Find Joy in Creating Holiday Memories

As I reflect on all the amazing opportunities we have experienced this year, I realize how much joy there is in each and every day. I have to push through the day and find joy in my actions, regardless of the actions of others. I am a local business owner. I work hard every day.    Sometimes too hard.

As a local caterer, creating the culinary experience during the holidays is very joyful and lots of work. Many of my peers would say, “I don’t know how you do it!” I thank my grandmother, mother and father for teaching me a good work ethic. It certainly helps my overall being.   

As we gear up for the holiday season, we work with all different types of clients and families.    Each one is looking to create a joyful experience for their guests as well as themselves.    They want delicious food, sparkling drinks and joyful desserts, along with top-notch customer service.   

Let’s face it, no Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or other holiday celebration is perfect. An overcooked turkey, a toppled Christmas tree, a last-minute dinner cancelation; try to see these challenges as a chance to “go with the flow.” Joy may not always be present for everyone during these circumstances.

Find joy in creating a cherished holiday memory, like perhaps a gift exchange with your neighbors or a cookie exchange party where all the guests bring cookies to share. Make homemade gifts for family and friends or host a “potluck” cocktail party where everyone brings a dish to share.   

Take time for yourself. This is my No. 1 suggestion as we gear up for the holidays. I really need to listen to this advice. No, you don’t have to please everyone. During a hectic holiday season, self-care is the best thing you can do — others will benefit when you’re feeling less stressed. Go for a long walk, get a massage, listen to your favorite music, read a new book or give yourself a holiday project that only you know about. All of us need some time to recharge. Be mindful and focus on the present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

The holidays often bring sadness, as my family is all spread out. My daughters and grandchildren live out of state. Not being able to see them during this time is very difficult. We must find joy on our video calls and telling stories.

I find joy while enjoying culinary memories. My grandmother prepared “Rolled Pizza” for the holidays. It was a simple Italian staple she had and would pull out of the freezer when guests would come over.

Wherever you are this holiday season, I hope you find joy. QCBN

By Debbie Maranville

Goods from the Garden Kitchen and Bakery will be opening soon. We are moving out of the Garden Event Center where we have been for five years. We are still located in the Gateway Mall directly across the walkway – off the roundabout.    We look forward to serving you joyful meals and baked goods daily. For information, call us at 928-237-3214.

Rolled Pizza:

Dough:   

• 3 ½ cups all -purpose flour
• 1¼ cup warm water
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 envelope of dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Filling:

• 4 cups chopped banana peppers (seeds removed)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce   
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Stir yeast into warm water and let stand for 5 minutes. Add sugar and salt and stir, then slowly add in flour continuing to stir well. Knead dough on wooden board until it is smooth and elastic (about 5 minutes).  Cover with a towel or cloth and let rise in a warm place until it doubles in size.

Heat the olive oil in a large pan or skillet. Add the peppers to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes. Allow the peppers to cool and mix in the sauce and add oregano, garlic powder and salt to taste. Cut dough in half and roll out thinly on floured wooden board. Spread half of the pepper mixture on the dough and roll as you would a “jelly roll.” Repeat the same with the other half of the dough. Place on an oiled cookie sheet and bake for approximately 50 minutes. QCBN