonal eating. Food, at its best, is a chronological roadmap of our year.
Winter’s Warmth: I’m thankful for the deep, savory stews that simmered for hours, fogging up the kitchen windows. For the glasses of red wine clutched in hands, and the simple joy of baking banana bread when the world outside was stark and gray. These moments were about comfort and resilience.
Spring’s Renewal: I’m thankful for the first bright green asparagus spears and the sudden abundance of fresh herbs. The quick, light meals that tasted like a promise of sunshine after a long wait. These moments were about freshness and hope.
Summer’s Bounty: I’m thankful for late-night grilling sessions, sticky watermelon slices, and the perfect, sun-warmed tomato with a sprinkle of salt. The meals were effortless, joyous, and shared with my better half.
The Love Behind Every Plate
But the true magic isn't just in the ingredients; it's in the love behind every plate. This year taught me that the simple act of preparing food for someone, or even just for myself, is a powerful expression of care.
I’m thankful for:
The quiet satisfaction of baking on a rainy afternoon.
The shared glance across the table when a bite of something is truly, perfectly delicious.
The memories of dishes passed down from family members—recipes that taste like history.
The intentional pause to truly savor a meal, rather than rushing through it.
Autumn’s Quiet Feast
Now, as we are (still) at autumn, everything feels golden and still. This Thanksgiving, I’m especially grateful for the quiet feast—the rich flavors, the aroma of spices filling the house, and the opportunity to gather.
It's not about the flawless execution of a centerpiece dish; it's about the connection. It's about remembering that even in a chaotic world, we have these simple, sustaining moments of nourishment and beauty.
If you haven't seen it yet, check out my latest Short below for a quick visual reminder of these cozy, thankful moments! 👇
What are you thankful for this year? Share your favorite food memory from the past few months in the comments!
