As you close out 2025, I've been thinking a lot about the people who carry us through the hardest and most beautiful parts of life.
One highlight of my year was my oldest son's college rocketry team winning NASA's Student Launch competition. Our friends who supported him along the way by asking for updates only added to our joy! Conversely, some of my hardest days were around Thanksgiving when I was missing my dad. A plant that I had been given years ago to remember him bloomed in November and was a small reminder of his life.
As I've been thinking back on my year, I wanted to offer some reflection questions centered on caring for ourselves and others through all the joy and heaviness a year brings. You can jot down your answers in a journal or use them as conversation starters around the table.
A Few New Year Reflection Questions with a Take Them A Meal Twist
What is something someone did for you in 2025 that meant a lot to you?
Small kindnesses often become our biggest memories.
Who is someone you want to stay in touch with or encourage in 2026?
One intentional reach-out can change someone's whole year.
Is there someone who could use a meal, a note, or a simple check-in as 2026 begins?
What is something you want to do to care for yourself in the new year?
Rest, boundaries, and new routines all count.
What's a recipe you've been wanting to try, or a meal that instantly connects you to someone you love?
Is there a tradition involving food or hospitality you'd like to start (or bring back) in 2026?
What have you been wanting to read but keep putting off?
My husband and son committed to reading 50 pages a day in 2025-and they have reached their goal. Their stack of finished books is inspiring. When you set your mind to something that's important to you and follow through, it's a wonderful feeling. I'm so proud of them!
What is one way you can make taking a meal or hospitality feel easier and more joyful for yourself next year?
As the clock turns to 2026, may you carry forward the people who have loved you well and a renewed desire to care for both yourself and others.
Warmly,
Adina
In Case You Missed It
1. Looking for an easy dish to pop in the oven for breakfast? Then you have to try this Jalapeno Popper Quiche Recipe!
Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the recipe!
2. Send a friend or family member a small care package full of their loved ones' favorite things or flavors. Adina shares a care package she made!
3. This Cheese Dip is a super easy four-ingredient dip you can make in the crock pot! Perfect for game day or your next potluck, this simple and delicious dip is always a crowd favorite!
Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the recipe!
4. Making a charcuterie box is so fun, and there are so many different things you can include. Deliver this to someone’s doorstep as a gift, or include it with a meal!
5. Here are 25 Easy Chicken Breast Recipes that Freeze Well that we recently pinned on our Pinterest!
Don’t have Pinterest? Click here to view recipes!
