as we eat journal | GIVING edition

December 2023 | Journal #3

The Spirit of Giving

This edition of the AS WE EAT JOURNAL reflects on GIVING - whether it is a tangible gift or the emotional gifts that come from sharing our stories, maybe at a big family feast or a quiet cup of tea with a loved one.

GIVING is an act of intention, an outward expression of energy. What we give can reveal deeper emotions that are sometimes hard to express - that “impersonal” scented candle gift might mean something like “I’m not sure how to connect with you, but you matter to me. Take this as a symbol of that regard.”

And sometimes the best gifts are ones of time spent together making or remembering memories. It’s never too late to start a new tradition.

The stories in this month’s journal reflect all these elements.

In DISH-COVERY, we explore the tradition of eggnog and how sharing a glass was a potent (hic!) way to toast to each other’s prosperity and health.

RECIPE BOX ROULETTE explores a controversial holiday cake as a symbol of generosity, connection, and kindness.

Sometimes, the sweetest gift is a sweet treat straight from the oven. In TABLE TALK, we reflect on the sweet treats we leave for Santa and theorize which cookies are the favorites of some of our featured cookbook authors this season!

Christmas Tree hunts, bailing twine, and marshmallows play supporting roles in THE HERITAGE RECIPE PROJECT’s recipe that has warmed many a winter adventurer.

Whatever your approach to giving is for the holiday season, we want to thank you for giving us the gift of you. Thank you for being a part of the As We Eat family and Happy Holidays!

A Giving Guide to Thoughtful Gifts

• ART OF THE PIE VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON CLASSES: Join Kate at the baking counter to bake up a sweet & savory year. Choose from virtual sessions including the Baker’s Dozen or individual classes or the famous in-person Pie Camps. It will be your favorite foodie’s favorite gift! Starting at $60.00.

• FINAMILL SPICE GRINDER: One mill to rule them all! This spice grinder has interchangable pods. That means your cinnamon will never taste like fenugreek again. Kits start at $44.99

• RECIPE CARD CALENDAR: Each 4” x 6” calendar card includes a corresponding recipe for a cookie or bar from Leigh’s personal recipe box collection. Her gorgeous art and recipes will have you salivating. $22 includes shipping.

• WHISKY INFUSED TOOTHPICK VARIETY SET: The perfect stocking stuffer for that whisky-loving-toothpick-chewing guy or gal on your list. $36.00

• 18 CHESTNUTS PLANT-BASED GOURMET SOUPS: A trio of Tuscan Tomato, Butternut Squash Pear and Carrot Ginger Dill soups make a thoughtful and tasty gift! Ready in minutes, they’re perfect for any foodie on the go. $43.99 includes shipping.

• THE BADASS IN ME HONORS THE BADASS IN YOU CANDLE: The Malicious Women Company gives no F*#ks when it comes to naming their candles. Have an irreverent someone on your list, this might just be the perfect gift. $20.00

• VINAIGRETTE KIT: Surprise your salad-loving foodie with a kit to make the perfect gourmet vinaigrette. $16.50

  

---

In this edition:

If you missed last month’s podcast episodes…

Let’s Stay Connected

• Follow us on Instagram @asweeat,

• Join our Family Recipes, Traditions, and Food Lore community on Facebook

• Subscribe to the As We Eat Journal

• Listen to the As We Eat Podcast

Do you have a great idea 💡 for a show topic, a recipe 🥘 that you want to share, or just say “hi”👋🏻?  Send us an email at connect@asweeat.com

Looking for a unique gift idea for a birthday, anniversary, holiday, host or hostess, or just because? Consider giving a subscription to the As We Eat Journal.

As a member of affiliate programs, we earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. This helps us to continue to bring you stories, history, and personal musings about food, cuisines, traditions, and recipes.