January always asks me to move more gently. After the rush of December, the noise falls away and what’s left is the kitchen, the table, and the small decisions about what to make next. I’ve been sick these last few days with the bug that’s been going around, so this feels like the right moment to catch up on January and what we’ve actually been eating. The first weekend of the year began the way it always has for me. A nod to New Year traditions and the hope of luck, health, and enough good things to carry us forward. Fried Chicken with Sticky Poppy Seed Jam from Magnolia Table Volume 1, Overnight Black Eyed Peas from Magnolia Table Volume 2, and Dutch Oven Cabbage & Bacon from Magnolia Table Volume 1 all found their way to our table. It felt grounding to start the year with meals that carry meaning, even as the calendar insists everything is new. As the days unfolded, meals showed up more quietly. Bacon Cheddar Cups from Magnolia Table Volume 2 for easy mornings. Baked Egg Bread Pudding with Spinach, Boursin & Bacon from Magnolia Table Volume 1 that felt like brunch dressed as dinner. There were brighter moments too. Kick Start Juice from Magnolia Table Volume 3 when I wanted to feel refreshed. Apple Fritters from Magnolia Table Volume 3, eaten warm and mostly standing, because some foods are best enjoyed before you overthink them. And Romaine Salad with Skillet Croutons from Magnolia Table Volume 1. I’m cooking my way through Magnolia Table Volumes 1, 2, and 3 and calling it the Jeanie Jo & Joanna Project. January hasn’t been about big goals or reinvention. It’s been about nourishment and starting the year with food that holds tradition, memory, and just enough hope. Sometimes that feels like the truest kind of beginning. Gracefully yours, Jeanie Jo jeaniejoandjoannaproject magnoliatable cookbookchallenge joannagaines foodblogger LTKfoodie