Restauarant reviews are intended to spark the interest of not only businesses looking to generate funds, but also tastebuds of would-be patrons who are deciding what to eat that day, that night or that week. As evidenced in the above article, so many of us associate food with fond memories and comfort. Having just stuffed ourselves for Thanksgiving, we look forward to Christmas dinner or even brunch. Hours upon hours are spent by mothers and grandmothers (and often dads, too!) slaving over what is the most planned out and delicious meal of the year, the "famous" chocolate cake, or the "only for a special occasion muffins". It's the one time of year that grandma makes her famous green beans, or uncle so-and-so deep fries a turkey. The bevy of desserts and traditional delicacies is usually more than two eyes and one stomach can fathom as the buffet of meats, sides, breads and sweets is passed down the table from platter to plate over these cold months. It's only weeks away but far too early to consider New Year's resolutions to burn all the calories it will take to make all of this gnoshing worth it to ur waistlines. Instead, we try to make it to the last harvest festivals and arts & crafts fairs of the season, make a final run to Apple Hill before our favorite farm shutters for the winter, and drink cider and eggnog, knowing full well that it has just as much (if not more) sugar in it than a can of soda. We live a little. And the only number we consider is how many people are coming over to join us in the living and the giving.
This is a time that with so many yummy treats around the house, or at work (someone inevitably brings chocolate, cookies and the infamous fruitcake annually) going "out to eat" can be a rarity. During the summer it may have been "too hot to cook" or with balancing schoolwork, house work and homework, you just didn't have the energy to come whip up a culinary masterpiece for the whole family. You were more inclined to order a pizza, run through the drive through and pick up that bucket of chicken using a coupon you got in the paper. Now, we crave a homecooked meal.
Perhaps in the colder months we all just relish the idea of coming home, changing into a more comfortable outfit and into a pair of cozy socks or slippers and then, it's time to break bread. Food starts to take a greater part of our life for different reasons in different seasons.
I noticed how much food played a "leading role" in my own life recently when I dined out with a business associate. I was more interested in the entree than the conversation. Perhaps this certain person was lackluster in their choice of topics, or appeared shallow in their delivery. I could blame it on the fact that I write about food and the chef really outdid themselves! In either case it didn't matter, if our focus is diverted at the sight of truffle inflused macaroni and cheese in a mini cast iron skillet, something is disturbingly wrong. While it is great to enjoy a plate of 'deliciousness', we epicurious types all need to remember that food is merely the common denominator, not the be all end all of a great meal among friends or associates. Besides, who wants an obituary that reads: "All they talked about was food" ?
I have had the greatest opportunities to connect with people simply by sharing sushi. Strangers can make lasting impressions based not so much on how much food was left on the plates but by the attitudes, kindnesses and memories of that first, second and third course. The enviroment of an establishment is just as important as the presentation on the plate. Most would tell you that food made with love tastes better, but love imbues everything from the genuine smile on the face of the hostess, to the lack of cobwebs in the corner.
Life is an experience enjoyed best in small bites. Eating a meal, like the journey of life is most relished when we don't bite off more than we can chew. When savoring the moment, we can taste the subtle nuances of spice or sweetness. We can be alert to the needs of others rather than be centered on our own belly. We can remember that there are people around the world who go without. We can have more gratitude when we receive excellent customer service, and appetizers just the way we like it.
Sometimes our mindsets need a mini-makeover. That mental adjustment helps us to adjust our pant size! We can enjoy this holiday so much more while dining together if we take our eyes off the plate and look around the room. While we stock up on fixins' for that "big" meal together use the rest of the days this year to take it easy. It could save you time, cash and added pounds! Here are some ideas:
1. Only go to the grocery store when you are getting something for someone else. Waste is inevitable when there are regular shopping trips and very little planning. Make a habit of using what you have and only going to the store when you are prompted to buy someone a gift or make a donation of groceries to a shelter. It will save you money and make you more conscious of others.
2. Do something other than eat as a cause for celebration or excursion. Too often food is the "go to". With all the eating we are doing right now, consider getting together with a friend and spend quality time on a morning jog, finish some Christmas shopping together, or go get a mani/pedi! Men can be better at this ladies - when it comes to hanging out exercising, fishing, or working on cars is easily a food-free time for bonding!
3. Fast this holiday. Now before you stop reading, I am not calling on a hunger strike. Check with your doctor if there is any concern, however most of us can afford to skip a meal. If you can't fathom fasting a whole day drinking only water or herbal tea, then try fasting lunch or dinner. (If you're new to this eat, a nice balanced breakfast so that you aren't cranky with your family or coworkers.) Take that break to consider all the things you do have in life that you appreciate, write down goals, take time to read an inspiring book you've been putting off. Consider giving the money saved from lunches into a fund to donate to your favorite cause. Make a list of what you're grateful for.
Food is meant to be enjoyed, but joy, true friendships, good health and success in our accomplishments are the reason we break bread together. Fill up with these sentiments and you won't be so quick to fill up with second or third helpings that you regret later :)