this year we devour

...without guilt, which is also an art

i like my kitchen and dining nook in the winter light. it’s bright and warming and more importantly, it feels inviting. even though i live here and this is my home, sometimes i need to feel invited to do something good for myself - like cook. my motivation to cook is a good way to know how i’m doing, emotionally and mentally. if i am shamelessly door-dashing a chipotle burrito bowl or khao man gai 3x a week and my kitchen sink is filled with just coffee mugs and stained wine glasses, i’ve had better days. but, if i am motivated enough and the winter light streaming through my windows feels inviting enough, making something for myself feels incredibly good. it makes me feel like i am doing something loving and good for myself. i am taking care of me. i am making the time, i am paying attention, i am being caring enough, i have the energy, i am giving the effort, i am doing something good to feel good.

in the past couple weeks, i’ve really enjoyed these three recipes: orzo carbonara, udon with a lot of shortcuts, peanut butter banana bread. all three are simple enough for days where winter’s fatigue is settled around you.