A WD Wednesday Post –
This past week felt like a gentle reminder that food doesn’t always have to come from an app to feel comforting and complete. It was less about takeout and more about being fed by family during the holidays which somehow made everything taste better.
Monday started with leftovers from the weekend, courtesy of my father-in-law’s birthday. One of the underrated joys of family gatherings is the food that keeps on giving, and we were happily still working our way through it. Tuesday rolled in with a workplace potluck, which felt like hitting the culinary jackpot. A little bit of everything, made by many hands, and zero effort on my part honestly, a win.
Wednesday was still very much in leftover territory, which I appreciated more than I expected. There’s something satisfying about not having to think too hard about dinner midweek.
Thursday brought Christmas dinner at my in-laws, and it did not disappoint. Pulled pork, mac and cheese, collard greens, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, and rice and beans comfort food in its purest form. Friday carried those leftovers into the day, but by nighttime, I felt the unmistakable pull of sushi. I gave in (no regrets) and ordered a shrimp-and-avocado hand roll, and a spicy tuna roll, plus miso soup, because miso soup doesn’t just warm your body, it warms your soul.
Saturday was a full-circle food day. Earlier, after a night out, we shared delicious Turkish food, chicken kebabs, rice, hummus, tomato-cucumber salad, and fries on the side. Later, we headed to my mom’s place, where she made roasted chicken, rice, potato salad, and a green salad. We ended the meal with tea, dessert, and wine, and lingered longer than planned, exactly how it should be.
By Sunday, we were in true leftovers mode again, Turkish food, mom’s cooking, and we topped it off by ordering smashed burgers, because balance. Breakfasts throughout the week stayed simple: eggs, toast, avocado, and some type of fruit. One day even included a grilled cheese alongside eggs, which felt both indulgent and comforting.
Looking back, we actually ordered out far less than usual, and that felt… refreshing. Especially when I think about my food delivery apps and how terrifying it would be to add up what I’ve spent over the year. Truly humbling.
So here’s to ending the year a little more mindful, hoping the next one includes fewer delivery notifications, more home meals (or family-made ones), and a better relationship with both my kitchen and my wallet. We’ll see how it goes.