Reaping & Sowing | November - 🍁 Cozy Fall Recipes


The need to perform is in hyperdrive at this time of year. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, followed by Christmas and New Years, there are several events to plan and prepare for.

With those events comes the pressure to have a squeaky clean and well-decorated home, to put elaborate meals on the table, to wear the trendiest seasonal outfits, and to host or show up and a party with dignity and importance.

While some of these things are good and even enjoyable at times, stress creeps in and tends to be at an all time high at this time of year as we seek to put the best versions of ourselves on display for others.

And yet, I have been wondering lately if this need to perform is really serving us. Holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas are meant to be times of relaxation and celebration.

Instead, for many, they have become primarily about a long to-do lists of preparation. Consumerism and social media have made this season of celebration into a season of burden.

How did it become so hard to enjoy the gifts of time, family, and friends that are already within our grasp? In our striving to perfect something that is already good, we rob ourselves of the peace we have already been given.

This has become so apparent in my own life lately. I have placed unrealistic expectations on myself that have led to guilt, shame, and fear. Fortunately God has been showing me that,

"Because of his great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning." -Lamentations 3:22-23.

I have been reminded that I don't have to search for peace, joy, and contentment. They are gifts that have already been given. All we have to do is sit back and let them wash over us, cleansing and restoring our spirit.

What does this look like as we head into this holiday season?

I would encourage you to simplify. Resist the urge to overcomplicate and nudge yourself away from the misplaced expectations to perform (unless of course it is something you truly enjoy and relish in).

Fewer decorations. Fewer obligations. Meals and treats that are simple and fill more than just your belly.

I have included some of my favorite simple seasonal recipes below to give you ideas!

Whole Roasted Chicken

Butternut Squash Risotto With Bacon

Homemade Marshmallows to top a Nourishing Warm Beverage

Fresh Milled Shortbread Cookies

May your find nourishment and rest for both your body and your soul during this holiday season.

Happy Thanksgiving 🍁

-Kayla

The Regenerative Sower

I am passionate about helping people limit toxins, cook from scratch, and live regeneratively by simplifying their lives to make room to do your most impactful work.

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